Toddler · Days out
Autumn and winter days out with a toddler that don't cost a fortune
Shorter days, colder mornings and a small person with endless energy. Cheap and free ways to get out of the house with a toddler this season, rain or shine.
By about 10am on a rainy Saturday, a toddler can have run out of things to do at home. The good news is that you don't need an expensive attraction to fill a morning. Some of the best toddler days out cost nothing at all, and the rest cost less than a coffee and a cake.
Free (or almost free)
Rhyme Time at your local library. Most UK libraries run free baby and toddler rhyme and story sessions every week. It's warm, dry, social and you can borrow a stack of books on the way out. Check your council's library pages for times.
The big national museums. Many of the UK's national museums are free to enter, including the Natural History Museum and Science Museum in London and National Museums Scotland. Lots have dedicated under-5s spaces and sensory areas, so look for those when you plan your visit.
A puddle and leaf walk. Waterproofs on, wellies on, and go and find the biggest puddle in the park. Collect conkers, kick leaves and spot squirrels. It costs nothing and they'll sleep brilliantly afterwards.
Your local woods or country park. Many have free entry with paid parking, and lots now run seasonal trails. Bring a flask, a snack and a carrier for when little legs give up.
The garden centre. Hear us out. Fish tanks, giant pumpkins, Christmas displays from about October onwards and usually a café with highchairs. Many toddlers think it's the best place on earth.
The best toddler day out is often just somewhere new to splash, climb and point at things.
Good value when you do want to pay
National Trust and English Heritage places. Under-5s go free at National Trust and English Heritage sites, so you're only paying for adults (or nothing at all if you're members). Many have adventure play areas, autumn trails and cosy cafés.
Soft play off-peak. Weekday mornings in term time are usually cheaper and quieter than weekends. Some centres offer toddler-only sessions too, which means fewer big kids flying past.
City farms and community farms. Lots of city farms are free or ask for a small donation, and meeting the goats is a top-tier toddler activity.
Toddler swimming sessions. Council pools often run parent-and-toddler sessions at lower prices, with warmer water and floats. A great way to burn off energy on a wet afternoon.
Ride the bus or train. For a lot of toddlers, the journey is the day out. Children under five usually travel free on UK trains with a fare-paying adult, and a short trip to a nearby town with a park at the other end can feel like a big adventure.
Make it easier on yourself
- Go early. Toddlers are at their best in the morning, and places are quieter.
- Pack the snack bag. Snacks save money and meltdowns in equal measure.
- Dress for the weather, not the forecast. All-in-one waterproofs and spare socks are worth their weight in gold. Our guide to toddler puddle suits and wellies has the ones that last.
- Keep it short. Two hours out is plenty. Leave while everyone's still happy.
Find places near you on the National Trust and English Heritage websites, where under-5s go free.
Keep reading
- Fun Days Out with Babies & Toddlers This October Half Term
- The benefits of risky play for children
- Beach hotels in Cornwall and Devon that are brilliant with toddlers
- Rainy Bank Holiday? How to Keep Kids Busy Off Screens Without Becoming the Entertainment Committee
Do toddlers get into National Trust places free?
Yes, under-5s go free at National Trust and English Heritage sites.
What can I do with a toddler on a rainy day for free?
Library Rhyme Time, free national museums, a puddle walk in waterproofs or a trip to the garden centre are all great, free options.
Do toddlers travel free on trains?
Children under five usually travel free on UK trains with a fare-paying adult, though they may not get their own seat.
Prices and opening times vary, so check with each venue before you go. This article is general information.
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