We all need to take time off from the mundane sometimes, and a day out with the family often fits the bill quite well. It can get really expensive though, and when money is tight – which it is for many of us at the moment – we often cut out these trips because we think we can’t afford them. There are, however, places which are cheap or free, and often getting away even for a few hours can really revitalise us all so it’s worth doing.
One thing I like to do is to keep a list on the fridge of all the places we’d like to go that aren’t too expensive and are close enough for a day trip. I always list the price, along with opening hours, then when we want to go somewhere, I have a ready made list of places to choose from without all the hassle of having to look up to see if we can afford it.
Some places you may find which are free or cheap, are museums. All the national museums and art galleries in England are free of charge now, although if you can afford a donation this is greatly appreciated.
The government have just introduced a system so that for people over 60, and those under 16, many public swimming pools which are run by the local authority are now free entry. A trip to the swimming pool can make quite a good morning or afternoon trip. Contact your local council to find out if there’s a pool near you offering this.
Across the country there are many places from parks, to rivers and many other green areas where you can enjoy a nice walk and a picnic. Why not pack a ball and bats and invite a few friends to join you, this can make a really pleasant day out for everyone.
Most towns these days have a website with information about what’s on in that area do a search, and once you’ve found some places, look up and see what they cost. Then try looking online for discounts for them. Not everywhere will offer a discount, but you may find the odd one or two, and if you can find somewhere offering 2 for 1 on a pub lunch nearby you could even make that part of your day out.
Keep an eye open for places where a single entry fee allows you return access. Bletchley park in Milton Keynes works this way, when you have bought your ticket, you can return as many times as you like within the year without having to pay again. Also look out for places which offer reciprocal discounts. This means that if you visit one place in the group, and then visit another, if you take your ticket from the first place, you will get a discount at the second one.
Tags: art gallery, cheap day out, days out, family, museum, park
