Finding new ways to keep kids entertained over the summer isn’t easy, but the Liverpool city region has some great free activities for families. This guide highlights eight fun options, from museum visits to beach walks. Discover the city’s rich history, enjoy creative spaces, and explore nature reserves.
Visit local farms, check out unique art installations, and enjoy beautiful green spaces and historic sites. Liverpool’s offerings ensure a memorable, budget-friendly summer filled with fun and exploration for the entire family.
Enjoy a fun-filled summer without breaking the bank with these 8 free activities to do with kids this summer in the Liverpool city region.
1. Visit A Museum
Museums are a great way to keep the kids entertained and engaged this summer. Specifically, the Museum of Liverpool, World Museum, The Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum are popular choices.
The Museum of Liverpool showcases the city’s history and culture, with interactive exhibits perfect for all ages. Highlights include the Liverpool Overhead Railway and the immersive Little Liverpool gallery for young children.
The World Museum offers a fascinating journey through natural history, science, and world cultures. Its extensive collections include a planetarium, an aquarium, and an Ancient Egypt exhibition.
At the International Slavery Museum, visitors can learn about the transatlantic slave trade and its enduring impact on the world.
The Maritime Museum provides insights into Liverpool’s seafaring past, featuring exhibits on the Titanic, Lusitania, and the city’s vital role in maritime history.
2. Take a Trip To Southport
Southport is a great day out for the family, especially when the sun is shining and you can take a stroll along the beach. But, Southport is also home to The Atkinson, an arts centre which features an art gallery, museum and theatre. They run regular, free arts and crafts workshops and entry to the museum and gallery is also free.
3. Get Creative at Tate Liverpool + RIBA North’s Learning Space
Tate Liverpool + RIBA North’s Learning Space is designed especially for families. You’ll find art materials, books and free Art Games inspired by Mildred the Gallery Cat. Additionally, there’s information about activities on the peg board and a noticeboard for kids to display their own drawings.
4. Venture Out To Hilbre Island Nature Reserve
Walking to Hilbre Island at low tide feels like a real adventure for the whole family. Each season brings different flora and fauna on the islands and can be a great opportunity to see rare and endangered wildlife. In fact, the summer months also provide a perfect opportunity to see Grey Seals swimming just off-shore! Be sure to plan your trip in advance, checking tidal times, which will be on display at Dee Lane slipway. You can also get an idea of the tide times here. The two mile trip takes approximately an hour, so make sure to allow yourselves enough time to get back.
5. See The Animals At Rice Lane City Farm
Rice Lane City Farm, in Walton, is home to a whole host of friendly farmyard animals that you can visit for free. They accept donations from the public so that they are able to keep the farm open for visitors.
6. Hang Out With The Iron Men at Crosby Beach
Not only is Crosby Beach a lovely seafront walk but it’s also home to Anthony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ installation of 100 Iron Men. A feature of the beach since 2005, they have very recently undergone a clean up and refurbishment, so now’s a great time to go and check them out in all their glory.
7. Visit Strawberry Field Gardens & Bandstand
This historic site, immortalised by The Beatles song “Strawberry Fields Forever,” offers a beautiful green space for kids to roam and play. Keep an eye out for free live music events happening throughout the summer at the brand new Strawberry Field Bandstand. The colorful, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band-inspired bandstand adds a touch of musical magic to the atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to relax and soak up the sights and sounds while creating lasting memories with your little ones.
8. Explore Liverpool’s Cathedrals
Take the kids on a free architectural adventure at Liverpool’s contrasting cathedrals. Explore the grandeur of Liverpool Cathedral, the largest Anglican cathedral in the world, and marvel at its gothic details and incredible stained glass. If you have some budget to spend then you can also take the tower tour up to the top of the cathedral for panoramic city views. Then, head down Hope Street to the neoclassical wonder of the Metropolitan Cathedral. Both cathedrals offer free entry.
To find more activities you can do with the whole family check out our What’s On section.