Are the summer holidays dragging on a bit too long? Are the kids complaining of boredom during half term? Run out of ideas to entertain on the weekend?
Well, look no further. We have put together a bundle of ideas bound to keep your cubs amused, including activities that don’t cost a penny, all within the local area.
1. Rock climbing at White Spider, Chessington
This quirky indoor activity will surely keep aspiring aplinists entertained. White Spider offers a range of activities, taster sessions and even birthday parties for kids ages 5 and up.
The price ranges from £20 to £25 for the little ones to delve into something unusual from their regular pastimes.
Based in Chessington, the centre has a dedicated kid’s area with climbing walls for different skill levels. This makes it safe to learn and climb in a secure environment.
2. Jurassic Encounter Golf at New Malden
Are your junior dino enthusiasts ready to swing into a prehistoric adventure?
Jurassic Encounter in New Malden hosts a captivating dinosaur-themed mini golf course where little ones can play their way through the land of roaring T-Rexes.
The lifelike scenery demonstrates that this isn’t just a game of golf but a journey back in time! Best of all, we all love cost-effective fun. At New Malden, kids can golf for just £9, and family tickets are available, too.
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3. Hampton Court Palace Maze
This one will ensure that the kids get their thinking caps on. Why not enjoy a day at the palace and tackle the maze in the palace gardens?
One of the oldest standing hedge mazes in the world, it offers an educational twist that adds to the excitement for youngsters.
Children under 5 go free, with children aged 5-15 costing £15 in peak times.
Tickets can be purchased here, also giving you access to the rest of the palace for the day: https://www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/visit/tickets-and-prices/.
4. Frensham Great Pond
Frensham Great Pond, near Farnham, is a cheap and fantastic spot for the kids to splash around. The large beach is ideal for family fun, such as building sandcastles, paddling, and enjoying the summer sun.
The shallow water also makes it safe for children and toddlers to play under supervision, making it a popular choice. Nature trails around the water also mean the kids can explore the local wildlife.
5. Parkrun
Free and inclusive to all ages, Parkrun can be a perfect activity for families with infants. Parkrun is a weekly 5k run or walks held in various parks across the country every Saturday at 9 am.
The scenic views and supportive community make the opportunity pleasant and accessible.
Simply sign up to get started on the Parkrun website, get your running trainers on and find the closest run near you.
6. Airhop, Guildford
This is the ultimate playground for little high-flyers who want to bounce, flip and soar to their heart’s content.
Guildford’s Airhop provides never-ending fun with trampolines, foam pits and dodgeball courts - one way to burn off some serious energy!
Kids can indulge at £15.50 per hour, or the toddler takeover costs £11 for adult and infant. Brace your mini-adventurers for a gravity-defying experience!
7. Treasure Hunts in Surrey
Have your tiny thrill-seekers got a taste for solving mysteries?
Treasure Hunts in Surrey offers an action-packed way to explore the county at the rational price of just £9.99 per trail package - all you need to do is print, and the fun is yours.
The interactive adventures combine clues, puzzles and local history to educate and inform at Box Hill or Guildford Town locations. This concept is memorable and affordable for toddlers, youngsters and even parents!
Ritchie Studio
8. Catch a show at the Rose Theatre
The magic of live performance can be introduced to children through venues such as the Rose Theatre in Kingston.
There is a strong variety of child-friendly shows, such as, ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’, or ‘The Baddies’, captivating all ages.
The intimate setting and engagement of the actors can create a significant experience for the little ones. Ticket prices often cater to families, expanding accessibility.
9. Visit the Harry Potter filming location at Bourne Woods
Located near Farnham, a visit to Bourne Woods will spark the imagination of any young Harry Potter fans.
Kids can enter the wizarding world of their favourite films, as dramatic battle scenes for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1 were shot here. Discovering the forest and imagining themselves as part of the wizarding world will create an immersive experience, all for free.
10. Visit Guildford Spectrum
This is a top destination for families with children in Surrey. It offers activities such as swimming, ice skating, bowling, and dining options.
The swimming pool boasts an array of waterslides for all ages, which is a hit with the kids and unique to other swimming centres.
Prices and booking information can be found on the Guildford Spectrum website for your day of entertainment.
11. The Sculpture Park, Churt
The Sculpture Park is a hidden gem located in Churt. It has over 800 contemporary sculptures that kids can investigate and interact with as they explore the staggering woodlands.
The evolving collection of sculptures can inspire the minds of the young, ensuring a creative expedition. The prices are also reasonable, with concessions passing for £10 and children under 3 going free.
12. A trip to the museum
Home to an intriguing local history, Surrey hosts museums such as Guildford Museum and Godalming Museum.
Godalming Museum offers interactive exhibits and innovative craft activities, while Guildford Museum displays a taste of archaeology, local history, and famous figures.
These attractions are free to visit and guarantee a cheap but academic trip for youngsters, who can take part in quizzes, hands-on activities, and a step back in time.
13. One O’Clock Club and Adventure Playground, Marble Hill Park
The One O’Clock Club in Marble Hill is a delight for children of all ages.
For the younger years, a cosy space is provided with activities such as arts and crafts, interactive play, and storytimes, all set in the beauty of Marble Hill Park.
Adjacently, the older explorers can run free in the Adventure Playground, where you can find rope bridges, climbing structures and challenging obstacles designed to test skills and entertain for hours.
This spot has something for all ages. The One O'Clock Club costs £7.50 per family, and the Adventure Playground costs £7.50 per child.
14. Hampton Pool
This open-air pool is a must-see destination for mini aquatic adventurers seeking a splashy day out!
The heated waters bestow a refreshing escape for kids of all ages to swim and play whilst enjoying the sunshine from the sunbathing area, where parents may choose to relax or supervise.
A larger open space for swimming laps or a shallow area for toddlers and babies ensures everyone is catered to.
Admission is reasonable, with juniors aged 3-11 entering for just £6.
15. Epsom Car Boot Sale
The Epsom Car Boot Sale at Epsom Downs Racecourse is a different but fascinating way to entertain kids.
Before the event, children can sort through their toys, books, and other belongings and then enjoy the excitement of setting up the stall, interacting with buyers and negotiating prices.
The joy of finding and selling treasures is bound to provide a day of thrills.
16. Goals in Tolworth
Burning off some energy can be achieved by renting a pitch for football fanatics at Goals in Tolworth. The floodlit pitches are well-maintained and perfect for a casual kickabout or kid’s party.
Flexible booking options and affordable rates mean the kids can stay active while enjoying the turf.
17. Sewing class at Sew Pretty
Budding creators aged 7-18 can go beyond the basics in sewing classes offered by Sew Pretty in Wimbledon.
The vibrant sessions encourage classes to use sewing machines and craft personalized objects.
School holiday classes, priced at £30 for a half day and £60 for a full day, allow young crafters to explore the world of fabric, patterns, and design. Creating tote bags, clothes, and a skill for life makes for a rewarding experience.
18. Epsom Escape
The Escape Room at Horton Park is a thrilling challenge for older kids wanting to test their problem-solving abilities.
In immersive activities such as ‘Curse of Old Maid Milly’ or ‘Murder Mystery Express,’ players race against time to crack codes and unlock clues. Prices for the experience range from £10-£20 per child.
19. Delta Force Paintball in Cobham
Delta Force is the ultimate battlefield for aspiring sharpshooters who love adventure and want to feel some adrenaline - safely.
Diving behind obstacles and strategizing with teammates starts at £9.99 per child in Cobham. Delta Force additionally hosts paintball parties, which can turn any birthday into one to remember.
20. Whyteleafe Laser Tag
Another on the list for older children, Whyteleafe Laser Tag, delivers exhilarating outdoor antics in their forest arena.
The thrills of team-based combat can be enjoyed by getting your hands on the laser guns for the price of £29.99 per player. This venue and its laser tag sessions are ideal for a fun-filled day with friends and birthday parties.
21. Go Ape Chessington
The Treetop Adventure at Go Ape Chessington is specifically designed for brave little climbers aged 4 and above. The encounter includes suspended crossings, zip lines, and balance beams in a safe environment with safety equipment and instructors.
Prices for the junior adventure begin at £22 per child, but this experience is priceless for youngsters wanting an introduction to the climbing world.
22. Bocketts Farm
Bocketts Farm in Fetcham is a fantastic day out for animal-loving youngsters. Here, they can participate in hands-on experiences such as feeding animals, cuddling small pets, and even meeting newborns in particular seasons.
Furthermore, there is an adventure playground and the option of tractor rides - the fun never stops! Prices begin at £15.50 for children to escape into the countryside.
23. Strawberry picking at Garsons Farm
Garsons Farm in Esher offers children a wholesome experience with its famous Pick-Your-Own (PYO) strawberry fields.
From June to September, you can take the kids to stroll through the rows of delicious strawberries and fill their baskets straight from the fields.
This teaches the little ones where their goods come from while they indulge in fresh countryside air. There is no entry fee; simply pay what you pick.
24. The Look Out Discovery Centre
The array of interactive exhibits at the Look Out Discovery Centre in Bracknell will captivate little scientists.
Ninety hands-on activities centred on science, technology, and nature provide endless opportunities for exploration, discovery, and learning through play. Admission is £12 for adults and £7.80 for children, with family discounts available.
25. Chessington World of Adventures
This fantastic family-friendly theme park hosts a mix of electrifying rides, a Sea Life aquarium, and a zoo, creating an inviting day out for the kids.
Ticket prices at Chessington World of Adventures start at around £36 when booked in advance, with discounts for groups and families.
Children will deeply enjoy this destination, as it combines the excitement of a theme park whilst providing an educational side to learn about animals and marine life.
Leave a review in the comments below if you completed any of our kid-approved adventures!
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Cristian lozano 95 days ago