Free Summer Holiday Clubs and Meals: The HAF Scheme Most Parents Miss
Quick answer The government-funded Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme gives eligible children in England free...
Free and Cheap Days Out for Families in the UK (Updated for 2026)
By Darling Mellow · · For MumsNational Trust and English Heritage (With Companion Entry and Home Ed Flex)
Many sites now offer free Essential Companion cards and some even allow free or reduced entry if you are home educating. Prices are usually reasonable and the grounds alone are worth it.- National Trust: Wray Castle (Lake District), Formby (Sefton Coast), Cliveden (Bucks)
- English Heritage: Pendennis Castle (Cornwall), Bolsover Castle (Derbyshire), Tynemouth Priory (Tyne and Wear)
Museums and Galleries (Free and Child Friendly)
Most UK cities have at least one free entry museum or gallery. Many offer interactive exhibits, children’s zones, and accessible facilities.- Natural History Museum and Science Museum (London)
- National Museum Cardiff
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Glasgow)
- World Museum and Museum of Liverpool
- Royal Armouries (Leeds)
Community Farms and Animal Experiences
Community farms are usually free or donation based. These are brilliant for younger children and tend to be calmer than commercial farm parks.- Gorgie Farm (Edinburgh)
- Hackney City Farm (London)
- Windmill Hill City Farm (Bristol)
- Heeley City Farm (Sheffield)
- Rice Lane City Farm (Liverpool)
Splash Pads, Trails, and Woodland Parks
Splash pads and outdoor woodland play areas are ideal for warm weather days and burn off energy without costing anything.- Stanley Park Splash Pad (Blackpool)
- Worden Park Fairy Trail (Leyland)
- Wendover Woods (Buckinghamshire)
- Jesmond Dene Park (Newcastle)
- Coed y Brenin Forest Park (Snowdonia)
Libraries and Cultural Spaces
Libraries now offer far more than books. Many provide free activities like baby groups, LEGO clubs, sensory sessions, and holiday challenges.- Story and Rhyme Time
- Mini Maker craft clubs
- Reading Challenges and holiday activity packs
Extra Tips and Hidden Gems
- Check Facebook groups for local events
- Look for toddler cinema screenings at two to three pounds with free adult entry
- Councils often run free holiday clubs or lunch and play schemes
- Apps like Hoop, Eventbrite and Magic Freebies list local events
Planning Tips
How do I keep costs down on family days out?
More free and cheap days out
Book online in advance — almost every attraction offers a discount for online booking versus gate prices. Check for family tickets which are usually cheaper than buying individual tickets. Bring your own food and drinks — a packed lunch saves £20-30 easily. Look for off-peak times (weekday visits during term time are cheapest if you home educate). Sign up to attraction newsletters for flash sales. And always check if your local library offers free or discounted entry passes — many do through schemes like the Kids Pass or attraction partnerships.
What if it rains?
Always have a wet weather backup plan. Pack waterproofs and wellies in the car even in summer. Indoor alternatives near popular outdoor attractions include museums, swimming pools, cinema, bowling, and libraries. Or just embrace the rain — children in waterproofs genuinely don’t mind getting wet, and splashing in puddles is free entertainment.
For more family day out inspiration, our Days Out Hub has tried-and-tested ideas for UK families. Whether you’re looking for free activities or adventure days, we’ve got you covered with honest reviews and practical planning tips.
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