While the approach of the summer holidays brings excitement, it can also bring a sense of panic for parents. Six weeks is a long time and for those who (like me) are living with very tight purse strings, it can be hard to find entertaining things to do or places to go that wont break the bank.
I have come up with a top 10 of things to do in the holidays which are guaranteed to provide a fun filled day without having to file for bankruptcy.
1. Visiting Country Parks - You are never far away from a beautiful country park. They offer a gorgeous landscape to walk or cycle around, a place to picnic, a place to spot wildlife and a place to let your imagination run free. There are so many beautiful parks across England and further afield, why not check out where your nearest park is by clicking here.
2. Visiting Museums - Museums are a wonderful way to spend the day. They offer a fantastic way to inject some culture and education into a day trip. Also most museums offer free admission (most have a donation box inside). Lose yourself in the wonders of history or science and spend the day soaking up all that our British museums have to offer.My favorite has to be the Natural History Museum in London.
3. Go By Rail - Wherever you do go this summer ask yourself this..Can you go by rail? If the answer is yes, then hop on board as most rail companies offer amazing discounts during the summer holidays like child tickets for just £1 as well as teaming up with attractions such as Legoland and Madame Tussauds to offer 2-for-1 entry when showing your rail ticket.
4. Bargain Movies - Everyone loves a trip to the cinema but, let's face it, it's not as purse friendly as it used to be, thats why Vue and Cineworld both offer a summer holiday (and weekend) service offering film showings at a hugely discounted rate of around £2. The movies are usually not much more than a month old and make is easy to fit in a cinema trip each as often as you like!
5. Sightseeing - Doesn't cost a thing and, when it's somewhere you have never been before, it can prove to be an exciting adventure. Take your camera or some binoculars and just have fun taking in your surroundings wherever you are. In the city? Hop on a local sight seeing bus for a more detailed tour.
6. Visiting Beaches - There is nothing better than lounging on a beautiful beach on a hot summer's day. With the sea at your feet to cool off, beaches offer the perfect getaway to escape for the day (or longer) There are some beautiful beaches around us from the quiet secluded ones to the bustling family ones. Check out your nearest beach by clicking here.
7. Visiting Libraries - Libraries are a great place to visit at any time but even more so in the school holidays. You will find that most libraries hold varied events throughout the holidays such as arts and crafts days and police workshops. They always hold some sort of summer reading challenge to get the children involved in and the many events they hold are guaranteed to get the children excited about reading. Visit your local council page to find out more about what's on at your local library.
8. Visiting Farms - Zoos can prove to be an expensive day out for the family and one that is usually a once in a year event. So why not treat the kids by visiting your local farm? If they have a love of nature then they will love getting up close and personal to all the farm animals. They offer mini workshops and sometimes allow the children to help with certain task like cleaning or feeding. The kids will love being able to pet the smaller animals too!
9. Swimming - Not all of us have the luxury of a nice big garden with a lovely big pool to match. Head down to the local swimming baths during the holidays. Most of them have a specifically designed timetable for the holidays offering different swimming classes and discounts. Check out your local council page to check what's on at your local baths.
10. Camping- You don't have to drive hours and pay big bucks at a camp site. Short of cash? Pitch a tent in your back garden! Don't have a garden then borrow granny's! Have fun getting the blankets out and getting closer to nature. Spend quality time as a family telling stories and having some midnight munchies. Want to get away then check out your nearest campsite online.
There are so many things to do this summer that don't have to cost a fortune. Whatever you choose to do this summer, stay safe and have fun!
I'm Emma, a full time mum of one. Sharing my journey of motherhood and pre teen parenting as well as all the adventures along the way.
Blogs at: My Sidekick and Me
Twitter: @mysidekickandme