When school’s out, it’s easy for family spending to spiral. Between days out, snacks, transport, and the constant need to keep little ones entertained, the summer holidays can end up costing more than you’d like. But making memories doesn’t have to mean blowing the budget. With a bit of planning and a few savvy choices, you can enjoy a summer full of adventures without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re in Devon or exploring further afield, here are some affordable ideas to keep everyone smiling.
Looking to stretch your budget even further? Don’t forget to check out Legoland deals and other family-friendly discounts – they’re a great way to save on bigger outings.
1. Explore Local Nature Trails and Woodland Walks
The great outdoors is one of the most underrated (and free!) resources for family fun. Devon boasts some brilliant walking spots – from Haldon Forest near Exeter to the woodlands of the Tamar Valley. Pack a picnic, bring a magnifying glass for bug spotting, and turn it into a nature treasure hunt.
Walking doesn’t just get kids moving, it also encourages curiosity and creativity. Plus, there’s usually an ice cream van at the car park – a win for everyone.
2. Beach Days Without the Big Spend
Living near the coast has its perks – and beach days are a classic summer go-to. Whether it’s building sandcastles at Exmouth or paddling in the shallow waters at Dawlish Warren, the seaside offers hours of entertainment at no cost.
Bring your own snacks, buckets, and spades to avoid overpriced shops on the promenade. And if the weather’s unpredictable, why not turn a breezy beach day into a kite-flying adventure?
3. Visit Museums and Heritage Sites with Free Entry
Many museums offer free or donation-based entry, especially smaller local ones. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) in Exeter is packed with family-friendly exhibitions, interactive displays, and creative workshops during the school holidays.
Check the websites of your local museums or National Trust properties – they often run children’s trails, activity days, or storytelling events that won’t break the bank.
4. Get Creative at Home with Themed Days
If you’re having a no-spend day or the weather’s turned, themed days at home can be just as fun. Set up a ‘Cinema Afternoon’ with homemade popcorn and tickets, or create a mini ‘Olympics’ in the garden with hula hoops, skipping ropes and races.
Craft stations, baking challenges, and mini science experiments can all be done with items you’ve already got in the cupboards. Pinterest is a goldmine for free printables and project inspiration.
5. Use Public Transport for Mini Adventures
Young kids often love the novelty of buses, trains, or even ferries – so why not turn the journey into the adventure itself? A return trip on the Paignton to Dartmouth steam railway, for instance, makes for a charming day out. And many local councils offer discounted travel schemes for families during the holidays.
Pack snacks, play “I Spy”, and enjoy watching the world go by. You don’t need to go far to make it fun.
6. Outdoor Theatres and Pop-Up Events
Keep an eye on local listings for pop-up outdoor cinema nights, theatre performances in the park, or community fairs. These events are often affordable and bring something a little different to the table.
From Punch & Judy shows on the seafront to storytelling tents at summer fairs, there’s a good chance you’ll find something entertaining (and cheap!) nearby.
7. Parks, Playgrounds and Picnic Spots
Never underestimate the power of a great playground. The trick is to mix it up – try exploring a different one each week, or turning it into a family challenge to rate your favourites.
Combine playtime with a picnic, bring a ball or frisbee, and you’ve got yourself a budget-friendly afternoon sorted.
8. Get Involved in Local Library Programmes
Libraries aren’t just for borrowing books – especially during the summer holidays. The Summer Reading Challenge runs nationwide, encouraging children to keep reading while offering stickers, rewards, and themed activities.
Many libraries also host free craft sessions, story times, and games. It’s a calm, educational way to spend a couple of hours – and it’s completely free.
9. Make the Most of Discount Vouchers and Memberships
Before heading out for the day, it’s always worth checking whether there are any vouchers or offers available. A lot of family attractions – from adventure farms to play parks – have discounts online if you book in advance.
Even better, money-saving memberships like tastecard often include deals on theme parks and activities, helping you access places like Legoland or SEA LIFE without paying full price.
10. Involve the Kids in the Planning
A fun way to build excitement (and avoid mid-week meltdowns) is to get the kids involved in choosing and planning activities. Sit down at the start of the week and make a “Summer Fun List” with both free and paid options, then let them help decide what’s next.
You’ll find they’re more engaged, and you’re less likely to be met with “I’m bored” halfway through the day.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to create a summer full of family memories. With a bit of flexibility, some forward planning, and a few savvy savings, you can enjoy budget-friendly adventures that your children will talk about long after September rolls around.
Remember, it’s not about how much you spend – it’s about the time you spend together.
No Comments