Cheapies › Eating out with children on a budget
Eating out with children on a budget
Food is often the biggest extra cost on a family day out. Offers where children eat free or cheaply exist, but they come with conditions. This is what to look for in general terms.
Common types of children's food offers
We have not confirmed any specific national offer, and we do not list individual businesses here, because offers change often and often vary by branch. These are the types of deal that exist:
- Kids eat free with an adult main meal: typically on certain days or at certain times, sometimes in school holidays.
- Set-price children's menus: fixed price for a main and a drink or dessert.
- Early-bird or off-peak meals: cheaper if you eat early in the evening or at quiet times.
- Loyalty apps and vouchers: some chains or pubs offer discounts with an account or app. Read the terms about data and marketing.
- Attraction offers: some visitor attractions include a children's meal with entry or sell family meal bundles.
What to check before you go
- Age limit. It could be under 10, under 12, or something else.
- Number of children per adult. Some offers are one child per paying adult.
- Days and times. Many only run during certain hours or in holidays.
- Minimum spend and drinks. Does the adult need to buy a main course? Are drinks included?
- Whether it applies at your branch. Offers can be limited to certain sites. Check the website or call ahead.
Cheaper without an offer
- Share meals. Many places serve large portions. Ask whether a child can have a smaller portion.
- Lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants have cheaper lunch menus.
- Supermarket meal deals and cafés. Some supermarket cafés offer low-cost kids' meals, but check them yourself.
- Bring a picnic. See picnic spots for ideas and what to pack.
- Take snacks so you are not tempted by expensive treats between stops.
Free school meals and holiday support
Some families qualify for free school meals, and local councils in some areas run holiday activity and food programmes for eligible children. In England, the Holiday Activities and Food programme is government funded for children who receive benefits-related free school meals, and councils run it differently. Check your council's website. The rules differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, so use your local authority's information.
Food allergies
If your child has an allergy, ask about allergens before ordering, even on an offer menu. UK law requires food businesses to tell customers about the 14 major allergens in the food they serve; see the Food Standards Agency.
Pairing with a day out
A cheap meal pairs well with free activities such as museums and parks. Set a budget, look up the menu in advance, and agree what treats are allowed before you leave the house.
Budget tips on the day
Eat a good breakfast before you leave. Take water bottles. Agree a rule about treats. Sharing a pudding is cheaper than ordering one each. Ask for tap water rather than buying bottled drinks. Keep a small snack bag in the car or rucksack, and avoid buying food at the busiest tourist spots, where prices tend to be highest.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids really eat free?
Sometimes, with conditions. Check the age limit, days and times, and whether an adult must buy a main meal.
Are children's offers available everywhere?
No. Offers often vary by branch and change often. Check the venue's website.
Where do I check allergen information?
Ask staff and look at the Food Standards Agency's guidance, which explains what UK businesses must tell you about the 14 major allergens.