Family

Free Things to Do with Kids in East Yorkshire This Weekend

Phil Scaife
Free Things to Do with Kids in East Yorkshire This Weekend

Let's be honest — family days out can be expensive. But East Yorkshire has a surprising number of completely free activities that will keep the kids entertained without emptying your wallet. Here's our guide.

Free Museums

Hull's Museum Quarter is entirely free and could easily fill a whole day:

  • Streetlife Museum: Victorian street scene, vintage cars, and a horse-drawn carriage. Kids love dressing up in period costume.
  • Hull and East Riding Museum: The Iron Age log boat and Roman mosaics are genuinely impressive.
  • Wilberforce House: The story of Hull's most famous son and the abolition of slavery.
  • Ferens Art Gallery: Regular free children's activities at weekends.

Parks and Open Spaces

  • East Park, Hull: Adventure playground, splash pad (summer), animal education centre, and a boating lake. All free.
  • Beverley Westwood: Wide open spaces for kite flying, football, and exploring. Home to friendly cows and horses.
  • Pearson Park, Hull: Beautiful Victorian park with playground and conservatory.
  • Humber Bridge Country Park: Woodland walks, a chalk stream, and views of the bridge.

Nature and Wildlife

  • North Cave Wetlands: Yorkshire Wildlife Trust reserve with easy walking trails and bird hides. Free entry (small parking charge for non-members).
  • Tophill Low Nature Reserve: Outstanding birdwatching just north of Beverley.
  • Danes Dyke, Flamborough: A stunning wooded valley running down to a secluded beach.

Libraries

Hull and East Riding libraries run free activities throughout the year:

  • Rhyme Time sessions for babies and toddlers
  • Storytelling sessions for pre-schoolers
  • Coding clubs for older children
  • Holiday reading challenges with certificates and prizes

Community Events

Check local community centre noticeboards and social media for:

  • Free sports taster sessions
  • Community gardening clubs
  • Church hall toddler groups (usually just a small donation)
  • Seasonal events like bonfire nights and summer fairs

Beach Days

Don't forget — the East Yorkshire coast is free! Pack a picnic and head to:

  • Bridlington South Beach: Sandy and family-friendly
  • Hornsea Beach: Quieter, with great rock pools at low tide
  • Withernsea Beach: Uncrowded and perfect for beachcombing

The best things in life really are free — especially in East Yorkshire.