News
Kids need to stay entertained, especially during school breaks, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Our guide to budget friendly holiday activities is brimming with affordable and even free activities to keep them engaged, along with tips on getting great deals for family outings.
From exploring free museums to snagging cheap cinema tickets and taking advantage of ‘kids eat free’ offers, there are plenty of budget friendly holiday activities whether your little ones are tots or teens.
Local Attractions & Day Trips Across the UK, there are numerous exciting attractions to discover. Here’s how you can save on family outings to castles, museums, and gardens:
🚆 2for1 Deals Nationwide with Train Tickets You can score 2for1 entry to over 300 regional attractions like Warwick Castle, Manchester United Museum & Tour, and Kew Gardens. Even if you don’t travel by train, buying the cheapest ticket to your destination qualifies you for the deal. Visit National Rail for details on claiming your vouchers – 2for1 attractions with National Rail.
🌺 10% Off at Eden Project, Cornwall. Book online in advance to receive 10% off entry at the Eden Project. Opt to donate your entry fee to the Eden Trust and enjoy free entry for a year.
🚋 Kids Go Free at London Transport Museum. Children 17 and under get free entry to the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden, with unlimited daytime access for 12 months when accompanied by a paying adult.
🏰 Blenheim Palace Annual Pass Offer. Purchase a one-day ticket to Blenheim Palace and convert it to an annual pass for no extra cost by donating to their foundation charity. This pass includes entry to various events throughout the year.
If you’ve enough Tesco Clubcard vouchers, you can use these to pay for your ticket too. See our Clubcard Boost for more info on how these work.
Cinema Deals Under £2.50 A trip to the movies can be costly, but there are ways to cut down expenses:
🎬 Meerkat Movies & Meals Offers Enjoy 2for1 deals on cinema tickets and meals with Meerkat Movies & Meals from just £1.
Dining Out Deals for Kids Eating out with kids can add up, but these offers can help you save:
🍕 Various Restaurant Deals From kids eating ‘free’ with an adult meal purchase at places like John Lewis, Morrisons Café, and Marco Pierre White, to £1 meals at Sainsbury’s Café, there are plenty of affordable dining options. You can see more here: https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/deals/cheap-restaurant-deals/
Exploring Outdoors & Wildlife Discovering nature and wildlife can be enriching and budget-friendly:
Exploring the outdoors and discovering wildlife can be both enriching and budget-friendly, especially in the UK, a country renowned for its diverse landscapes and rich natural heritage. From rugged coastlines and rolling hills to dense forests and serene lakes, the UK offers a myriad of opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
National Parks and Nature Reserves
The UK boasts 15 national parks, each offering unique landscapes and abundant wildlife. The Lake District, with its stunning lakes and mountains, is a haven for hikers and bird watchers. The Yorkshire Dales and the Peak District provide excellent opportunities for spotting deer, badgers, and a variety of bird species. Entry to these parks is typically free, making them an ideal destination for budget-conscious adventurers.
Coastal Walks and Marine Life
The UK’s coastline stretches over 7,700 miles, featuring dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and secluded coves. Coastal walks, such as the South West Coast Path and the Wales Coast Path, offer breathtaking views and chances to see seals, dolphins, and a plethora of seabirds. These walks are generally accessible without any cost, aside from travel and perhaps parking.
Forests and Woodland Trails
Forests and woodlands, like the New Forest and Sherwood Forest, are perfect for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting. These ancient woodlands are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including fallow deer, red squirrels, and numerous bird species. Many of these areas have marked trails and picnic spots, providing a budget-friendly way to enjoy nature.
Wildlife Trusts and Conservation Areas
The Wildlife Trusts manage numerous nature reserves across the UK, protecting habitats and providing opportunities for the public to engage with nature. These reserves often have free entry and host guided walks, educational activities, and volunteer opportunities. They are excellent places to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Urban Green Spaces
Even in urban areas, green spaces like London’s Richmond Park and Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park offer a slice of wilderness. These parks provide sanctuary for wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of birdlife, and are freely accessible to the public.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Wildlife Exploration
- Plan Ahead: Research your destinations and check for any potential costs such as parking or guided tours.
- Use Public Transport: Many natural sites are accessible by train or bus, reducing travel costs.
- Pack Your Own Food: Bringing your own snacks and drinks can save money and allow for spontaneous picnics.
- Join Wildlife Trusts: Memberships can provide additional benefits like guided walks and newsletters about local wildlife activities.
🐯 Zoo & Wildlife Park Deals Score 2for1 entry at major zoos like ZSL London Zoo and Sea Life centres by purchasing a National Rail ticket and registering with Days Out Guide. You can find out more here: Cheap Zoo Deals
Free Sports & Activities Keep kids active without spending a penny:
🏃🏽 Free Junior Parkrun Children aged 4-14 can participate in free weekly 2K runs in parks across the UK on Sundays.
Free Cultural & Educational Activities Feed their curiosity with free museum visits and educational workshops:
🏛️ Free Museum Visits Explore over 170 free museums and galleries, including the RAF Museum in London and the Museum of Science and Industry in Manchester.
Theme Parks & Entertainment Enjoy family-friendly entertainment without breaking the bank:
🎢 Discounted Theme Parks Get discounted entry to theme parks like the Eden Project and Longleat Safari with Tesco Clubcard vouchers or score 2for1 deals with National Rail tickets.
Creative Indoor Activities Encourage creativity at home with these free ideas:
🎨 DIY Crafts & Workshops From making your own play-dough to building a cardboard spaceship, there are endless ways to keep kids entertained indoors without spending a penny.
Local Resources & Support Check your local council’s website or library for listings of free or low-cost activities during school holidays.
With these tips and deals for budget friendly holiday activities, you can keep the kids entertained and make the most of family time without stretching your budget. Happy exploring!
The summer holidays can be an exciting time for families to bond and create lasting memories. However, for working parents, the prospect of managing kids, life and work arrangements can seem overwhelming. The Electrical Industries Charity understands the importance of finding a balance during this time. Here, we explore some practical tips and advice to help you cope with the summer holidays, ensuring a balanced blend of family time, personal life and professional responsibilities. Read more here: https://electricalcharity.org/coping-with-the-summer-holidays/
