The summer holidays are finally here, and with the glorious sunshine set to continue, it's the perfect time to get out and explore in and around Cheltenham.
To help you make the most of your summer for less, we've rounded up some of the top local attractions taking part in the Great British Summer Savings Scheme.
Watch this space for more attractions joining the Summer Savings Scheme throughout the summer.
What is the Great British Summer Savings Scheme?
From 25 June to 1 September 2026, VAT will be slashed on eligible activities, helping families enjoy weekend treats, days out and the small plans that make life enjoyable over the summer holidays during the cost of living squeeze while supporting the businesses that depend on summer footfall.
Great British Summer Savings is a targeted and temporary scheme to reduce the costs of children’s meals in restaurants, children’s tickets for theatres and cinemas and tickets for everyone for attractions like soft play, adventure centres, and theme parks helping families enjoy a day out for less.
Free bus travel for children will also run from 1 to 31 August and covers participating local bus services across England. This could save a family with two children who make a weekly return trip at a £1.50 child fare £27 in August.
Which Cheltenham businesses are taking part in the Great British Summer Savings Scheme?
Cotswold Farm Park
Our local farm park, Cotswold Farm Park, is offering reduced admission until 1 September, making it a great value family day out this summer.
Visitors can meet the farm animals and enjoy a packed programme of seasonal events, including Sheep Fest and the Flower Fields Festival. The festival offers the chance to explore beautiful flower fields, and dogs are welcome to join the experience too.
Sudeley Castle
As part of the scheme, our local castle, Sudeley Castle, is offering reduced admission on adult, senior, child, family and group tickets for parties of 15 or more, alongside a discounted children's lunchbox at the Pavilion Café for £7.
With stunning gardens to wander, historic exhibitions to explore and animal sculptures hidden throughout the grounds, there is plenty to spark the imagination of young explorers.
Cineworld Cheltenham
As part of the Summer Savings scheme, Cineworld is offering discounted children's and family tickets.
Running until 1 September 2026 and including standard performances and event cinema screenings, it's the perfect excuse for a family trip to the cinema, located at The Brewery Quarter, this summer.
Nature in Art
Nature in Art in nearby Twigworth, Gloucester, is taking part in the Summer Savings scheme, offering reduced admission prices throughout the summer. Adult tickets are £6.75, concession tickets are £6, family tickets are £17.50, and children under eight go free.
With a programme of exhibitions running throughout July and August, it's an affordable and inspiring family day out for nature and art lovers alike.
270 Climbing
270 Climbing, located between Cheltenham and Gloucester, is taking part in the Summer Savings scheme by reducing entry prices for all its family orientated activities, as well as the cost of children's meals in its café bar.
Activities include sessions on both the high and low ropes courses and fun wall sessions, making it a great day out for families looking to have fun this summer.
Free bus travel this summer
Families can enjoy exploring Cheltenham this summer with free bus travel on participating buses for children aged 5 to 15 throughout August.
Visit the GOV.UK website for full details and to find more attractions participating in the Summer Savings Scheme.
