10 Best Free Days Out In Manchester

Let’s start off the summer of 2023 right with this special event – a giant sandpit!

The perfect outdoor activity for kids that is fun and creative definitely involves sand! So, this summer the Great Northern Warehouse’s amphitheatre is reopening its newly designed playhouse that will have a super cool and GIANT sandpit!

Filled with 50 tonnes of soft sand and wooden logs to sit on, you can enjoy some summer play with buckets and spades!

Did I forget to mention…it’s completely FREE!

Step into a world of wonders at The Manchester Museum, located at the University of Manchester.

From ancient and golden Egyptian mummies to dinosaur fossils, the museum’s extensive collection will captivate both kids and adults alike. Discover a treasure trove of knowledge, explore interactive exhibits, and even meet Stan, the famous T-Rex!

Plus, during the summer they hold a whole host of free activities for kids! Learning can be fun!

Delve into the fascinating history of democracy and social change at the People’s History Museum!

Engaging displays, including interactive exhibits and thought-provoking multimedia, shed light on Manchester’s role in shaping democracy. The museum offers an inspiring journey through time, highlighting the importance of people’s voices in society.

Kids can get involved with free activities revolving around the shape of Britain and the past, present and future of the country. With costumes to dress up in, they can really immerse themselves.

Unleash your inner artist at the Manchester Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of artworks spanning centuries. From artwork masterpieces to political issues like gender and climate change, international artwork and regular exhibitions for kids!

Admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh and Turner, and discover contemporary works that challenge the status quo. Engage with the art through family-friendly workshops and interactive exhibits.

Discover couture up close or get involved in the Earth’s climate! If you have kids with a passion in protecting the planet, they’re running a Climate Justice exhibition from 16th February 2023 – December 31st 2023. This special exhibition encourages viewers to learn from history, make better decisions and encourage caring to create action!

Not only do they have exhibitions, but the Museum hosts regular ‘creative meet-ups’ for kids aged 14 – 19 years old. With a place where they can discuss and share board issues and creativity, there’s even family workshops too where you all can create art!

Escape the city buzz and immerse yourself in nature at Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe. This expansive green oasis offers endless possibilities for family fun. Take leisurely strolls, enjoy a picnic by the lake, let the kids burn off energy at the play areas, or explore the animal farm.

Being a park that spans 600 acres, there’s plenty of space to run around! If you like the water, head out onto the boating lake, and immerse yourself in all things wildlife at the animal centre! From astronomy class to beekeeping courses – there’s plenty of activities here for you and the family to get stuck into. Channel your inner Harry Potter and David Attenborough!

Their animal centre homes animals that everyone will love, from goats, ducks and pigs to chickens, turkeys, rabbits and alpacas! And best of all, it’s FREE to visit! You might even be lucky enough to see a peacock perched in the tree…

Fuel your curiosity at the Science and Industry Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and awe-inspiring demonstrations!

From steam engines to space exploration, the museum offers a hands-on learning experience that sparks the imagination of visitors of all ages. Did you know they have a really cool exhibition at the moment? Operation Ouch! Food, Poo and You…discover how things work and travel in the body…

A family day here will be exciting and interesting, especially when you see a car suspended in mid-air that you can lift! Want to get hands-on with mixing shadows, designing and printing textiles and engage in a free activity trail pack? That’s all here for your kiddies to get involved in and more!

So, if you’re looking for a wide range of interactive, creative and exciting activities, you’ll find them right here at the Science and Industry Museum. A brilliant FREE family city break!

Experience the joy of interacting with adorable donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary, located just a short drive from Manchester.

There are 7 acres to discover at this family-friendly sanctuary.  With a chance to meet and learn about these gentle animals, as the sanctuary transforms the lives of donkeys all over the world!

Take a leisurely walk along the sanctuary trails, stroke the donkeys, and perhaps even adopt one for a day!

Discover the tranquillity of Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden, nestled within the picturesque surroundings of Didsbury Village.

This hidden gem features beautifully landscaped gardens, meandering paths, and a charming rockery. Enjoy a peaceful family stroll, spot wildlife, and savour a moment of serenity in this urban oasis.

Discover flourishing flora and towering trees as you wander around the gardens. The kids can even dive into a bug hunt in the soil or in the water! With so much to explore and see, your family day out will be filled with family adventures and an enjoyable afternoon!

Visit the bustling Quayside at MediaCityUK, located at Salford Quays, just a stone’s throw from Manchester city centre.

This thriving waterfront destination is home to a host of attractions, including the BBC studios and the Lowry Theatre. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, watch street performers, or simply take a leisurely walk along the Quayside, admiring the stunning views of the waterfront.

It’s free to explore, but will need to purchase tickets for the cinema or buy food if you get hungry!

Take a step back in time at Ordsall Hall, a stunning Tudor manor house brimming with history.

Explore its grand rooms, discover hidden nooks, and uncover tales of intrigue and romance. Engaging activities and workshops make this a great destination for children to learn about life in Tudor times. From arts and crafts to creative workshops!

Learn how to use beads and sequins in embroidery, make corn dolls or head out on a bug hunt!

In the summer you’ll find a bunch of FREE fun activities the whole family can enjoy. From tours and creative work to channelling your inner Tudor!

Or you can simply embark on a self-guided walking tour of Manchester city centre and soak up its rich history and vibrant culture.

There are plenty of opportunities to discover new things here in Manchester if you haven’t been here before! Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Town Hall and Manchester Cathedral, explore bustling markets like the Arndale and appreciate the city’s unique architecture. Don’t forget to pause for a photo at the iconic “worker bee” symbol, a nod to Manchester’s industrial heritage!