Free or low-cost family things to do this Bank Holiday weekend

The sun’s shining and it’s a three-day weekend, time to grab the kids and head outdoors for some much-needed fun and fresh air.

And the best part, it doesn’t have to cost much, if anything at all.

We’ve pulled together a list of free or low-cost things to do this May Bank Holiday weekend.

Check out your local council’s free events

From a folk festival in Filey to the Canalway Cavalcade festival in Little Venice, there are fantastic free events happening all over the UK.

Visit your local council’s website to see what’s happening near you.

Go for a family walk

Make the most of the sunshine with a family stroll. Whether it’s through your local park or along a countryside trail, fresh air and vitamin D are totally free.

Just remember to apply the suncream before you go!

Explore a Bluebell wood

Bluebell season is in full swing. Take the kids to your nearest woodland and enjoy one of nature’s most stunning displays - great for a peaceful walk and even better for a photo op.

Have a picnic in the park

Pack up some sandwiches, snacks and drinks, grab a blanket and a deck of cards and head to your local park.

Get the kids to help prepare the food, it’s a fun and cheap way to spend the day.

Take a dip in an outdoor pool

Ready for a refreshing swim? With the sun out, now’s a perfect time to try outdoor swimming.

Swim England has a database of outdoor swimming pools.

Go camping

Why not turn the weekend into a mini-adventure? Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows and sleep under the stars.

Use a site like Campsites.co.uk to find your closest campsite. But book before you go, as they fill up fast at this time of year.

Go for a bike ride

Now’s the time to dust those bikes and enjoy a bike ride with the family. Plan a route, take some refreshments and make a day of it.

If you don’t own a bike, find your nearest bike hiring service. The Peak District, for example, is home to several bike hire centres. Ring your nearest one up and get those bikes on order.

Join a parkrun

What could be a better way to kick the Bank Holiday weekend with a family parkrun. These 5km runs are free, super-friendly and are open to all ages and abilities. You can literally run, jog or walk.

They’re scattered all over the UK, in some of the most beautiful parks and settings.

Don’t forget to register, so you can get your official time. Find your nearest one on the parkrun website.

Go crabbing at the coast

Heading to the seaside? Grab a simple crabbing line, some bait and a bucket, and let the kids try their hand at catching crabs.

Just make sure to gently return them to the sea afterwards!

Host a film night

Instead of heading out, put on a movie night. Choose a family favourite, get some popcorn in and snuggle up - simple, fun and budget-friendly.

Suggest a bring-and-share meal

Or, why not host a bring-and-share meal? Invite friends over, ask them to bring a dish or drink. Prepare the table and there you have it, the perfect Bank Holiday low-cost meal.

Enjoy cheaper days out with a Kids Pass

A Kids Pass gives you discounts and deals on things like the cinema, theme parks, family meals out, days out and even holidays.

For example, save up to 27% at Chester Zoo or up for 40% at Odeon.

You can try for just £1 for 30 days and then £3.99 a month. You can cancel anytime.