Affordable things to do with kids in the 6-week holidays

By:
Jennifer Kodaleva

Avant Homes: Group Marketing Assistant

Updated:
08 August 2025

School is over and the 6-week summer holidays are here! While the break is a great time for families to unwind and make memories, it can also feel like a financial struggle – especially when littles ones want to be entertained around the clock.

But fun doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With some creativity and planning, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to keep the kids happy, without draining your bank account. 

Here are our top affordable things to do with the kids this Summer:

Home cinema days

Create your own cinema at home! Close the curtains, make some popcorn, grab some snacks, and let the kids pick their favourite movie. Now kick back, relax, and enjoy the peace and quiet for a few hours! 

Family, mom dad and daughter holding a popcorn pot and laughing while watching a TV
Kids play in aqua park. Children at water playground of tropical amusement park. Little girl at swimming pool. Child playi...

Splash about at local waterparks or fountains

Many towns and cities have free splash pads, fountains, and water parks designed for kids to play in. So pack a picnic, bring towels, and let them cool off in the sunshine. 

Library events and reading challenges

Local libraries host free summer reading challenges, story times, and craft sessions every year. It’s a great way to keep kids learning over the holidays and it’s all free too!

school children in the library reading books, doing homework, prepare a school project for lessons. High quality photo
Little boy and girl play with balls, learning physical phenomena in an interesting way, having fun in a science museum wit...

Explore local museums or heritage sites

There are many museums that have free entry, and some even have special interactive kids’ exhibits or activity days during the holidays. It’s the perfect opportunity to get the family out for the day!

Visit a pick-your-own farm

Whether it’s juicy strawberries, ripe raspberries or blueberries, or even vegetables like peas and sweetcorn, kids love the hands-on experience of gathering their own food – and you’ll love the fresh produce that you can take home after!

Two little sibling kids boys having fun on strawberry farm in summer. Children, cute twins eating healthy organic food, fr...
Group of cute kids sitting together in forest and looking at camera. Cute children playing in woods.

Treasure hunts in the park

Turn your local park into a mini adventure. Create a treasure hunt with clues or a nature scavenger list (e.g., find a pine cone, a conker, something green). Kids love missions and competitions, and you’ll be able to enjoy the fresh air – all at a minimal cost. 

Baking together

Rainy day or just need a day at home? Baking is the ideal way to keep kids entertained, teach them new skills, and enjoy some tasty treats at the end. Kids love being involved in the kitchen and they’ll definitely enjoy the results!

Two children having fun baking in the kitchen

Keeping the kids entertained over the 6 weeks doesn’t need to break the bank. Some of the most special moments come from simple pleasures, like running around outside, getting messy with crafts or baking, or kicking back at a homemade movie night. 

Whether you’re planning low-cost adventures or creative at home fun, there’s something for every family.