7 summer fun ideas for the whole family

School’s out at last. Make unforgettable memories this summer as you take a break from bedtime battles, school traffic, and ironing uniforms. The pressure to deliver a fun-filled summer is on, but many of us are facing financial challenges this year. Here are 7 low-cost activities to keep your family entertained this summer. Although some ticket prices may leave you wincing, your employer may be able to offer you dozens of discounts, check and find out.  

1. Visit your local library  

Check your local libraries for free activities like group reading, singing, games, arts and crafts and more. See what's on near you with this local library finder tool. 

If your little ones are keen readers they can take part in a reading challenge over the holidays, giving them hours of free entertainment. Many libraries are now offering a reserve and collect service so it’s quick and easy to pick up new books.   

2. Discover your inner Attenborough and go on a bug hunt

There are plenty of ways to have fun in the great outdoors, from going on a bug hunt to building a mini pond. Many wildlife charities have games, activities and challenges for kids to enjoy – check out the RSPB,  Wildlife Watch  and  Woodland Trust today.  

3. Get cooking 

Getting kids into the kitchen to help prepare meals is a great way to spark their interest in a wide variety of ingredients and develop their palette. Start with the basics and teach them how to cook simple recipes, with adult supervision of course.  

Check out BBC Good Food’s 80 kids’ cooking recipes for some inspiration.  

4. Participate in a junior parkrun 

Junior parkruns are back, with events on Sunday mornings across the UK. They are 2k runs for children aged four to 14. It’s a welcoming environment with no time limit, so it’s a great way for kids to enjoy being active. Parents and guardians can accompany their children on the run if they like. And it’s all completely free. You can visit the parkrun website and check their junior event map to find the nearest parkrun in your local area. 

5. Earn a Blue Peter badge  

With eight Blue Peter badges to earn in total, including a music and sports badge, kids ages six to 15 can earn an iconic piece of TV history this summer for free. Plus, badge owners get free entry into attractions across the UK too. Visit this page for more information.  

6. Go to the cinema 

Summer blockbuster season is upon us, head to your local cinema and see the latest releases. Remember to check out your discounts tile to see if you can save on food, drinks and tickets with fantastic discounts at Showcase, Odeon, Empire, Vue, Cineworld and more. 

7. Save money on theme parks 

It’s not just the rides that can be scary – the ticket prices can leave you wincing too. Check out the discounts tile on your benefits app to see if you could save with discounted entry at family favourites like Thorpe Park, Legoland, Alton Towers, and Chessington World of Adventures. 

Top money-saving tip: plan your visit during off-peak times and book online in advance. 

Despite this summer's heat, we hope you'll use these ideas to have some fun without burning a hole in your pocket.