Five shillings could be used to purchase a variety of goods and services. For instance, it could buy a good quality pair of leather boots, several pounds of meat, or a month's supply of basic groceries for a small family. It could also cover the cost of a basic meal at a restaurant or a night's lodging at a modest inn.
In terms of leisure activities, five shillings could purchase a ticket to a theatre or music hall, or cover the entrance fee to a museum or art gallery. It could also be used to buy a book or a newspaper, or to hire a horse and cart for a day.
Overall, five shillings in Victorian times was a substantial amount of money that could provide access to a range of goods, services, and leisure activities.