Free Things to Do with Kids in East Yorkshire This Weekend
Let us be honest — family life is expensive. Between school uniforms, packed lunches, and the never-ending growth spurts that demand new shoes every few months, the budget for weekend entertainment can feel rather thin. The good news is that East Yorkshire is home to a wealth of genuinely brilliant activities that will not cost you a penny. From world-class museums to beautiful green spaces, here is our guide to the best free things to do with children in the region.
Ferens Art Gallery, Hull — One of the finest regional art galleries in the country, the Ferens is completely free to enter and has far more to offer families than you might expect. Alongside its permanent collection — which includes works by European Old Masters and contemporary British artists — the gallery runs regular free family workshops and activity trails designed for children. Pick up a trail sheet at the reception desk and let the children explore the galleries with fresh eyes. It is cultural, it is educational, and it is warm and dry, which counts for a lot on a February Saturday. Hull Maritime Museum — Housed in the former Dock Offices in Queen Victoria Square, this museum tells the story of Hull's deep connection with the sea. Children are fascinated by the whale skeletons, the model ships, and the exhibits about the city's fishing heritage. It is a compact museum, perfect for a visit of an hour or so, and entry is free. Combined with a walk around the Old Town, it makes for a satisfying morning out.
Parks and Playgrounds — East Yorkshire is blessed with excellent public parks, and spending time in them costs nothing at all. East Park in Hull is the jewel in the crown, with its large playground, boating lake, animal education centre, and wide open spaces for running about. Pearson Park and Pickering Park are also wonderful, while Beverley's Lund Road playground is a favourite among local families. Pack a flask of tea, some sandwiches, and a football, and you have a full afternoon sorted. Beverley Westwood — This glorious expanse of common pastureland on the edge of Beverley is one of the area's finest free outdoor spaces. Children love the freedom of running across the open grassland, spotting the grazing cattle and horses, and exploring the gentle hills and hollows. The views towards Beverley Minster are magnificent, and there are several well-worn paths suitable for buggies. On a clear day, it feels like proper countryside, yet it is only a few minutes' walk from the town centre.
Nature Walks and Wildlife — The region offers some superb opportunities for free nature exploration. Humber Bridge Country Park, nestled in the wooded slopes beside the bridge, has well-marked trails through chalk grassland and woodland, with information boards about the local wildlife. It is a lovely spot for a family walk, and the car park is free. Further afield, the cliff tops at Flamborough and the wetlands around Hornsea Mere offer the chance to spot birds, butterflies, and wildflowers without spending a thing. Bring a pair of binoculars and a simple identification guide, and the children will be absorbed for hours. Library Story Times and Community Events — Do not overlook your local library. Libraries across Hull and the East Riding run regular story time sessions for pre-school children, reading challenges for older kids, and occasional craft activities — all completely free. These sessions are a wonderful way to foster a love of reading and to meet other families in the community. Check with your nearest branch for the current timetable.
The truth is, some of the best family days out do not require a wallet at all. A bit of imagination, a willingness to explore, and a decent pair of wellies will take you a long way in East Yorkshire. Save the money for the ice cream on the way home.