Great British Summer Savings: Cheaper Days Out and Kids Meals

The 'Great British Summer Savings' scheme has come into effect, providing families with cheaper days out and restaurant meals this summer through a temporary VAT reduction. The initiative, running across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland until September 1, aims to ease the cost of living pressures on households.

Participating Attractions and Price Reductions

Merlin Entertainments, which operates 20 venues including Alton Towers and Legoland, has updated ticket prices to reflect the VAT savings. Advance tickets for both parks now start at £29.75, down from £34. Wiltshire safari park Longleat has reduced the price of advance tickets for a family of four from £139.80 to £122.30.

Cinema chains Odeon, Vue, and Cineworld are also taking part. Odeon has announced that the price of a family ticket for two adults and two children will decrease from £32 to £28.50 this summer.

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Cheaper Kids Meals at Restaurant Chains

Restaurant chains including Greene King, McDonald’s, Wetherspoons, and Nando’s are lowering the price of children’s meals. Nando’s has cut the price of its “Nandino” meals from £6.95 to £6.08, while a children’s meal at Wetherspoon drops from £5.75 to £5.03. McDonald’s is reducing the price of a typical Happy Meal by 27% to £2.99.

Participation in the scheme is voluntary for businesses. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated: “The cost of living isn’t just about paying the bills, it’s about being able to afford the moments that matter with your family. Whether it’s a trip to the cinema, a day out together or family meal, too many parents have had to hold back because of pressure on household budgets – that’s why we’re slashing VAT on family days out this summer.”

Rachel Reeves added: “I know the cost of living is a number one concern for families, and it can be even harder over the summer holidays when kids want to do things and money is tight. So we’re making it that bit easier for families to make memories together and enjoy the little treats – while giving a boost to businesses across the UK.”