TODAY marks the start of Heritage Open Days – ten days of exciting events and experiences around England that won’t cost you a penny.
It means you can visit some of the nation’s top attractions for free, perfect if you want to take advantage of the warm weather we’re expecting this weekend.
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This year it’s Heritage Open Days’ 25th anniversary, and the annual celebration has over 5,700 events planned.
Many of the events are supported by the National Trust and the People’s Postcode Lottery to keep them free.
From outdoor activities to historical tales, there is something for every child.
We’ve rounded up some of the best ones – for the full list, head to Heritage Open Days.
Butterfly House and Mini Zoo tours, Lancaster
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The Butterfly House and Mini Zoo in Lancaster is offering free tours on September 22.
The twice daily tours, at 11:30am and 1pm, are conducted by the zoo keepers to talk about some of the rare species of animals.
From bugs and butterflies to ferrets and rabbits, kids will have a ball learning about the different creatures.
Usual price: adults, £4, children, £3.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Birmingham
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On September 15, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens will be free to enter.
It’s not just beautiful gardens and plants inside – there will also be live music from a Victorian bandstand between 2pm and 4pm.
Families can take a picnic with them or they can buy food and drink at the Pavilion tea room.
Usual price: family ticket, £22.
Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford-upon-Avon
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Shakespeare fans should head to the Royal Shakespeare Company between September 13 and 22.
Visitors will be taken through 100 years of theatre, as well interactive activities such as virtual costume dressing and the gory secrets of theatre.
You can even try out being Hamlet yourself using gaming technology.
Usual price: adults, £8.50, kids, £4,25.
Murder at Ripon Workhouse, North Yorkshire
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Families wanting a challenge can try and solve a grisly murder at the Ripon Workhouse in North Yorkshire.
On September 21, kids can be a Victorian detective, using forensics techniques and questioning suspects and victims to unlock the mystery.
The case is then taken to the Courthouse to decide whether the person is guilty or not guilty.
Usual price: family ticket, £31.
Glendurgan Garden, Cornwall
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The Glendurgan Garden is free on September 19 and 20 thanks to Heritage Open Days.
Within the three valleys, exotic plants and flowers can be explored, along with the Helford River to build sandcastles and relax.
Families can race to see who gets to the centre of the Glendurgan maze first.
Usual price: family ticket, £28.
Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester
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Families can learn about the history of Manchester’s public transport, dating back to 1824, at the Museum of Transport.
On September 14 and 15, as well as September 21 and 22, you can explore some of the ancient vehicles and see how they developed from horse and carriage to trams and buses through the years.
There is also a free heritage bus service connecting the museum to the People’s History Museum, Science and Industry Museum and Manchester Jewish Museum.
Usual price: adults, £5.
Box Hill Bugs & Beetles, Surrey
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On September 21, kids can take part in a free session to learn about nature at Box Hill.
Kids up to seven years old can take part, where they can learn and sing about nature with a different theme every week.
You’re advised to bring waterproofs and wellies as the day is best spent getting muddy.
Usual price: £30.
There are other ways to keep kids entertained without spending too much money.
Free tennis lessons as well as free swimming lessons can be found across the UK.
Want to go further afield? We’ve rounded up the best holiday deals abroad under £100pp.
