Half term is almost upon us. You’ll be starting to think of activities and ideas to fill up the week and keep the kids off those pesky screens – at least some of the time!
But, with the soaring cost of living and Christmas just behind us, many of us are feeling the pinch at the moment. So we understand that you probably don’t want to spend a lot of money on a day out.
Never fear, at Holidays Wales we’ve come up with a fantastic range of activities for half term – and they’re all free (or at least just the cost of your travel and a cuppa).
So if you’re in Wales with the children this half term, pack some sandwiches and read on!
You won’t be disappointed.
Stretch your legs on one of many walks and trails across Wales
One of our favourite things to do is to wrap up and get out for a walk. Walking is not only amazing free exercise – it can be fun too. Yes, even with kids!
Kids love a challenge, so integrate one into your walk – from naming different trees to who can spot the most birds or cock up the most steps. Use your imagination – free ideas are limitless!
There are also a number of special walking trails available for free across Wales. Here are just a few examples – an internet search will give you loads of ideas!
Cardiff has some brilliant Story Trails in eight parks across the city.
Free countryside walking trails include Llyn Llywelyn Lake Walk – Beddgelert Forest where you’ll find free parking and brilliant views. There’s also Bryn Euryn Nature Reserve near Colwyn Bay where you’ll find a shorter walk with loads to see.
In West Wales try the walk around Dinas Island (which isn’t actually an island!), starting from Pwllgwaelod where you’ll find free parking. There are some steep sections on this route but the views make it worth it! For something much less challenging, head to Wiseman’s Bridge and follow the easy coastal route to Saundersfoot through the old tunnels known as ‘The Dramway’.
Many forests also have fun walking trails. Try the Forest Fawr Sculpture Trail near Caerphilly, for instance. Also, check out Gwydir Forest Park near Betws-y-coed where you’ll find a range of trails for all ages and walking abilities.
Mooch around a Castle
Regular readers will know we love a Castle! The good news is, many of Wales’s castles are free to visit. This especially applies to the ruined ones. Check out our earlier Castle-focused posts for a full rundown.
Here are a few of our favourite free castles (and ruins!) to mooch around:
- Flint Castle, Flint
- Caergwrle Castle, Wrexham
- Dryswlyn Castle, Carmarthen
- Aberlleiniog Castle, Anglesey
- Ewloe Castle, Deeside
- Castell Dinas Bran Ruins, Llangollen
- Dolbadarn Castle, Llanberis
- Tenby Castle, Pembrokeshire
Bring history to life by visiting a free museum
Museums provide a great day out. Not only is a visit to a museum an all-weather activity, but they’re educational – but fun. That’s a win-win in our book!
Wales has seven National Museums where you can discover more about the country’s past. All have free entry and plenty to keep the whole family occupied for hours! They are:
- National Museum Cardiff
- National Roman Legion Museum
- Big Pit National Coal Museum, Torfaen
- St Fagans Museum of National History, Cardiff
- National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
- National Slate Museum, LLanberis
- National Wool Museum, Carmarthenshire
Show your Library some love
Local libraries are easily overlooked in this digital age. But don’t forget all that your library has to offer. Many will provide special half-term activities from craft activities to lego to storytime.
There are also regular reading challenges. And don’t forget, residents can borrow books for free – a great way to expand your home selection. Local libraries also offer free e-book and digital audiobook loans for members via Libby or a similar app. Perfect for long journeys!
Do note, though, that Wales’s half term is different than some of England’s – so check dates before travelling.
Get Crafty!
The internet is a mine of brilliant information and ideas. A quick search will help you find easy craft activities to do from home. Junk modelling is a perennial favourite that never gets old.
A craft activity followed by snuggling up in front of a film is the perfect rainy day holiday activity and helps recharge everyone’s batteries. If you want to push the boat out, you can even add some hot chocolate and/or popcorn!
Free doesn’t need to be dull!
So, there you go. Wales is packed with great free activities for Half Term. With our ideas, you’ll keep the whole family occupied and won’t break the bank in the process.
Do let us know how you get on, and if you have other ideas which we have missed – do get in touch!
