We’re just into August and if you’re struggling with ways to keep the kids amused over the school Summer holidays, here’s some fun, free, and super cheap ways to keep them busy over the next few weeks!
Free day out at Blenheim Palace
Blenheim is a great place for a day out, and yes you might be thinking it’s not a ‘cheap’ day out as entry tickets can be pricey, even just to get into the grounds. But there’s a secret, (and totally legitimate), way into Blenheim via its ‘secret green gate’.
While not heavily publicised, you can get into the grounds this way due to the fact public footpaths run through the Blenheim Estate. I found this out on the Free Blenheim website, (so can’t claim the credit for the idea), but I have used the ‘secret green gate’ on several visits to get into the grounds.
Once in, you can walk for miles, though some areas are restricted without a ticket, so you can’t usually go into the gift shop or cafe. Just so you know, tickets start from £31 for adults and £15 for children.
Front row seat for take off
Visit your local airfield to get a front row seat for take off!
You can watch flights taking off at lots of smaller local airfields including Gloucestershire airport from its free Jet Age Museum and at Sywell Aerodrome in Northamptonshire, its Aviator bar overlooks the airfield, so great even on a wet day!
Free day out at water parks
Pack a picnic and enjoy a day out at a water park. My favourites include Grafham Water in Cambridgeshire, Pitsford Water in Northamptonshire and Draycote Water in Warwickshire.
At Draycote, it’s a five mile circuit round the reservoir, with plenty of picnic tables, plus a cafe and toilets. Parking charges usually apply at all locations.
Free football camps
Grab a promotional pack of Kellogg’s cereals before 18 August to get free football camps for kids aged 5 – 15. Offer available on packs including Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies and Coco Pops. Scan the code, go to the Kellogg’s site by 25 August to claim a free day session at around 150 locations.
Green fingers fun
Free Summer fun at Dobbies garden centres with its Little Seedlings Club. Aimed at kids aged 4 – 10. Find your nearest location and book.
Cheap movie tickets
Lots of cinemas, both chains and independents offer special kids’ screenings from around £2.50 a ticket during school holidays. Chance to see movies you may have missed, or watch your favourites again. Accompanying adults usually qualify for discounted prices too.