HOW TO... have a fun summer for less
Whether you’re a parent or grandparent, looking after the children during the summer holidays takes imagination and creativity as well as a little forward planning. Here are some ideas to get your holidays off to a great start…
• It’s a good idea to start with a list of all the free things you can do on sunny and rainy days. These could include a walk to the local park with a picnic, a trip to the beach with bucket and spade, visits to free museums or galleries or any wildlife parks, wetlands or outdoor spaces that don’t charge for entry. On rainy days, you could stay home and do some arts and crafts, get baking or watch a movie.
• Find out what’s happening near you for free at dayoutwiththekids.co.uk, which has details of over 8,000 UK days out. You can look up by area to focus on what’s local and get the kids involved so they can pick out some of their favourites to look forward to.
• Have a look at your local council website, as many councils run free family activities as well as sports and fitness sessions for all ages during the summer holidays. You can also view local parks, historical sites and any hidden gems you’ve not come across before.
• The National Trust always runs free events and activities for children, who will love roaming round historic houses and gardens. Head to their website for a guide to what’s on near you. You may need to pay for entry but if you’re already a member then it’s free with free parking, too.
• Enjoy top London shows for less with Kids Week, which spans the summer holidays, this year running from 24th July–6th September. Children aged 17 and under can go to any available participating show for free so long as they are accompanied by an adult paying full price. Adults can also buy two extra children’s tickets for half price, so it’s a great deal. Tickets sell out fast so sign up for their family newsletter to be the first to find out what’s on.