Lawn drains and dries very quickly

We live in a chalky area of Bedfordshire. The soil below our lawn is very sandy as well. Consequently, you wouldn't believe how quickly the lawns drains and dries. I've relaid it twice over the last 5 years, including laying 1 tonne of fresh top soil (lawn is about 8m x 10m).
During the summer months the grass dies due to being to dry, the majority (not all) comes back in March, April but then dies away during the summer.
I guess watering regularly is an option but being on a water meter I'd rather avoid this if possible.
I've read about grass that's more suited to dry conditions, should I relay with this, what type do I use, where could I get it, and, how do I know when buying then I'm getting the type I need.
Any advice would be appreciated please.
Thank you!

 

Hello.
I take it you have read up on Fescue type grasses which do well on sandy based looms. This is only part of the story though as is cutting and treatments.
while some types of grass are more adapt to hang in there during drought conditions they will still suffer at the end of the day and while you could add a clay content to the soil it sounds like you would need to water if you want to keep the grass looking attractive.
your other option is to rethink and possible consider artificial turf if you want that all year round green look.
Only a basic response as I've no idea what your garden is like.

 

Thank you both for your feedback. I hadn't read up on Fescue grass but I will now. The mowing height is interesting as I mow short, I thought that might help things, obviously not!
That's a few bits to go on, thanks both.