Having fun on a budget

Picture of Mia Ainsley

Mia Ainsley

In this blog, I wanted to share a couple of the low-cost activities that I have done this term with my friends, to show you that you do not need to spend a fortune to have a good time!

Bring a board night

Influenced by the popular TikTok trend, my friends and I decided to have a ‘bring a board’ night, where everyone had a different category to bring snacks for. My category was confectionery and a quick trip to Home Bargains meant that I was able to create a lovely selection for an exceptionally low price. It was a fun way to spend time together without the need to spend a fortune on a meal out.

sweets for Bring a Board night

Pumpkin painting and carving

To get into the festive season, I have also taken part in some pumpkin painting and carving nights. These festive nights can of course be adapted to your season of choice ie painting something Christmassy instead. The white pumpkin cost me around £1 from Sainsbury’s and the paints worked out to be £2 each from Home Bargains. Similarly, the carving kits were a couple of pounds. This was such a cheap way to get into the autumnal mood!

Film night

This is a classic way to spend time with your group without the need to spend a single penny. Choose a film each and spin a wheel to decide which one you watch that night. You could even cook together too, to save on the price of dinner.

Pot soc

Last week I attended an event with Durham’s pottery society. It was just £4 for a non-member to attend the event, and we were provided with the clay and tools. This was such a relaxing and creative evening and it felt good to try out a new society.

attending an event with Durham’s Pottery Society

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Mia Ainsley


I am currently completing my PGCE in Secondary Spanish with the Education department. I also studied Modern Languages and Cultures (MLAC) at Durham as an undergraduate and during that time, I completed a year abroad in Spain and Italy. I'm a supported progression student from the North East and a very proud member of Josephine Butler College. When I am not on placement in the classroom, you can probably find me reading a thriller book or baking. As a student, I have taken part in some of Durham's societies. I was a project coordinator for MLAC Outreach Society, a Student Ambassador, and a member of the 93% club.


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