The last weekend of August always feels bittersweet. The long days of summer are drawing to a close, new school shoes are waiting in boxes, and routines are about to return. But there is still one final chance to enjoy family adventures before September begins.
Luckily, Cumbria and Lancaster have plenty to offer if you are looking for fun that will not stretch the budget. From interactive trails to storytelling in nature, here are our top picks for free or low-cost activities to help you squeeze every last drop of joy out of the holidays.
Kendal’s Cumbrian Adventure Trail – Free Fun in the Market Town
Kendal is famous for its cobbled yards, quirky shops, and crumbly mint cake, but this summer it has also been home to a brilliant interactive trail. Running until 31 August, the Cumbrian Adventure Trail invites families to step into a playful world scattered across the town centre.
Armed with a free map, you will hunt for clues, complete themed tasks, and uncover 36 fascinating facts about the area. The challenge is suitable for all ages, so younger children can enjoy spotting trail markers while older ones tackle the puzzles. Along the way, keep an eye out for participating shops displaying the “Trail Treat” symbol. Many offer free samples or little goodies to keep the kids smiling.
The trail even includes a stop at the Quaker Tapestry Museum, a hidden gem that brings history to life through colourful embroidery and interactive exhibits. Admission is free for trail participants, which makes it an excellent chance to introduce children to one of Kendal’s most creative attractions.
When your trail map is complete, drop it into the special box at Booths in Wainwright’s Yard. Every week, one lucky participant wins a £20 local shopping voucher. Best of all, the whole experience is completely free.
More info: Visit Kendal – Summer Trail
Hawkshead Grammar School Museum – A Glimpse into the Past
If you want an activity that is as educational as it is entertaining, head to Hawkshead Grammar School Museum. Nestled in the heart of the village, this historic school building dates back to 1585 and once educated none other than the poet William Wordsworth.
Children can sit at wooden desks scarred with centuries of carvings, leaf through old school books, and imagine what lessons were like in the days of quills and inkpots. The museum is small but packed with character, making it a great stop for curious young minds.
The best part? Entry is just £1 for under-16s, while adults pay a modest fee. For a low-cost family outing, it is hard to beat. Hawkshead itself is also a wonderful place to wander afterwards. With its cobbled lanes, whitewashed cottages, and tearooms serving homemade cakes, you can easily make a day of it.
More info: Hawkshead Grammar School Museum
Nature’s Story Walk at Sizergh – Tales in the Great Outdoors
For families who love the great outdoors, Sizergh Castle and Garden near Kendal is hosting something a little magical. On Sunday 31 August, visitors can join a free Nature’s Story Walk, a guided adventure that combines storytelling with the beauty of the estate’s gardens and woodlands.
Across two sessions, starting at 11am and 2pm, children will hear tales of dragons, trolls, brave children, and trickster spiders as they wander through nature. The mix of imagination and fresh air is perfect for little ones who prefer something more interactive than a traditional storytime.
Sizergh itself is a fantastic day out. You could bring a picnic, explore the castle grounds, or simply enjoy the chance to roam free in one of Cumbria’s most peaceful settings. Although the story walk is free, places are limited, so it is worth arriving early or checking in advance.
More info: Cumbrian Eye – Lakes Events
Making the Most of the Final Weekend
These three activities prove that you do not need to spend a fortune to make the last weekend of the holidays special. Between them, they offer history, creativity, and the chance to connect with nature, all without putting pressure on the purse strings.
If you are based in Lancaster or further afield, it is worth noting that Cumbria’s free and low-cost options are only a short drive away. Combine one of these activities with a picnic or an ice cream stop and you have a full family day out sorted.
And if the weather decides not to play along, Hawkshead Grammar School Museum provides a cosy indoor option, while Kendal’s trail can be enjoyed with umbrellas in hand. Sizergh’s story walk is outdoors, but there is something about listening to tales of trolls and dragons in the rain that makes it even more atmospheric.
