15 totally free or cheap places to go with your children in Milton Keynes this summer
As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, many families are worried how they will stave off the inevitable cries of “I’m bored” from their children during the six week summer holidays.
By Sally Murrer
Published 13th Jul 2022, 14:42 BST
The Citizen has compiled a list of places and activities in MK that provide tried and tested fun but do not cost a fortune.
Some are even completely free and all that is needed is a picnic to make it a day out.
Meanwhile, any child who qualifies for benefit-related free school meals in the city can take part in a wealth of free Summer of Play activities organised by Milton Keynes Council during August.
There are dozens of activities on offer, including music, games, pottery, crafts, swimming, bowling, cooking and crazy golf and meals are provided.
The sessions are held in 50 different locations throughout MK and they are tailored to suit all ages, from toddlers to teens. The brochure can be downloaded here.
The Parks Trust website is also a valuable source of ideas for parents, who can flick through their What’s On page to discover free or cheap things to do.
Some of the Trust’s most popular activities are included in our gallery. Don’t forget to book them to ensure a place.
Meanwhile, any child who qualifies for benefit-related free school meals in the city can take part in a wealth of free Summer of Play activities organised by Milton Keynes Council during August.
13. MPMKnews-13-06-22-MK-Museum-Centupload
Milton Keynes Museum. Entry is not particularly cheap, with adult tickets costing £12 and children aged five to 16 tickets at £8. Under 5s go free. A family ticket is £36. But it is a fantastic day out with loads to see and lots of interactive fun for the children. You can easily spend a whole day there. Thus we can recommend it as great value for money. Tickets can be booked on the MK Museum website. Photo: MK Museum
14. 15 free or cheap places to go with the children this summer in MK
Summer Stories in the Park. Another Parks Trust initiative, these storytelling events run on set days during the summer with resident expert storyteller Terrie Howie They are outdoor afternoon events ideal for families with children aged five to 12 years old. The cost is just £2 per person. Find out the dates on The Parks Trust website. Photo: The Parks Trust
15. 15 free or cheap places to go with the children this summer in MK
Dobbies Garden Centre, Bletchley. https://www.dobbies.com/milton-keynes Before the children protest that garden centres are boring, tell them about the Dobbies fish! Not only are there thousands of differnet fish to view in their tanks, but you can buy a pot of food for £1 and let the kids feed the giant carp. It’s one of the cheapest and most entertaining ways to keep a young child entertained. My grandson and I once spent two whole hours there, completely entertained! Photo: Other third party