With the October holidays fast approaching it is often difficult to find cheap and cheerful activities for the whole family without leaving a hole in your pocket. One of the largest expenses for a family day out can often be travel to and from the venue and a hire car can often be the most cost effective solution. 

If you’re planning on getting out and about this autumn without breaking the bank then here is a list of great family days out throughout the UK costing under £40 to show just how far your money can travel this October!

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London - Horrible Histories: Spies and Imperial War Museum

Put your undercover skills to the test and find out if you have what it takes to be a spy this October at Horrible Histories: Spies, an interactive family exhibition at the Imperial War Museum.

Several events are taking place alongside the exhibition including a range of half term spy-themed activities. Terry Deary himself will also be examining facts and stories from his books whilst illustrator Martin Brown will be imparting his secrets on how he brings the characters in Deary’s books to life. 

This exhibition has been open since late July and has received great reviews. 

Nottingham – Nottingham Panthers October EIHL Matches – Ice Hockey

Ice hockey has been played in the UK since the 1930’s, however since the Elite Ice Hockey League’s formation in 2003 ice hockey’s popularity in the UK has exploded to the extent that it is now the No. 1 attended indoor professional sport in the UK. 

So why not book tickets to see the Nottingham Panthers this October and see what all the fuss is about!

  • Where: Nottingham Arena At National Ice Centre, Bolero Square, The Lace Market, Nottingham, NG1 1LA
  • When: 7 remaining fixtures to be played in October – see website for details
  • Price: Junior tickets from £8.50, Adult tickets £16
  • More Information: http://www.panthers.co.uk/

Manchester – Curious About Manchester Treasure Hunt

Live in or local to Manchester? Why not embark on your very own exploration of this fabulous city taking place on the 30th October until the 31st December 2013. 

Take part in two self-guided treasure hunt heritage trails which are focussed in and around the historic city centre. Find answers to clues and match pictures whilst discovering hidden histories you may never have known about. 

Birmingham – Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

With over 200 hands-on science and technology displays to get to grips including the state-of-the-art ‘Planetarium’ which brings the Universe to you, there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained!

  • Where: Birmingham Science Museum, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG
  • When: Whenever you like!
  • Price: £35.00 for a family of four
  • More Information: http://www.thinktank.ac/default.asp

Nottingham – Robin Hood Pageant 2013

The Castle and surrounding grounds are transformed into a medieval settling where visitors can experience first-hand the smells, sights and spectacle of living in 12th Century Nottingham. 

Visitors will also get the chance to meet the legend himself, Maid Marion and his Merry Men whilst trying their hand at some of the sports and activities of the age including archery, jousting, wood carving and falconry!

Glasgow – Riverside Museum

Home to over 3,000 historic items from early to mid-20th Century Glasgow, the museum gives visitors a glimpse into the rich tapestry of this maritime powerhouse and plays host to a variety of artefacts ranging from vehicles and street-themes to paintings and fashion.

You also have the chance to climb aboard some of the transport exhibits as well as handle an array of interactive displays en route. 

Belfast – Belfast Zoological Gardens

Belfast Zoo is currently the number one attraction in Northern Ireland receiving more than 300,000 visits per year. And with more than 1,000 animals and 150 species on display it is easy to see why so many people are drawn to this great attraction. 

There are also a host of activities which kids and parents alike can participate in throughout the autumn and winter months ensuring that you make the most of your visit!

Cardiff – Doctor Who Experience – Cardiff Bay

The Doctor Who exhibition at Porth Teigr in Cardiff is an interactive exhibition that gives you a ‘real life’ account of the day-to-day life of The Doctor. You will come face-to-face with some of the most iconic and scary television villains in viewing history and Matt Smith will be with you every step of the way thanks to specially filmed sequences.  

This is the most extensive collection of Doctor Who props and artefacts in the world, so family member and fans alike can be sure to be fully entertained by this multi-sensory special effects packed experience!

Cumbria – Craft Monkeys – Penrith

Being voted the number 1 attraction in Cumbria on Trip Advisor in no mean feat, and for this spot to be occupied by a local self-funded business is all the more impressive! 

Craft Monkeys in Penrith is a fun day out for all the family where people of all ages can come and create their very own work of art, piece of pottery or cuddly toy! 

  • Where: 3 Corney Square, Penrith, Cumbria, CA11 7PX
  • When: Whenever you like!
  • Price: Price depends on what you wish to make – Prices start from £1 per item
  • More Information: http://www.craftymonkeys.org/index.htm

Lincolnshire – Fantasy Island – Skegness

Fantasy Island could be the perfect choice for a family that likes variety all under the one roof! With a variety of rides and fairground attractions, shows and markets there is never a dull moment at one of Skegness’ main tourist spots!

A range of weekend accommodation is also available so if a day is not long enough to take in all Fantasy Island has to offer then you have the option to let the good times roll for longer!

  • Where: Sea Lane, Ongoldmells, Skegness, Lincolnshire, PE25 1RH
  • When: Whenever you like!
  • Price: Subject to peak times – Adult tickets from £10 and Children from £5
  • More Information: http://fantasyisland.co.uk/
Disclaimer: All prices contained in this article were correct on the original date of publication. Prices may change over time, so for current prices, please get a quote.