Fun and Free Days Out for Families in the UK this Summer 2023

 

The Summer Break is here, providing an ideal opportunity for families to embark on adventures together and make cherished memories.

However, we cannot overlook the fact that outings can be financially challenging, particularly during the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Thankfully, there exists an array of cost-free options for families to explore throughout the UK during the Summer break. Whether it’s basking in the beauty of picturesque beaches or delving into the rich history of iconic landmarks, rest assured, you can enjoy a delightful holiday without straining your budget.

 

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England

 

(Durdle Door)

 

1. Durdle Door, Dorset

Durdle Door is a stunning natural limestone arch on the Jurassic Coast. It’s a great place for a family day out with beautiful views of the sea and coastline. The beach itself is shingle, so bring appropriate footwear, but the water is perfect for paddling and swimming.

• Location and Address: Durdle Door, West Lulworth, Wareham BH20 5PU
• Best method of transport: Car or public transport, followed by a walk from the car park to the beach
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: Durdle Door is over 140 million years old and has been used as a backdrop for many films, including Nanny McPhee and Far from the Madding Crowd.

 

2. Richmond Park, London

Richmond Park is a beautiful green space in the heart of London. It’s the perfect place for a family day out, with plenty of space to play games, have a picnic, or explore the park’s many walking trails. The park is also home to over 600 deer, which roam freely around the park.

• Location and Address: Richmond Park, Richmond TW10 5HS
• Best method of transport: Public transport or car
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: Richmond Park is the largest Royal Park in London and was created by Charles I in the 17th century as a deer park.

 

3. The Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in the UK. With its stunning landscapes, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountains, it’s the perfect place for a family day out. There are plenty of walking trails to explore, as well as numerous picnic spots and scenic viewpoints.

• Location and Address: The Lake District, Cumbria
• Best method of transport: Car or public transport
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: The Lake District is home to England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, which stands at 978 metres tall.

 

4. The British Museum, London

The British Museum is a world-renowned institution that houses a vast collection of cultural artifacts from around the globe. Families can explore the galleries and exhibits, including the famous Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. There are also family-friendly activities on offer, such as trails and workshops.

• Location and Address: Great Russell St, Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG
• Best method of transport: Train or bus
• Opening Times: 10 am to 5:30 pm (Fridays until 8:30 pm)
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Fun Fact: The British Museum was founded in 1753 and was the first national public museum in the world.

 

5. St. Ives, Cornwall

 St. Ives is a picturesque seaside town in Cornwall that is famous for its stunning beaches and artistic community. Families can spend the day exploring the town’s many art galleries, enjoying a seafood lunch at one of the many restaurants, or simply relaxing on the beach. The town is also home to the Tate St. Ives gallery, which showcases contemporary art from around the world.

• Location and Address: St. Ives, Cornwall
• Best method of transport: Car or public transport
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Fun Fact: St. Ives was once a major fishing port and the birthplace of several famous artists, including Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson.

 

 

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Scotland

 

(The Hermitage)

 

1. Riverside Museum

The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel is a fascinating museum showcasing Scotland’s transport heritage. The exhibits include vintage cars, bicycles, and motorcycles, as well as boats, trains, and trams. There is also a recreated street scene from the 1930s, complete with shops and vehicles from the era.

• Location and Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow G3 8RS
• Best method of transport: Car or public transport
• Opening Times: 10am-5pm daily.
• Best time of day to visit:  Mid-morning to avoid the crowds.
• Fun Fact:The building housing the museum was designed by award-winning architect Zaha Hadid and won the European Museum of the Year award in 2013.

 

2. The Kelpies, Falkirk

The Kelpies are a pair of 30-metre-high horse head sculptures located in The Helix parkland near Falkirk. The sculptures were designed by Scottish sculptor Andy Scott and are inspired by the mythological Scottish water spirit, the kelpie.

• Location and Address:  The Helix, Falkirk FK2 7ZT
• Best method of transport:  It is recommended to use public transport or walk, as parking is limited in the area.
• Opening Times: Open 24 Hours
• Best time of day to visit:  Late afternoon, to see the sculptures illuminated.
• Fun Fact:  Each Kelpie sculpture weighs over 300 tonnes!

 

3. Ness Islands

The Ness Islands are a group of small islands located in the middle of the River Ness, connected by a series of footbridges. The islands offer a peaceful escape from the city and are home to a variety of wildlife, including otters and kingfishers.

• Location and Address: Bught Park, Inverness IV3 5SQ
• Best method of transport: The islands are located just a short walk from Inverness city centre and are easily accessible by foot or bike.
• Opening Times: Open 24 Hours. 
• Best time of day to visit: Late afternoon to enjoy the sunset over the River Ness.
• Fun Fact: The islands are believed to have been used as a hideout by the Jacobites during the Battle of Culloden.

 

4. The Hermitage

The Hermitage is a beautiful woodland walk along the River Braan, featuring some of the tallest trees in the UK, as well as a stunning waterfall and a picturesque stone bridge. The walk is suitable for all ages and is perfect for a family day out in nature.

• Location and Address: Dunkeld PH8 0JR
• Best method of transport: The Hermitage is located just outside the town of Dunkeld, and is accessible by car or bus.
• Opening Times: Open 24 Hours.
• Best time of day to visit:  Mid-morning to avoid the crowds.
• Fun Fact: The Hermitage was a popular spot for Victorian tourists, and was visited by Queen Victoria herself in 1844.

 

5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

This popular museum is located in Glasgow and features a wide range of exhibits, including art, natural history, and world cultures. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays, hands-on activities, and even a live organ concert in the museum’s stunning central hall.

• Location and Address: Argyle St, Glasgow G3 8AG, United Kingdom
• Best method of transport: Walking or public transport, as parking is limited
• Opening Times: Daily from 10am to 5pm
• Best time of day to visit: Mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: The museum’s iconic red sandstone building was designed by the architect Sir John W. Simpson and opened in 1901.

 

 

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Wales

 

(Snowdonia National Park)

 

1. Cardiff Bay, Cardiff

• Cardiff Bay is a vibrant waterfront area with plenty of family-friendly attractions to explore. Families can take a boat ride, visit the Doctor Who Experience, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many green spaces. The bay is also home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops.

• Location and Address: Cardiff Bay, Cardiff CF10 5AL
• Best method of transport: Public transport or car
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: The Cardiff Bay area was once one of the busiest ports in the world and played an important role in the development of the coal industry in South Wales.

 

 2. Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Snowdonia National Park is a beautiful and rugged landscape that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Families can go hiking, cycling, or even take a scenic train ride up to the summit of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. The park is also home to numerous waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, and is a great place to spot wildlife.

• Location and Address: Snowdonia National Park, Wales
• Best method of transport: Car or public transport
• Opening Times: Open 24 hours
• Best time of day to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
• Fun Fact: The Welsh name for Mount Snowdon is Yr Wyddfa, which means “the tumulus” or “the barrow.”

 

3. Rhossili Bay

Rhossili Bay is a stunning three-mile-long beach with breathtaking views of the coast. It’s also home to Worms Head, a rocky outcrop that can be explored at low tide. The beach is perfect for a family day out, with plenty of space for picnics and games.

• Location and Address:  Rhossili, Swansea SA3 1PP
• Best method of transport:  Rhossili Bay is located on the Gower Peninsula, and can be reached by car or bus from Swansea.
• Opening Times: Open 24 Hours.
• Best time of day to visit:  Mid-morning to avoid the crowds.
• Fun Fact:  Rhossili Bay was voted the best beach in the UK and the third best beach in Europe by TripAdvisor in 2018.

 

4. The Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons National Park is a vast area of natural beauty in South Wales. It features rolling hills, rugged mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and ancient forests. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and wildlife watching.

• Location and Address: Various locations throughout the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales
• Best method of transport: By car, take the A470 or A465 to the park, or use the park and ride service from Abergavenny, Merthyr Tydfil, or Brecon. By public transport, take the train to Abergavenny or Merthyr Tydfil, then take a bus or taxi to the park.
• Opening Times: The park is open year-round, but facilities and attractions may have different opening times.
• Best time of day to visit: During the day when there is plenty of light to enjoy the stunning views
• Fun Fact: The Brecon Beacons National Park was designated a Dark Sky Reserve in 2013, making it one of the best places in the UK to stargaze.

 

5. St Fagans National Museum of History

St Fagans National Museum of History is an open-air museum located in the grounds of St Fagans Castle, just outside of Cardiff. The museum showcases Welsh history and culture through various exhibits and buildings, including a traditional Welsh village and a medieval church.

• Location and Address:  St Fagans, Cardiff CF5 6XB
• Best method of transport:  The museum is easily accessible by car or bus. The nearest train station is in Cardiff city centre.
• Opening Times: 10am-5pm daily.
• Best time of day to visit:  Mid-morning to avoid the crowds.
• Fun Fact:  The museum’s historic buildings were moved to the site from various locations throughout Wales to create an immersive experience of Welsh life through the centuries.

 

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Northern Ireland

 

(Giant’s Causeway)

 

1. Giant’s Causeway

 The Giant’s Causeway is a natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site is made up of over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that were formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Families can explore the columns, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and sea, and learn about the legends that surround this unique geological formation.

• Location and Address: 44 Causeway Rd, Bushmills BT57 8SU, United Kingdom
• Best Method of Transport: The Giant’s Causeway is accessible by car and bus.
• Opening Times: The Giant’s Causeway is open from 9 am to 7 pm daily.
• Best Time of Day to Visit: The Giant’s Causeway is busiest during the middle of the day, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening.
• Fun Fact: According to legend, the columns were created by the giant Finn MacCool.

2. Ulster Museum

The Ulster Museum is a fascinating museum that covers a wide range of topics from art and history to science and nature. It’s a great place to learn and explore with the family.

• Location and Address: Botanic Gardens, Belfast BT9 5AB, United Kingdom
• Best Method of Transport: The Ulster Museum is easily accessible by bus or car.
• Opening Times: The Ulster Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday.
• Best Time of Day to Visit: The Ulster Museum is usually less crowded during the week, so it’s best to visit then.
• Fun Fact: The museum’s collection includes a 2,500-year-old Egyptian mummy.

 

3. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall is an impressive building that serves as the city’s civic center. It’s a great place to learn about the city’s history and architecture.

• Location and Address: Donegall Square N, Belfast BT1 5GS, United Kingdom
• Best Method of Transport: Belfast City Hall is easily accessible by bus, car, or train.
• Opening Times: Belfast City Hall is open to visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday.
• 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.
• Fun Fact: The building’s clock tower is over 300 feet tall.

 

4. Castlewellan Forest Park

Castlewellan Forest Park is a beautiful park that covers over 450 acres of land. It has walking trails, lakes, and gardens, making it a great place for a family day out.

• Location and Address: Forest Park Road, Castlewellan, Newry BT31 9BU, United Kingdom
• Best Method of Transport: Castlewellan Forest Park is easily accessible by car or bus.
• Opening Times: Castlewellan Forest Park is open from 9 am to 5 pm, daily.
• Best Time of Day to Visit: The park is open all day, but the best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon when it’s less crowded.
• Fun Fact: The park has a Peace Maze that is made up of over 6,000 yew trees.

 

5. Navan Centre & Fort

The Navan Centre & Fort is an archaeological site that explores the history of the ancient kings of Ulster. It’s a great place for families to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.

• Location and Address: 81 Killylea Rd, Armagh BT60 4LD, United Kingdom
• Best Method of Transport: Navan Centre & Fort is easily accessible by car.
• Opening Times: The Navan Centre & Fort is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Monday to Saturday.
• Best Time of Day to Visit: The center is usually less crowded during the week, so it’s best to visit then.
• Fun Fact: The fort is believed to have been built in the first century BC.

 

Conclusion