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Birmingham

Free things to do with kids in Birmingham

Birmingham's free family days are often strongest outdoors: playgrounds, woodland trails and gardens with room to move. You can also include a short free gallery stop. Keep a clear distinction between free grounds and ticketed buildings so the plan stays within the budget you intended.

Ages 3–12; choose shorter trails for younger walkers.

Plan My Family Day

Six ideas for your day

  1. 1. Cannon Hill Park playground visit

    Free park entryoutdoor

    Build a simple play-and-picnic outing around the park rather than its paid attractions.

    Venue information

  2. 2. Sutton Park mini nature walk

    Free park entryoutdoor

    Pick one playground and a small route through the large park, with wildlife spotting along the way.

    Venue information

  3. 3. Sarehole Mill grounds and Woodland Realm

    Free grounds; mill interior paidoutdoor

    Try outdoor play and a garden wander, supervising carefully near water.

    Venue information

  4. 4. Aston Hall gardens

    Free gardens; house paidoutdoor

    Enjoy a picnic or garden walk without adding the separately ticketed historic house.

    Venue information

  5. 5. Lickey Hills Country Park

    Free park entryoutdoor

    Take a short woodland trail and look for autumn colours or a viewpoint within your walking range.

    Venue information

  6. 6. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery picture hunt

    Free general entryindoor

    Choose a few objects or artworks in the open general-entry galleries.

    Venue information

Three practical tips

  • At Sarehole Mill and Aston Hall, free outdoor access does not include paid interiors.
  • Large parks need a meeting point, a toilet plan and a route that matches the youngest walker.
  • Check closing times as autumn daylight shortens; allow time to get back to your entrance.

Before you go

Can we visit Sarehole Mill without paying for the building?

The grounds and Woodland Realm provide a free outdoor option. Entry to the mill interior is separate; check current opening and access before travelling.

Which free Birmingham idea is useful if the weather turns?

The open general-entry galleries at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery offer an indoor alternative. Check available spaces and opening times first.

Ideas are guidance only. Please check opening times and prices before you travel.

Plan My Family Day