7 budget activities to beat the January blues
You and your mates skint after Christmas? Beat those January blues with a brill but budget activity
January 15, 2024
January is a double-edged sword, first we have the lifting celebrations of New Year, followed quickly by a return to work, no money, and old routine. Why not shake it up this year by getting your pals together to start 2024 off the right way, by getting up and out on a budget.
Outdoor Escape Games, London about £6
Follow the story of Etta Redlocks the Pirate Queen and scourge of the seas as you race through Southwark in London solving puzzles and visiting brand new places in the city. An exciting mix of a tour, escape game, and treasure hunt is a great and inexpensive way to see a new city and learn its history. Go at your own pace or try to be the quickest to complete the challenge, however you want to play.
You can also find these types of events across the country, each with a unique and captivating story.
City Walking Tour, Various, about £12
Get a head start on that 2024 fitness goal by getting out to a nearby city for a day of walking and sightseeing. Walking tours are a great way to see somewhere you’ve not explored, and you may even learn something exciting about a nearby town or city or find a cosy and quiet café down a side street you never knew existed that could become a new meeting spot for mates.
This tour in Glasgow showcases the best the city has to offer, with a friendly and super knowledgeable guide, even locals may discover something hidden in the winding streets.
Instagram Tour, Soho about £5
Take a trip into London’s most youthful and energetic district for some fab photo opportunities. This self-guided tour lets you take things at your own pace, visiting sights that are totally Instagram worthy and making your socials the envy of your followers while they sit at home moping! Grab some pics at Carnaby Street, Soho Square, and Old Compton Street before heading over for a drink refuel at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Bar. Make sure to bring your camera. Or get your best photographer friend to join you, just get them a drink yeah?
Beer Tasting, Edinburgh £10
Get underground for a unique beer tasting experience in Edinburgh. The Lost Close is a series of underground chambers rediscovered in 2019 during renovation works of the hostel above, with maps dating back to 1824. In these chambers were living quarters, a tavern and even the Royal Bank. Have a chance to drink in this piece of history whilst you taste up to seven local beers, meet new people and hear stories of the past.
Hard Rock Café, Manchester about £22
If you’re not planning on having a break from large portions of indulgent food after Christmas, get your mates together for a meal at the Hard Rock Café. Enjoy a set menu for either lunch or dinner at a discount price, so even your skintest of pals can join you. Check out rock memorabilia from legendary bands and rock legends such as Elvis Presley, The Arctic Monkeys, The Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix.
Paint and Sip, Stirling £30
There’s no better way to relax after the hubbub of the holiday season than a paint and sip evening. You can enjoy a glass of wine while you paint your own canvas under instruction from a seasoned artist. All equipment is provided, and you’ll be able to take your masterpiece home with you to hang on the wall (or maybe you won’t want to, depending on how much you sip).
Chocolate Tasting, York £9.50
By January, chocolate is starting to become too much. But if you’re not deterred, round up your mates to try a range of choccy goodies. You’ll also find out how your favourite confection is made, take a look inside the manufactory, and even have a go at creating your own chocolate treats. Products range from cakes, truffles, chocolate bars, and even more samples available to tickle your taste buds. Use your ticket to grab some brill discounts across the York Cocoa Works product range too, perfect for getting through Blue Monday.
