1. Explore Nature with Outdoor Adventures

• Local parks and nature reserves: Many parks and reserves offer free entry and are perfect for exploring. RSPB have many reserves right across the country where you can take the kids birdwatching and enjoy nature. You can also visit local parks – pack a picnic, bring along a frisbee or football, and spend the day outdoors. Nature scavenger hunts or 'spot the wildlife' bingo cards can add a fun, educational twist.
• Hiking and walking trails: Discover local hiking trails suitable for children. Websites like the National Trust and The Woodland Trust have lists of family-friendly trails across the UK.

2. DIY Fun at Home

• Assault course in the garden: Use household items to create a fun and challenging assault course in your garden. It keeps kids active and engaged for hours.
• Crafting and baking: Spend a day making crafts or baking. Activities like making gingerbread cookies, crafting models, or creating homemade bath bombs are fun and creative.

3. Educational Outings

• Museums and historical sites: Many museums and historical sites in the UK have free or low-cost entry for children. Places like the Natural History Museum in London or the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester offer interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational.
• Local libraries: Libraries often run summer reading challenges and free activities for children. Check out your local library’s schedule for events like story times, craft sessions, and reading clubs.

4. Active Play

• Parks and playgrounds: Spend an afternoon at a local playground. Many have climbing frames, swings, and slides that provide hours of active play.
• Bike rides: Explore local cycling paths. Many areas have safe, designated cycling routes perfect for a family bike ride.

5. Creative Learning

• Gardening projects: Start a small garden project. Planting flowers, vegetables, or herbs can be a fun way to learn about nature and responsibility.
• Building projects: Engage in simple DIY projects like building a birdhouse or a bee box. These projects can teach basic woodworking skills and an appreciation for wildlife.

6. Community Events

• Local festivals and fairs: Many communities host summer festivals, fairs, and carnivals with free or low-cost entry. These events often include activities, live music, and food stalls.
• Sports days: Look for community-organised sports days or join local sports clubs that offer summer programs for children.

7. Budget-Friendly Day Trips

• Beaches: A day at the seaside can be affordable, if you live close by. For example, beaches like those in Filey, Yorkshire, Cleethorpes or Lincolnshire are great for swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring rock pools.
• Picnic in scenic spots: Identify picturesque spots within a short drive and plan a picnic day. Bringing your own food can keep costs down while you enjoy a beautiful setting.

8. Science and Discovery

• Home science experiments: Conduct simple and safe science experiments at home. There are plenty of online resources with ideas that use household items.
• Astronomy nights: On clear nights, stargaze in your garden or local park. Use a stargazing app to identify constellations and planets.

9. Themed Days

• Around the world: Choose a country and spend the day learning about its culture and history. Cook traditional food, listen to music, and create crafts related to that country.
• Historical eras: Pick a historical period and dive into activities related to it. For example, a 'Medieval Day' could include dressing up, making simple costumes, and building a cardboard castle.

10. Interactive Learning Online

• Educational websites and apps: Utilise free educational websites and apps that offer games, quizzes, and activities tailored for children. Websites like BBC Bitesize offer a range of learning resources for various age groups.

By combining these activities, you can ensure that children stay entertained, active, and learning throughout the summer holidays without breaking the bank. And if you’d like more, the NHS also have some great guide on activities to get your family moving.

Kids grow up fast, and the best memories come from doing fun things together. Don't feel pressured by social media or others to create the ultimate summer. Time and attention are what matter most. So, get creative, relax, and enjoy!