The summer holidays are here and keeping the kids entertained for six long weeks can feel like a full-time job, especially when you are watching the budget. But you do not need to spend a fortune to create lasting memories. The UK is packed with affordable and even free days out that will keep the whole family happy. Here is your ultimate guide to cheap days out with kids this summer.
Free Museums and Galleries
One of the best things about living in the UK is that many of our world-class museums and galleries are completely free to visit. This is a fantastic option for a rainy day too.
- The British Museum, London – Explore ancient civilisations and see the Rosetta Stone up close. Free entry for all.
- National Railway Museum, York – A must for any train-mad kids, with full-size steam engines and interactive displays.
- Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester – Hands-on exhibits that make learning fun, from textiles to space exploration.
- National Museum Cardiff – Dinosaurs, art, and natural history all under one roof with no entry fee.
Check out the Freebies deal store for any current voucher codes or special offers on paid exhibitions at these museums.
National Parks and Nature Reserves
The UK is home to 15 stunning National Parks and countless nature reserves, and access to them is completely free. Pack a picnic, grab some walking boots, and head out for a day of adventure.
- Peak District – Perfect for easy family walks, rock pooling, and exploring charming villages like Castleton.
- New Forest – Let the kids spot wild ponies and enjoy safe, flat cycling routes through ancient woodland.
- South Downs – Climb Butser Hill for panoramic views or explore the Seven Sisters cliffs for a breathtaking coastal walk.
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs – A Scottish gem with woodland trails, Lochside picnic spots, and plenty of wildlife to spot.
Many National Parks also run free ranger-led activities during the school holidays, including pond dipping, nature trails, and bushcraft sessions. Check the relevant National Park website before your visit.
Blue Flag Beaches
The UK has over 70 Blue Flag beaches, meaning they meet the highest standards for water quality, safety, and cleanliness. A beach day costs next to nothing if you bring your own food and drinks.
Top budget beach tips
- Bring a windbreak or pop-up tent for shade and shelter.
- Pack a cool bag with sandwiches, fruit, and snacks to avoid overpriced seaside food.
- Bring bucket and spade sets from home rather than buying at beach shops.
- Check tide times online before you go so you know when the beach is at its best.
Some of the best family-friendly Blue Flag beaches include Sandbanks in Poole, Whitby Beach in North Yorkshire, and Porthmeor Beach in St Ives.
Free Outdoor Events and Festivals
Summer in the UK means free outdoor events are everywhere. From local carnivals to national festivals, there is always something happening.
- Local park events – Most councils organise free summer events in parks, including fun days, outdoor cinema screenings, and live music.
- Farmers markets – Free to browse and many offer free samples for kids to try new foods.
- Outdoor theatre – Look out for free Shakespeare in the Park performances and open-air productions in your area.
- Community fun runs – Many towns host free or low-cost kids fun runs during the summer months.
Search your local council website or visit your local stores page for community events and family discounts in your area.
Affordable Attractions Under £15 Per Person
If you want something a bit more structured than a park or beach, there are plenty of affordable paid attractions across the UK that will not break the bank.
Farm Parks
Farm parks are brilliant value for families with younger children. Entry is usually between £8 and £14 per person, and many include indoor play barns, animal feeding sessions, and tractor rides. Look for:
- Odds Farm Park, Buckinghamshire – Animal encounters, indoor play, and outdoor adventure zones.
- Mudchute Farm, London – A working farm in the heart of East London with free entry to see the animals.
- Cannon Hall Farm, South Yorkshire – Voted one of the best farm parks in the UK with affordable family tickets.
Heritage Sites
English Heritage, National Trust, and Historic Environment Scotland all offer affordable family days out. Annual family memberships can work out as little as £5 to £6 per visit if you go several times a year.
- Wrekin Hill, Shropshire – Free to climb with panoramic views across the county.
- Hadrian’s Wall, Northumberland – Walk sections of the wall for free, or visit the Roman Army Museum for under £10 for adults and children go even cheaper.
- St Fagans National Museum of History, Cardiff – Free entry to explore historic buildings from across Wales in a beautiful open-air setting.
Kids Eat For Less Deals
Food is often the biggest hidden cost of a day out. Fortunately, many supermarket cafes and restaurant chains run kids eat free or kids eat for £1 promotions throughout the summer holidays.
- Asda cafes – Often run kids eat for £1 deals during school holidays with no minimum adult spend.
- Morrisons cafes – Kids eat free all day when an adult spends a minimum amount on a main meal.
- M&S cafes – Frequently offer kids eat free promotions during the summer break.
- Sainsbury’s cafes – Look out for kids meal deals under £3 throughout the holidays.
Check the Freebies deal store for the latest kids eat for less offers and supermarket deals before you plan your day out.
Money-Saving Tips for Family Days Out
- Travel off-peak – Train tickets are significantly cheaper after 9:30am on weekdays. Check for group save and family railcard discounts.
- Book online in advance – Most attractions offer 10 to 20 percent discounts for booking online rather than paying at the gate.
- Pack your own lunch – A family of four can easily save £30 to £40 by bringing a packed lunch instead of buying food on site.
- Look for combined tickets – Some attractions offer joint tickets with nearby sites, giving you two days out for less than the price of one.
- Use cashback and voucher apps – Check Freebies.co.uk before booking to find the latest discount codes and cashback offers.
Free Things to Do at Home
Sometimes the best days out do not require going out at all. Here are some free or nearly free activities for a day at home:
- Set up a backyard campout with a tent, torches, and marshmallows.
- Organise a treasure hunt around the house or garden with handmade clues.
- Have a movie marathon with free films from your existing subscriptions or a free trial.
- Get creative with DIY craft sessions using recycled materials from around the house.
Make the Most of Your Summer
You do not need to spend hundreds of pounds to give your kids an amazing summer. With a little planning, a packed lunch, and a sense of adventure, some of the best days out are the ones that cost the least. Whether it is a free museum, a windswept beach, or a local park event, the UK has something for every family and every budget.
For more money-saving tips and the latest deals, visit Freebies.co.uk and start planning your budget-friendly summer today.
