Summer fun top tips

Summer isn’t all about going abroad, visiting theme parks or spending a fortune on petrol travelling for miles. Here are some of our top tips to make sure the little ones are entertained whilst keeping costs to a minimum.

1. Who doesn't love a treasure hunt?

Try a free Geocaching app to get you all up and out and exploring the great outdoors. Great for fresh air, exercise and some friendly family competition.

2. Free or discounted meals for children.

Many supermarkets will be offering these over the summer holidays. Check what’s available near you to make the most of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

3. Create a cinema at home.

Turn down the lights, dish out the snacks, invite some friends and settle down in front of a movie. Loads of films can befound for free on iPlayer or ITVx

4. Local museums and galleries offer free or discounted entry.

Over the summer there’ll be lots to do & see which can also be educational. Is there anywhere right on your doorstep you haven’t tried yet?

5. Turn your garden into a campsite.

Kids will love sleeping outside under the stars so take advantage of warm nights and gather together. You could even liven it up with ghost stories and sweet treats!

6. Watch out for the best deals.

Do regular online searches such as ‘discounted tickets for...’ or ‘free child entry for...’. You’ll be surprised what’s happening near you. Every saving counts.

7. A picnic is a British tradition.

Tea rooms or cafes are likely to be more expensive and may not even have the nicest sandwiches! So get the blanket out,grab your favourite finger food and have more fun, whilst saving money.

8. Look for free events.

Craft days, park parties, special summer fetes or food festivals offer-up loads of entertainment for the whole family with no entry fees (and potential free samples!)

9. Free holiday child places.

If you’ve decided you want to go away next year, start looking now. Free places go quickly so the sooner you book the better, plus you may be able to spread payments over 12 months.