Don’t let the bleak economy stop you from having an activity-packed, fun-filled summer with your family. There are plenty of things you can do with the kids this summer without parting with your hard earned cash. Free and discounted activities are all around you; you just have to know where to find them. Use this guide to make this summer both fun and cost effective for your entire family:
Plan a Cheaper Holiday
Despite what you might think, it’s possible to get away with the family this summer without spending a lot of money. Sign up for a few weekly newsletters from your favourite travel websites to receive the latest offers and promotions for your summer holiday. Get the most of your money by booking a package that includes airfare and hotel room, or opting for a local destination rather than an international one. Achica, a members-only luxury lifestyle site, has some unbeatable daily promotions to help your family travel in style.
Head to a Local Festival
Festivals provide a good value for your money as they charge no or low entrance fees and generally include a range of family programming. If you’re in Glasgow, you can take the kids to the Merchant City Festival in July for magic shows, medieval fair, animal displays, and interactive storytelling workshops. If you’re in Edinburgh, head to the Fringe Festival for circus, bubble, dance, and other wacky kid-friendly shows. Another great option in Edinburgh is the International Book Festival in August, where books and graphic novels come alive for children of all ages.
Spend a Day at a Park
The sunnier skies and warmer temperatures of summertime make it the ideal season to spend a day enjoying Scotland’s abundant country estates, parklands, and green spaces. Falkirk’s Callendar Park is a particular favourite because it’s a wonderland for children, offering everything from a bouncy castle and crazy golf to go-karts and peddle boats. With its picturesque loch, forest and coastal trails, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is another great option for families who love the outdoors. Round out your park tour with a visit to Cairngorms National Park to pay a visit to the region’s historic sites and enchanting castles.
Turn the Garden into a Summer Playground
If you prefer to stay home this summer, turn the garden into an outdoor adventure land for your children. Younger kids may enjoy outdoor games or a wading pool to cool off during those warm summer afternoons, while older children might benefit from extra space to practice their favourite sports. Another idea is to raise a tent so the kids can have an overnight camping adventure with their friends. Last, fire up the grill for some summertime barbeques the whole family will enjoy. You can save money on outdoor games, appliances, and accessories by checking out the daily promotions on Achica Living.
Check Your Local Listings
Keep yourself apprised of fun family activities by checking weekly listings in locally-based newspapers, magazines, and websites. One great resource is Dayoutwiththekids.co.uk, which is searchable according to region, type of activity, and the age range of your children. Kidsediburgh.com and Kidsglasgow.com provide regular updates about what’s on for children in Edinburgh and Glasgow—everything from festivals and theatre to sport and soft play. With a little research, you’ll find a plethora of cost effective family activities in your area to make this summer truly memorable.
Sponsored post
Indeed! I browsed over a few brochures and before adding all the extras it was looking over £3,000!!! Simply can’t afford that, so I’ve already told the boys we are going to have a number of sports days regardless of weather, in the garden! I think a tent or two may come into play too! And of course many picnics, whatever happened to the traditional family Sunday picnic? xx