The Easter half-term break is here and families across the country will be jumping at the opportunity to use the time to create long-lasting memories with their little ones.
But with the cost of living rising so drastically, and many families putting more money towards bills than ever before, you may be looking for cheap ideas to keep the little one's entertained.
We've compiled a list of cost-effective ways to do just tat this half-term, from free meals out, to discounted cinema tickets and two-for-one-entry deals at popular attractions across the UK. Scroll down for some of the deals and offers available to you, with the help from financial experts at Ocean Finance.
Treat your child to a free meal
The following restaurants are running various offers allowing children to eat for free with an adult who pays full price for their meal.
Additionally, Tastecard holders will be able to get two-for-one meals across thousands of restaurants nationwide, such as Bella Italia and Pizza Hut. Tastecard data reveals that the average family spends £56.31 to enjoy a meal out. Saving 50% will free up £28 on average to spend on other fun activities, and with the option to do a 60 day free trial, saving couldn't be easier.
See a movie for as cheap as £2.49
If the weather isn't playing ball and outside activities are crossed off the itinerary for the day, then the following cinemas are all running fantastically cheap deals on cinema tickets.
Get 2 for 1 entry
The National Rail runs a two for one promotion all year round offering two for one entry tickets to one of a huge number of the UK's biggest attractions when you buy a train ticket. Some of the attractions on offer are; Thorpe Park, Cadbury World, Legoland, Sea Life, and Chessington World of Adventure.
Additionally, Tastecard is also dishing out offers that will save families up to 50% off at the UK’s biggest attractions like Alton Towers and Legoland.
See what free family-friendly events are on at your local library
Getting lost in a good book is the perfect activity to support your child's development whilst keeping them entertained and their imaginations running wild. Libraries often host family-friendly events over the school holidays, so it definitely worth checking your local libraries website or social media pages for updates and information.
However, even if luck doesn't strike by way of events, a trip to the library and a scour through the children's book section can be just as stimulating an activity for a little tot.
Pack a budget-friendly picnic and explore a new green space
Research has shown that getting outside and enjoying green spaces can do wonders for a little ones cognitive development, as well as helping to develop their social skills and promote good mental wellbeing. Packing up a picnic full of their favourite snacks and embarking on an adventure through nature, either on foot or by cycling, is a great cost-effective solution to keeping your children stimulated during the half-term break.
Depending on the ability or age of your family, Wales is full of options for both short walks and more hardy treks, as well as coastal or woodland adventure spots. Before embarking on your half-term expedition into mother nature, its always worth checking the weather before hand so you can make sure your have the appropriate kit for your chosen activity.
Explore your local museums for free
Many UK museums host free events for children over the half-term break, if you're staying in Wales for the holidays then the National Museum Cardiff would be the perfect spot for you. However, if you are taking a trip to other places in the UK, then the following museums should also be on your list:
- London – The Science Museum or the Natural History Museum
- Manchester – The Museum of Science & Industry or The National Football Museum
- Edinburgh – National Museum of Scotland
- Liverpool – World Museum or the Maritime Museum
- Birmingham – Museum and Art Gallery
- Newcastle – Discovery Museum or the Great North Hancock Museum
Join the National Trust for £6.95 a month
National Trust locations all over the country are popular for family days out, and many even run family friendly events designed to provide yourselves and your kids with the opportunity to experience nature and learn about the UK's rich history.
A family membership admitting two adults and up to ten children costs £133.80 a year, which works out at £11.15 a month. However a family membership admitting just one adult and several children costs just £83.40 a year, or £6.95 a month. It is also possible to pay entry as a one off on the day, but prices will vary so check the website for more information before going.
