Looking for ways to keep the kids busy, active and entertained this summer? Across Manchester and Failsworth, there’s a whole host of free and low-cost activities on offer, from sports camps to science shows, outdoor crafts to indoor swimming.

Here’s a round-up of just some of what’s going on:

Free Swimming in Manchester

Young people under 16 living in Manchester can swim for free during public general swim sessions over the school holidays, and on weekends during term time too. Over 60? You swim for free as well!

Participating leisure centres include:

• Broadway Baths
• East Manchester Leisure Centre
• Manchester Aquatics Centre
• North City Family & Fitness Centre

Parktastic! Free Outdoor Activities

Parktastic is bringing games, crafts and fun to local parks across Manchester this summer. Just turn up and join in, perfect for kids aged 8+ (under 8s will need an adult).

Look out for pop-ups at:

• Ancoats Green (Tuesdays 4–6pm)
• Openshaw Park (Tuesdays 5–7pm)
• Bradford Park (Wednesdays 4–6pm)
• Cheetham Park (Tuesdays 5–7pm)
• Philips Park (Fridays 4–6pm)
• Scotland Hall Road Park (Tuesdays 4–6pm)

Creative & Cultural Days Out

Origami Peace Doves

People’s History Museum | Now – 31 Aug
Create your own peace dove to take home or add to the museum’s collection.

Tahini & Honey Cookies Workshop

Manchester Jewish Museum | 28 Aug
Bake delicious cookies inspired by Libyan flavours, suitable for all ages!

Santiago Yahuarcani: The Beginning of Knowledge

The Whitworth | Now – 4 Jan 2026
Explore Indigenous stories from the Amazon in this beautiful art exhibition.

Football City, Art United

Aviva Studios | Now – 24 Aug
See what happens when footballers team up with artists, kids under 16 go FREE.

Science & Discovery Fun

Summer of Senses – Science and Industry Museum

Science & Industry Museum | Now – 31 Aug
Live shows, hands-on activities and the very popular Bogie Lab!

Manchester Active Summer Programme

Various Locations | 22 July – 1 Sept
Hundreds of FREE places for children aged 5–16 on free school meals or with no recourse to public funds, including sports, crafts and day trips, plus a free meal.

If your child isn’t eligible, don’t worry, there are still plenty of paid and drop-in activities to choose from on the Manchester Active activity finder.

Failsworth Family Activities

Oldham Council is funding a fantastic range of free and low-cost activities in Failsworth. Here are just a few highlights (booking required via Oldham HAF):

Relax Kids – Failsworth Library

Ages 5–15 | Free breakfast, lunch and calming wellbeing activities.

Failsworth Sports & Gymnastics Camps

Ages 6–11 | Physical activity, team games, gymnastics coaching and more.

Failsworth Swim Camp

Ages 6–11 | Learn to swim in a fun, structured environment.

Buds & Blossoms Holiday Club

Ages 5–11 | Arts, crafts, outdoor play, baking, trips and even a smoothie bike!

South Failsworth Primary HAF Club

Ages 5–11 | Gymnastics, dance, farm trip, cooking and a full day of care with meals.

There’s something for everyone happening across our community this summer, so whether it’s a morning in the pool, an afternoon in the park, or a day exploring science and art, we hope you and your family can make the most of it.

Please note: All the events and activities listed are organised by Manchester City Council, Oldham Council, or independent third-party organisations. This blog is intended to help signpost opportunities, and we do not run or manage these events ourselves.