The summer holidays don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Across Lincolnshire, our parks, open spaces and coastline offer plenty of free opportunities to get active, enjoy the outdoors and spend quality time with family and friends.
Whether you’re looking for family adventures, gentle walks, wildlife spotting, outdoor games or opportunities to stay socially connected, there are lots of ways for children, young people, adults and older residents across the county to move more and make the most of the summer.
Explore Boston’s parks and green spaces
Getting active doesn’t need to be complicated. Boston has several fantastic parks where families can enjoy fresh air and burn off some energy.
Central Park, Boston, located in the heart of the town and has recently received the prestigious Green Flag Award for being a well-managed and high-quality public green space offers:
- Large open spaces for games and play
- Children’s play areas
- Walking paths
- Skatepark
- Tennis courts
- seasonal events during the summer
Witham Way Country Park
For families who enjoy exploring nature, Witham Way Country Park offers scenic walking and cycling routes alongside the River Witham. It’s ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying some time away from screens.
Meet the horses at Bransby Horses
A visit to Bransby Horses is a fantastic free day out for animal lovers of all ages. Families can meet rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules, while older visitors can enjoy the peaceful walking routes and tranquil outdoor setting.
There are also picnic areas, play spaces and seasonal trails throughout the year. Donations are welcome, but entry to the site is free.
Find out more on their website.
Discover the beauty of South Holland
Ayscoughfee Hall Gardens, Spalding
The beautiful gardens at Ayscoughfee Hall provide a free and relaxing setting for families to explore.
Children can run around the open green spaces while adults enjoy the historic surroundings. The park often hosts community events during the summer months and provides plenty of space for outdoor games and picnics as well as accessible walking routes and opportunities to socialise with family and friends.
Surfleet Reservoir walks
If you enjoy walking, the peaceful routes around Surfleet Reservoir offer the chance to stay active while enjoying Lincolnshire’s countryside and wildlife. The gentle nature of many local walking routes makes them suitable for family members of all ages looking to improve their wellbeing through regular movement.
Routes can be found via the South Holland District Council webpage.
Enjoy the coast in East Lindsey
One of Lincolnshire’s greatest free attractions is its coastline.
Mablethorpe Beach
Build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, play beach games or take a stroll along the promenade. A trip to the beach is a great way to keep children active and entertained without spending anything.
Sutton-on-Sea
With wide sandy beaches and quieter surroundings, Sutton-on-Sea is perfect for families looking to enjoy a relaxed coastal day out.
Skegness nature land’s surrounding coastal walks
While entry to attractions may have a cost, the nearby coastal paths and beach areas are completely free and provide plenty of opportunities for walking, scooting and exploring.
Take part in a nature treasure hunt
Nature trails and scavenger hunts are a simple way to make family walks more exciting.
See if you can spot:
· Five different birds
· A butterfly
· Wildflowers
· A feather
· A ladybird
· An interesting-shaped cloud
Many of Lincolnshire’s parks, beaches and nature reserves provide the perfect backdrop for a free family challenge.
Find a local activity near you
Many local clubs, community groups and activity providers run free or low-cost taster sessions throughout the summer. The Let’s Move Lincolnshire Club & Activity Finder can help you discover:
· Sports clubs
· Walking groups
· Cycling activities
· Community sessions
· Family-friendly activities
Whether you’re a young person looking to try a new sport, a family seeking activities during the holidays, or an older adult wanting to stay active and connected with others, it’s a great way to discover something new in your local area.