This weekend, families have the exciting opportunity to book hundreds of free and discounted tickets for a variety of fantastic events and attractions across Birmingham and the surrounding area.
Birmingham Heritage Week has returned with an impressive programme for 2024, offering families the chance to explore the city’s rich history without breaking the bank. As the parenting editor for BirminghamLive, I appreciate how this festival can save families a significant amount on days out, with new surprises each year.
One noteworthy highlight this year is the inclusion of an extraordinary ‘rainbow dome’ church in Aston. Its interior is unlike anything you might expect locally, resembling the grandeur of cathedrals in Rome or Paris rather than a typical church in Birmingham.
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Among the festival’s offers, the beloved Selly Manor is hosting a free open day. Given that family tickets usually cost around £18, this represents excellent value. Having visited several times myself, I can confidently recommend it as a memorable and enjoyable family day out.
Additionally, you can obtain free tickets to visit the Back-to-Backs, Birmingham’s city centre National Trust property, and New Hall Watermill in Sutton Coldfield, which also features a charming cream tea room. Lesser-known locations that are typically closed to the public will also open their doors, such as Moseley Park, which includes a mysterious ice house, usually kept under lock and key.
From Saturday 15 August, free and discounted tickets become available for popular sites like Thinktank Science Museum, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and Winterbourne House and Gardens. These tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so early booking is essential.
This week also features appealing offers during the school holidays. West Midlands Safari Park has reduced children’s ticket prices for the summer, but availability is limited. Drayton Manor is running a ‘solar eclipse flash sale’ on annual passes for just five days, so families should act swiftly.
Mary Arden’s Farm, a well-known Stratford-upon-Avon attraction, will be open to the public for one day only before it closes to all but school visits in August 2024. Tickets are just £5 for adults and £1 for children, offering a rare chance to explore this historic site.
Looking ahead, the Just So Festival at Rode Hall near Stoke on Trent is approaching. Local residents with postcodes ST7, CW11, and CW12 can access discounted tickets, making this an attractive option for families nearby.
Lastly, a heartwarming story from Little Adventures Nursery in Washwood Heath highlights community spirit. Staff planned a seaside trip for the children, only to be overwhelmed when 200 family members expressed interest. They eventually chartered four coaches, enabling many children to experience the beach for the very first time. This touching event reminds us of the joy that simple outings can bring.
Wishing everyone a fantastic week ahead and remember to stay cool!
Love, Zoe x
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