Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Ireland & England That Won’t Break the Bank

Travelling as a family can be unforgettable — but it doesn't have to be expensive. From free museums to scenic parks and smart seasonal events, the UK and Ireland are packed with budget-friendly experiences that delight kids and adults alike. Below are ideas for days out that make great add-ons to your holiday itinerary, especially when paired with packaged deals in your holiday planning article.

🌳 Free & Low-Cost Parks, Forests & Outdoor Spaces

Ireland's Natural Wonders

• Phoenix Park, Dublin – One of Europe's largest city parks, complete with deer herds, playgrounds and picnic spots — perfect for an easy, free day out.

• Lough Boora Discovery Park, Offaly – 2,000 hectares of rehabilitated boglands with walking trails and picnic areas — wonderful for kids to run free.

• Pollardstown Fen, Co. Kildare – A peaceful nature reserve with boardwalks and birdlife — great for an educational and free outdoor adventure.

• Glencar Waterfall, Co. Leitrim – A stunning waterfall in lush surroundings, perfect for photos and nature walks. 

England's Great Green Spaces

• Sherwood Pines Forest Park – Named among England's best free outdoor attractions, it offers forest trails, play areas and picnic spots that suit all ages.

• Wicksteed Park, Kettering – Free entry parkland with ride options at low cost; it's like a mini theme park without the hefty admission.

🖼️ Free & Low-Cost Museums & Cultural Spots

Ireland

Ireland's cities and towns are home to many museums with free entry — perfect for rainy days or educational stops:

• Ulster Museum, Belfast — Vast history, art and natural science collections, with free access.

• National Craft Gallery, Kilkenny — Contemporary craft exhibitions; great for creative inspiration.

• Natural History Museum ("Dead Zoo"), Dublin — A fascinating family-friendly museum with extensive animal exhibits.

• Chester Beatty Library, Dublin Castle — World cultures and art in a beautiful setting — also free.

England

Many cities offer excellent low-cost museums:

• Major museums like the British Museum or Science Museum in London have free entry (donations welcome).

• Regional museums such as the National Railway Museum in York also offer free admission and engaging exhibits.

👉 These museums pair perfectly with packaged holiday deals to London or major cities — adding culture without adding to the budget.

Tip: Check out The London Pass from AttractionTix, which provides London Attraction passes for 1-10 days

🏖️ Beaches & Seaside Fun

The UK & Ireland boast stunning coastlines where kids can explore for free:

• Howth Cliff Walk, Co. Dublin – A scenic seaside stroll with views, picnic spots, and seals in the harbour.

• Various Irish and English beaches – Consider family-friendly spots like Bournemouth, Cornwall beaches, or Donegal coastlines for endless free fun and swimming. These are often within reach of budget beach breaks.

🎉 Seasonal Events & Experiences for Kids

Heritage Open Days (England)

Each September, Heritage Open Days opens thousands of historic sites — including castles, gardens and hidden gems — for free across England. Families can experience history with no entry fee.

Local Council & Summer Events

Many local councils and arts groups offer free outdoor theatre, workshops and kids' weeks during summer and school breaks — perfect for families on holiday

🎫 Discount Passes That Stretch Your Budget

National Trust & Merlin Pass (UK)

• National Trust runs experiences across England, Wales and Northern Ireland — from gardens to woodlands to historic homes — and occasionally offers free or discounted passes, meaning families can visit many attractions under one membership.

• The Merlin Annual Pass gives access to multiple major attractions (e.g., SEA LIFE centres, LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre, and more) — an excellent deal if you're booking a multi-day UK stay. Family discounts and promotional packs often offer significant savings.

🎒 Final Tips for Budget Family Fun

• Pack picnics to save on meals at the park or beach.

• Check seasonal events calendars before travel to snag cheap or free experiences.

• Book passes in advance to maximise savings when planning your trip.

Tip: Check out lastminute.com for Ireland and England attraction tickets and passes

Related Pages: Travel