Queen of bargains, including great-value summer days out

Be savvy and enjoy some fabulous excursions – without having to break the bank

It’s great to get out and about in the summer months, but it can cost a small fortune if you’re not careful. Here’s how to have a fantastic time for less!

Enjoy a freebie

There are some wonderful events running this summer that won’t cost a penny, so always see what’s going on locally for free before you part with your cash. Some highlights include Minerva’s Owls Of Bath (minervasowls.org), an art sculpture trail of more than 80 individually decorated owls and owlets in and around the World Heritage City of Bath until 10 September; Monmouth Festival (monmouthfestival.co.uk), which showcases an eclectic mix of musical talent on the Welsh border from 27 July to 4 August and the Canal & River

Trust at the Pocklington Canal Bicentenary Festival and Boat Rally (canalrivertrust.org.uk/events) in Yorkshire on 28 and 29 July.

Cut costs

Many attractions give discounts if you book your tickets in advance and online, so get organised! Others will offer cut-price deals if you go in a group. So team up with another family or friends and you’ll all get a better deal!

Bring your own

Buying meals and snacks when you’re out can really eat into your budget, so why not take a picnic, as well as treats you can enjoy throughout the day, too? Not only will you save on the cost of spending in a café, but you’ll also avoid wasting time queuing up – which means you’ll have more time to enjoy the attractions.