Weekend ideas on a budget
I don’t know about any of you, but I am rather fed up of the unpredictability of this so called ‘summer’ weather. Usually in June, most weekends are spent at Godrevy beach feeling smug that this is all on my doorstep and that it can be enjoyed for free (excluding the parking / membership fee and packed lunch). This year I have not felt smug, I have felt cold and I know I am not alone. Fortunately, I live within walking distance of both Camborne and Barripper parks, so weather permitting we have been regular visitors to both of these and I am very grateful for them as, like many, I can’t afford to spend extra money on entertaining my very lively nearly-two year old during the current cost of living crisis. I love finding things to do which are fun and cost very little. I did a post at Easter which was very similar, but lots of the suggestions were seasonal and so may not be available at the moment.
1. Visiting local parks: We are lucky that improvements were made to Barripper Park and Camborne Park in 2019 and 2020 and for the most part, these wonderful spaces have remained well looked after by those who use them. Park recommendations further afield include Heartlands, Illogan Park, Frogpool, Kimberley Park (Falmouth), St Just recreation ground, Malpas Park.
2. Swimming: Carn Brea Leisure Centre run ‘£3 Friday Family Fun Sessions’ every Friday. Under 3s can swim for free at the Jubilee Pool in Penzance and an adult ticket in the main pool is £7.50.
3. A trip to the woods: We are very lucky to be situated within easy access of several different areas of woodland. Tehidy is perfect for woodland walks and feeding the ducks, swans and overly friendly squirrels. Pendarves woods are also another local and lovely place to visit. There are are different trails to follow and again, ducks aplenty on the beautiful lake. Penrose Valley in Helston is also worth a visit. The path leading from the car park to the café is perfect for pushchairs and there are lots for the children to see on their way, to keep it interesting.
4. National Trust: I mentioned the benefits of having National Trust membership in a previous post and, personally, I am pleased that I have mine as it has kept my family entertained on days when the weather hasn’t been ‘beach worthy’. Godolphin is one to visit at the moment as they have their ‘Barefoot Trail’. Trelissick has some lovely walks and there are lots to spot in the gardens for anyone wanting to do a nature scavenger hunt.
5. Trevaskis Farm: Trevaskis Farm is a perfect place to visit with little ones at the moment for strawberry picking and a meander at the animals.
6. Train rides: I follow the ‘Cornwall with the kids’ page on Facebook and was surprised to see that a train ride to St Ives was actually really reasonable. For an adult it costs £4 return, £2 return for 5-15 year olds and under 5s are free. For those of you who haven’t before caught the train to St Ives, it is a really enjoyable trip with the most amazing views.
It would be wonderful if you could share some of the lovely things you all do at the weekend in the comments section below.
