There is no getting away from the fact that we Brits live on a little island that is expensive. This is why our plans to have fun can sometimes be halted by having to consider the cost involved. A family day out to one of the theme parks is likely to run into hundreds by the time you have purchased tickets and paid for your travelling – not to mention food.
Don’t let crazy prices put you off because there are plenty of great places that you can visit for free! The brilliant thing about some of the free adventures you can go on is that a lot of them involve doing things that you may not have done before – the type of things that you don’t really think of – now that really is an adventure. So. Without further delay, here is a list of some of the best places to visit in Britain for free:
The Imperial War Museum
As soon as you step into the Imperial War Museum you will feel as though you’ve gone back in time. See the aircraft that won us the war, suspended from ceilings as if they’re in flight. It’s amazing to stand right next to tanks and cannons and the likes, and to get a real sense of scale. There are also films and sound recordings that date back to the first and second world wars, which give a great sense of what it was actually like to be there.
Address: Lambeth Road, Lambeth, London, SE1 6HZ
Tel: 020 7416 5320
The Tate Modern
The Tate Modern is known as Britain’s national museum of modern art, and it’s a place that’s likely to leave you with your mouth wide open. You’ll be amazed at the sheer size of some of the pieces of art that are on exhibition. Installations by the likes of Damian Hurst really are a sight to behold, and you also have the privilege of walking along London’s South Bank. You’ll be able to see the impressive London Eye, and take in the great scenery as you walk along the Thames.
Address: Bankside, London, SE1 9TG
Tel: 020 7887 8008
The Royal Observatory
Even just taking some sandwiches with you and having a picnic in the Beautiful grounds of the Royal Observatory is fantastic, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. The actual building itself isn’t too bad either. Built during the 17th century, it’s a fantastic example of architecture. There’s plenty within the Observatory to do and see. Take a peak at the Astronomer Royal’s apartments, view computer simulations and be amazed by the largest telescope in Britain.
Address: Greenwich Park, London, SE10 9NF
Tel: 020 8858 4422
Oswoldtwistle Mills
There is a great deal to do at Oswoldtwistle Mills, whether it’s finding out how sweeties are made in a real sweet factory, or embarking on a nature trail – in search of the wildfowl reserve! Children will be amused as they delve into Gnomeland, as well as the Wendy house village. There really is something at Oswoldtwistle Mills for everyone.
Address: Moscow Mill, Colliers Street, Oswaldtwistle, Accrington, BB5 3DE
Tel: 01254 871025
Albert Dock
Albert Dock has the privilege of being Britain’s largest Grade I listed historical building. If you are a Beatles fan then you will look forward to visiting the Beatles Story Museum, and the Dock is close to other great attractions like the Tate Gallery and the Maritime Museum. Albert Dock is a great place to visit when the weather is fine.
Address: Edward Pavilion, Albert Dock, Liverpool, L3 4AF
Tel: 0151 708 7334
Science Museum
Ever wondered how science got us to where we are now, or where it’s going to be taking us? If this sounds interesting to you then you’re bound to enjoy the science Museum. It’s the largest of its kind in the world, with 40 different galleries, and no fewer that 2000 interactive exhibitions. Try your hand at seeing what you’d look like if you were the opposite sex, and see what you are going to look like in thirty years.
Address: Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2DD
Tel: 0870 870 4868
National Football Museum
Why not explore the history of Britain’s best loved game? It’s hailed as the best football museum in the world, and it has some really famous football memorabilia on show. Stand next to the ball from the 1966 World Cup Final, or the shirt that Maradona was wearing when he famously handed the ball into the net. This is a must for any football fan.
Address: Sir Tom Finney Way, Preston, PR1 6PA
Tel: 01772 908 442
National Media Museum
This is a pretty big museum, boasting no less than 10 interactive galleries. Ride on a magic carpet, and watch films on an IMAX screen that’s so massive that it feels like you’re actually inside the screen! There’s also a research centre that takes you through the whole history of television.
Address: National Media Museum, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD1 1NQ
Tel: 0870 7010200
Natural History Museum
This really is a great place to take the children because they will be amused all day long – they won’t want to come home! The great thing about the Natural History Museum is the way that it’s geared towards interacting with the exhibits. Kids get encouraged to look at history in a hands on way, instead of being told not to touch. This makes the Natural History Museum a refreshing change.
Address: Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD
Tel: 020 7942 5000
Hopefully this list will inspire you to go and do something different for a great day out. It’s also worth mentioning that you can travel to these places at very little cost by coach and train – provided you book in advance. If you have any concerns over the cost of getting to and from the destinations that have been mentioned, then try visiting the National Express website: www.nationalexpress.com (for booking a coach), or the National Rail website: www.nationalrail.co.uk (for booking a train). Booking in advance will allow you to make massive savings, which is likely to make you enjoy your day out even more
