AS THE summer holidays recede into mere memory half time looms just around the corner, leaving cash and time strapped parents across the UK wondering how best to amuse their little ones.

In a bid to inspire the Bracknell contingent of this concerned parent cohort, coupon website Voucherbox has provided four suggestions for families of four to do for under £40.

1. While away a day at the Lili Pottery centre. Encourage the little ones to flex their creative muscles as they paint their own pottery. Once it has been glazed and fired, they can take it home to use or save for a loved one's birthday. There is a whole host of stencil options for crafty children to choose from as well as plenty of paint colours. Free entry, but you pay for what you paint

2. Now that the negative storm of comments following its release has passed over, Coral Reef Waterworld emerges as the perfect place for a splash around with the kids. Home to a manmade beach, pirate ship and a giant cannon with a 67-metre drop, mini-swimmers and old aged paddlers alike can get onboard the splashtastic flumes which feature lasers and 360-degree video projection. The average cost for a family of four is £30.90.

3. Westmorland Park consists of grassy areas, shrub beds, mature parkland trees and provides the perfect place for a relaxing stroll or family picnic. Facilities include a children's play area, basketball court, tennis courts, football pitches, baseball diamond and a pavilion with features which can only be hired for sports and community activities not social activities. The best part - it is completely free.

4. And finally the Pinewood Miniature Railway, which recently celebrated its 25th birthday. Located at Pinewood Leisure Centre between Wokingham and Crowthorne, the railway runs for nearly half a mile through a woodland setting.