Chancellor Rachel Reeves's new tax cut for days out comes into force across the UK from Thursday, June 25. The Great British Summer Savings initiative temporarily reduces VAT on ticket prices for attractions including theme parks, zoos, museums, and kids' meals from 20% to 5%, aiming to help families during the school summer holidays.
How the VAT Cut Works
The reduced rate applies from June 25 until September 1, covering the main summer break period. Schools in Scotland break up at the end of June, followed by Northern Ireland, England, and Wales in July. The initiative is designed to make family outings more affordable amid ongoing cost of living pressures.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: "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."
Impact on Families and Businesses
The VAT cut reduces the tax on admission tickets and children's meal deals at participating venues. Attractions such as Butlins have confirmed they will offer cheaper children's meals and day passes. Reeves emphasized that the measure is part of broader government support, including freezing fuel duty, taking £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares.
However, some families remain skeptical. Alan, 42, from Brighton, who regularly visits theme parks with his family, described the cut as "negligible" and said it only benefits those who go as a one-off. He noted that a theme park pass, which covers Legoland, Chessington World of Adventures, and Sea Life centres, offers better value for his family. Addressing energy and fuel costs would be more useful, he argued.
Expert Estimates
Helen Miller, director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies think tank, estimated the measures would result in an "average saving of around £10 per UK household." Reeves defended the policy, stating: "We are able to do this because we have the right economic plan, resulting in the UK having the fastest growing economy in the G7."
