As the dreaded school holidays descend on us plenty of parents are contemplating how to entertain the children as cheaply and as easily as possible. With the recent global economic situation more families are opting to stay in the UK this summer.

A recent survey discovered that an average family spends around £330 on entertaining the children this summer, totalling over £5.6 million. Due to the recent credit crunch many families are trying are look for an alternative to foreign luxury holidays by either finding a last minute bargain or holidaying in the UK.

When surveyed over 53% of families choosing to stay in the UK said that they will visit a theme park this summer, 45% will be going swimming in the local pool whilst 31% said they would be having a day out bowling. If you use your imagination there are numerous activities to entertain children over the long school holidays. Some low cost options include going to the museum where entry is free, picnics in the park, bike rides or just fun and games in the garden at home.