Blooming amazing! Free or affordable family fun this bank holiday weekend

The late May bank holiday weekend is almost here and while the sunshine might not be guaranteed, good times are there for the taking. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy them.

From kite flying and floral festivals to photography exhibitions and fashion markets, there's something for everyone. We've rounded up some of the best free (or low-cost) things to do across the UK this bank holiday weekend. 

Manchester Flower Festival 2025

A festival of flowers is set transform Manchester city centre this bank holiday weekend.

There will be a floral walking trail and a number colourful flower displays alongside live music, entertainment, food and drink, flower and craft stalls, talks, demonstrations and workshops.

This 'blooming amazing' weekend is free and open to everyone.

Kite flying at Foremark

Feel the wind in your hair and your kite in the clouds. Head to the scenic Foremark Reservoir in Derbyshire, either with your own kite or you can borrow one (subject to availability) from the National Trust. This exhilarating activity is a great way to get kids (and adults) outside and smiling.

Come As Your Wear at The Refuge, Manchester

On Saturday 24 May, The Refuge in Manchester will host a day of vintage shopping, creativity and music.

Whether you're a style icon or just fancy a dance, this vibrant market-meets-party is a great way to express yourself without spending much.

Secrets of Dragons and Fairies at Winkworth Arboretum, Surrey

Follow a magical trail and play eight imaginative games across this gorgeous arboretum. From bean bag tosses to dressing up in castle gear, this event promises plenty of family fun.

Entry is free with general admission.

Architects of Air LUMINARIUM: MYRIAD World Premiere, Nottingham

If you’re in Nottingham from Saturday 24 May until Sunday 1 June then step into a kaleidoscopic world of light and colour in Nottingham’s Lakeside Arts. This immersive walk-through structure offers a sensory experience like no other.

Tickets are £6.50, good value for an unforgettable day out.

Belgravia in Bloom, London

Get your flower fix at the free Belgravia in Bloom festival, running from 19 – 26 May. This year’s theme ‘seasons’, brings imaginative displays symbolising spring, summer, autumn and winter.

A perfect excuse for a stroll through one of London’s prettiest areas.

International Garden Photographer of the Year 2025, Birmingham

One for the creatives, or those who just love a beautiful photo. Explore a stunning exhibition of garden and botanical photography at Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

The International Garden Photographer of the Year is one of the world’s most respected photography exhibitions and this is the third time the event is returning to Birmingham Botanical Gardens.

The exhibition is open from 14 May – 30 June, 2025. Tickets are free with Gardens entry or membership.

More free and frugal fun Ideas

• Check your local council’s website – from folk festivals to family fun days, there are loads of community events happening for free.
• Enjoy the outdoors – pack a picnic, explore a nature reserve or head out on a bike ride.
• parkrun – join a free, timed 5k run on Saturday morning — many are buggy and dog-friendly.
• Outdoor pools – if the weather allows, find a local outdoor pool.
• DIY scavenger hunts – make your own nature hunt for the kids at your local park or woodland.

Deals on kids' meals

Feeding a family can be pricey but these chains are helping out:

• Asda Cafés: kids' meals for 60p throughout May.
• Morrisons: get one free kid's meal with any adult meal over £5, including the breakfasts, the classics or the chippy.
• Dobbies Garden Centres – kids eat for £1 (including a drink) with the purchase of an adult main course.
• IKEA – kids’ meals starting from 95p, available daily from 11am. You can also enjoy a host of free workshops and activities for the kiddies over half-term.
• Pausa Cafés at Dunelm – kids eat free with every £4 spent in the café.
• Purezza – kids under 10 get a free mini pizza with every adult meal.
• Hungry Horse – every Monday, the Hungry Horse have selected kids’ meals for just £1 and larger meals for only £1.50 with every full paying adult. 

So, grab your coat, your kite or your picnic blanket and enjoy the best of what this long weekend has to offer.