With October half term fast approaching and the summer holidays barely out of sight, cash-strapped parents in Watford will be wondering how they are going to keep the kids entertained during the school holidays.

To help inspire, money saving site Voucherbox has collated the top three things for a family of four to do for under £40 in and around Watford.

Watford Observer:

Life on the wild side

Escape the rat race and enjoy getting in touch with nature Farmyard Funworld, Watford. This lovely little family attraction which is located in Bushey

that aims to send your little one’s home, ‘tired but happy’! Either choose to spend your time down on the farm, getting close to chickens, parrots, rabbits, peacocks or head indoors to the fun and frivolous Funworld where your kids can climb, jump and slide over three stories of soft play.

Cost: Any five people for £39 (including at least 1 adult) 

Light it up

If you’re looking to burn off some energy this half term then take your kids to Laser Planet Watford. This centre of light encourages the kids to play a high tech version of tag where one is 'tagged' with the full blast of a dramatic looking laser beam courtesy of your opponents, which will trigger a 'hit' register on your sensors and give you a vibration in warning! This is all fun safe gaming and a great family day out for everyone.

Cost: Average family of four ticket based on two adults and two kids is £38

Culture vulture

Cheslyn house and Gardens is Watford's best kept secret, with a formal area and semi natural woodland it is an oasis for nature and a Green Flag Award winner. Your little one’s will love running on the grass, looking at fish, newts, frogs and ducks in and on the pond. There is also an aviary with quail, budgies, assorted finches and other small birds that are looked after by the gardener and Park Rangers.

Cost: Free

Movie madness  

If half term brings us one of those wet and windy days then why not treat the kids to a trip to the cinema? Vue Watford shows all the latest blockbusters in 2D or 3D at a competitive rate including the much-hyped new Lego film, Lego Ninjago Movie.

Average entrance cost for a family of four: £31.16

Additional tips

For travel options to all these fantastic destinations why not take a look at these great offers from Family and Friends Railcard, amongst other great discounts and promotions at Voucherbox.