A great value short break – why and where?

Most surveys of holidaymakers suggest that, however bad the economy gets, we are loath to give up our annual summer holiday. But there is no doubt that many of us are being much more cautious when it comes to booking a short break. We see that under the category of "discretionary spending", and it has an air of extravagance about it at a time when most of us are watching our budgets carefully.

The short break, especially in England, though, is one of the great pleasures of travel – the escape that combines a dose of culture, a decent meal and the discovery of somewhere new with an escape from routine. And if you plan your trip and choose your destination carefully, there is a lot that can be done to make it more affordable. Here are some strategies for booking a short break without breaking the bank.

Living costs

Which destination is going to offer best value depends to a large extent on how much you spend when you get there. Of course, you can save money by eating pizza and buying sandwiches, but do you really want to when the hotel can offer a great value dinner? It is the combination of the price of your hotel and your travel costs that will make the biggest difference to the overall amount you have to pay for the holiday.

Impulse buys

You can pick your way through cost-of-living data and average hotel prices, but it's sometimes worth being spontaneous: you can find some incredibly good offers if you simply check what is available online. Dozens of websites allow you to do this, including Expedia and Lastminute. But the best route that I have found is to go to Google and key in my chosen destination and phone the hotel.

Why not try the River Thames

A great value place to visit this Autumn is the Bridge Hotel on the River Thames at Chertsey. For you and your partner on a one night weekend break away from the children it has much to offer. Nearby are Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace, Painshill Park, Wisley Gardens and Viginia Waters. And we mustn’t forget a walk along the Thames taking in the historic Chertsey Bridge! Afterwards relax for a drink before dinner in the Boat House Restaurant, it’s great value even for dinner.

Our value for money Autumn break offer is called You & Me Time Together. It is just £69 per room on any weekend (Friday – Sunday), subject to availability, between 14th September and 23rd December 2012. So it’s perfect for that weekend away for you and your partner.

This EXCLUSIVE Bed and Breakfast offer includes:

•    Overnight Accommodation
•    Full English Breakfast For 2
•    Complimentary Parking
•    Complimentary WI-FI
•    Complimentary Tea Or Coffee On Arrival
•    Complimentary Upgrade To Superior Room
•    If available a River View Room

So for a great break that won’t break the bank call The Bridge in Chertsey on 01932 565644 to make that booking and get in quick to get a River View!