The Wayback Machine - https://web.archive.org/all/20041204163951/http://www.frugal.org.uk:80/out.html

Frugal Living in the UK

 

frugal living > days out

 

 

Days out do not have to be expensive, nor do you have to forsake them when living frugally. Some fantastic days out cost no more than the petrol or bus fares used to get there (or maybe you could walk depending where you are and your chosen venue!).

Picnics - pop some filled rolls or sandwiches, fruit, biscuits, juice, crisps etc. into a bag and head off somewhere nice. City parks are free and can provide an entertaining day out - they often have free events on during the summer months from outdoor concerts to acrobats. Country parks are much the same though often much bigger and better for long walks. Beaches are great - ask about good ones at your local Tourist Information Office - they are not always the obvious ones where everyone goes. One of the best family days out we ever had was at a quiet country beach with a very basic picnic - a pod of whales swam by jumping and spouting - it was amazing - no guarantees of that happening of course!

All cities have some art galleries and museums that are free or extemely cheap to see round. Make use of them - you sometimes feel like you are seeing a whole lot more than you ever did once you try to be frugal ;)

If you are visiting attractions that make a charge try never to pay full price. Tourist information centres, libraries and many museums etc. will have leaflets advertising local events and attractions which often include discount vouchers. You can also print vouchers straight off at http://www.daysoutuk.com/ - you can click the map for all participating attractions in your area. Many cinemas have an 'early bird' deal every day - for films starting before 12 noon tickets can cost half to a third less than usual - this varies greatly from venue to venue but it's worth checking. Some cinemas have a cheap night instead.

Historic Scotland and English Heritage have a free weekend in April. The National Trust does have a free day once a year though this varies from property to property but it seems to usually fall in May. Some of their properties such as ancient monuments that don't need staffing are free all year round anyway (see their websites for details) - but these weekends and days are a good opportunity to go round a few castles or stately homes. If you find you like visiting this type of property an annual membership can save you lots.

For longer journeys, including day trips offer good value for money - they sometimes have special offers such as go anywhere for £9 when booking at least 7 days in advance. They venture abroad also.


A fantastic guide to all sorts of attractions - castles, museums, gardens, theme parks, railways, it's all here. Many places listed take part in a voucher scheme (vouchers included at the front of the book) - we saved more than the price of the book on one visit to the Glasgow Science Centre. A very worthwhile buy also listing many places with free entry.
 Buy from Amazon.co.uk

 


For longer getaways, camping is a frugal and fun option, giving you a lot of freedom. This guide lists over 1000 inspected campsites in the UK and Ireland.
 Buy from Amazon.co.uk

front page | email | abundance | links