Appreciating England

Image thanks to tbank

Everyone has those moments in life when you really don't want to get up in the morning especially around this time of year when it's freezing cold and it's still dark outside.


But when you actually take a closer look at the scenery, there is sooo much to see and do that you don't necessarily think about. Here are a few things to do if your strapped for cash/looking for some inspiration.


Look around you. Chances are you've never looked up/behind the buildings that you see on a regular basis and there are so many churches and parks that you may not know about. Near my halls of residence in Derby there is a park and 2 churches and I just love nature at the moment. Even if you go for a wander around your local area you are bound to find something of interest. Maybe take photos or sketch and make a collage and save for a  rainy day.


You could also take a trip to other local parks with family or friends. Most of these places are free to get into so take cameras and sketch pads and enjoy yourself. 


Stay at home and cook a big Sunday dinner! Cook for your friends if your in halls or family when you're at home. If you're with friends then you could take a trip down to the local market with them and chip in together to get all the ingredients. All you need is a joint of meat, some veggies (even if they are frozen/tinned as these are a lot cheaper than buying fresh) Yorkshire puds and roast potatoes. If you don't know how to make the meat from scratch (as in cooking it), buy a ready cooked chicken from Asda for £4. The whole cost of the roast may come to around £10 but share with lets say 5 of you and that's only £2 each!


Go to car boot sales. There can be so many bargains here that it's something you can't miss out on! Whether it's books, clothes, china, pots and pans, posters, dvds etc. these can all be found here.


Visit art galleries, museums or exhibitions as many of them will be free. You may have to do a bit of research on this as not all are free but many do weekends free or certain days for free and can be a great way to enjoy yourself for free. Many cathedrals are free also which have lovely architecture which you might also enjoy.


Let me know if you have any other ideas to add.