WHILE there is plenty to do and see in North Somerset, there is nothing nicer than picking up a bargain along the way so here is a handy of guide of five great places to visit which will not cost you a fortune in the process.

North Somerset Times: What is better than eating a bag of chips sat on Weston seafront?What is better than eating a bag of chips sat on Weston seafront? (Image: Archant)

Weston-super-Mare beach:

An obvious, yet highly enjoyable, attraction that is right on our doorstep.

People come from far and wide to enjoy the long stretches of sand.

Improvements to the road network around the motorway and a new multi-storey car park near the seafront mean some of the old logistical headaches have eased in recent years.

With the Grand Pier at close quarters, room to sit and enjoy a traditional fish and chips supper plus lots of opportunities to build sandcastles, what more could you want from a great day out?

North Somerset Times: Portishead Marina. Photo uploaded to weston.iwitness24.co.uk by Paula Palmer.Portishead Marina. Photo uploaded to weston.iwitness24.co.uk by Paula Palmer. (Image: (c) copyright citizenside.com)

Portishead Marina:

Portishead has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years with a large amount of regeneration work going into the town.

The results of the work have been incredible.

Lots of cafés and restaurants have sprung up around the marina if you fancy a drink or a bite to eat.

Alternatively the waterfront and boats provide a stunning view for anyone who enjoys a good walk.

North Somerset Times: Grove Park's bandstand is the venue for many summer concerts, all of which are free to listen to.Grove Park's bandstand is the venue for many summer concerts, all of which are free to listen to. (Image: Archant)

Grove Park, Weston-super-Mare:

Located just a stone’s throw from Weston’s seafront, you could be forgiven for thinking the park will be rammed and noisy.

In fact it is the complete opposite, with beautiful flowers and grassland, perfect for a lazy afternoon or a picnic.

The iconic bandstand has been restored and adds an extra dimension to the area.

The Grove Park Café opens during the summer and a series of free car shows take and concerts are held too.

North Somerset Times: Clevedon Tides Festival always draws in a crowd to Marine Lake and Salthouse Fields.Clevedon Tides Festival always draws in a crowd to Marine Lake and Salthouse Fields. (Image: Archant)

Clevedon Salthouse Fields and Marine Lake:

A popular venue with tourists and residents, both young and old.

At the Salthouse Fields there is everything from a miniature railway to tennis courts available.

And there is plenty of room to lounge around and relax in the British sunshine.

The areas come alive each year for the Marlens’ festival and attract thousands of visitors for bouncy castles, slides, canoeing, car shows and a whole lot more. The festival normally takes place in September.

North Somerset Times: Hot air balloons take off at sunrise in the 34th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta's mass launch in 2012. Photo by Adam Gasson.Hot air balloons take off at sunrise in the 34th Bristol International Balloon Fiesta's mass launch in 2012. Photo by Adam Gasson. (Image: adam@adamgasson.com / 07720053526)

Ashton Court, Long Ashton;

Walkers, bikers and families can have a great day out for free at Ashton Court, roaming the 850 acres of undisturbed land just outside Bristol.

At the heart of the estate – where you often see deer running about – is the historic mansion which doubles up as a wedding and conference venue.

If you don’t mind spending a small sum, there are also two 18-hole golf course at Ashton Court too.

The highlight of the year is the Bristol Balloon Fiesta which takes place in August, featuring night glows, balloon rides and a host of entertainment too.