National 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)

Always check for Companion card access and email in advance for home education rates.

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)

Look out for activity trails and SEND-friendly sessions.

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