Free Family Days Out, Festivals, Museums and More.
Looking for inspiration for the summer holidays? Our Midlands Summer Guide 2026 is packed with ideas to help you make the most of the season, whether you’re planning big adventures or simply looking for affordable ways to keep the family entertained.
From free museums and beautiful green spaces to splash pads, playgrounds, family festivals and theatre shows, we’ve rounded up some of the very best places to visit across Birmingham and the Midlands. Better still, many of the ideas are completely free or low-cost, helping you create unforgettable memories without stretching the budget.
Inside this issue you’ll discover:
– 18 free playgrounds worth the drive this summer.
– The best dinosaur days out for little explorers.
– 15 splash pads where you can cool off on sunny days.
– The best family theatre shows taking place across the Midlands.
– Free summer library events happening throughout the school holidays.
– Our favourite National Trust days out for members or anyone using a free pass.
– Family-friendly festivals to add to your summer bucket list.
– The latest family films at the cinema.
– Ideas for enjoying the summer holidays with teenagers.
– Free places to visit, including museums, galleries and beautiful parks and green spaces.
– Birmingham Restaurant Festival, where adults can enjoy special festival menus while children are catered for with family-friendly options.
– Some of the most beautiful flower fields to visit in and around the Midlands.
– A local business spotlight featuring Military Chef, a talented chocolatier creating delicious handmade treats.
– Creative family activities at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.
– Our favourite family-friendly beer gardens with outdoor play areas.
– And a free Snoopy art trail around Birmingham city centre that’s perfect for families and Peanuts fans alike.
Whether you’re searching for free things to do with kids in Birmingham, planning family days out across the Midlands, or simply looking for new places to explore this summer, we hope this guide helps you discover somewhere new.
So grab your diary, pack a picnic, don’t forget the sun cream, and get ready for a summer full of adventure. We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together.
Happy exploring!
