Ahoy, fellow dads and parental figures! It’s that time again when we, the masters of successful procreation, embark on a quest to uncover fun and budget-friendly activities for our little ones. As we strive to keep the kiddos entertained and enriched during this Easter half term, it seems they’ve developed a newfound passion for sleeping in and indulging in freemium games until the break’s end!
I understand the struggle of tightening our belts amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. Fear not, for I’ve compiled a fantastic list of free or heavily discounted activities to enjoy with the kids this holiday season.
Now, I must confess, I may have stretched the definition of “100+ things to do” a bit by counting each castle and museum individually. But hey, it’s all in the name of adventure and creating lasting memories with our loved ones! Let’s make this Easter break one to remember!
Table of Contents
(Disclaimer: this post is heavily influenced and inspired by a wonderful post on HUKD)
Free or Heavily Discounted Activities For Easter 2024
15 Free Museums to Visit Over Easter
If you’re anything like us, then you can’t say no to a museum trip! I remember going to the Big Pit with my Dad and Grandparents as a child and I can’t wait to take my kids soon!
| Museum Name | Address |
|---|---|
| National Museum of Scotland | Chambers Street, Edinburgh, 0300 123 6789 |
| Big Pit National Coal Museum | Blaenavon, near Abergavenny |
| Bolling Hall Museum & Library | Bowling Hall Road, Bradford, BD4 7LP |
| Lancaster City Museum | Market Square, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 1HT |
| National Railway Museum | Leeman Road, York, YO26 4XJ |
| Museum of Liverpool | Pier Head, Liverpool Waterfront, L3 1DG |
| Museum of Science and Industry | Liverpool Road, Castlefield, M3 4FP, Manchester |
| Ashmolean Museum | Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2PH |
| The Great North Museum | Hancock Barras Bridge, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4PT |
| Tate Britain | Millbank, London, SW1P 4RG |
| Royal Armouries | Armouries Drive, Leeds, LS10 1LT |
| Wollaton Hall and Park | Wollaton Park, Nottingham, NG8 2AE |
| Manchester Museum | Oxford Road, The University of Manchester, M13 9PL, Manchester |
| Museum of London Docklands | No. 1 Warehouse West India Quay, Hertsmere Road, E14 4AL, London |
| Sheffield Botanical Gardens | Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield, S10 2LN |
66 Free Castles To Visit
Last but not least, are you truly British if you haven’t been to a castle at least once? I know our school system was abysmal for variety and we ended up seeing the same local landmarks year after year. I’m determined to not let my kids be subject to the same repetition!
I’ve managed to extract the 66 free castles to visit in the UK from the Historic UK post on castles. This really deserves its own post, but in my eagerness to actually publish this post before Easter i’ll bung it in here quick!
| Castle Name | Address |
|---|---|
| Acton Burnell Castle | Acton Burnell, Shropshire |
| Baconsthorpe Castle | Nr Holt, Norfolk |
| Berkhamsted Castle | Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire |
| Berwick Castle | Berwick-upon-Tweed |
| Bolingbroke Castle | Bolingbroke, Lincolnshire |
| Howes Castle | Rowes, Lousty Durham |
| Bramber Castle | Bramber, West Sussea |
| Brinklow Castle | Brinklow, Warwickshire |
| Brough Castle | Church Brough, Cambria |
| Dungay Castle | Bungay, Suffolk |
| Camhoe Castle | Ciophill, Bedfordshire |
| Canterbury Castle | Canterbury, Kent |
| Castle Acre Castle | Nr Swaffham, Norfolk |
| Castle Howe | Kandal, Cumbria |
| Chester Castle: Agricola Tower | Chester, Cheshire |
| Christchurch Castle | Christchurch, Dorset |
| Clare Castle | Clare, Suffolk |
| Clitheroe Castle | Clitheroe, Lancashire |
| Chun Castle | Clun, Shropshire |
| Dane John Mound | Canterbury, Kent |
| Deddington Castle | Deddington, Oxfordshire |
| Donnington Castle | Donnington, Berkshire |
| Edlingham Castle | Edlingham, Northumberland |
| Egremont Castle | Egremont, Cumbria |
| Elsdon Castle | Elsdon, Northumberland |
| Eye Castle | Eye, Suffolk |
| Eynsford Castle | Fynsford, Kent |
| Farnham Castle Keep | Farnham, Surrey |
| Hadleigh Castle | Hadleigh, Essex |
| Hapton Castle | Lancashire |
| Hastings Castle | Sussex |
| Hylton Castle | Sunderland, Tyne and Wear |
| Keudal Castle | Kendal, Cumbria |
| Lilbourne Castle | Lilbourne, Northamptonshire |
| Longtown Castle | Longtown, Herefordshire |
| Ludgershall Castle | Ludgershall, Wiltshire |
| Lydford Castle | near Okehampton, Devon |
| Morpeth Castle | Morpeth. Northumberland |
| Mount lures Castle Motte | Mount Bures, Essex |
| Nether Stowey Castle (Stowey) | Somerset |
| Norham Castle | Norham, Northumberland |
| Nunney Castle | Nunney, Somerset |
| Oaklaam Castle | Oaksatan, Rutland |
| Penrith Castle | Penrith, Cumbria |
| Piel Castle | Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria |
| Pontefract Castle | Pontefract, Yorkshire |
| Rayleigh Mount | Rayleigh, Essex |
| Rufus Castle | Portland, Dorset |
| St Briavels Castle | St Briavels, Gloucestershire |
| St Catherines Castle | Fowey, Cornwall |
| Skipsea Castle | Skipsea, Yorkshire |
| Someries Castle | Hyde, Bedfordshire, England |
| Spofforth Castle | Spofforth, Yorkshire |
| Sutton Valence Castle | Sutton Valence, Kent |
| Thetford Castle | Thetford, Norfolk |
| Thirlwall Castle | Greenhead, Northumberland |
| Weeting Castle | Weeting, Norfolk |
| Whittington Castle | Whittington, Shropshire |
| Wigmore Castle | Wigmore, Herefordshire |
| Wolvesey Castle | Winchester, Hampshire |
Free Pets at Home Easter Workshops for Kids
Introducing the much-anticipated return of the beloved My Pet Pals workshops at Pets at Home stores nationwide, From March 23rd to April 14th, families everywhere are invited to dive into a fin-tastic experience focused on all things aquatic.
Join in the excitement as children marvel at the graceful swim of their aquatic friends and discover fascinating fish facts. With engaging crafts and coloring activities, kids are in for an educational and entertaining adventure!
These workshops aren’t just about fun—they’re also about instilling valuable lessons in pet welfare and responsible ownership. With activity sheets, a My Pet Pals certificate, and the chance to meet amazing animals, it’s an experience the whole family will love!
So, mark your calendars and head to your nearest Pets at Home store for an unforgettable My Pet Pals experience.
Recommended for ages 4 and up.
Kids Football Coaching @ McDonalds Fun Football
Exciting news for football-loving families! McDonald’s is offering an incredible opportunity to get your kids involved in Fun Football sessions, absolutely FREE! With a promise of 10 million hours of football fun before 2026, this initiative is set to bring joy to kids across the UK.
Running from March 23rd to April 14th, these sessions will be conducted by qualified coaches at over 350 locations nationwide. Signing up is quick and easy—simply complete a short form to select your preferred centre. And don’t worry if you’re in Northern Ireland, Scotland, or Wales; sessions and registrations are available there too!
Each session lasts for an hour and caters to children aged 5-11. Plus, both boys and girls are welcome to join in the fun. So lace up those boots, grab your football gear, and head to your nearest McDonald’s Fun Football Centre for an unforgettable experience!
For more details and to register, visit the McDonald’s Fun Football website. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to kick-start your child’s love for football and enjoy some quality family time together on the pitch!
Sign up now and let the football adventures begin!
Free Attractions and Days Out in Scotland
Discover the beauty and history of Scotland without spending a penny! Scotland offers a plethora of free attractions and experiences that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. From majestic castles to fascinating museums and stunning natural landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank.
At The Helix, marvel at the magnificent Kelpies, the largest equine sculptures in the world. Or experience the engineering marvel of The Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift, connecting two canals with seamless precision.
Immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich cultural heritage at the National Museum of Scotland, where history comes to life through captivating exhibits and interactive displays. Step back in time at Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop, a place steeped in romantic history and timeless charm and a place that I personally hold very dear to my heart.
Explore ancient mysteries at the Calanais Standing Stones, marveling at these 5,000-year-old wonders on the west coast of Lewis. And don’t miss the vibrant events and exhibitions at Dundee Contemporary Arts, a hub of creativity and innovation in the heart of Dundee.
From the majestic St Magnus Cathedral to the fascinating Shetland Museum & Archives, Scotland’s free attractions offer a glimpse into the nation’s rich heritage and culture. Whether you’re admiring world-class art at the National Galleries of Scotland or enjoying the tranquility of Strathclyde Country Park, there’s no shortage of free adventures waiting to be discovered.
So pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on a memorable journey through Scotland’s most visited free attractions—all without spending a single penny!
Free and Cheap Days Out in Northern Ireland
Embark on an unforgettable family holiday to Northern Ireland, where every moment is packed with excitement and adventure. From stunning landscapes to world-class attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, all within reach of your doorstep.
Explore the sprawling grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens or marvel at the majestic sea-spray along the Giant’s Causeway coast. Dive into history and nature with star-gazing at OM Dark Sky Park, deer spotting at Gosford Forest Park, or a journey through underground caves at Marble Arch Caves.
Discover Northern Ireland’s extraordinary history through its museums and monuments, from the emigrant’s trail at the Ulster American Folk Park to the Titanic’s birthplace and the ancient dwellings of Navan Centre and Fort. Walk the historic walls of Derry~Londonderry, then indulge in the present with world-class shopping and dining experiences.
Plan your adventure with family-friendly attractions like High Rise, where clip’n’climb adventures await, or W5, an award-winning science and discovery centre with interactive exhibits for all ages. Explore the Sperrin Mountains and uncover the Giant’s Adventure at the Sperrin Sculpture Trail, or dive into the magic of Slieve Gullion Forest Park with its adventure playgrounds and scenic trails.
With endless opportunities for fun and exploration, Northern Ireland promises a holiday filled with cherished memories and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Free Things to Do in Wales
Looking for some wallet-friendly adventures in Wales? You’re in luck! Wales boasts a plethora of attractions that won’t cost you a penny. Here’s a rundown of some of the best free activities you can enjoy across the country:
- Dryslwyn Castle: Nestled in Carmarthen, Dryslwyn Castle offers breathtaking views of the Towy Valley. It’s less crowded than its neighbor Dinefwr Castle, making it a serene spot for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.
- Dolphin Spotting: Head to scenic spots like Mwnt in Ceredigion to catch a glimpse of dolphins, porpoises, and seals frolicking in Cardigan Bay. It’s nature’s show, and the best part? It won’t cost you a penny!
- Geocaching: Explore the Brecon Beacons National Park or Coed y Brenin Forest Park near Dolgellau for an adventurous treasure hunt. With over 180 caches waiting to be discovered, geocaching is a fantastic way to add excitement to your countryside walks.
- Margam Country Park: Dive into nature at Margam Country Park in Port Talbot. Explore the castle, ornamental gardens, and deer park spread across 1,000 acres of lush countryside. With attractions like a narrow gauge railway and adventure playgrounds, there’s something for everyone here.
- Llanddwyn Island: Embark on a fairytale adventure at Llanddwyn Island in Anglesey. This enchanting island, rarely cut off completely by water, is home to an old lighthouse and ruined chapel, offering a magical setting for a family outing.
- National Museums: Discover the rich heritage of Wales at its seven National Museums, covering everything from art and culture to industry and natural history. With world-class collections and engaging exhibits, these museums offer fantastic family days out, all free of charge.
- Open Doors: Take advantage of the Open Doors Days scheme by Cadw in September, offering free access to various heritage sites and buildings across Wales. From historic castles to hidden gems, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the country’s heritage.
- St Davids Cathedral: Step into Britain’s smallest city and marvel at the beauty of St Davids Cathedral. Built in the 12th century, this architectural gem welcomes visitors free of charge, providing a tranquil retreat for reflection and exploration.
- Oriel Môn: Immerse yourself in art and history at Oriel Môn on Anglesey. Admire the works of Wales’s most celebrated artist, Kyffin Williams, and explore ever-changing exhibitions by other talented artists and craftworkers—all for free!
- Alice in Wonderland Trail: Follow in the footsteps of Lewis Carroll’s beloved character Alice in Wonderland in Llandudno. Explore over 50 3D statues and figures scattered around the town, making for a whimsical and delightful adventure.
With so many free attractions to explore, Wales promises unforgettable experiences without putting a dent in your wallet. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled journey across this stunning country!
If you’re ever in Cardiff then I highly recommend a visit to Roath Park. I spent a lot of my youth feeding the ducks and sliding down what my brain remembers to be one of the largest slides in the country.
20 of the Best Free Attractions in the UK @ Skyscanner
Discover the best free attractions in the UK with SkyScanners ultimate guide, packed with amazing activities for every taste and interest.
For family-friendly fun, explore the wonders of the Natural History Museum in London (a personal DadBlog favourite) or dive into history at the Museum of Lincolnshire Life in Lincoln. Head to Roskilly’s Farm in Cornwall for a taste of farm life and delicious organic ice cream, or marvel at the natural world in Cumberland House Natural History Museum in Portsmouth.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh or taking guided walks through the historic streets of Bath. Venture into Reelig Glen near Inverness to see Britain’s tallest trees or explore the Holy Island of Lindisfarne in Northumberland.
Book lovers can embark on magical journeys with the Potter Trail in Edinburgh or the Tolkien Trail in Birmingham, while sports fans can score big at the National Football Museum in Manchester or Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.
History buffs will find tranquility at Durham Cathedral or delve into Bradford’s industrial past at the Bradford Industrial Museum. Explore the Bank of England Museum in London or take a tour of the Parliament Buildings in Belfast for insights into the UK’s rich heritage.
Film fans can enjoy free screenings at the BFI Mediatheque in Manchester or discover the history of newsreels at Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle.
With so many incredible attractions to explore, your next family adventure in the UK is sure to be unforgettable – and budget-friendly!
Free Entry to the Donkey Sanctuary (Multiple Locations)
Fancy a day out with an adorable donkey? Well, look no further than “The Donkey Sanctuaries” across the country!
The main hub in Sidmouth welcomes visitors every day from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last entry to the car park at 4:30 pm. And guess what? It’s totally free entry, so no need to book in advance!
But wait, there’s more! If you’re near a regional sanctuaries in Belfast, Birmingham, Ivybridge, Leeds, or Manchester, you can also pay a visit! Just keep in mind that while entry is free, you’ll need to grab a pre-booked ticket for these locations.
Each sanctuary offers a unique experience, from Sutton Park in Birmingham to the tranquility of Dartmoor at Ivybridge. And of course, you’ll get to meet some of our lovely donkeys and mules along the way!
So, what are you waiting for? Head on down and spend a day surrounded by the gentle charm of these wonderful animals.
Free BBC Tours & Shows
The BBC offer a variety of free shows and tours – suitable for varying ages. Although there’s not a great deal on over the Easter holidays, it’s still worth checking!
Also, the second season of Gladiators is taking applications (deadline 13th of June) – if nothing else, applying with the kids input would be a great way to kill an hour or two.
Family 7 Day Free Guest Pass (Gym and Leisure Facilities) – Selected Locations @ Nuffield
Get ready to kickstart your fitness journey with a complimentary 7-day trial at Nuffield Health fitness & wellbeing centre. With their family pass, you can bring along up to 2 adults and children (subject to availability). Simply use the locator tool on the Nuffield Health website (accessible from the deal link) to find participating centres near you. Whether you’re in Birmingham, London, Manchester, Leeds, Leicester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, or elsewhere, there’s likely a centre close by.
This exclusive trial runs from March 18th to April 7th, 2024, giving you ample time to experience their facilities and classes. The trial period begins as soon as you redeem your pass.
A great idea for a week of free fun!
Free 3 Day Gym Pass @ PureGym
As above but valid for a 3 day pass only. Good if you don’t have a nuffield near you. Use the code UNTAGGED for a free 3 day pass.
Free Amazon Tours
This one is a bit of a niche one. One of my kids special interests is factories & engineering. This virtual tour piqued his interest and while I haven’t done it yet, it’s now on my list of things to do this holiday.
Wrap Up
That’s it from me today. I’ll be updating this post through the holidays should anything new pop up. Have a good one.
