Alex Price, product manager at outdoortoys, comments:
“School holidays can become surprisingly expensive for families, especially when parents feel pressure to organise big days out or paid activities every day. But keeping children entertained doesn’t have to mean spending lots of money. In many cases, some of the best activities are either free or very low cost, and there are plenty of hidden discounts, memberships and local opportunities that many parents simply don’t realise exist.”
- Use your Child Benefit letter for £1 family days out
“One of the best lesser-known family savings hacks is that anyone receiving Child Benefit can visit Royal Horticultural Society gardens for just £1 per adult, with children going free. This includes popular sites like Wisley, Hyde Hall and Bridgewater, and parking is usually included too.
“These gardens often run extra family trails and nature activities during school holidays, making them a really affordable full day out compared to theme parks or indoor attractions.”
- Take advantage of free ‘hidden’ entertainment at garden centres and IKEA
“Many parents overlook places like large garden centres or IKEA as activity destinations, but they can actually be brilliant for younger children. A lot now have free play areas, wildlife trails, fish tanks, model villages, or soft play spaces that cost little or nothing to use.
“IKEA stores also regularly run low-cost family activities during school holidays, while the restaurants can make lunch far cheaper than many family attractions.”
- Check local libraries for free holiday clubs and performances
“Libraries are often hugely underrated during school holidays. Many now host free craft sessions, LEGO clubs, storytelling events, coding workshops and even live performances during half-term.
“These activities are often much quieter and easier to access than larger organised events, but many parents don’t realise they’re available.”
- Use supermarket café deals strategically
“A lot of supermarket cafés offer free or heavily discounted children’s meals during school holidays when an adult purchases a meal or drink. Combined with nearby parks or free attractions, this can help create a low-cost family day out for a fraction of the price of restaurants or paid venues.”
- Look for free local trails and augmented reality apps
“Many councils, tourism boards and charities now offer free downloadable walking trails, treasure hunts and augmented reality experiences for families. Apps linked to wildlife spotting, Pokémon-style exploration or local history trails can completely transform an ordinary walk into something much more exciting for children.”
- Host a ‘swap day’ with other parents
“One idea growing in popularity is toy and activity swap days between families. Parents can rotate puzzles, sports equipment, garden toys, books and games between households for the week, which keeps things feeling fresh for children without anyone having to buy anything new.”
Alex adds: “Children often remember the time and experience far more than how much money was spent. Simple activities like outdoor games, nature walks, scavenger hunts or creative challenges can be just as exciting as expensive attractions when parents make them feel interactive and special.
“Ultimately, the goal during half-term isn’t to fill every day with costly activities, but to create opportunities for children to stay active, social and engaged while giving parents a break from the pressure of spending.”
Image: Depositphotos
