Hard-pressed parents will be panicking about what to do with the kids for the next few weeks as school summer holidays approach. Cost is a major factor with many families looking for budget-friendly ways to enjoy the long summer days and weekends especially as the price of fuel continues to rise.
But there are ways to enjoy the best of Britain without breaking the bank. Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR) – the train operator for Southern, Thameslink, Great Northern and Gatwick Express – is offering five top tips and money saving tricks for activities across the rail network this summer in a bid to ease family finances.
So, for a family of four or a group of friends, there is a cheaper alternative to embrace the British summer, without spending a fortune on petrol and still have a fantastic time. Here's a few suggestions, according to the train operator:
Seaside trips for the price of an ice-cream
Take the children to the seaside for just a few pounds. With every adult Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak ticket, you can bring up to four children aged five-15 for just £2 each. Pack up the picnic and head out for the day to the seaside, exploring all the UK coast has to offer this summer for a cost-conscious but fun day out.
Flex the destination and bag a bargain
‘Flex travel’ is the summer holiday trend for 2022, and this doesn’t just apply to flights. Seize the opportunity for adventure and pick your destination based on the best deals at your time of booking. Take advantage of advance fares by booking ahead and being open minded about the destination. For example, you can get from London Victoria to Eastbourne for a seaside trip for as little as £5.50 if you book in advance. For the very best deals, you can book up to 12 weeks in advance.
Get on board for a group getaway, with change to spare
Whether it's an upcoming hen weekend, friend’s birthday or summer wedding - take advantage of GTR’s group travel package. When travelling in a group of three to nine adults, GroupSave tickets can offer a third off the cost. Remember to book tickets in advance to maximise on this offer.
For example, eight people travelling from London to Cambridge can get there and back for £12.85 each, or London to Portsmouth for £22.70 each.
Rainy day activities
Rainy days are every parent’s nightmare. For those who live outside of London, a trip to the capital can seem expensive but it is a great way to amuse children with some fantastic indoor activities. Take a trip to visit Dippy the dinosaur at the Natural History Museum, which has free entry, or head to the London Transport Museum where children enter for free. For a wallet-saving rail journey, take advantage of £2 travel tickets for children aged five to 15.
Double up a train ticket with top attraction
When booking directly through Southern, Great Northern and Thameslink, make sure to double up on top attractions using GTR’s 2FOR1 entry. Some favourite attractions included in the offer are the London Eye, Oxford Castle and Prison, and The Bluebell Railway. The 2FOR1 tickets must be booked online in advance. Visit Thameslink, Southern and Great Northern sites to find out more.
Angie Doll, chief operating officer, GTR, said: “The summertime is fantastic for getting out and about with family or friends, but it can be expensive too. We have some brilliant destinations available across our rail network from Brighton beach to the South Downs for country walks and cities like Cambridge for history and a spot of shopping.
"What’s not as well-known though is some of the ways you can travel by rail for less and make the most of offers and discounts that make those special summer days out even better.”
For more information on GTR’s ticket pricing visit Southern, Thameslink or Great Northern
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