Date: 22 July 2023
For those feeling the pressure of the rising cost of living, six weeks of keeping the little ones entertained can be daunting. Luckily, there are plenty of free or affordable activities across West Sussex, so your family can still have some well-deserved summer fun.
Holiday Activities and Food Programme
Children who are entitled to free school meals can take part in various clubs for free; a meal included, with the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme. Eligible children can attend their chosen HAF club for four days per week for four weeks during the summer. Past activities have included music production, skateboarding, arts and crafts, computer programming and multi-activity camps. You can register for HAF here.
Ready, set, read!
Encourage your little ones to keep reading throughout the holidays, with the Summer Reading Challenge. Kids can get stuck into this years’ reading challenge at any West Sussex library for free; all you need is a library card. Sign up here.
Children’s fun at Horsham Park
During the holidays, the Horsham Park podium is transformed into an open-air stage with puppets, magic and games galore! Each 45-minute show takes place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 2 pm and 3.15 pm, and is completely free. Take a look at the performance schedule here.
Sports and outdoor fun
Look out for free offers and deals with retailers. For example, spend £30 in Aldi by 31 July 2023, and you will receive a voucher for a free sports session of your choice.
Tennis for Free is another fantastic option for sports enthusiasts. Offering fully inclusive fun tennis sessions across the UK, Horsham Park and Maidenbower Park are just two local venues offering this programme.
Get out in nature
On the rare days when the weather is on our side, make the most of the stunning English sunshine by visiting a National Trust Park near you. Many offer free or affordable activities for all the family. Become a sketchbook detective at Standen, take on the obstacle course at Nymans, or immerse yourself in the guided historical tours at Petworth. Find more information and other National Trust Parks near you here.
For more budget-friendly family fun ideas visit:
www.experiencewestsussex.com/whats-on/families/
