No doubt the summer is well under way and it seems like it is coming to an end but hey there are still plenty of places to visit and activities to get your hands on as a family or solo!

Just because it’s the last leg of the summer holiday, doesn’t mean you need to start reminiscing about the heat wave. There is still time to take the kids on some trips and in fact there is never an end to travel.

Did you know that keeping children entertained could go far beyond your local park? I’ve seen families travel on a budget and done the same myself.

I’ve spent four days of the summer in Bournemouth, Somerset as well as two at Margate in Kent and of course two days touring in my home city London, solo and with friends with young children. Altogether, these were great days out for the kids on a budget.

The bulk of my travel was by National Express, a coach company, which is relatively cheap and cheerful with an excellent service! The trains can sometimes cost more.

National Express Coach at Bournemouth Coach Station

Margate Beach

So where is Margate as most people know it? Margate is a beautiful seaside resort that lies in the district of Thanet in Kent. It is well-known for its white cliffs and golden sand where children love throwing sand at each other, building sand castles and tucking into sumptuous Fish and Chips!

Kiddies Corner on Margate Beach

I have seen so many contented children at the beach more than anywhere else this season. Is it because the beach has so much space, a place to reflect, recharge and regain sanity?

Inflated frogs float on Margate beach

Bedgebury

Not Just For The Young At Heart!

Bedgebury Forest Park is an outdoor site situated 16 miles northwest of Hastings. Activities include Zip Wires, Cycling, Picnicking, horse riding, walking and has a children’s park. It could actually be referred to as a Forest adventure park. I remember swinging on a huge swing with other children and adults – what great fun and certainly a place to be a child again!

Greenery in Bedgebury Forest Park

More Greenery in Bedgebury Forest Park

Luckily I went on a trip there with a school I was working in, in July this year but unfortunately we got caught in the middle of a heat wave, which was no joke, being outdoors for the entire time.

Bedgebury Forest Park Zip Wire

A good deal of respect is required for wildlife, nature and the environment.

Hampton Court Palace

The home of Henry VIII

Day trip in London Hampton Court Palace

Day trip in London A row of trees at Hampton Court Palace

Days out in London

As you know, London has so much beauty around and it is so easy to get carried away with walking and soaking up the architecture and people watching. I highly recommend not forgetting these items to help you make the most of your trips:

Wear comfortable walking shoes

Pack or wear a raincoat

Pack an umbrella

Children’s spare clothes and a towel in case they get drenched.

It’s much cheaper to prepare a packed lunch or buy a Meal Deal from one of the supermarkets like Tesco and this includes a drink.

Day trip in London The London Eye

Most importantly carry a bottle of water everywhere as there is nothing worse than suffering from dehydration.

Carry your essentials like sunscreen, visor or sun hat and any prescribed medication for your children or yourself with you.

Day trip in London London’s Outdoor Cinema

Are you on your last few days of your summer holiday? Are you struggling with deciding what to do or have you got a strategic plan in place ? As always leave a comment.

Read more inspiring stories here and at Yakondi Blog.

https://www.yakondi.com/content/planning-a-great-day-out-even-if-it-rains/

Bedgebury Forest