By Preeya Abidi-Fallows
Cheap family days out are rare to find. Even days out for couples are hard to source without becoming expensive. The UK’s cost of living crisis is highly severe in 2026. There is a new wave of inflation stemming from global energy unpredictability. Issues that are facing the average household are energy bills, food prices and the general squeeze.
Families are struggling more than ever to go for days out. For a family of four, a typical day out in the UK can cost between £100 and £350. This can depend on the activities you choose, how you get there, and where you eat. However sometimes there are cheap days out to find. “Bills are becoming so expensive, having a day off becomes so difficult to afford, it’s costing the average family well over £100,” said Kell Beaumont, age 52, of Chester.
If you live around Chester there are options for going out for the day on a budget, from keeping kids entertained to just enjoying spending time together.
Eating, shopping and siteseeing in Liverpool
Liverpool’s Liver Building
Specifically for a couples’ outing from Chester, Liverpool is a great day. Getting the train from Chester to Liverpool is between £9-£12. Compared with fuel prices this is very affordable. Its even cheaper for couples. The price of two tickets can be around £20.
Budget friendly attractions include The Museum of Liverpool, National Museum, St James’ Gardens, The Bombed out Church and Liverpool central library. The city centre has plenty of places to eat, these include some affordable restaurants, fast food and supermarkets where you can get a sandwich and snacks. “Going to Liverpool from Chester is one of my favourite things to do, it’s affordable and there is so much to keep you busy for the day,”said Caitlin Godfrey. 21, of Chester.
A Llandudno beach escape
Llandudno is an hour’s drive from Chester or a fifty minute train ride. A return train ticket can cost between £15- £35. The beaches are an escape, on a warm day, for a lie down in the sand and a leisurely swim.
Llandudno’s West Shore beach
If the weather isn’t so hot, then you can take a walk along the beach, looking out over the scenic view. The pier is also a lovely place to spend your time whilst in Llandudno. Taking a picnic is a good way to keep down the costs. By bringing your own food the day can cost less than £50. “Llandudno is an incredible place,” said James Roberts, 23, of Chester. “On a sunny day the beach makes you feel like you’re not even in England. The beach is also super easy if you want a cheap day out to save money”
Chester- from the park to the river to the ancient Cathedral
If you live around the Chester area then an actual day out in Chester is the perfect choice. From a walk in the Roman Gardens to a visit to Chester’s historic cathedral.
The Rows, Chester
There are lots of small cafes, with reasonable prices, where you can grab a bite to eat. A lovely place to spend an afternoon is Grosvenor Park, running round and having a picnic. Another lovely way to spend the time is hiring a pedalo on the River Dee or even taking a relaxing boat trip down the river.
Families are struggling more than ever to be able to take their children on days out. There is also evidence to suggest that roughly one in five young adults (ages 18-35) have finished their relationships over financial strain and worry. This shows the effects of the cost of living crisis on people.
Preeya Abidi-Fallows asks fellow journalist Nellie Salmon about days out from Chester.
Reporter Preeya Abidi-Fallows on the high cost of family days out
