How to visit Cornwall on a budget
The annual family holiday is often considered a luxury, but in reality it doesn’t have to cost the earth. We have so many spectacular destinations on our doorstep, and while many of us dream of staying at the Ritz, there are still plenty of affordable accommodation options across the country, which will help you create just as many unforgettable memories.
Cornwall is one of the most popular holiday locations in the UK, and this comes as no surprise due to its countless attractions and wealth of things to do. It’s also an incredibly attractive area, which provides the perfect excuse to grab a last-minute caravan holiday in Cornwall or to get back to basics by setting up a tent and making the most of the surroundings.
Accommodation doesn’t have to break the bank
What’s more, by staying in a Cornwall holiday park with camping, you’ll also be keeping costs to a minimum. Here, our expert mummy bloggers agree, and provide other ideas of how you can watch the pennies while still enjoying your staycation to the fullest.
“When looking for a holiday we all like a bargain. However if you are looking to holiday on a budget in the UK here are a few simple tips. Always make the most of what you have. If you already have a tent look to use this, there are some beautiful campsites situated around the UK, such as Tencreek Holiday Park in Looe.” – Rachel Neal, Blogging Mummy
Agree a budget
When on holiday, it is easy for children to become carried away, asking for souvenirs in gift shops, ice creams during days at the beach, and a go on the extras at the theme parks. However, if you’re not careful, these can quickly add up and make your holiday in Cornwall much more expensive than you intended.
“I would also say to make sure you set a limit for each day you are away, with an amount of money set aside to have for days out and to buy souvenirs. Once this set amount of money has been spent for the day then it’s gone, so make sure your children are aware of this.” – Rachel
Prepare an itinerary
It’s very easy to think that your Cornwall holiday preparation involves packing, and packing only. However, if you want a stress-free and affordable break, it’s best to have everything organised before you reach your destination.
“Do your research before you go. Research the area where you are going, by searching for free days out and free attractions in the area that you may like to visit. Don’t leave it all till the last minute, and make sure you do your planning so you stick to the budgets you set.” – Rachel
Utilise the free things to do
Yes, Cornwall is full of impressive attractions such as the Eden Project and Newquay Zoo, but there are also plenty of opportunities to see and do things for free. The Tate Gallery in St Ives is free for under 18s, and so are a number of the county’s informational and educational museums. Or, instead, get out in the great outdoors, and make your own fun.
“Make use of those beautiful beaches. Children don’t need much paid for entertainment when they have a beach in their sights. Invest in some buckets and get them building castles, and one of my favourite things was doing it near rock pools and making castles with moats and streams.”
“Crabbing and pond dipping is so much fun and very cheap. My children spent hours crabbing in Cornwall, all you need is a line and a little bait. It is great for younger children as the results are usually quick and you can catch plenty. Just remember to set them free afterwards. Pond dipping is easy too and interesting to see what you can catch.” – Emma Bradley, Emma and 3
Keep spending money on food to a minimum
Eating is often one of the most expensive aspects of a holiday, but it doesn’t have to be, as our expert mummy bloggers explain.
“Buy ice-creams from a little shop or supermarket rather than ice-cream huts. You pay over the odds when buying individually. It is much better to buy a box of four or six.” – Emma
“Once you are on holiday it is always nice to eat out, if you are going on a budget though you may want to look at visiting the local supermarket once you arrive. One thing I always do is make some meals before we go and take them with us. It saves time but most of all saves money, as we all know restaurants and pubs can charge a lot for food.” – Rachel
Image Credit: foilman (Flickr.com)
This content was written by Alex Jones. Please feel free to visit my Google+ Profile to read more stories.
