School’s out for summer! ☀️
Time to make some fantastic memories with the kids. We know days out with the family can quickly add up, but there’s no need to break the bank to have a blast this summer.
Get ready for a summer of fun with our list of free things to do with kids over the summer holidays!
1. Take a trip to the beach
Swimming, sandcastles, kite flying, picnics, beach balls… There’s plenty to keep the little ones happy and having fun at the beach while you work on your tan. Check out our beach break hotels – you might find that beachy paradise is not as far as you think.
Looking for the beach beaches in the UK? Discover our top 10 favourite beaches here.
2. Go rock pooling
Rockpooling is a thrilling and educational activity perfect for your little ones who don’t mind getting their hands dirty. Search the rocky terrain near the coast to find a creature or two – or maybe even a sea monster hidden in the depths! With buckets and fingers handy, take a snap with a crab or touch a starfish.
3. Go crabbing in a coastal town
Seaside towns are known for their sea life, including muscles, cockles and crabs. Many quays around the UK are welcome to the fun activity of crab fishing, also known as crabbing. All you need for this is a fishing line, some bait and a bucket to put the nippy creatures in. Just make sure to return them where they came from!
Why not check out Dartmouth or Salcombe, the ideal harbours in South Devon for catching crabs.
Stay nearby
4. Visit a museum
There are plenty of different types of museums dotted all over the UK, perfect to keep little ones entertained. Science, art and technology galore, there will be a free museum somewhere to keep the kids on their toes.
The free and popular Natural History Museum in London will be a for-sure hit for all things fossil. While the National Museum of Scotland is one of the ‘Best of the Best’ among Tripadvisor’s Travellers Choice Awards. Check out our list of the best museums for kids here.
Stay nearby
5. Visit an art gallery
From the words ‘art gallery’, you may picture lots of paintings and photographs hung on the wall, perhaps something most children may not find enjoyable. But many different free-entry art galleries feature interactive events, perfect for the fascinated little ones.
Use the Money Saving Expert tool to find free galleries or check out our top picks of the best art galleries in the UK here.
6. Head to the local garden centre
Whether your local garden centre has a pond and fish area, a plant area or an area to browse seasonal decorations, there will be something to excite the little hands waiting to explore. Take a walk around the bright summer-themed displays, check out the selection of back garden activities and accessories, and check out their animals while you’re at it!
7. Go geocaching
Geocaching, the act of finding small easily concealable capsules with gems hidden inside, has become a favourite summer holiday activity for all ages. With plenty of caches hidden all around the UK, wherever you are, why not get the kids together and have a stroll in search of treasures?
8. Visit an animal farm or sanctuary
If your kids love all things animal, then why not visit one of the UK’s free animal farms and sanctuaries. With plenty of goats, cows, pigs and chickens to pet and feed, you can spend all day meeting every animal at the farm. Why not visit St Werburgh’s City Farm in Bristol, there is sure to be an activity to suit all of your little ones.
Stay nearby
9. Visit a garden in the sky
London has many rooftops open to the public if you know where to look! The Garden at 120 and Sky Garden are both popular locations, perfect for taking in the iconic London skyline. You could bring your own picnic for the ultimate rooftop experience. Ensure to book your free ticket at the Sky Garden while at The Garden at 120, you can simply walk in (or up!).
Stay nearby
10. Feed the ducks
Perhaps if you’re out on a bike ride already, or just visiting your local park, why not stop at the lake to feed the ducks. Contrary to popular belief, it’s actually not healthy for ducks to be fed bread, but instead try to bring along some sliced grapes, lettuce, or frozen peas in water. The kids will love watching the ducks gobble up these treats!
11. Visit the Avebury stone circle
This mysterious stone circle in Wiltshire is reminiscent of the iconic British landmark of Stonehenge, located not too far away. Nobody knows where these stones came from, and that’s exactly what makes them so special! As well as being a national heritage site, the grounds make for an excellent picnic area with plenty of grasslands and greenery.
Stay nearby
12. Browse around a shopping centre
Pass the time this summer by having a browse at some of Britain’s best retail storefronts. Why not try out Birmingham Bull Ring, an iconic shopping centre in the UK. Here you’ll find the iconic Selfridges building, home to designer brands and, of course, the centre’s famous bull statue.
Stay nearby
13. Visit the local library
If your kids are bookworms or like immersing themselves in a good graphic novel, well then the library may be a great solution to the summer boredom. Browse your favourite local library and spend a day reading from the shelf. Check out your book of choice to finish it at home!
14. Visit the Angel of the North
There are plenty of free-to-visit UK landmarks, including the iconic Angel of the North. Compared to your little ones, this giant structure towers 20m high and 54m wide. Constructed with weather-resistant steel and sitting just off the A1 visible to passers-by, this landmark is iconic among locals and tourists. It’s the perfect place for a funny snap, so make sure you visit on a beautiful day.
Stay nearby
15. Go on the Potter Trail around Edinburgh
View this post on Instagram
If your kids are fans of the Harry Potter franchise, then we have the perfect afternoon for you. A magical tour filled with intrigue and insight into the wizarding world takes place around the streets of Edinburgh, with many references to the franchise dotted around the city. Don’t forget to bring your gowns and brooms to this exciting free tour!
Stay nearby
16. Have a picnic in the sunshine
When the sun’s out and blazing, what better way to spend your day relaxing in the sun. Head on down to your local park or field, and bring along a picnic basket and blanket. Bring along your cocktail sausages, pork pies and crisps to have a munch and some fun with the family.
17. Attend a free festival
Across the summer, there are plenty of festivals and events going on. But, there are also a lot of other fun and free events to attend in the capital cities that create a lot of fun for the little ones without breaking the bank! Edinburgh Fringe Festival, held annually in the city centre, is a fantastic experience with plenty of free events, stalls and entertainment over August.
Stay nearby
18. Browse a street market
Lots of cities across the UK host spectacular street markets throughout the year, but they thrive particularly in the summertime. With stalls of fresh fruit, street food, vintage finds, ice cream and second-hand gems, there will be something to suit all of your little ones’ preferences. Why not try out The Harbourside Street Food Market in Bristol or Cardiff Market in the Welsh capital, both well known for their rich community stalls!
19. Take a dip at an outdoor swimming pool
With sunshine-filled days on the horizon, it’s time to pull back the covers and get out to the pool! Take a walk down to your local outdoor pool, these are usually free, and will help the kids socialise with their friends and practice valuable swimming skills all while you can sit back and relax in the sun!
20. Go for a dog walk around the park
Stretching your legs and going on a family outing may be so simple but it can be a lot of fun just to get out of the house. Bring your furry friend along to the park for a walk, whether it’s at the beach or the park, play some games and chill with the family. What more could you ask for?
21. Visit a cathedral
If your kids are interested in the history of the UK, then why not visit a cathedral such as St Davids Cathedral. This Anglican cathedral is one of the city’s most popular attractions, being the site of St David’s monastery. Wander the cobbled walls of the cathedral and learn the ins and outs of the rich Welsh culture in their gallery, treasury and library.
Stay nearby
22. Go fruit picking
Raspberries, strawberries and blackberries are blooming galore all across the UK throughout the summer months. So, why not encourage some healthy eating while you’re at it and go to one of the UK’s free fruit-picking sites. Or perhaps take a walk through the woods and pick some wild blackberries, just make sure you wash them before you tuck in!
23. Go roller skating at the skate park
Lace (or strap) up the little one’s skates and get them down to the local skatepark! As well as skateboarding and biking among many different activities, roller skating at your local park can help the kids bond with each other as well as have some family fun. Will you lace up your skates as well or just watch from a distance?
24. Visit a UNESCO world heritage site
There are plenty of amazing sights to be seen across the UK, many of which are part of the UNESCO group. One particular attraction that you may recognise from many film shots is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal located in Wrexham, North Wales. The kids will be astounded at the views from this stunning location.
Stay nearby
25. Try wild swimming
There’s no better way to launch into summer than with a bit of wild swimming. The UK is packed full of hidden pools, beaches and lakes for you to take a dip in and get back to nature. So why not pack the kids’ costumes and visit your best wild swimming location to splash about and have some fun!
26. Go for a family hike
What better way to enjoy nature and take a breath of fresh air than to go for a hike with the family? Spot some local wildlife, explore stunning woodlands and experience the beauty of the British countryside. Just don’t forget your walking boots!
27. Try bird watching
Whilst you’re out in the countryside, at your local park or even on a hike, there are plenty of fun things to do to fill your time. One of the more popular hobbies currently is bird watching, so bring a pair of binoculars and see if you can spot some common birds!
28. Build a fort in the woods
As a kid, we can bet you remember running into the woods and creating a secret fort made from sticks and shrubbery nearby. Let’s turn this classic summer holiday activity into a family bonding exercise with your kids! Create a fun fort with sticks, leaves and dirt and create real memories with your family.
29. Visit the local playground
Playgrounds are always perfect for kids and ideal for the summer months. Sometimes the kids just need to let out all their energy, and where better to do that than on the monkey bars. Bring some snacks and drinks for after and let the little ones loose!
30. Visit a botanical garden
Lots of different types of flowers bloom all year round, making for some spectacular and exclusive shows in the summer. Why not take the family to a gorgeous botanical garden, where all sorts of flowers, bushes and plants are on display for you to learn more about.
The Hepworth Garden in Wakefield is home to a botanical garden designed by internationally acclaimed landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith. Effortlessly blending angular and striking architecture with flourishing, vibrant plants and flora, this botanical garden is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Stay nearby
Sports Days are a great choice for getting the kids up and moving during the sunnier months. Choose from classic sports day challenges, from three-legged races and egg-and-spoon, and get ready for an afternoon filled with laughter and a little healthy competition.
Sun on your face, wind in your hair – a family bike ride is a summertime classic! Dust off those bikes (or rent some if needed) and explore the great outdoors on two wheels. It’s a fun way to get some exercise, breathe in the fresh air and create lasting memories together. Pack a picnic for a pitstop, or stop for ice cream cones – the possibilities are endless!
Summer’s here and the UK is bursting with history! So, why not take the kids on an adventure to see some iconic landmarks? Best of all, many of them are free to explore.
Beat the heat and have a blast with a balloon fight! Grab some balloons, fill them up with water and head outside for an epic battle. Prepare to get soaked (and unleash some serious laughter) as you dodge, dive and drench your opponents. It’s a refreshing and free-for-all way to cool down this summer holidays.
Calling all future Wimbledon champions! Give your kids a chance to ace their summer with a free tennis coaching session. It’s a fantastic way to get them active outdoors, learn a new skill, and have a blast. The best part? Finding a free session is easier than ever.
Get ready for a scavenging adventure this summer! Create a list of exciting finds for your little explorers, from different coloured leaves, interesting shaped rocks or even specific types of flowers. It’s a fun way for kids to get some fresh air, learn about the world around them and maybe even discover a hidden habitat.
Catch a family favourite flick under the stars! Lucky for fans of movie magic, lots of places around the UK are hosting outdoor movie nights throughout the summer. Cosy up on the grass at Screen on the Canal in Kings Cross, relax by the water at Summer By The River in Southbank or head south of the river for Vauxhall Summer Screen.
Looking for a free way to cool off the whole family on a scorcher? Splash parks are the answer! Many towns and cities have these awesome play areas with fountains, sprinklers and spray guns guaranteed to bring squeals and laughter. Lather up the sunscreen and get ready for a wet and wild adventure! Remember to check your local listings for opening hours and any splash park rules.
As the sun sets it’s time to discover the mysteries of the unique! Kids will be amazed by the countless twinkling stars and using helpful 
Turn your summer holiday staycation into an adventure with a photo scavenger hunt! Grab your camera (or phone!) and create a list of fun things to find, like a dog wearing sunglasses, the fluffiest cloud in the sky or an immersive sandcastle.
