As a family, we’ve always loved the idea of getting away – switching off from the daily routine and doing something fun together. But let’s be honest, the cost of a proper family holiday can add up very quickly. Whether it’s flights, accommodation, food or entry tickets to attractions, it doesn’t take long for things to feel unaffordable – especially when you’re managing on a tight budget.
Here’s some great ideas to get you through the Summer without spending a fortune!
I also found that taking the kids away when they were younger was often super stressful as up until they were 13 and 15, they used to HATE each other. I find that mad now considering how close they are these days but I won’t forget a trip to Milan with them where they literally argued in a room over who was using the most hotel wifi!
Short breaks were always key to a happy family when the kids didn’t get along so we became big fans of the “mini escape” – a single day or half-day activity that gives us that holiday feeling without the holiday cost. There are loads of indoor experiences across the UK that offer a sense of adventure, fun or relaxation – all without the need to book annual leave, pack suitcases, or spend hundreds of pounds and over the years, we took advantage of so many of them!
One of the more unexpected finds for us was indoor skiing. At first, we assumed skiing was one of those things you could only do if you jetted off to the Alps, but it turns out that’s not the case. There are centres here in the UK where you can ski or snowboard on real snow, all year round. It’s not exactly a replacement for a ski holiday in Austria, but it comes surprisingly close in terms of the experience – minus the airfare and hotel bill. A basic lesson or lift pass for indoor skiing usually starts around £30–£40 per person, which is considerably less than the cost of international travel, lift passes abroad, and gear rental – often all bundled in when skiing indoors.
The kids absolutely loved our trips to the snow centre and it gave them a real appetite for skiing which has led to the m both going on ski holidays themselves as they’ve got older.
Here are a few other ideas we’ve tried – or have on our family wish list – that help recreate that holiday buzz without the price tag:
1. Swimming and Water Parks – The Feel of a Beach Break
When you think of a family holiday, chances are there’s a pool involved somewhere. While UK weather doesn’t always deliver when it comes to beach days, there are plenty of leisure centres and indoor water parks that give you that warm, splashy vibe.
Many have wave machines, lazy rivers and waterslides, and some even heat the water to tropical temperatures. While a trip to Spain might cost a family of four upwards of £1,000 for a week, an afternoon at a local water park could cost between £20–£50, depending on the size of your family and whether you book in advance or visit off-peak.
2. Indoor Climbing – Channelling a Mountain Adventure
Climbing isn’t just for the brave or super-fit – indoor climbing walls offer beginner routes suitable for children and parents alike. It’s a great way to replicate that adventurous spirit of mountain holidays – without the need to actually scale a cliffside.
Bouldering centres (which don’t require ropes or harnesses) are often more affordable than full climbing gyms and typically charge £8–£12 per person, with discounts for kids or family groups. Compared to the cost of a guided outdoor climbing trip abroad (often £60–£100+ per person), it’s a low-cost way to challenge yourselves and try something new together.
3. Tropical Greenhouses – Emulating Rainforest or Safari Holidays
A walk through a botanical garden or tropical greenhouse can feel surprisingly like stepping into another country. With warm, humid air and lush greenery, it’s a sensory treat that’s particularly enjoyable during cold, grey weather.
Places like the Eden Project in Cornwall or the glasshouses at Kew Gardens give off strong ‘eco-tourism’ vibes. Entry usually ranges from £5–£30 depending on location and age group, but many offer family passes or free days throughout the year. Compared to an actual rainforest holiday (which would set you back several thousand pounds), this is a great way to teach kids about the natural world without ever needing a flight.
4. Trampoline Parks – A Mini US-style Break
Trampoline parks aren’t just for kids anymore – many have adult sessions or family bounce times, and they give off the energetic, theme-park-style atmosphere that reminds us of holidays in the States.
An hour’s session typically costs around £10–£15 per person, which makes it an easy way to treat the kids to something high-energy without it being an all-day, all-wallet affair. It’s a great alternative to theme parks, which can cost £150+ for a family day out once tickets, parking and food are included.
5. Sledging and Snow Play – A Nordic Mini-Break Vibe
If skiing’s not quite your thing but you still want that winter holiday feeling, many indoor snow centres also offer sledging, snow play areas or tubing sessions. These are brilliant for younger kids who want to enjoy snow without needing lessons or much gear.
Prices vary, but you can often book a 30-minute session for £10–£15 per person, making it much more accessible than a trip to Lapland – which could cost upwards of £3,000 for a short break.
Age Suitability for Each Activity
Here’s a quick guide to which indoor activities might be suitable for different age groups. Please note: these are general guidelines, and suitability may vary depending on the venue’s own age or height policies, so always check in advance.
🏂 Indoor Skiing
Recommended ages: 5+ for lessons, teens, adults
Some centres may have snow play for toddlers, but ski lessons typically start around age 5 or 6.
💦 Swimming & Indoor Water Parks
Recommended ages: All ages – babies to adults
Baby pools, wave pools, and slides offer something for everyone, from toddlers to teens.
🧗 Indoor Climbing / Bouldering
Recommended ages: 4+ for climbing walls, 7+ for bouldering
Climbing centres often have “mini climber” sessions for younger children.
🌿 Tropical Greenhouses & Botanical Gardens
Recommended ages: All ages – best enjoyed from age 4+
Great for calm days and nature-based learning, especially for inquisitive children.
🤸 Trampoline Parks
Recommended ages: 3+ for toddler sessions, 6+ for open jump areas
Most offer family sessions or designated toddler hours. Teens enjoy freestyle jump zones.
🛷 Sledging & Snow Play
Recommended ages: 2+ for snow play, 4+ for sledging/tubing
Sledging is a great introduction to snow fun before progressing to skiing.
You don’t need a full-blown getaway to create special memories or break out of the everyday routine. Sometimes, an afternoon of laughter on the slopes, a splash in the pool, or a climb up an indoor wall is all it takes to feel like you’ve had a proper break.
And from a budget perspective, these activities allow you to spread the fun throughout the year rather than saving it all for one big (and expensive) trip. With careful planning, flexibility around timings, and checking for local discounts, you can enjoy the feel of a holiday – without the holiday price tag.
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