Free Things to Do This Summer (With or Without Kids)

Summer doesn’t have to mean spending. Whether the sun’s out or it’s one of those grey, drizzly days (hello, British summer), there are loads of ways to enjoy the season for free. Here’s our ultimate list of budget-friendly fun – whether you’re solo, with friends, or entertaining the kids.

☀️ For Sunny Days

1. Go for a walk in the park 🌳
Fresh air, a good catch-up, and it costs nothing. Bring an iced coffee from home and make it a walking date with a friend.

2. Host a picnic 🧺
You don’t need a fancy set-up, just a blanket, snacks from the fridge, and your favourite playlist. 

3. Do a walking tour of your city 🚶‍♀️
Play tourist in your own area. Look up free walking tours or create your own route of hidden gems.

4. Visit your local library’s outdoor events 🎨
Many libraries run free summer activities outside – from storytelling to crafts. Find your local library here. 

5. Try a wild swim (safely!) 👙
Find a safe, local wild swimming spot and cool off the free way.

🌧️ For Rainy Days

6. Visit a museum or gallery 🦴
Loads of UK museums are completely free, especially in big cities. Google “free museums near me” and make a day of it.

7. Stream a workout or yoga session 🧘‍♀️
YouTube is full of great, free fitness content, from 10-minute HIIT to full yoga flows. Light a candle and get your stretch on.

8. Have a spa day at home 🛁
Run a bath, put on a face mask (even a homemade one), do your nails, and unwind. Cost = £0. Vibes = 10/10.

9. Do a home declutter 👚
Put on a podcast and tackle that one drawer/cupboard you keep ignoring. Free, productive, and deeply satisfying.

10. Host a movie afternoon/night 🍿
Close the curtains, pop some popcorn, and dive into a film marathon. Add duvets and fairy lights for extra magic.

🧒 With the Kids

11. Free kids’ events at your local library or community centre 📖
From craft sessions to storytime, it’s worth checking what’s on near you.

12. Make a nature scavenger hunt 🌱
Create a simple list (find a feather, a leaf, a stick shaped like a Y…) and explore a local park or trail.

13. Build a fort and read books inside it 📚
Grab those sofa cushions, blankets and their favourite book. Timeless & magical 🥹🦄

14. Bake with cupboard staples 🍪
Even just making simple biscuits together can feel like an activity – and you likely already have the ingredients.

15. Do a toy or book swap with friends 🧸
Keeps things fresh without spending a penny.

✨ Bonus Tip: Spend with intention

We’re all about free fun – but if you’ve been planning ahead and have a sinking fund for summer activities, now’s your moment to spend it. 😎

Got a sinking fund for days out, ice creams, or that one big summer treat? This is exactly what it’s there for. Spend it, enjoy it, and feel good knowing it’s already paid for. Here’s how you can set up sinking funds. 

💡 Final Thought:

Summer should feel good, not full of money stress. Whether you’re looking for moments of calm, ways to connect, or fun for the kids, you don’t need to spend money to make memories. ✨

Want more wiggle room with your money? Here’s how to create a budget that works for you. 💸