Budgeting is a life skill and starting young will help your children both today and long term.

This half-term try giving them an ‘entertainment budget’.

They get to choose where to go, what to do and to weigh up the pros and cons of a big ticket day out or spreading the cash over several cheaper activities.

It’s a brilliant introduction to money management and if there is any cash left over they get to keep it.

The best value days out have to include National Trust and English Heritage.

Annual family membership is £120 and £99 respectively and you can spread the cost over 12 interest-free monthly payments; membership offers unlimited visits to hundreds of sites.

Right on Worcester’s doorstep is The Firs at Elgar’s Birthplace Museum in Lower Broadheath, where younger children will love Fairy Doorbells; a mix of trails and craft activities.

Watch out for the hidden extras when planning your holiday

The trail costs £2pp and the activity is £1pp, but be aware that there is a hefty entrance fee for non-members.

Knights and Princesses is the theme at English Heritage’s Kenilworth Castle.

It’s a bit of a trek from Worcester, so the fuel will rack up costs, but parking and entry is free for members, helping you to stay within budget.

Closer to home, Churchfield Farm, at Salwarpe, is a delightful open space with a cafe, outdoor play area, children’s play barn (£2 per child) and free daily story time sessions (term-time only).

You will need to buy drinks and may be tempted with Churchfield's delicious ice-cream, but parking is free and you can stay for as long as you like, making it good value.