Cheap things to do on a rainy August Bank Holiday

If I’m tempting fate then I do apologise; maybe I’m too jaded, but I have a feeling the long weekend will be a bit of a damp squib, especially judging by how rubbish the weather’s been so far this month. So, rather than moaning too much about it, I thought I’d better think of a contingency plan in case the BBQ party I’ve had planned for months isn’t going to happen. I’ve been looking around for things to keep my guests entertained with on a miserable day, and thought it would be useful to share, especially seeing as I’ve come across a few special offers.

Play board games
I don’t care what you say, there’s nothing more fun than a great board game with a good circle of friends. My personal favourite is Taboo, but it sadly appears to be out of production. I'm not sure why - seeing as it’s the best board game ever - but hey, perhaps I’m in the minority on that one. Anyway, upon searching for a great game, I noticed that Woolies, Additions Direct and Argos all have some great deals on board games. And of course, always remember to check out Hamley’s - admittedly it isn’t the cheapest provider around, but they are still celebrating their 250th birthday and so have some tempting offers on at the moment.

Watch movies or get into a good book
If board games are not your thing, you should take a look at the latest movies to be released on DVD. There are some excellent movies for which HMV are offering up to 50% off, such as Blind Side, Shutter Island, Clash of the Titans and Cats and Dogs, which you can pick up for under £4 - so there’s something for everyone. If reading is more your thing, or you would like to get your kids reading a bit more, then Waterstone's have some great deals on at the moment, such as 3 for 2 on fantasy, money off holiday paperbacks and up to 40% off back to school books, which also includes some fiction - it's not just all text books.

Get the Wii out!
There are worse ways to while away a day with a group of friends – if you don’t have a Wii and are looking to replace your mobile phone soon, then be sure to take a look at the handsets which give you a free games console. Obviously they’re not the latest ones, but if that doesn’t bother you, then that could be a winner. Alternatively, check PriceMinister, where you’ll be able to pick up a second-hand one for around £80 and have some great accessories thrown in.

Bring the BBQ inside and have a dinner party
Not literally of course, but you get the idea. If it is raining then be prepared to be able to host an indoor feed. Sainsbury’s have some great sales on at the moment on food and kitchen utensils, and Tesco also have some massive savings on at the moment including alcohol deals. If you’re looking for inspiration, take a look at Jaime Oliver’s store Jme, as there’s some pretty cool stuff there too.

That said, I really hope the sun has its hat on. Fingers crossed!

Written by The Spy, 14 August, 2010 - 14:30