By Community Correspondent Adam Yaqub There is nothing quite like the thought of a bank holiday weekend to strike fear into even the most tolerant person. The unavoidable hours of ‘fun’ spent sitting with family, playing board games that no-one actually understands, and eating enough chocolate to feed the 5,000 can be quite a daunting prospect. However, don’t fret – there are solutions!

For anyone who is brave enough to take on both the full force of our wonderful April climate and crowds of families in a similar predicament to your own, there are a surprising number of interesting places to go and things to do. One such experience can be found at Mercedes’ new driving days – for the princely sum of £45, a child of any age – providing they are the correct height - can take an off-road spin in a 4x4. This being a relatively new idea from the German manufacturer, comparatively few people are aware of it, which helps when applying for a place. The physical limitations of such a day – there being only one driver’s seat – mean that you will not be fighting the crowds every step you take.

Those who feel more confident with regards to crowd fighting can find even more to do out and about. The many Merlin attractions around the South East and beyond are a great place to start – Alton Towers, Thorpe Park and Chessington World of Adventures are three fantastic theme parks with a wide variety of rides and attractions to draw you in. Although the parks can get exceedingly busy, a bit of forward planning can ensure you get the most from your day.

The London Dungeon, London Eye and London Sealife Centre are also worth a look for their gruesome history lessons, awe-inspiring views and beautiful fish respectively. Also run by Merlin, admission to these attractions can often be gained at half the usual price with 2 for 1 vouchers which can also be used at the parks.

If you’re still bored after you have driven around a field in a 4x4, screamed as you are accelerated from 0-80 mph in under 2 seconds on Stealth at Thorpe Park, and taken a gruesome trip back into London’s past at the London Dungeon, you might just have to go back to that game of Monopoly.