KEEPING kids entertained during the October half-term doesn’t have to cost the earth – or even a penny.
There’s free fun to be had up and down the UK, from museums chock-full of trains to outdoor art displays.
And what better way to top it off than with an overnight stay costing just £9.50pp for a family of four?
Travelodge has released more than 75,000 rooms for £38 or less during the break.
The chain is also offering free breakfasts for kids (under 15, with a paying adult).
You can even tuck into dinners for just £12.75 at some of its restaurants.
read more on half term tips
The offer runs from October 7 to 31 and to make the most of it, Travelodge has revealed some free half-term activities near its hotels.
Here’s our pick of the best.
The River Of Light gallery, Liverpool
THE Liverpool Waterfront will be lit up by a free outdoor illuminated gallery from October 27 until November 5.
Stretching for more than a mile, the River Of Light will showcase artworks from local, national and international artists.
This year’s theme is United By Light and includes a giant bouquet of lampshades and a display of mirrors with a mesmerising soundtrack.
See: visitliverpool.com/riveroflight
Stay at: Travelodge Liverpool Central The Strand
The National Railway Museum, York
TRAIN enthusiasts of all ages will love the Railway Museum, which is free to enter.
It’s home to some 100 locomotives including the Japanese Bullet Train and the world’s fastest steam locomotive, Mallard, which you can feel rocketing along at 126mph on a simulator experience.
Other highlights include an exhibition of the Flying Scotsman and Queen Victoria’s train.
See: railwaymuseum.org.uk
Stay at: Travelodge York Central
Botanic Gardens, Glasgow
THIS free-to-visit attraction holds more than 9,000 species including the national collection of tree ferns and plants from tropical rainforests, housed inside an impressive glasshouse.
The gardens are in the city’s West End and feature woodland and riverside walks.
See: glasgowbotanic gardens.com
Stay at: Travelodge Glasgow Central
Gwydir Forest, Snowdonia
AN enchanting woodland packed with moss-covered tree roots, lichen-encrusted rocks, climbing plants and brooks.
Follow the old miners’ paths and immerse yourself in the myths and legends of this place.
Don’t miss Swallow Falls, a spectacular waterfall, and The Ugly House, a mysterious cottage that’s now a tearoom.
See: visitconwy.org.uk
Stay at: Travelodge Bangor
The Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
FAMILIES can explore art and archaeology spanning almost 2,000 years at the free Ashmolean Museum.
If the Greek architecture doesn’t blow you away, then the impressive collection of Egyptian mummies and contemporary art will.
Kids will love the interactive digital guide (from £3pp for a family of four) that includes games, quizzes and stories.
See: ashmolean.org
Stay at: Travelodge Oxford Abingdon Road
- To book a £38 room, see travelodge.co.uk.