Half term is here — and while the days are getting shorter and the mornings a little chillier, autumn is one of the most magical times to get outside as a family. The best part? You don’t have to spend a penny to make memories that last.
At Tutography, we believe learning doesn’t stop when school’s out. Many of the best lessons — curiosity, creativity and teamwork — happen beyond the classroom walls. So here are our favourite free autumnal activities for families across the UK this half term, perfect for keeping young minds active and inspired.
Pull on your wellies, grab a bag and head out to a nearby park, woodland or even your local green space. Look out for crunchy leaves, conkers, acorns and maybe even some fungi or squirrel activity!
Learning twist: Turn your walk into a scavenger hunt — tick off items on a printable checklist or make your own. Ask children to describe what they see, feel and hear to develop observation and vocabulary skills.
🪵 Try this: The Woodland Trust has free downloadable nature-spotting sheets for children.
Bring some autumn treasures home and get creative! You can make leaf rubbings with crayons, create collages or design funny 'leaf people' with sticks and googly eyes.
Learning twist: Identify the trees the leaves came from and label them — it’s a hands-on way to explore science and literacy together.
Cosy afternoons call for home baking! You don’t need fancy ingredients — try apple slices with cinnamon, flapjacks or simple soda bread (a traditional Irish staple).
Learning twist: Baking is brilliant for practising measuring, fractions and sequencing. Let your child weigh the ingredients and set the timer — a fun (and tasty) maths lesson.
Libraries across the UK often run free half-term events — from storytelling sessions to arts and crafts. Even on a quiet day, they’re perfect for exploring new books and escaping the rain.
Learning twist: Choose a themed book about autumn, animals or science. Afterwards, encourage your child to retell the story or draw their favourite scene to boost comprehension and creativity.
📍 Tip: Check your local council website for event listings at nearby libraries.
As the clocks go back and nights draw in earlier, it’s the perfect time for a bit of stargazing. Wrap up warm, head to a local park or your back garden, and look for constellations like Orion or Cassiopeia.
Learning twist: Download a free app such as Star Walk 2 or visit the BBC Sky at Night website to identify stars and planets. It’s a brilliant way to explore science and storytelling under the night sky.
Encourage reflection this autumn by creating a 'gratitude tree.' Draw a tree on paper or use real branches in a vase. Each family member can write something they’re thankful for on paper leaves and hang them up.
Learning twist: This activity supports emotional literacy and helps children practise writing, empathy and reflection — important life skills that go far beyond the classroom.
Many UK museums, galleries and heritage sites offer free entry or special family days during half term. From the Natural History Museum in London to smaller local attractions, there’s something for everyone.
Learning twist: Before your visit, ask your child what they’d like to find out. Afterwards, encourage them to create a short 'museum diary' or draw their favourite exhibit.
📍 Tip: The National Trust often runs free trails and outdoor activities for families during school holidays.
Half term doesn’t have to mean expensive outings or endless screen time. With a little creativity (and a good pair of wellies), you can make autumn an adventure full of learning, laughter and connection.
At Tutography, we know that every experience — whether it’s reading in the library, exploring nature or baking together — helps children grow in confidence and curiosity.
So, make the most of the golden leaves and crisp air this half term. The best memories are often the free ones.
Keep the learning momentum going!
Tutography offers friendly, one-to-one online tutoring across all subjects and key stages — helping students stay curious, confident and ready for the new term.
