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5 budget-friendly family days out in the UK

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Published: 19th August 2024

5 budget-friendly family days Out in the UK

Summer is the perfect time to create lasting memories with your family without breaking the bank. With our great value services, you can easily explore some of the UK's top destinations for a fun-filled day out.

So we’ve done the hard work for you and put together five budget-friendly, family adventures you can do this summer, that are just a coach ride away.

Bath

1. Bath

Why Visit: Bath is a beautiful city known for its stunning Georgian architecture, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. It's a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

What to Do:

  • Roman Baths: Discover the ancient Roman Baths, where you can explore the remains of one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world.
  • Royal Victoria Park: This expansive park is perfect for a picnic, with its botanical gardens, play areas, and even a miniature golf course.
  • Bath Abbey: Visit this iconic building, where you can take in the beautiful architecture and learn about its rich history.

Cost-Saving Tips: Royal Victoria Park and Bath Abbey are free to enter, and the city itself is a delight to explore on foot.

How to Get There: We offer regular services to Bath from various locations, making it an easy and affordable destination.

Cardiff

2. Cardiff

Why Visit: The vibrant capital of Wales offers a mix of cultural experiences and outdoor activities, perfect for a family day out.

What to Do:

  • Cardiff Castle: Explore this historic site with its mediaeval architecture, and don't miss the family-friendly trails.
  • Bute Park: One of the UK’s largest urban parks, it's ideal for a picnic, a leisurely walk, or even a boat ride on the River Taff.
  • Cardiff Bay: Enjoy the waterfront with its free outdoor play areas and interactive exhibits at the Wales Millennium Centre.

Cost-Saving Tips: Many of Cardiff’s attractions, including Bute Park and Cardiff Bay, are free to enter.

How to Get There: Our services travel to Cardiff from various cities, making it a convenient choice for a budget-friendly trip.

Bournemouth

3. Bournemouth

Why Visit: With its seven miles of golden sandy beaches, Bournemouth is a fantastic family-friendly destination that won’t strain your budget.

What to Do:

  • Bournemouth Beach: Spend a day at one of the UK's best beaches, complete with safe swimming areas and plenty of space for games.
  • Bournemouth Pier: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or try out the RockReef indoor climbing adventure and the PierZip, the world’s first pier-to-shore zip wire.
  • Lower Gardens: These beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing family walk or a picnic.

Cost-Saving Tips: The beach and gardens are free, and you can bring your own snacks to save on dining.

How to Get There: Our frequent services to Bournemouth, make it an accessible and budget-friendly destination.

Liverpool

4. Liverpool

Why Visit: Known for its rich history, music, and culture, Liverpool offers plenty of attractions for a family day out.

What to Do:

  • The Beatles Story: Explore the history of Liverpool’s most famous sons. Kids will love the interactive exhibits.
  • Albert Dock: Home to the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Tate Liverpool, there’s plenty to see and do here.
  • Sefton Park: A large park featuring a boating lake, playgrounds, and the stunning Palm House, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Cost-Saving Tips: Sefton Park and the Albert Dock are free to explore. Consider booking tickets to attractions like The Beatles Story online in advance for discounts.

How to Get There: Liverpool is well-served, with direct coaches from many UK locations.

Brighton

5. Brighton

Why Visit: Brighton’s mix of seaside fun, quirky shops, and vibrant culture makes it an ideal day out for families.

What to Do:

  • Brighton Beach: Enjoy the pebbled shore, take a dip in the sea, or just relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Brighton Pier: Filled with rides, games, and traditional seaside treats, the pier is a must-visit.
  • The Lanes: Wander through this maze of narrow streets, home to unique shops and cafes. It’s a great place to explore for free.

Cost-Saving Tips: Brighton’s beaches are free, and the city is walkable, so you won’t need to spend much on transportation once you arrive.

How to Get There: We run frequent services to Brighton daily, making it an affordable and hassle-free choice for a day trip.

Final tips for a budget-friendly, family day out

  • Book in Advance: Book further in advance to get the best fares available for your trip.
  • Pack Your Own Snacks: Save money by bringing your own food and drinks, especially if you’re visiting beaches or parks.
  • Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Many UK cities offer free museums, parks, and landmarks, which can help keep costs down.

With these budget-friendly destinations and tips, you can make the most of your summer without breaking the bank. So, pack your bags, hop on a coach, and create some unforgettable family memories!

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