Fun and Free Days Out for Families in the UK this Summer 2025

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, soak up the longer days, and make the kind of family memories that last for years.

But with rising prices on everything from petrol to ice creams, many of us are looking for ways to make the most of the holidays without stretching the budget.

The good news? Wherever you are in the UK, from city centres and historic towns to coastal paths and countryside parks, there are endless ways to spend a brilliant family day out that won’t cost a penny.

This guide brings together carefully chosen destinations across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland that are not just free, but truly worth your time.

Each place offers something special: epic landscapes, fascinating history, art and culture, wildlife encounters, or simply the freedom to roam and play together.

So whether you’re planning a big trip or just need a local adventure to keep everyone happy, here are some of the best free days out for families to enjoy this summer.

Let’s make 2025 the season of exploring more, spending less, and discovering the incredible places right on our doorstep!

 

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England

 

(Seven Sisters Country Park)

 

1. The Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Wakefield

Set in beautiful West Yorkshire countryside, this free-to-enter outdoor gallery turns a family walk into an art adventure. Over 500 acres of fields and woodlands are scattered with giant sculptures by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Damien Hirst and others.

It consistently rates 4.6★ on Google Reviews with over 8,000 reviews, and features on Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s Choice lists for Yorkshire attractions.

 

• Location and Address: Yorkshire Sculpture Park, West Bretton, Wakefield WF4 4LG
• Best method of transport: Car (parking fee supports park) or bus from Wakefield
• Opening Times: 10am–6pm daily (last entry 5.15pm)
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon for quieter walks and softer light
• Family Appeal: Over 100 giant outdoor sculptures to explore like a treasure hunt, picnic-friendly lawns, new interactive kids’ installations for summer 2025
• Fun Fact: The park is home to some of the world’s largest Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth sculptures in a single setting.

 

2. Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds

This world-renowned museum offers an immersive journey through the history of arms and armour. With five themed galleries, live combat demonstrations, and interactive exhibits, it’s a captivating experience for all ages.

It holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 11,000 reviews, with many families praising the interactive elements and live shows.

 

• Location and Address: Armouries Drive, Leeds LS10 1LT
• Best method of transport: Walk along the canal from Leeds Station or bus/tram
• Opening Times: 10am–5pm daily
• Best time of day to visit: Morning before school holiday crowds
• Family Appeal: Free entry to one of the UK’s best interactive museums, with live combat shows, themed trails, and armour to try on
• Fun Fact: It houses the UK’s national arms and armour collection, including a 16th-century elephant armour!

 

3. National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth

While the Historic Dockyard as a whole has paid attractions, significant parts of the National Museum of the Royal Navy within it are free to explore. This includes fascinating exhibits and the chance to walk around the historic area, seeing incredible ships from the outside. You can immerse yourselves in naval history without paying for all the specific ship tours.

It’s an expansive and engaging site, rated 4.6★ on Google Reviews with over 20,000 reviews for the Historic Dockyard overall, with many praising the free areas and historical atmosphere.

 

• Location and Address: HM Naval Base, Portsmouth PO1 3LA.
• Best method of transport: Train to Portsmouth Harbour station (directly opposite the entrance) or car (paid parking nearby).
• Opening Times: Typically 10am–5:30pm (check website for specific museum opening times and free access areas)
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning to allow plenty of time to explore the vast site.
• Family Appeal: See historic warships from the outside, explore the dockyard, and visit free indoor exhibitions like “HMS Victory: The Nation’s Flagship” and “Horrible Histories Pirates: The Exhibition” (check for 2025 details). Many reviewers love the scale and history for all ages.
• Fun Fact: The Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is home to HMS Victory, Lord Nelson’s flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, and the Mary Rose, Henry VIII’s warship.

 

4. Hampstead Heath & Parliament Hill, London

A vast green oasis in the heart of London, Hampstead Heath offers breathtaking views, ancient woodlands, and diverse landscapes. Parliament Hill, within the Heath, provides an iconic panoramic vista of the city skyline.

It boasts a 4.8★ rating on Google Reviews with over 30,000 reviews, frequently cited as a peaceful escape with stunning views.

 

• Location and Address: Hampstead Heath, London NW3
• Best method of transport: Overground to Hampstead Heath or Tube to Hampstead
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning for sunrise views or evening for golden hour picnics
• Family Appeal: Wild meadows, adventure playgrounds, seasonal paddling pools, Parliament Hill viewpoint perfect for kite-flying and family photos
• Fun Fact: Parliament Hill got its name from 17th-century plots to defend London from Royalist forces.

 

5. Seven Sisters Country Park, East Sussex

Experience the dramatic beauty of England’s iconic white cliffs at Seven Sisters Country Park. This stunning coastal landscape offers incredible walks, a shingle beach, and opportunities for birdwatching and photography. While there’s a parking fee, access to the park and its breathtaking views is free, making it an epic outdoor adventure.

It holds a 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 7,000 reviews, consistently praised for its magnificent scenery and walking trails.

 

• Location and Address: Exceat, Seaford BN25 4AD
• Best method of transport: Car (paid parking) or bus from Brighton or Eastbourne.
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Low tide for beach access and exploring, or late afternoon for beautiful light on the cliffs.
• Family Appeal: Vast open spaces for running and playing, shingle beach for stone skimming, stunning views, and accessible paths for varying abilities. Families often mention the fresh air and dramatic scenery.
• Fun Fact: The cliffs are made of chalk and were formed during the Cretaceous period, millions of years ago, when the area was covered by a warm sea.

 

 

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Scotland

 

(Aerial View of Edinburgh with Arthur’s Seat)

 

1. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh

Dominating Edinburgh’s skyline, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano offering stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond. A hike to the summit is a rewarding experience, providing both physical activity and incredible photo opportunities.

It holds a 4.8★ rating on Google Reviews from over 18,000 reviews, consistently praised for its accessible outdoor adventure and stunning city views.

 

• Location and Address: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh EH8 8HG

• Best method of transport: Walk from central Edinburgh or local buses to Holyrood

• Opening Times: Open 24 hours

• Best time of day to visit: Early morning to avoid crowds and heat

• Family Appeal: A real hill climb in the city centre, panoramic views for family selfies, storytelling about the extinct volcano

• Fun Fact: Arthur’s Seat is around 350 million years old and offers views from Fife to the Pentlands.

 

2. Culzen Castle Country Park, South Ayrshire

While Culzean Castle itself and specific attractions like the interior of the castle are ticketed by the National Trust for Scotland, the vast Country Park offers extensive free access for exploration, making it a truly remarkable free day out. This stunning clifftop estate boasts dramatic landscapes, woodlands, marked trails, and incredible sea views across to the Isle of Arran.

It holds an excellent 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews, with visitors consistently praising the expansive grounds, beautiful scenery, and family-friendly amenities. Reviewers frequently highlight the value of the park itself, even without a castle ticket.

 

• Location and Address: Culzean Castle & Country Park, Maybole, South Ayrshire KA19 8LE.
• Best method of transport: Car (note: there is a paid parking fee upon entry to the Country Park, which supports its upkeep. Alternatively, you can walk into the park from nearby Maidens village, where there is free public parking).
• Opening Times: The Country Park is generally open daily from 10am to 5pm, though specific facilities like the castle, shops, and cafes may have varying hours. It’s best to check the National Trust for Scotland website for the most current daily opening times for all areas, especially in Summer 2025.
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning for a full day of exploration, or late afternoon for beautiful coastal light and quieter walks.
• Family Appeal: The free-to-access areas of the Country Park offer a huge amount for families. This includes extensive woodlands for nature walks, stunning clifftop paths with breathtaking views, beaches for rock pooling and sandcastle building, and specific free-to-access play areas like “Adventure Cove” and “Wild Woodland” (check NTS website for up-to-date access). There are also deer in the Deer Park, and often free ranger-led walks or events in the summer (check their schedule!). It’s consistently praised for tiring out little legs!
• Fun Fact: The iconic clifftop castle featured on the back of the Clydesdale Bank £5 note, and its stunning location was designed by the renowned architect Robert Adam in the 18th century.

 

3. Craigtoun Country Park, Fife

A beloved family destination, Craigtoun Country Park offers 47 acres of picturesque parkland with a fantastic array of free activities. From adventure playgrounds to peaceful woodlands, there’s plenty of space for children to explore and play.

This park holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 2,000 reviews, with many families commending the variety of free play options and well-maintained grounds. Euan’s Guide also highlights it as a “peaceful and beautiful accessible location”.

 

• Location and Address: Craigtoun, St Andrews KY16 8NX

• Best method of transport: Car or local bus from St Andrews

• Opening Times: 9am–dusk

• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning for fewer queues at rides

• Family Appeal: Free entry to 47 acres of parkland with play areas and woodlands, plus optional small-fee rides like miniature train and pedal boats. Reviewers often mention it’s a great place for all ages with diverse activities.

• Fun Fact: The park features a 1920s Dutch Village built as a garden folly.

 

4. Glasgow’s Museums

Glasgow boasts an impressive array of free-to-enter museums, making it a fantastic cultural hub for families.

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: A magnificent Victorian building housing a vast collection from natural history to art, with engaging displays for children. It has a 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 20,000 reviews, highly praised for its diverse collections and family-friendly atmosphere.
• Riverside Museum (Museum of Transport and Travel): An award-winning museum designed by Zaha Hadid, showcasing Scotland’s rich transport history with cars, bikes, trams, and even a recreated 1930s street. It holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 10,000 reviews, with families loving the climb-aboard vehicles and interactive exhibits.

• • Location and Address:
    • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG.
    • Riverside Museum: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow G3 8RS.
  • Best method of transport: Subway or bus for both. Limited parking available.
  • Opening Times: Typically 10am–5pm (check individual sites for exact times)
  • Best time of day to visit: Early afternoon to avoid school trips.
  • Family Appeal: World-class collections with dinosaur skeletons, vintage cars and bikes, interactive displays, and nearby green spaces for picnics. Reviewers often highlight how engaging and educational these museums are for children.
  • Fun Fact: Kelvingrove’s grand organ is played daily for free concerts. The Riverside Museum has a fully accessible, recreated 1930s street to explore.

 

5. The Helix, Home of the Kelpies, Falkirk

This expansive parkland is home to The Kelpies, two colossal horse-head sculptures that are a true engineering and artistic marvel. Explore the surrounding park, enjoy walking and cycling paths, and marvel at these iconic Scottish landmarks.

The Helix park, including The Kelpies, has a 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 10,000 reviews, often highlighting the impressive scale of the sculptures and the pleasant park for walks. Tripadvisor reviews also frequently mention its appeal for families and photographers.

 

• Location and Address: The Helix, Grangemouth Rd, Falkirk FK2 9EE.
• Best method of transport: Car (small parking charge applies at busy times) or local bus from Falkirk
• Opening Times: Park open 24 hours; visitor centre typically 9.30am–5pm (check website for specific tour times)
• Best time of day to visit: Daytime for clear views of the sculptures; evenings for illuminated displays.
• Family Appeal: See the enormous Kelpies up close, explore the surrounding park, play areas, and often free events in the summer. Many reviews from families express awe at the size and artistry.
• Fun Fact: The Kelpies are the largest equine sculptures in the world, standing at 30 metres (100 ft) tall.

 

 

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Wales

 

(Cardiff National Museum)

 

1. Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons

The highest peak in South Wales, Pen y Fan offers a challenging yet rewarding family hike with truly breathtaking panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Well-marked paths make it accessible for families with older children, and the sense of achievement at the summit is immense.

As part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, it benefits from the park’s 4.8★ Google Review rating (over 9,000 reviews), celebrated for its stunning landscapes and walking opportunities. Reddit threads also provide useful tips for families, emphasizing the rewarding experience.

 

• Location and Address: Storey Arms car park, A470, Brecon LD3 8NL.
• Best method of transport: Car (parking available, though it can get busy)
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning for cooler weather and emptier paths
• Family Appeal: Well-marked routes for older kids, incredible summit views, wildlife like wild ponies along the way. Families love the challenge and the rewarding views.
• Fun Fact: At 886 metres, it’s the highest peak in southern Britain.

 

 2. Conwy Town Walls

Step back into medieval times by exploring the magnificent Conwy Town Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk along significant stretches of these incredibly well-preserved 13th-century walls, offering unique elevated views of Conwy Castle, the bustling harbour, and the surrounding estuary. The walls are open access and provide a fantastic free historical adventure.

Conwy itself holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews, with the town walls often highlighted for their historical significance and scenic walks. VisitConwy.org also praises them as “the best free show in town”.

 

• Location and Address: Conwy, LL32. Access points are throughout the town, near Conwy Castle.
• Best method of transport: Train to Conwy Station or car (parking in town, paid)
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours (some sections may have limited access or closing times for safety, particularly at night)
• Best time of day to visit: Late afternoon for golden light over the estuary and fewer crowds.
• Family Appeal: Climbable medieval walls, harbour crabbing (bring your own gear), historic atmosphere with castle views. Reviews often mention the immersive historical experience for children.
• Fun Fact: The 13th-century walls stretch for 1.3km and have 21 towers.

 

3. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula

Often voted among the best beaches in Europe, Rhossili Bay is a stunning three-mile-long stretch of golden sand backed by dramatic cliffs, part of the beautiful Gower Peninsula. At low tide, you can walk out to the tidal island of Worm’s Head. It’s perfect for expansive beach games, picnics, and soaking up the incredible coastal scenery.

Rhossili Bay is rated an impressive 4.9★ on Google Reviews from over 4,000 reviews, with visitors consistently raving about its beauty and tranquility.

 

• Location and Address: Rhossili, Swansea SA3 1PP.
• Best method of transport: Car (paid parking at Rhossili village) or bus from Swansea
• Opening Times: Open 24 Hours
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning to enjoy the beach before it gets too busy, and check tide times for access to Worm’s Head.
• Family Appeal: Vast sandy beach for endless play, rock pooling opportunities, incredible coastal walks (e.g., towards Worm’s Head). Reviewers emphasize the stunning natural beauty and space for families.
• Fun Fact: Rhossili Bay was voted the best beach in the UK and the third best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2018.

 

4. National Museum Cardiff

A world-class museum located in the heart of Cardiff’s civic centre, the National Museum Cardiff offers free admission to a huge range of collections, from natural history and dinosaurs to art and Welsh history. Its diverse exhibits provide a fascinating and educational day out for all ages, with something new to discover around every corner.

It holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 6,000 reviews, praised for its diverse collections and family-friendly approach. The Edge SU magazine highlights it as “Engaging and Free.”

 

• Location and Address: Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NP.
• Best method of transport: Walk from Cardiff Queen Street Station, or various local bus routes.
• Opening Times: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm (closed Mondays)
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon to allow ample time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Family Appeal: Free entry to fascinating exhibits including dinosaur skeletons, mammoths, interactive displays on evolution, and impressive art collections. Reviewers often mention the engaging natural history section for children.
• Fun Fact: The museum houses one of the finest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art in the world, outside of Paris.

5. Newport Wetlands National Nature Reserve

Managed by the RSPB, Natural Resources Wales, and Newport City Council, Newport Wetlands is a haven for wildlife and a fantastic spot for a family day out exploring nature. Walk along boardwalks through reedbeds, spot a huge variety of birds from hides, and enjoy the open landscapes. There’s a visitor centre and a play area, making it perfect for an active and educational visit.

It holds a 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 1,500 reviews, with visitors enjoying the birdwatching and peaceful walks. Wanderlog also describes it as a “stunning nature reserve”.

 

• Location and Address: West Nash Road, Nash, Newport NP18 2BZ.
• Best method of transport: Car (parking available) or local bus routes.
• Opening Times: Reserve open dawn–dusk; Visitor Centre 9am–5pm daily (check for seasonal variations).
• Best time of day to visit: Morning for prime birdwatching, or any time for a pleasant walk.
• Family Appeal: Free entry, opportunities for bird-watching (bring binoculars!), well-maintained flat paths suitable for pushchairs, a visitor centre with facilities, and a small play area.
• Fun Fact: The reserve was created as compensation for the loss of mudflats during the construction of the Cardiff Bay Barrage.

 

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Northern Ireland

 

(Giant’s Causeway)

 

1. Giant’s Causeway

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. While there’s a charge for the visitor centre exhibition and parking, you can access the stunning coastal path and view the basalt columns for free by walking from nearby Bushmills or along the Translink bus route. It boasts an impressive 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 30,000 reviews, with its unique geology being a major draw. Trip.com highlights it as “a natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world.”

 

• Location and Address: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU, United Kingdom.
• Best method of transport: Car (paid parking) or Translink bus (Ulsterbus Service 402/402a) which stops directly at the site. Walking from Bushmills is also an option.
• Opening Times: Coastal path open 24 hours; Visitor Centre typically 9am–7pm (check seasonal variations).
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or later afternoon to avoid the peak crowds, especially if walking for free access.
• Family Appeal: Explore the unique hexagonal columns, learn about the legends of Finn McCool, enjoy dramatic coastal walks. Reviews consistently highlight the awe-inspiring natural formation.
• Fun Fact: According to legend, the columns were created by the giant Finn MacCool.

2. Crawfordsburn Country Park

Nestled on the beautiful coastline of County Down, Crawfordsburn Country Park offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, wooded glens, and stunning waterfalls. It’s an ideal spot for a family day out, with well-maintained walking trails and a fantastic playground.

This park holds a 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 1,000 reviews, frequently praised for its beautiful scenery and family-friendly amenities. Discover Northern Ireland also confirms “Free” entry.

 

• Location and Address: Bridge Rd S, Helen’s Bay, Bangor BT19 1JT.
• Best method of transport: Car (parking available) or train to Helen’s Bay station, followed by a short walk.
• Opening Times: Dawn–dusk
• Best time of day to visit: Morning for calm beach time and quieter trails.
• Family Appeal: Sandy beach perfect for paddling and sandcastle building, picturesque waterfall walks, woodland trails for exploring, and a large playground. Reviewers highlight the varied landscape and excellent play facilities.
• Fun Fact: The park is set on part of the old Belfast-Bangor railway line.

3. Belfast City Hall

This magnificent Edwardian Baroque building is a civic landmark in Belfast and offers free public tours that delve into its rich history and stunning architecture. Families can explore the grand interiors, learn about Belfast’s past, and enjoy the surrounding gardens and Titanic Memorial.

Belfast City Hall has an outstanding 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 12,000 reviews, with many commending the free tours and beautiful architecture.

 

• Location and Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS.
• Best method of transport: Easily accessible by bus, car (paid parking nearby), or train (short walk from Great Victoria Street Station).
• Opening Times: Belfast City Hall is open to visitors from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday (check website for specific tour times).
• Best time of day to visit: The best time to visit is during one of the free guided tours, which run at set times throughout the day, or simply enjoy the grounds.
• Family Appeal: Free guided tours offer an educational insight into local history and architecture. The surrounding grounds are perfect for a stroll and picnics. Reviewers appreciate the informative tours and the beautiful setting. Fun Fact: The building’s clock tower is over 300 feet tall.

 

4. Botanic Gardens, Belfast

A beautiful and tranquil green space in the heart of Belfast, the Botanic Gardens offer a wonderful free day out for families. Explore the stunning Victorian Palm House, home to exotic plants, and the Tropical Ravine, an impressive listed building housing a diverse collection of tropical plants. The extensive lawns are perfect for picnics and play.

The Botanic Gardens hold a 4.7★ rating on Google Reviews from over 10,000 reviews, often highlighted for their beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Reddit users also confirm it as a “gem” in Belfast.

 

• Location and Address: Botanic Ave, Belfast BT7 1LP.
• Best method of transport: Short walk from Botanic or Great Victoria Street train stations, or numerous bus routes.
• Opening Times: Typically 7:30am–9pm in summer (check for exact seasonal times for Palm House and Tropical Ravine, which may have shorter hours).
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning for a pleasant stroll, or any time for a picnic on the lawns.
• Family Appeal: Free entry, explore the exotic plants in the Palm House and Tropical Ravine, plenty of open space for children to run and play. Reviews praise the well-maintained gardens and impressive glasshouses.
• Fun Fact: The Palm House is one of the earliest examples of a curvilinear cast iron glasshouse in the world.

 

5. Ulster Museum, Belfast

Located within the beautiful Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum offers a treasure trove of art, history, and natural science. From Egyptian mummies and dinosaur skeletons to Irish history and modern art, its diverse collections cater to a wide range of interests. Free to enter, it provides a fantastic indoor option for families, particularly on rainy days.

The Ulster Museum has a strong 4.6★ rating on Google Reviews from over 6,000 reviews, with many families highlighting the engaging exhibits for children. Trip.com also lists it as a free entry attraction.

 

• Location and Address: Botanic Gardens, Belfast BT7 1LP.
• Best method of transport: Short walk from Botanic or Great Victoria Street train stations, or numerous bus routes.
• Opening Times: Tuesday–Sunday, 10am–5pm (closed Mondays).
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning to make the most of the day exploring the various floors.
• Family Appeal: Free entry to diverse exhibits including dinosaurs, ancient artefacts, interactive natural history displays, and a section on the Troubles. Reviews often mention the variety of exhibits and how well they engage children.
• Fun Fact: The museum’s Natural History section includes a giant Irish elk skeleton and a diverse collection of taxidermied animals.