Mother’s Day on a budget: best freebies, fizz, fun and treats for mum

Mother’s Day is nearly here, the perfect excuse to celebrate the brilliant mum, or mother figure, in your life.

But let’s be honest, showing your appreciation can quickly get expensive, especially if you’re planning a big day out.

The good news is that plenty of restaurants, attractions and shops are offering lovely little freebies to help you spoil mum without blowing the budget.

From free cocktails and desserts to family craft workshops, here’s where you can bag a Mother’s Day freebie this year.

Get crafty at free Mother’s Day workshops at IKEA

If you’ve got little ones, or big kids who secretly love crafts, a free workshop could make a lovely surprise.

Selected IKEA stores are hosting free Mother’s Day workshops, where children can make something special for mum. Activities vary by location but include:

• plant-pot decorating
• handmade card-making
• simple crafts for younger children

Some events take place at locations like Oxford Street and Manchester stores. You’ll usually need free IKEA Family membership to book a spot.

Don’t miss National Lottery Open Week

Another great way to plan a day out is during National Lottery Open Week, running 7 - 15 March 2026.

During the event, National Lottery players can enjoy free entry or special offers at hundreds of venues funded by lottery grants.

That could mean:

• historic houses
• wildlife parks
• gardens and museums

For example, if you’re near the Eden Project in Cornwall, lottery ticket holders and a guest can visit for free during the event.

Free drinks, desserts and treats for mum

Several restaurant chains are rolling out the red carpet for mums this Mother’s Day, often with no codes or vouchers required.

Free cocktail at TGI Fridays

Mums can enjoy a complimentary Strawberry Daiquiri when a main meal is purchased at TGI Fridays. Or, if she prefers something different, you can swap it for options like a Bubblegum Daiquiri, Long Island Iced Tea, Espresso Martini or a Sweet by Choice mocktail.

Free dessert at Sizzling Pubs

Pre-book your table at Sizzling Pubs and mum can tuck into a free lemon and raspberry mousse dessert. Many venues will also be serving their traditional Sunday Best roast menu.

Bubbles at Chiquito

There are no codes or awkward secret phrases at Chiquito. Simply let staff know you’re celebrating Mother’s Day and they’ll bring out the bubbles.

Roll the dice at Bill’s

Dining mums get to roll the dice for a prize at Bill’s. With the purchase of a main meal or Mother’s Day set menu, mum could win a free 125ml glass of Lady A Rosé or a dessert.

Free margarita at Las Iguanas

March is Margarita Month at Las Iguanas, so it’s the perfect excuse for a toast. Just tell the team you’re celebrating with you mum and she’ll receive a free margarita.

Cocktail on the house at Wildwood

Mums dining at Wildwood will receive a complimentary Berry Spritz, a sparkling mix of prosecco and raspberry purée with a touch of gold flakes.

Prosecco welcome at Prezzo

Book a table at Prezzo and mum will be greeted with a free glass of Prosecco on arrival. Plus,  book before 11:30am and everyone at the table gets a glass of fizz.

There’s also a £10 voucher for Mum to use on her next visit.

Free Aperol Spritz at Bella Italia

Love Italian food? Mum can toast the occasion with a complimentary Aperol Spritz at Bella Italia.

Champagne treat at Browns

Mums dining at Browns will receive a free glass of Browns Champagne, chilled, elegant and well deserved.

Free Champagne at San Carlo

Every mum dining on Mother’s Day gets a complimentary glass of Champagne at San Carlo, whether you’re visiting for afternoon tea, lunch or a classic Sunday dinner.

Roast deal at Hungry Horse

While not completely free, this is definitely a bargain. Two courses from £12.49, including a comforting roast and pudding at Hungry Horse venues.

Mums eat free at Beefeater

If you sign up before 12 March, mums can eat free when dining with a paying adult at Beefeater. Choose from roast beef, gammon, turkey or vegetarian options.

You can also upgrade with bottomless roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings and gravy for £1.49.

Free dessert at Cinnamon Collection

For something a bit fancier, these London Indian restaurants are offering a complimentary dessert for mums and mother figures this Mothering Sunday.

Totally free ways to treat mum with no booking needed

If you want to celebrate without spending a penny, these thoughtful ideas still make the day feel special

Go on a spring walk

With the early spring flowers starting to appear, a countryside stroll or walk in the park could be the perfect way to celebrate Mother’s Day.

Pack a homemade picnic

Even simple sandwiches, tea and cake in the park feel special, especially if the sun comes out.

Host a movie afternoon

Let mum pick her favourite films, bring out blankets and snacks, and enjoy a cosy family afternoon.

Recreate an old family photo

Here’s a fun thing to do this Mother’s Day. Find a childhood photo and recreate it. It’s funny, nostalgic and often priceless.

Write mum a ‘thank you’ letter

It might sound simple, but a heartfelt note can mean more than any gift.