Family-Friendly Summer Days Out in Manchester and the North West
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer without spending a fortune? Whether you’re planning a full family adventure, a budget-friendly day out or just looking for inspiration for the school holidays, Manchester and the surrounding North West have plenty to offer for family-friendly summer days out.
From immersive attractions and museums to free festivals, outdoor trails and seaside escapes, there’s something for every age and budget. Here’s our round-up of some of the best family-friendly days out to enjoy this summer.
Top Family Days Out in Manchester
Here are some fun, family-friendly ideas for summer days out in and around Manchester. With a mix of free, low-cost and special-ticket events.
1. Step into Bubble Planet at Depot Mayfield
If you’re looking for something colourful, interactive and completely different, Bubble Planet is a fantastic choice. Packed with immersive experiences, sensory activities and themed rooms. It’s designed to capture children’s imaginations and provide plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
2. Discover the Wonders of SEA LIFE Manchester
Perfect for ocean-loving families, SEA LIFE Manchester offers the chance to get up close to fascinating marine creatures from around the world. With interactive displays, underwater tunnels and hands-on experiences, it’s a great indoor option when the British summer weather doesn’t cooperate.
3. Follow a Summer Trail at RHS Garden Bridgewater
A relaxed family day out, RHS Bridgewater offers beautiful outdoor spaces with plenty of room for little legs to explore. It’s an ideal destination for families wanting to combine fresh air, nature and fun activities.
4. Have a Kickabout at the National Football Museum
Football fans of all ages will love the National Football Museum. Packed with interactive exhibits, football memorabilia and hands-on challenges. It’s a fun way to spend a few hours together while learning about the nation’s favourite sport.
6. Let the Kids Loose at Great Northern’s Summer Sandpit
Right in the heart of Manchester city centre, the Great Northern summer sandpit is a simple but effective way to keep younger children entertained. It’s perfect for combining with a shopping trip or lunch in the city.
7. Climb Aboard for a Day Out with Thomas
Thomas the Tank Engine continues to be a favourite with younger children, and a Day Out with Thomas event adds a little extra magic to the summer holidays. Expect train rides, character appearances and plenty of family-friendly fun.
8. Enjoy a Family Theatre Trip to The Lowry
Treat the family to a live show at The Lowry, where children’s productions and family-friendly performances regularly take centre stage. Seeing favourite characters brought to life can make for a memorable holiday experience.
Free and Budget-Friendly Days Out Across the North West
Here are some extra family-friendly ideas across the Northwest, focusing on free or low-cost outings with dates and prices where available.
1. Manchester Day
Manchester City Centre | Sunday 26 July 2026 | free.
Manchester Day brings the city to life with live music, dance performances, street entertainment and family activities. It’s one of the biggest free family events of the summer and offers plenty to see and do for all ages.
2. The World of Martin Brown: Horrible Histories and Other Dazzling Drawings
Preston | 23 May to 31 August 2026 | free
A good museum-based option for families, with artwork and displays linked to children’s books and history.
3. Get Crafty: Saturday Free Arts & Craft Activities
Blackburn Museum & Art Gallery | selected Saturdays until 23 December 2026 | free.
A simple, budget-friendly choice for younger children who enjoy making and creating.
4. Pram Walk
Brockholes Nature Reserve, Samlesbury | selected dates from 23 March to 18 December 2026 | free.
A good low-cost outdoor option for families with babies or younger children, with pram-friendly paths and nature to explore.
5. Cockfield’s Farm Park
Ashton-under-Lyne | summer dates vary | from £2.95.
A very affordable paid option if you want a farm day with animals and a more structured family outing.
6. Just So Festival, Rode Hall
Cheshire | 21 to 23 August 2026 | from £35 for a child day ticket, from £65 for an adult day ticket.
A bigger summer treat with family entertainment, creative activities and plenty to do if you are planning a special day out.
Free or Cheap Family Days Out in Blackpool
Planning a trip to the seaside? Blackpool remains one of Britain’s best-value family destinations.
1. Blackpool Air Show
8 to 9 August 2026 | free
Watch spectacular aircraft displays soar above the seafront during this popular annual event. Bring a picnic, find a spot on the promenade and enjoy an exciting day of entertainment at no cost.
2. Blackpool Beach and Promenade
Available throughout summer | free
Sometimes the simplest days out are the best. Build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, enjoy fish and chips on the promenade and take in the traditional seaside atmosphere.
3. Stanley Park
Open throughout summer | free
For a quieter alternative to the beachfront, Stanley Park offers open green spaces, playgrounds and scenic walking routes. It’s ideal for families wanting a more relaxed day out.
4. Blackpool Tower Circus
Summer dates vary | from £12.50 per child and £15 per adult
If you’re looking to add one paid attraction to your visit, Blackpool Tower Circus offers family entertainment at a relatively affordable price, with comedy, acrobatics and traditional circus fun.
5. Blackpool Illuminations
Nightly from 4 September 2026 | free
If you are planning a later summer or early autumn visit, the illuminations are a well-known free attraction to walk or view from the tram.
Free or Cheap Family Days Out in Liverpool
Liverpool offers an excellent mix of culture, history and family-friendly attractions, many of which are completely free.
1. Museum of Liverpool
Open Tuesday to Sunday | free
A brilliant museum for children and adults alike, featuring interactive displays, fascinating exhibits and plenty of opportunities for hands-on learning.
2. World Museum Liverpool
Open daily | free
From dinosaurs and natural history exhibits to an aquarium and planetarium, there’s enough here to keep curious children entertained for hours.
3. Liverpool BID Free Summer Programme
18 June to 27 August 2026 | free
Throughout the summer, families can enjoy free city-centre activities including mini golf, street performances, live music and pop-up entertainment.
4. Tate Liverpool + RIBA North, Mann Island
Open daily | free admission
Ideal for older children and creative families, the gallery’s exhibitions can be combined with a scenic walk along Liverpool’s stunning waterfront.
5. Mersey Ferry River Explorer Cruise
Summer dates vary | from £14 per adult
For a special treat, hop aboard a Mersey Ferry and see Liverpool from a different perspective while enjoying views of the city’s famous waterfront.
Make the Most of Summer
Whether you’re looking for free activities, affordable day trips or a special family treat, Manchester and the wider North West offer plenty of ways to make the most of the summer holidays. From museums and theatre shows to festivals, and outdoor adventures, there’s something to suit every family and every budget.
The hardest part might just be deciding where to go first!
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