With so many things to see and do across the UK, you are never short of options. However, some of these activities can come at a cost to families.
If you are looking for things to do with the children throughout the summer holidays that won’t break the bank, here are some ideas.
Top 5 fun and affordable activities for kids
Summer holiday activities for families
Go to the cinema
If you want to see some of the latest films to hit the big screen – including How To Train Your Dragon, Smurfs and The Fantastic Four: First Steps – Family Pass offers up to 30% off at cinemas including:
- Cineworld
- Odeon
- Empire Cinemas
The 30% discount also applies to snacks.
This Smurf has his ticket! Have you got yours? 👀
See #Smurfs at Cineworld this Friday! 💙 Adults pay kids’ prices with our Cineworld Family ticket! 🎟 https://t.co/g3mWcKQsTi pic.twitter.com/BlhOgUl27b
— Cineworld (@cineworld) July 16, 2025
Visit movie and TV filming locations
If watching a movie or TV show isn’t enough, Experience Days offers day trips to various sites across the UK used in films and TV shows, including:
- Harry Potter
- Mary Poppins Returns
- Paddington Bear
- Doctor Who
- Gavin & Stacey
- Emmerdale
The Experience Days website reads: “These movie tours and TV themed tours are a perfect day out for film fans – we offer a range of fascinating tours that will give you a behind-the-scenes look at some of your favourite movies and TV shows.
“With movie tours available throughout the UK, and a fantastic selection of bus and walking tours from some of the most popular films and tv shows in Britain, you are sure to find the perfect tour for the film buff in your life.”
Enjoy a meal out
Fancy a break from cooking these summer holidays? Family Pass has you covered, offering 25% off at various restaurants when you dine out.
- Sizzling Pub and Grill
- Hard Rock Cafe
- Bar Buritto
Outdoor adventures
The warm summer weather means it’s the perfect time to head outdoors.
So why not take a trip to Go Ape these holidays, where you and the kids can take part in a range of activities, including:
- Treetop adventures
- Segways
- Zip Line
- Archery
- Mini Land Rovers
- Net adventures
- Axe throwing
Go Ape has more than 35 sites spread across the UK, meaning there is likely a location near you.
To help you save money, there is a range of offers available through Go Ape. These offers include:
- 15% off Treetop challenge using discount code FAMILY15 at checkout.
- Free adult on Net Adventure with every child under the age of six.
- 10% student discount via Student Beans.
You can find out more about these offers and others via the Go Ape website.
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Tree house stays
Looking to escape and spend some time away with the family? Why not try a stay at one of the “state of the art”, “luxury” tree houses on offer through Experience Days.
Its website reads: “Combining a natural, rustic feel with top of the range comfort, these beautifully crafted tree houses have been built to impress.
“You will experience unparalleled peace and solitude as you retreat to your treetop lodge, making this experience ideal for those looking for a relaxing UK holiday, or even the most incredible unique experience gift you can think of!”
There are tree house stays available in Snowdonia, Bristol and Welshpool.
