Looking for a great-value family adventure this summer? You don’t need to splash out on expensive attractions to make the most of the holidays.
From windswept coastal reserves and ancient deer parks to magical forest trails and spectacular Peak District views, the East Midlands is packed with places where nature does the heavy lifting.
Better still, many of these days out are completely free, and several can be reached by public transport, making them kinder on your wallet as well as the planet. Whether you’ve got little explorers in tow or simply fancy a scenic walk and a picnic, these are some of our favourite budget-friendly outdoor escapes in the region.
Lincolnshire Coronation Coast National Nature Reserve
One of England’s newest and most impressive nature reserves stretches almost 30km along the Lincolnshire coast, linking dunes, saltmarshes, mudflats and wetlands that support everything from grey seals to rare natterjack toads.
The reserve is free to visit and forms part of the King Charles III England Coast Path, making it perfect for a wildlife-filled ramble with sea views thrown in. Nearby seaside favourites Cleethorpes and Mablethorpe are ideal for rounding off the day with fish and chips on the front.
Don’t miss: Seal spotting and some of the best birdwatching on the east coast.
Getting there: The reserve is accessible from several points along the Lincolnshire coast. Cleethorpes has a train station with regular services from Lincoln and Doncaster. Mablethorpe is accessible by bus from Lincoln.
Clumber Park, Nottinghamshire
Sherwood Forest’s grandest estate is always worth a visit, but this summer it’s even better value thanks to a new bus service connecting Worksop station directly to Clumber Park.
Within its 3,800 acres you’ll find lakeside walks, woodland adventures and plenty of space for children to burn off energy. The National Trust’s Summer of Play programme brings storytelling, workshops and interactive play zones, while Pokémon-themed activities add an extra layer of excitement for younger visitors.
Don’t miss: Exploring the vast parkland before joining one of the free family activities.
Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood, Leicestershire
A short hop from Leicester, Bradgate Park feels a world away from city life. Ancient oaks, dramatic rocky outcrops and herds of free-roaming deer make it one of the region’s most atmospheric landscapes.
Families visiting this summer can follow the Moths and Butterflies Trail, hunting for clues and hidden letters along the route before claiming a reward at the visitor centre. Best of all, entry is completely free.
Don’t miss: Spotting deer against the backdrop of some of the oldest exposed rocks in Britain.
Sherwood Pines, Nottinghamshire
If your youngsters are Gruffalo fans, Sherwood Pines should be firmly on your summer hit list. Nottinghamshire’s largest forest offers free entry, miles of walking and cycling trails, and plenty of woodland play areas.
The much-loved Gruffalo sculptures are hidden among the trees, while the Room on the Broom trail turns a forest walk into an interactive family adventure. It’s an easy way to spend a whole day outdoors without spending much at all.
Don’t miss: Tracking down every Gruffalo character through the forest.
The Pennine Bridleway, Derbyshire
For a taste of the Peak District that’s suitable for all ages and abilities, head to Middleton Top. The southern gateway to the Pennine Bridleway follows a former railway line, creating a largely level route perfect for walking, wheeling and cycling.
Bring a picnic, enjoy the far-reaching views and explore the nearby nature reserve, or continue further north to Hayfield and the scenic Sett Valley Trail. It’s a brilliant introduction to Peak District landscapes without tackling steep hills.
Don’t miss: The panoramic countryside views from Middleton Top.
More free nature spots worth exploring
Still looking for inspiration? Add these excellent free destinations to your summer list:
- Whisby Nature Park, Lincolnshire
- Attenborough Nature Reserve, Nottinghamshire
- Frampton Marsh, Lincolnshire
- Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve, Nottinghamshire
- Sandilands Nature Reserve, Lincolnshire
- Watermead Country Park, Leicestershire
- Allestree Park, Derby
And if you’d prefer to stay even closer to home, England’s network of Local Nature Reserves offers accessible wildlife-rich spaces in towns and cities across the region, proving that a great day out can often be right on your doorstep.
