WITH everyone trying to save money during the cost-of-living crisis, locals are looking for low-budget activities to entertain the family during the school holidays.

Reading has various free or low-cost activities on offer for families to enjoy this summer.

Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) are taking over modern technology with softwares like ChatGPT becoming more popular.

So, we thought we'd try ChatGPT and see what it could come up with when asked to plan a day out in Reading on a budget of £40.

The first request was to ask ChatGPT to plan a day out in Reading, for a family with two children, for less than £40. It said:

Morning - Riverside Walk and Playground

  • Start your day with a relaxing riverside walk along the Thames River. The Thames Path offers a pleasant route where you can enjoy the scenery and maybe feed the ducks along the way.
  • Head to Forbury Gardens, a beautiful public park in the town centre. There's a playground with play equipment where your children can burn off some energy and have fun.

READ MORE: We asked ChatGPT what Reading will look like in 10 years

Mid-Morning - Visit Reading Museum

  • Admission to the Reading Museum is free, and it's a great place to explore with kids. They have interactive exhibits that showcase the town's history, art, and culture.
  • The museum often hosts workshops and activities for children, so check their schedule to see if there are any events during your visit.

Lunch - Picnic in the Park

  • To save money on lunch, pack a picnic with sandwiches, snacks, and some fruits. Enjoy your meal in Forbury Gardens or another park nearby.

Afternoon - Beale Park

  • Beale Park Wildlife Park & Gardens is a wonderful place for children, offering a mix of wildlife and play areas. It's about 15 minutes' drive from Reading, and entry fees are typically affordable.
  • Your kids will enjoy seeing animals like meerkats, lemurs, and birds, and they can also have fun at the adventure playgrounds.

Afternoon Snack - Ice Cream Treat

  • Treat yourselves to some ice cream or a sweet snack from one of the local ice cream shops or bakeries in Reading.

Evening - Prospect Park

  • Prospect Park is another great outdoor space in Reading. It has open fields, woodlands, and a playground.
  • Have a relaxed evening with games, frisbee, or just lying on the grass and enjoying the fresh air.

Dinner - Family-Friendly Eatery

  • Look for a family-friendly restaurant or pub in Reading where you can enjoy a hearty dinner. Many places have special deals or children's menus, which can be budget-friendly.

Evening Entertainment - Outdoor Cinema (if available) or Board Games

  • Check if there are any outdoor cinema events happening in Reading during your visit. Some parks or community spaces may host free or affordable movie screenings during the summer months.
  • If not, have a cozy evening at home with some board games or family-friendly movies.

It is clear that ChatGPT doesn't factor in distance from one activity to the other or additional factors such as petrol and parking, but it has offered some great ideas.

Next, the AI software was asked to list some cheap restaurants in Reading, which it named Mission Burrito, Nando's, GBK and Bluegrass BBQ - perhaps not the healthiest options for families this summer.

Finally, ChatGPT was asked to list free activities for families to enjoy this summer. Here's what it came up with:

Forbury Gardens

  • This beautiful public park in the town center offers a lovely green space to relax, have a picnic, or enjoy a leisurely stroll. The gardens feature historical monuments and seasonal flower displays.

Reading Museum

  • The Reading Museum and Town Hall offer free entry to explore the town's history, art, and culture. It's a great place to learn about the local heritage and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Riverside Walks

  • Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Thames or the Kennet and Avon Canal. The riverside paths provide scenic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Abbey Ruins

  • Visit the ruins of Reading Abbey, a medieval monastery founded by Henry I in the 12th century. The abbey was mostly destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries in the 16th century, but the remains are still an impressive sight.

Basildon Park

  • While there may be a parking fee if you're driving, the grounds of Basildon Park, a beautiful country house managed by the National Trust, can be explored for free. Enjoy the walking trails and picturesque scenery.

Parks and Playgrounds

  • Reading has various parks and playgrounds where children can have fun and play freely. Forbury Gardens, Prospect Park, and Palmer Park are some excellent options.

Reading Canal Heritage

  • Follow the Heritage Trail along the Kennet and Avon Canal to learn about the history of the waterway and its significance to the town.

Reading Art Trail

  • Discover the town's public art installations and sculptures while taking a pleasant walk around the city centre. The art trail offers a creative and cultural experience.

Reading Farmers' Market

  • If you happen to be in Reading on a Saturday, visit the farmers' market in the town center. While purchasing items will cost money, you can enjoy browsing the stalls and soaking up the lively atmosphere without spending anything.

While I am aware AI doesn't factor in distance to each activity and additional costs including petrol and parking, it was fun to see what it could come up with. What would you add to the list?