5 themed staycations for tight budgets

We all need some time away from the daily grind of work, but this year squeezed household budgets mean that fewer of us will be jetting off abroad.

Most UK-based holidays are based around the seaside, cultural events, or historic cities and towns, but sometimes it’s good to try something a little bit different. Here are five themed breaks for adventurous ‘staycationers’.

1. Messing about on boats

While the majority of sailing holidays are quite expensive and require a certain level of skill, there is a cheaper, simpler alternative. Barge and narrowboat holidays are fun for families and groups of friends, and most give you the option of self-catering too.

Find out more about waterway locations by visiting The Waterways Trust website, and VisitWales. Large providers include Hoseasons and Waterways Holidays, but it’s worth shopping around.

2. Saving the environment

There are many opportunities around the UK for working holidays and volunteering, and the best ones offer a chance to learn new skills or increase your knowledge of certain subjects. For a useful overview of what’s available, have a look at Responsible Travel.

The National Trust is a major provider of several working breaks and ‘eco fun’ holidays, where you could be doing anything from mending footpaths to archaeological research to maintaining beaches. Living conditions vary, but most are suitable for groups of friends or singles, and a few are suitable for families too.

3. Pampering

Spa breaks can work out much cheaper if you avoid weekends and make the most of for two-for-one offers, free treatments and other discounts. You can also decide between traditional countryside spas and the more flexible option of a hotel with attached spa. If an overnight stay is too pricey, keep an eye out for one-day spa offers in nearby towns and cities, and make day trips instead.

Check possible offers against the ratings of The Good Spa Guide to make sure you’re going to get a truly relaxing pampering experience, and hunt down daily deals on lastminute and Wahanda.

4. Arts holidays and courses

While most of us can’t stretch to a Greek island poetry retreat, or painting watercolours at a Tuscan villa, there are loads of reasonably-priced arts courses available nearer to home. Why not look up approved summer schools and short, fun courses around Britain on the hotcourses website? You could soon be trying out digital photography, acting, life drawing, cake decorating and many others. Your local university or college may also have some interesting options over the summer months.

5. Sport and fitness

Check with your local council, nearby schools and leisure centres for summer sports and fitness schemes. Many of these are family-friendly, and include everything from football summer schools to Olympic-themed fitness training. These are usually subsidised and great value for money, especially if you already have sports kit and a decent pair of trainers.

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