Summer is a great time to get out and about, spend time with family and friends, and try some new activities. Whether you’re looking for ideas to keep the children entertained, affordable days out or ways to stretch your budget a little further, there’s plenty of support available this holiday season.
We’ve rounded up some of the latest offers, local activities and money-saving opportunities to help you make the most of the summer break.
Save on family days out
This summer, the Government’s Summer Savings scheme is helping families access discounted days out across the UK.
The scheme includes savings on participating attractions, family activities, cinema and theatre tickets, as well as children’s meals at selected venues. Families can search for offers near them by entering their postcode on the Summer Savings website.
Children aged 5 to 15 can also travel free on local bus services in England throughout August, helping families access activities and attractions for less.
Find bus routes near you: Bus Times
Looking for activities this summer?
There are lots of free and low-cost activities taking place locally throughout the school holidays.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme
Bolton’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme provides free holiday clubs, activities and meals for children and young people who receive benefits-related free school meals. Delivered by local organisations and funded by the Government, it’s designed to help children stay active, try new experiences, build confidence and enjoy healthy meals during the school holidays. Activities include sports, arts and crafts, games, cooking sessions, outdoor adventures and much more.
Play and Youth Service
There are also free sessions and family activities available through Bolton Council’s Play and Youth Service, helping even more families access fun, local opportunities throughout the summer.
Summer Reading Challenge
Families can enjoy free activities through local libraries, parks, community groups and the Summer Reading Challenge, which encourages children to keep reading over the holidays while having fun and earning rewards.
North West for Kids
For more inspiration on what’s happening across the region, visit North West for Kids, which regularly updates local family events and activity guides.
Be One Homes free summer events
We’re also running a range of free events for families and children across our communities this summer, including fun days, creative activities and opportunities to get together with your neighbours. Take a look at our summer events programme to see what’s happening near you: Our free summer events for families and children (2026)
We’ll also be sharing news, activities and opportunities throughout the holidays on our social media channels, so keep an eye out for updates.
Save on family meals
Planning a day out? Many restaurants, cafés and supermarkets are offering Kids Eat Free or Kids Eat for £1 deals during the school holidays. Offers vary by venue and location, so it’s worth checking before you travel.
Websites such as North West for Kids and MoneySavingExpert regularly update their lists of participating venues, helping families find the latest deals.
Useful websites to take a look at for family meal savings:
Getting ready for the new school year
As summer moves towards September, many families will be thinking about back-to-school costs.
Local initiatives, including Community Locker and Uniform Fairy (Saving Threads), help families access affordable or free pre-loved school uniform items. These schemes can help reduce costs while giving good-quality clothing a second life.
If you’re planning ahead for the new school year, it’s worth checking what’s available in your local area and whether you can donate any uniform items your children have outgrown to help other families.
Need help with money matters?
If you’re worried about your finances or would like support with managing your household budget, our Money Advice Service is here to help.
Our team can provide free and confidential advice on:
- Budgeting and money management
- Benefits and maximising your income
- Debt and financial wellbeing
- Accessing grants and financial support
Head to the Money Advice section of our website for more information or contact the team on 01204 328000 or moneyadviceteam@beonehomes.com.
You can also find out what national support is available to you through the government’s Cost of Living programme.
Pop in for support and advice
If you’d prefer to speak to someone face-to-face, UCAN Centres will be open throughout the summer. Our helpful and friendly staff will be available to chat to about a range of things, including:
- Help finding a job
- Free use of the internet, computers and phone
- Training courses
- Access to social activities
- Help with housing issues and benefits
- Health and wellbeing support
- Help with money matters
No appointment is needed, making them a great option if you need advice or aren’t sure where to start. Find your nearest UCAN centre here: Get support from your nearest UCAN centre – Be One Homes
We hope these tips and resources help you and your family enjoy a fun, active and affordable summer. If you need extra support, we’re here to help, so head to our Contact us page and get in touch.