Many families will be happy to hear that the UK Government has launched a new incentive: Great British Summer Savings 2026, to help families with the cost of living over the school summer holidays. The purpose of this new scheme is to encourage family days out while bringing the costs down. This is set to cover everything from eating out, attraction entry costs and travel across England.
From 25th June to 1st September 2026, VAT will be temporarily reduced from 20% to 5% on certain family activities with the expectation that businesses will pass these savings on through lower prices. The tax reduction will apply to:
- Children’s meals at restaurants
- Cinemas
- Theatres
- Concerts
- Exhibitions
- Shows
- Theme Parks
- Zoos
- Museums
- Soft-play centres
- Wildlife parks
- Fairs and circuses
Throughout August, kids in England up to the age of 15 can travel for free on participating local bus services.
We’ve verified price reductions with attractions that are listed on KidStart so you don’t have to. PLUS earn even more savings when you book through KidStart.
1. Knowsley Safari – Prescot, Merseyside.
Summer savings tickets from £22.38 per person.
Book now to earn up to 2.5% back for your kids
2. Alton Towers – Alton, Staffordshire.
Summer VAT Savings applied, from £29.75 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
3. Chessington World of Adventures – Chessington, Surrey.
Summer VAT Savings applied, from £29.75 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
4. London Eye – Westminster, London.
Summer VAT Savings applied, from £25.38 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
5. Shrek’s Adventure – Westminster, London.
Summer VAT savings applied, from £18.38 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
6. Madam Thussauds – Marylebone, London.
Summer VAT savings applied, from £23.63 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
7. Thorpe Park – Chertsy.
Surrey Summer VAT savings applied, from £29.75 per person.
Book now to earn 1.3% back for your kids
8. Sealife – Various Locations.
Summer VAT Savings and prices vary depending on location.
Book now to earn 1.3% on most bookings
Great British Summer Savings starts on 25th June. You can find out which nationwide restaurants are offering discounted meals for kids here. For more ideas and inspiration, do check out the KidStart blog here. Watch this space, we do have lots of Back to School content coming very soon.
Please note that prices and cashback rates are correct at the time of publishing on 19th June 2026.