The summer holidays are upon us, which means parents up and down the land are wondering what on earth to do with the kids for six long weeks.
But don’t worry, we have a few fabulous ideas to not only fill the days until school starts again, but to make this a memorable summer for the whole family.
So spring into summer with our guide to some great things to do during the summer holidays.
Entertainment all around
You don’t have to travel far and wide to find some great family entertainment this summer. Instead, make the most of the parks, galleries and museums in your own city or region. Many museums are free and lots will have special summer events and exhibitions on for children. Check local listings for details.
Parks can be great fun in summer, too. If you’re lucky enough to be close to one of the UK’s best urban parks, make the most of it. But wherever you live, your local park may well be planning a full calendar of summer events, including carnivals, summer fairs and kids’ entertainment.
The Inflata Nation experience for less
A day out at one of our Inflata Nation inflatable theme parks is something the whole family can enjoy this summer. Inflata Nation parks are vast indoor arenas filled with a huge range of inflatable activities, from climbing walls and assault courses to gladiator duelling and bouncy basketball. And though the sun might be shining now, it’s nice to know that a visit to Inflata Nation can’t fall victim to the unpredictable British weather.
The good news is that you can enjoy Inflata Nation for less this summer with an Inflata Nation Summer Pass. This special holiday deal gives you six or 12 bouncing sessions for a saving of up to 24% on full price. There are options for over fours and under fours, so the whole family can enjoy a summer of serious fun.
Take in a show
Sitting in a cinema or theatre sounds great - for a grey winter day. In summer, you want to enjoy your culture al fresco.
Happily, there are lots of open air cinema screenings and plays going on around the country during the summer months, with venues as varied and unusual as castles, stately homes, rooftop gardens and even graveyards. Check out the listings in your local area, or have a read of this rundown of the best open air shows around the country.
Pack a picnic
One of the easiest and also most fun things you can do this summer is pack a picnic and head out into the countryside near to where you live. Woods are great (for the shade) and a river that’s safe for paddling is perfect. But really, any attractive bit of land will do.
Make it extra special by letting the kids pick some of the food - and even help make it. Then make sure to pack plenty to do - footballs, frisbees and a few favourite outdoor toys - along with sunscreen and hats. If the kids are old enough, let them go off exploring after lunch while you settle down with a good book. If they’re not, there’s nothing to beat a giant family game of hide and seek. Whatever you decide to do, packing a picnic turns an ordinary walk into a holiday treat.