THE summer holidays can be an expensive time for families with young children. Entrance fees to many attractions such as theme parks, well-known sites like London’s Madame Tussauds, Birmingham’s Sea Life Centre and Warwick Castle, can burn a big hole in the family purse for a single day out.

However discount code business PromotionalCodes.org.uk is offering some tips for keeping the kids happy and active during the summer break while making sure spending stays under control.

The firm suggests families can make the most of their money by looking for the best deals. Instead of blowing £30 on a family cinema ticket, they should look out for the junior showing costing just a few pounds.

Booking in advance to visit a theme park can save around 20 per cent, while it could be cheaper to take public transport rather than jumping in the car when heading off to an attraction.

There are even some activities that are completely free such as going to a museum, spending a day at a local country park or creating a water park in the back garden.

Darren Williams from PromotionalCodes.org.uk said: “I’ve got two young kids so know just how pricey the school summer holidays can be, especially if the weather’s bad.

“Keeping them busy is a must if you’re going to avoid sibling squabbles or complete boredom so planning in advance is a great tip, especially if you are having a day out at a theme park or attraction.

“If you look around locally, there will be stacks you can do for free. Museums, for example, will be geared up for the holidays and will have plenty of free activities on to keep the kids happy.

“Country parks are another great place to head – lots of open space and always a great playground. If you have bikes, take them a long too and peddle around the park.

“You could try fruit picking and then make us some delicious jams or cakes or, if you want to keep it simple, meet up with a group of friends and their kids and let them all burn off some energy together.”

PromotionalCodes.org.uk suggestions include:

1. Museums. Head to a museum for a fun and educational day out. Most are free to enter and will have interactive displays or trails perfect for your children. Take your own food and drink.

2. Sports sessions. If your kids are members of a football team or sports club, check out whether the coach is planning extra sessions or a mini tournament during the holidays. If not, get a group of children together and run your own sports day, football match or game of rounders.

3. Country Parks. Head to a local country park. Take a picnic, a few outdoor games and invite some friends along and you’ll have a great – and cheap – day out.

4. Play dates. Meeting up with friends and their kids will always result in a great day. It can be as simple as a picnic in the park - if the children are together and get on, time will fly.

5. Create your own water park. If the cost of visiting a water park is too much, create one at home. Fill up the paddling pool, get out the water slide and find the water pistols. Your kids will have hours of fun and will water the garden at the same time.