Half term is the perfect time to make memories with your little ones without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, creative activities, or educational fun, there are plenty of free options to keep everyone entertained. Here are some fantastic ideas to make the most of this half term – all without spending a penny!

Go out into nature

The great outdoors is the ultimate playground for children – no matter their age. And best of all, it’s free! Parks, trails, woods, and beaches offer endless opportunities for adventure. Plan a family day around activities like walks, hikes or bike rides.

  • Turn your walk into a scavenger hunt by making a list of things for your kids to spot, like pinecones, unusual leaves, or even animal tracks.
  • Pack a picnic and enjoy being surrounded by nature, while your little ones have fun at the playground.
  • If you’re near the coast, beach walks are perfect for finding shells, skipping stones, or even a bit of sandcastle building.

Make the most of free museums

Surround your little explorers with wonders from the past and around the world with a trip to one of the UK’s many museums offering free entry.  From towering dinosaurs to dazzling art and hands-on science experiments, there’s something to ignite every child’s imagination.

  • Check out your local area to discover hidden gems – smaller museums often cater specifically to families.
  • Some museums also offer free workshops or interactive displays during half term to keep the kids entertained.
  • Don’t forget to look up any free temporary exhibitions that might be particularly exciting for your children.

Have a movie night

Transform your living room into a cinema for a cosy family night in. With a little creativity, movie nights at home can feel just as special as a trip to the cinema.

  • Let the kids choose a film or pick one from the classics you loved as a child.
  • Get everyone involved in making popcorn or snacks beforehand.
  • Add some cosy touches with blankets, cushions, and even a play-pretend ticket booth for fun.

Free workshops for kids

Keep an eye out for free workshops happening in your local area. From craft-making sessions to gardening workshops, these are fantastic opportunities for kids to learn and create.

  • Libraries and community centres may host hands-on activities for free during school holidays.
  • Check out local pet shops, farms and animal centres for animal handling and feeding workshops.

Kids eat free

Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive if you take advantage of “Kids Eat Free” deals offered by many restaurants during the school holidays.

  • Check local cafes, pubs or chain restaurants for their half-term offers.
  • Some supermarkets also run “Kids Eat Free” meal deals in their cafes.

Visit your local library

Libraries are treasure troves of free entertainment. Many offer more than just books – they host storytelling sessions, craft events, or even children’s performances during half-term breaks.

  • Let your children pick out new books to spark their imaginations.
  • Check out any scheduled activities, such as reading challenges or puppet shows.

Get crafty

Let your kids unleash their creativity with some DIY crafting fun. You don’t need expensive supplies – household items like cardboard, toilet roll tubes, and empty jars can be turned into wonderful creations.

  • Try making homemade greeting cards, decorating photo frames, or creating a mini scrapbook of their half-term adventures.
  • Websites like Pinterest are full of ideas for easy and budget-friendly crafts for kids.

Free local kids’ events

Local communities often organise free events during school holidays. From outdoor movie screenings to sports taster sessions, these are a great way to spend time as a family.

  • Check community noticeboards, local council websites, or social media groups for updates on free half-term events near you.

These budget-friendly ideas prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a fantastic half term. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors, enjoying a family film, or taking part in free events, there’s plenty to keep your kids entertained – and your wallet happy!