Spend less, play more: 5 free summer holiday activities

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during the school break? Don’t sweat it—we’ve got you covered with free summer holiday activities.

Free summer holiday activities

Enjoy exploring and having fun without spending a penny. Check out our list of fantastic and free activities to make your summer holidays memorable!

1. Enjoy a sunny day at the beach

Pack your sunscreen, towels, and snacks, and head to the local beach for a fantastic day of sun and fun.

Start by setting up a cosy spot with your beach blanket and umbrella for shade. The kids can spend hours building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and splashing in the waves while you relax and soak up the sun.

Don’t forget to bring beach toys like buckets, shovels, and a kite for some extra entertainment. For a refreshing break, bring along a cooler with water, fruit, and healthy snacks.

Many beaches also have free amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, and nature trails, so check out what your local beach has to offer. Some beaches might even have lifeguards on duty, ensuring a safe swimming environment for everyone.

Resources:

• Beach safety tips: ensure everyone stays safe with tips from the RNLI Beach Safety Guide.
• Local beach finder: use tools like Beach Finder to discover nearby beaches.
• Tide times and weather forecast: Check BBC Weather for up-to-date information on tides and weather conditions.

Packing list:

• Sunscreen: apply regularly to protect your skin from UV rays.
• Towels and blankets: for drying off and relaxing on the sand.
• Snacks and water: keep hydrated and energized with healthy options.
• Beach toys: buckets, shovels, and kites for endless fun.
• Umbrella or tent: provide shade and a break from the sun.
• Swimwear and change of clothes: for swimming and staying comfortable.
• First aid kit: be prepared for minor injuries or stings.

Enjoying a day at the beach is an affordable and enjoyable way to create lasting memories with your family. Whether you’re swimming, playing, or simply relaxing, the beach offers something for everyone.

2. Explore rock pools by the coast

Put on your waterproof shoes and embark on an exciting adventure exploring the fascinating world of rock pools.

These miniature ecosystems are teeming with life, offering a unique opportunity to discover tiny crabs, starfish, sea anemones, and other marine creatures in their natural habitats.

It’s a thrilling and educational experience that the whole family can enjoy.

Start by visiting the coast during low tide, when the pools are more accessible and filled with marine life.

Bring along a bucket and a small net to gently scoop up creatures for a closer look before releasing them back. Make sure to tread carefully to avoid stepping on any fragile sea life or slippery rocks.

Tips for rock pooling:

• Be respectful: handle creatures gently and return them to their habitat.
• Stay safe: watch out for slippery rocks and sudden waves.
• Dress appropriately: wear waterproof shoes and clothes that can get wet.
• Bring supplies: a bucket, net, and magnifying glass can enhance the experience.

Educational benefits:

Rock pooling is not only fun but also educational. It provides children with hands-on learning about marine biology and ecology. Discuss the different species you find, their roles in the ecosystem, and how they adapt to their environment.

Resources:

• Rock pooling guide: check out the Wildlife Trusts’ Where to see rockpool wildlife for the best places to explore rock pools around the UK’s coast.
• Tide times: use the Tide Times UK website to plan your visit during low tide.
• Marine identification: use apps like iNaturalist to help identify and learn more about the species you discover.

Packing list:

• Waterproof shoes: essential for navigating wet, slippery rocks.
• Bucket and net: for gently collecting and observing sea creatures.
• Magnifying glass: to get a closer look at small marine life.
• Guidebook or app: to help identify different species.
• Snacks and water: keep everyone refreshed and energized.

Exploring rock pools is a wonderful way to connect with nature, learn about marine life, and enjoy a day out by the coast. It’s an adventure filled with discovery and wonder, perfect for creating lasting family memories.

3. Go crabbing in a charming seaside town

Visit a nearby seaside town and experience the delightful activity of crabbing. It’s a simple yet fascinating way to spend time by the water, offering both fun and a touch of adventure.

You need only a crabbing line or a small net, bait (like bacon or fish heads), and a bucket to hold your catches.

This activity is perfect for all ages, providing an opportunity to enjoy the coastal environment and observe marine life up close.

Start by finding a safe spot along the quay, pier, or harbour where crabbing is permitted.

Drop your line or net into the water and wait patiently. Crabs are curious creatures and will soon be attracted to the bait.

When you feel a tug, gently pull up the line and see what you’ve caught. Remember to handle the crabs carefully and return them to their natural habitat after you’ve had a good look.

Tips for successful crabbing:

• Choose the right time: early morning or late afternoon can be the best times for crabbing.
• Use the right bait: crabs love strong-smelling bait like raw bacon, fish heads, or chicken necks.
• Be gentle: handle crabs carefully to avoid harming them and ensure they are returned to the water safely.
• Stay safe: always supervise children near the water and be cautious of slippery surfaces.

Educational benefits:

Crabbing offers a hands-on learning experience about marine biology and crustacean behaviour. It’s a great way to teach children about the importance of marine ecosystems and the need for conservation.

Resources:

• Crabbing guide: for more detailed tips and locations, check out this ultimate guide to crabbing in the UK.
• Local tide times: check BBC Weather for tide times to plan your trip.
• Safety tips: the RNLI Water Safety page provides essential safety information for coastal activities.

Packing list:

• Crabbing line or net: essential tools for catching crabs.
• Bait: raw bacon, fish heads, or chicken necks work well.
• Bucket: to temporarily hold your catches.
• Towel and wet wipes: for cleaning up after handling bait and crabs.
• Snacks and drinks: keep everyone hydrated and energized.

Exploring the seaside town and engaging in crabbing can be a delightful day out for the whole family. It’s a fun, educational, and cost-effective way to enjoy the coastal environment, create cherished memories, and foster a love for marine life.

4. Join the treasure hunt of geocaching

Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt that uses GPS technology to find hidden containers, known as geocaches, tucked away in parks, trails, and urban areas all over the world.

This activity is an exciting blend of technology, adventure, and outdoor exploration, making it a perfect family-friendly pastime.

To get started, you’ll need a smartphone or a GPS device. Download a geocaching app and create a free account. The app provides coordinates and clues to help you locate the geocaches.

Each cache typically contains a logbook for you to sign and sometimes small trinkets or toys to exchange.

Geocaching not only takes you to interesting and scenic spots you might not have discovered otherwise but also adds a sense of adventure to your outings.

Geocaching encourages exploration and curiosity, whether in a local park, a nature reserve, or even an urban environment.

Tips for successful Geocaching:

• Start small: begin with easy caches to get a feel for how it works.
• Stay safe: be aware of your surroundings and avoid dangerous areas.
• Respect nature: leave no trace and ensure you don’t disturb wildlife or damage vegetation.
• Be prepared: bring a pen to sign logbooks, and consider small items for trade.

Educational benefits:

Geocaching teaches valuable skills such as navigation, problem-solving, and geography. It also promotes physical activity and an appreciation for the natural world.

Resources:

• Geocaching apps: download apps like Geocaching.com or Cachly to get started.
• Beginner’s guide: read the Geocaching 101 guide for tips and tricks.
• Safety tips: check out the Geocaching Safety Guidelines to ensure a safe adventure.

Packing list:

• Smartphone or GPS device: essential for tracking coordinates.
• Pen: to sign logbooks inside geocaches.
• Small trinkets: items to exchange in the caches.
• Comfortable shoes and clothing: dress appropriately for the terrain and weather.
• Water and snacks: stay hydrated and energized during your hunt.

Geocaching is a fantastic way to blend technology with outdoor fun, creating a sense of adventure for people of all ages. It’s an excellent activity for families, promoting teamwork and exploration while discovering new places and hidden gems in your community.

5. Discover wonders at a museum

Museums are treasure troves of knowledge and excitement, offering a window into the worlds of science, history, art, and more.

Many museums offer free entry or have special free days, making them an affordable and enriching outing for families.

With interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and captivating displays, museums make learning both enjoyable and memorable for children of all ages.

Start your museum adventure by exploring different sections that interest your family.

Science museums often feature dynamic exhibits with interactive elements, such as planetariums, dinosaur skeletons, and hands-on science experiments.

History museums can transport you back in time with artefacts, dioramas, and reenactments of historical events.

Art museums introduce children to diverse artistic styles and mediums through paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations.

Tips for an enjoyable museum visit:

• Plan ahead: check the museum’s website for free entry days, special exhibits, and events.
• Engage with exhibits: encourage children to participate in interactive displays and ask questions.
• Take breaks: museums can be overwhelming, so plan short breaks to rest and reflect.
• Visit the gift shop: explore educational toys, books, and souvenirs that extend the learning experience.

Educational benefits:

Museums provide a wealth of educational opportunities, fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity. They expose children to new concepts, cultures, and historical perspectives, enriching their understanding of the world.

Resources:

• Museum finder: use MoneySavingExpert’s guide to discover museums with free entry across the UK.
• Interactive learning: visit the Science Museum’s Learning Resources for activities and educational materials.
• History for kids: the British Museum’s family page offers fun and educational content tailored to young learners.

Packing list:

• Comfortable clothing and shoes: dress for a day of walking and exploring.
• Snacks and water: many museums have designated areas for refreshments.
• Notebook and pen: for jotting down interesting facts and sketching exhibits.
• Camera: capture moments of discovery and favourite exhibits (check museum policies on photography).

Discovering the wonders at a museum is a fantastic way to spend a day. It offers a blend of education and entertainment that can spark a lifelong love of learning.

With a variety of exhibits and activities, there’s something to captivate and inspire every child’s imagination.

Final thoughts

Summer holidays are a perfect time to create lasting memories with your family without spending a lot of money. From exploring rock pools and visiting museums to going crabbing and geocaching, there are countless fun and educational activities to enjoy.

These free activities will keep your kids entertained, active, and learning throughout the summer. So, pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable summer filled with adventures and discoveries.

With a bit of planning and a sense of adventure, you can make the most of the sunny days ahead and create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.