Days out for under a tenner
Want a day out but aren’t feeling too flush? There’s great fun to be had that won’t break the bank.
London
We’ve rounded up the best thrills and freebies so you can enjoy London for a little less!
Highlight: The Sky Garden
What is it: Take in the spectacular London sky line from the heights of the sky garden and enjoy a bite to eat or hot drink on the open air terrace.
How much: Free! Spaces do fill up quickly, so book ahead.
Where: 20 Fenchurch St, London EC3M 8AF
Free: Museums
What is it: Plenty of the city’s museums and galleries have free entry – check out the classic Natural History Museum, marvel at the Science Museum, or unearth the city’s rich history at the Museum of London.
Where: Various locations, check out a guide here.
Cheap Treat: Ride the Emirates cable car
What is it: Take to the air and cross London in style. For an enhanced experience, why not take one of the longer Night Flights!
How much: £3.50 Adults, £1.70 Child.
Where: 27 Western Gateway, Royal Docks, London E16 1FA. Get directions here.
York
(‘Mallard’ 4-6-2 A4 Pacific class, no. 4468, 1938 (steam locomotive) © National Railway Museum)
York holds 1,900 years' worth of history in its ancient walls, and there's plenty of it to enjoy for less than a tenner.
Highlight: The Shambles
What is it: Take a stroll down the historic Shambles, which was once voted the most picturesque street in Britain, checking out the quirky shops and eateries.
How much: Free! (If you can resist the Harry Potter shops...)
Where: Shambles, York, North Yorkshire, YO1 7LZ.
Free: The National Railway Museum
What is it: Visit the largest train museum in Britain, brilliant for lovers of locomotive history! Plan your visit here.
Where: Leeman Rd, York YO26 4XJ.
Cheap Treat: The York Roast
What is it: The home of the original Yorkshire pudding wrap, a perfect pit-stop after a busy day exploring. Find the menu here.
Where: 78 Low Petergate, York YO1 7HZ
How much: Varied depending on how hungry you are!
Edinburgh
Grab a tenner, your appetite and your kilt – we’re off to Edinburgh!
Highlight: Edinburgh Walking Tour
What is it: The best way to see all of this incredible city is on a 2 hour walking tour. As well as seeing all the main city sights, you’ll learn all about Edinburgh’s endlessly fascinating history.
How much: Free, for availability check here.
Where is it: Starting from High Street
Free: The Writer's Museum
What is it: The home of Scottish literature. This free, hidden gem is dedicated to three of Scotland's most famous writers: Robert Louis Stevenson, Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.
Where is it: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA
Cheap Treat: Lauriston Castle
What is it: An Edwardian castle surrounded by picturesque woodland and award winning Japanese garden - the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic.
How much: Entry to the grounds is free. Castle Admission - Adult £8, Concession £6 (under 5 free).
Where is it: 2 Cramond Rd S, Edinburgh EH4 6AD. Get directions here.
Newcastle
(Tyrannosaurus rex ‘Big Mike’ © Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums)
Have fun in the toon for just a tenner – here’s how:
Highlight: The Great North Museum: Hancock
What is it: Discover the history of Hadrian’s Wall, see live animals and fish in the Living Planet gallery, find fossilised dinosaurs and learn about Ancient Egyptian mummies. You can even travel into space in their in-house planetarium. Plan your visit here.
How much: Free!
Where is it: Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4PT.
Free: The Biscuit Factory
What is it: The UK’s largest independent contemporary art, craft & design gallery. With over 200 artists set over two floors, there’s plenty to see. Check out the latest exhibits here.
Where is it: Gemini House, 16 Stoddart St, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 1AN.
Cheap Treat: The Victorian Tunnel Tour
What is it: An underground tunnel with a fascinating history. Be transported back in time and learn how the tunnel was used as a WW2 air raid shelter and Victorian waggonway.
How much: Adults £8, Children £4, booking is essential.
Where is it: Victoria Tunnel Tour Meeting Point, 55 Lime Street, Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 2PQ.
Leeds
(Elephant armour © Royal Armouries Museum)
Enjoy the best Leeds has to offer for less than a tenner!
Highlight: Royal Armouries Museum
What is it: Five floors of displays, showcasing arms and armour from all over the world! Plan your visit here.
How much: Free!
Where is it: Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT.
Free: The Tetley
What is it: A contemporary art gallery, bar & kitchen and workshop space. Even if contemporary art isn't your thing, you're sure to be impressed by the former Tetley Brewery headquarters that house it.
Where is it: The Tetley, Hunslet Road, Leeds, LS10 1JQ. For more information check here.
Cheap Treat: Water Taxi
What is it: An alternative way to travel. After experiencing the delights of the Royal Armouries, travel back across the city in style!
How much: £1 per person, Kids under 5 go free.
Where is it: 2 pick-up/drop-off points which are located at Granary Wharf & Leeds Dock, taxis depart every 15 minutes. Check here for more information.