Although a staycation will save money in that, you will not be paying for flights or transfers, there are still costs involved.
There is undoubtedly loads to see and do in Cornwall whilst here on a holiday. However, as we all know, getting away is not always cheap, and the costs can soon add up especially if you are a family.
You don’t want to blow your budget whilst on holiday but unfortunately, keeping children entertained can be expensive. Therefore, we would like to share some suggestions on how to achieve some savings and not overspend whilst away.
Below are some of the ways you can save when visiting Cornwall.
As a rule of thumb, most attractions are cheapest when you book online in advance. The discount if you book in advance or online, is usually 10% off ticket entry, some attractions offer up to 30% off. Make sure to check the website to establish what deals they are offering.
Check individual websites for annual passes, this involves a one-off payment and with this you get unlimited returns to the attraction, over a specified period. Venues like the Eden Project, Cornish Seal Sanctuary, New Zoo all offer annual passes.
Many Cornwall attractions offer a system where you purchase a ticket once and can return as many times as you like, often up to a year. Again check individual websites for what offers they have.
Look at getting a Kids Pass which offers discounts on many activities, such as 40% off cinema tickets, or 57% off a number of family days out, up to 25% off restaurants, as well as kids eat free deals, and savings on holidays in the UK. You can sign up for a 30 trial for £1.00. Check out here for more details https://www.kidspass.co.uk/
Check out money saving sites such as Wowcher or Groupon they often have discounted tickets to attractions and events across the country. They do change regularly so worth keeping an eye out.
Take out a membership with The National Trust, they offer a family ticket that you can pay for on a monthly basis. With a National Trust membership, you get free entry and parking at almost all of their car parks. A number of local beaches here in Cornwall are managed by the National Trust so a membership will undoubtedly save you money when visiting these beaches. If you merely require access to free parking at National Trust beaches, then you could register for a single membership. For more information on membership, click here https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/join-us.
English Heritage manage a number of historic properties here in Cornwall. With their membership you get unlimited access to many historic places and free parking where the car park is owned by them. As well as free entry for up to six children, and free or reduced price entry to hundreds of exciting events. For more information, please check out their website here https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/join/
Download the “App for Cornwall" which has over 70 discount vouchers to Cornwall’s leading attractions and activities. Simply download the mobile app and present your redeemable voucher to the cashier at the venue. For more essential information click here, http://www.appforcornwall.com/
Attractions like Newquay Zoo offer a combined pass with entry into Newquay Zoo, Paignton Zoo and Living Coasts Torquay. This works out cheaper than purchasing separate tickets to each individual attraction.
If you purchase a ticket to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, you get free entry for a year. However, if you purchase a membership; you can also get free entry into the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trebah Gardens, Minack Theatre, Wheal Martyn and Pinetum Gardens at specific times of the year.
Also check out local newspapers they tend to run some good offers for popular attractions.
You can transfer your Tesco Clubcard points into days out at attractions like Blue Reef Aquarium (Newquay), Eden Project and Flambards.
Also check out the Fal Mussel Visitor Card it offers easy and unlimited travel around the Fal River and between attractions by ferry, train or bus. With unlimited hop-on-hop-off travel for a fixed period; one day through to six days. You can park up the car and really relax. In addition, all Fal Mussel Cards offer discounts at a range of shops, cafes, attractions, gardens and activity providers around the river. Click here for more information https://www.falriver.co.uk/fal-mussel-card/visitor
Naturally taking along your own snacks/lunches/picnic will of course save money over the course of your stay. Visit one of the many local grocery stores or farmer markets to get local produce and Cornish specialities.
There is, of course, a fantastic range of free things to do in Cornwall as well. With hundreds of beaches to explore, incredible walks and cycle trails and national parks. In addition there are many free attractions like Heartland’s, The Royal Cornwall Museum and Trenance Gardens and Leisure Park. You don’t always have to splurge to have a fun time.
We hope our tips will allow you to save some money and make your staycation cheaper for you.