40th birthday....what to do?

[dunkinhobnobs]

Since around my 30th birthday I have said I would like a party for my 40th. However now I am within 6 months I am struggling to find a venue within budget that's the right size and am resigning myself to thinking if another way to celebrate.
We are off on the family holiday of a lifetime in a few weeks so leaving the country is not really on the cards and we have 3dc 12, 12 & 4 so time away on our own would have to be short and sweet if we could get a babysitter.
Bit of a first world problem I know but any suggestions? What did you do?

What's your budget?

£500ish

Bump

We bought my dad a hot air balloon ride, it was lovely. Are you thinking of an experience rather than a party?

I did a few smaller things with different groups of people, which was a nice way to keep things in budget. Did a lovely weekend away with close friends I went to Uni with, a meal out with cocktails with my local / mum friends, a BBQ afternoon at my house with another group of mates, and a family Sunday lunch at a pub.

I'd have a party! I like to mark these special occasions with lots of friends and family.

Use a venue finding website where you could limit the budget.

I'd rent somewhere to have a party - local rugby club, golf club, pub function room, that kind of thing? Should have plenty of change so you can still put on some food.

Weekend away with girl friends.
Dinner at celebrity chef restaurant.
Deep sea fishing.
BBQ.
Meal at restaurant
Hired a community centre, organised catering and invited 60 close friends and family