If you’re planning on passing money or assets to your loved ones when you’re gone, your heirs could face inheritance tax bill bigger than ever before. According to the Office for Budget Responsibility, families will pay an extra £900 million in inheritance tax over the next five years.

But what does inheritance tax actually mean? Who is responsible? And how can you gift money without being taxed? Ellis Bates answer some common questions on the inheritance tax threshold, including how your family may be liable.

• What is inheritance tax?
• How much is the inheritance tax threshold?
• Does my property effect my inheritance tax?
• How do I gift property without being taxed?
• Who pays the inheritance tax bill?
• How does the RNRB differ from the NRB?
• Beat the taxman legally
• What does the future look like for inheritance tax?
• How can I help my family?

What is inheritance tax?

Inheritance Tax (IHT) is the tax that your beneficiaries may have to pay if your estate (or everything you own) exceeds a certain amount. Inheritance tax is usually a one-off payment, due after your death. It’s payable on all assets you owned during your lifetime, unless there is the benefit of any relief such as business property or agricultural relief.

How much is the inheritance tax threshold?

The current basic inheritance tax threshold is £325,000 for an individual. If the value of your estate exceeds this amount and does not have the benefit of any tax reliefs, inheritance tax will be payable at 40% on the amount that exceeds the threshold. So, for example, if your assets and savings add up to £500,000, the inheritance tax bill will be paid on £175,000 (£500,000 – £325,000). At 40%, that adds up to a bill of £70,000 to the Government – if you haven’t been savvy with your arrangements, that is!

The threshold can be transferred to the estate of a surviving spouse. So, a married couple or civil partner benefits from a combined basic inheritance tax threshold of £650,000. (Which means, in the example above, if your assets and savings add up to £500,000, no IHT needs to be paid).

The Government chose to introduce a complex piece of legislation called the Residential Nil Rate Band (RNRB) as of 6^th April 2017. This is available for residences inherited by children or grandchildren in addition to the existing nil rate band (NRB).

Does my property affect my inheritance tax threshold?

If the value of your estate is above the nil rate band (NRB), then the part of your estate that is above this threshold will be liable for tax at the rate of 40%. This means that larger estates can incur a large bill.

The residential nil rate band (RNRB) currently adds a further £175,000 to the NRB. Each person will therefore have a maximum allowance of £500,000, with surviving spouses potentially having an allowance of £1 million to transfer to children or grandchildren when they die.

Should you pass a property onto your spouse or civil partner when you die, there is no inheritance tax to pay. However, leaving a property to another person – including children or grandchildren – in your will counts towards the value of your estate.

In addition, if your child has lived with you as a tenant before you die – and has paid you rent, or has evidence that they pay some bills – your property may be exempt from IHT. Speak to a financial advisor for more in-depth help about this.

How do I gift money without being taxed?

Any money gifted more than seven years before you die doesn’t fall under IHT. You can also make up to £3,000 worth of gifts in any tax year to relatives without incurring a IHT charge. This allowance carries through to the next year if you haven’t used the previous year’s allowance. You can give as many gifts of £250 or less to unrelated friends as you like each year.

You can also gift one-off payments to your children up to £5,000 and £2,500 to grandchildren for life events, like getting married.

Be very careful, however, about giving money away if you’re planning to move into long-term residential care soon. Giving away lots of money before you move is ‘deprivation of capital’ and that affects your entitlement to state help for your (or your spouse’s) care.

Who pays the inheritance tax bill?

The most common method of paying inheritance tax is from the estate – or everything you own minus mortgage debt, and funeral expenses. However, if the tax is due on the gifts you made during the last seven years of your life, the people who receive the gifts must pay the amount due.

The only time inheritance tax is paid at all is if your estate (that’s your property, belongings, cars, other houses, stocks and shares – everything you own) adds up to more than the inheritance tax threshold.

How does the RNRB differ from the NRB?

The RNRB differs from the NRB in that it doesn’t apply to lifetime transfers, such as transfers into trusts or gifts given by an individual within a period of seven years before they died. This means that whilst the NRB could potentially be consumed through gift-giving in the last seven years of a person’s life, the RNRB would still be fully available.

Beat the taxman legally

There are various ways in which you can avoid paying inheritance tax.

MAKE A WILL!

Just do it…go on, you know you want to…well, all right, you don’t really. But if you don’t do it, whatever age you are, a large chunk of the money you have will go to the Government in one form or another. If you die intestate (without a will), you can’t control who gets your money. So, if your only living family is your long-lost auntie you never speak to, but you want to leave it all to your best friend, make a will!

For more information on how to go about it and how to do your own will if you’d like to go that route you can read our easy guide for getting a will written here.

Transfer assets to your partner

Asset transfers between spouses and civil partners are exempt from IHT. Whatever your partner inherits from you is tax-free. This doesn’t count if you’re only co-habiting, though: they must be a registered civil partner or spouse.

Give what you can before you die

Why wait to leave your loved ones financial help until you die? Giving them money now means you get to enjoy it with them! You could also spend your cash in other ways – such as taking your family on a holiday-of-a-lifetime to create memories they’ll hold forever. This way, you all benefit, and the tax man won’t grab your hard-earned (already-paid-tax-on-when-you-earned-it) money.

Leave money to charity in your will

If you have surplus in your estate, considering leaving a legacy in your will to a favourite charity or two. Go to Rememberacharity for more information on how to do this. You can also pay a reduce rate of 36% inheritance tax if anything is left to charity.

Invest in AIM shares

Until April 2026, shares listed on the Alternative Investment Market get 100% IHT relief if the money is held in the shares for more than two years. This changes to a 20% IHT rate after April 2026. The AIM is where most small companies first list shares, before transferring to the FTSE stock market when they’re more established.

AIM companies are unquoted, meaning they receive 100% IHT relief. Some aren’t unquoted though – specifically, those that are for investment companies and ones investing in property for rental yields. Make sure you’re investing in the right shares by speaking to an independent financial adviser first. Go to Unbiased for local financial advisers and the Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIT) for tax advisers.

Set up a trust

This is a written arrangement whereby an appointed trustee is given money or assets to hold and manage on behalf of the person you want to benefit. They’re a useful, if sometimes complex, way of giving money, property or shares to others while ensuring that someone you trust (hence the name) is overseeing them.

The most common set up is this: you pay 20% IHT on assets over your £325,000 limit when you pay into the trust. Then every 10 years, the value of the trust is re-evaluated and you pay 6% tax. Finally, when you die and the assets are taken from the trust, a further 6% is paid. So, if you put assets into the trust, live 12 years, then your trustees inherit, it’s a total of 32% tax paid instead of 40%.

Trusts are useful in situations such as remarriage, as your spouse can continue to benefit from the income of assets (such as rental properties) without being able to sell the assets themselves. If you want to leave your children from your first marriage a protected inheritance, this is one way to do so. Or, you can set up a trust where the trustees decide how the assets and money are split. So, if you make your children the trustees and grandchildren beneficiaries of the trust, your children decide how the money is divided.

You can create a trust while you’re alive by a formal trust deed (or ‘settlement’) or you can create one in your will (a ‘will trust’). You will need advice on this so find out about local experts from the Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP).

What does the future look like for inheritance tax?

Although the threshold remains steady, the property market is continuing to rise. This means that many families will continue to face larger inheritance tax payments. Those in the south of England, where property prices have risen dramatically over the past 20 years, will undoubtedly feel ensnared by the 40 per cent charge.

How can I help my family?

Making sure your will is up to date and tax efficient, you can maximise the amount loved ones may receive. However, as each person’s circumstances can greatly differ, it’s important to seek professional guidance on all inheritance tax matters. Ensure you are taking all the steps you need to minimise your inheritance tax bill after you pass.  If you’re think of equity release as an option, find out more here.

The post What is the Inheritance Tax Threshold? appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

With analysts predicting that Gen Alpha will be wealthier, more entrepreneurial, and more socially conscious than previous generations, it’s vital to understand the emerging financial trends shaping their world in 2025 and beyond.

In this guide, we break down the top Gen Alpha money trends, backed by up-to-date UK data, to help parents, educators, and policymakers support this generation’s evolving relationship with money.

1. Digital Pocket Money Is the Norm

Physical money is going out of fashion for Gen Alpha. Instead, prepaid cards and apps like GoHenry, RoosterMoney, Revolut <18, and HyperJar Kids are teaching children how to spend, save and budget in a digital world.

• As of 2025, over 65% of UK children aged 6–14 use a digital pocket money app (Source: Finder).
• These apps allow parents to automate allowance, set chores, track spending, and introduce interest on savings.

2. Virtual Economies Are Teaching Spending (and Risky Habits)

Games like Roblox, Fortnite and Minecraft are central to how Gen Alpha learns about value exchange. Virtual currencies like Robux and V-Bucks are often their first experience with budgeting.

• 85% of children aged 6–13 in the UK play games involving microtransactions (Source: Ofcom 2025).
• Many children associate in-game spending with real-world value—and learn hard lessons when the currency runs out.

Tip for parents: Set spend limits, use parental controls, and talk to children about digital value vs real-world money.

3. Financial Education Is Starting Younger

Today’s millennial and Gen Z parents are prioritising financial education from early on. Many start teaching money lessons by age 6, using apps, board games, and family discussions.

By age 8, many Gen Alpha kids can:

• Track their own digital spending
• Understand interest and compound savings
• Differentiate between needs and wants

Schools are also starting to adapt. Some UK primary schools now include budgeting and saving in the curriculum—though rollout is patchy.

4. Influencer-Driven Consumerism

Gen Alpha is growing up with social media from birth. YouTube, TikTok and Instagram shape their wants, needs, and money mindset.

• Influencer culture has introduced kids to branded products and sponsored content by age 5
• Children are increasingly requesting products they’ve seen online

This creates pressure to spend, and can fuel comparison and materialism. Parents and teachers are being encouraged to introduce conversations around value, advertising and mindful consumption.

5. Kids with Side Hustles: Mini Entrepreneurs on the Rise

Whether it’s slime-making, YouTube tutorials or selling homemade crafts, Gen Alpha is already entering the creator economy.

• Etsy and TikTok are popular platforms for kids (with parental accounts) to market products
• Platforms like Kidpreneurs and Young Enterprise are helping children turn hobbies into mini-businesses

Many of these “side hustles” are done with parental supervision, and they help instil early lessons about profit, marketing, and even tax.

6. Green Spending and Social Values Matter

Sustainability and ethics are major priorities for Gen Alpha. They’re more aware of climate issues than any generation before—and their spending reflects that.

• Parents report their kids asking for eco-friendly toys, second-hand clothes, and plastic-free packaging
• Gen Alpha is influencing family purchasing towards greener options

Brands that don’t align with these values are starting to lose favour with Gen Alpha households.

7. Rising Money Anxiety Among Kids

With more access to media, Gen Alpha are also more exposed to discussions around inflation, job insecurity and the cost-of-living crisis. This has led to growing financial anxiety—even in primary school children.

• In 2025, 1 in 4 UK children aged 8–13 say they’re worried about money (Source: Money & Mental Health Foundation)
• Experts are calling for age-appropriate ways to talk to kids about financial stress and family budgets

Tools like mindfulness apps, visual money trackers, and honest but calm conversations are helping children build financial resilience.

8. The Future of Gen Alpha Finance

As this generation grows up, expect big changes to the financial landscape:

• Demand for fintech products tailored for kids and teens
• Stricter regulation of child-targeted advertising and in-game purchases
• Earlier inclusion of money lessons in UK schools
• Greater focus on values-based banking and ethical investing for young people

How to Support Gen Alpha with Money in 2025

• Set up a free trial of a money app like GoHenry or RoosterMoney
• Use fun, age-appropriate games to teach budgeting (like Monopoly Cash Decoder or The Game of Life)
• Have open conversations about money values, advertising, and the difference between “rich” and “wealthy”
• Explore free financial resources for parents at MoneyMagpie.com

The post Gen Alpha and Money: The Biggest Financial Trends Shaping the Next Generation appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

But here’s the good news: you could save over £1,000 a year with a few smart tricks.

This complete guide is packed with money-saving tips for travelling around London, from TfL hacks and railcard discounts to free days out and hidden concessions. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or planning cheap family adventures, this is your ultimate travel cheat sheet for 2025.

1. Use Contactless or Oyster to Maximise Daily and Weekly Fare Caps

Never buy paper tickets in London—they’re often the most expensive option. Instead, use Oyster or contactless cards, which automatically cap your fares:

• Daily cap (Zones 1–2): £8.50
• Weekly cap (Zones 1–2): £42.70

Savings tip: Switching to contactless/Oyster could save you £300+ per year if you’re still using Travelcards or paper tickets.

2. Save 33% on Rail with a Railcard (Yes, Even in London)

Railcards aren’t just for long-distance travel. Many work on off-peak TfL and National Rail services within London, giving you serious savings.

Popular 2025 railcards:

• 16–25 Railcard – £35/year
• 26–30 Railcard – £30/year
• Disabled Persons Railcard – £20/year
• Two Together Railcard – £30/year
• Family & Friends Railcard – £35/year

Savings tip: Using a Railcard for just 2–3 off-peak journeys a week could save you £200–£300 per year.

3. Concessions & Free Travel Schemes for Londoners

If you meet the criteria, free or discounted travel is up for grabs:

• Freedom Pass – Free off-peak travel for older or disabled Londoners
• 60+ Oyster Card – Free travel after 9am for London residents aged 60+
• Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card – Up to 50% off for those on Universal Credit
• Veterans Oyster Card – Free travel for eligible ex-forces personnel

Savings tip: Eligible users could save £800–£1,200 a year through these schemes.

4. Cycle with Santander Bikes from Just £1.65

Santander Cycles (aka Boris Bikes) are one of the cheapest ways to get around London:

• £1.65 for a 30-minute ride
• £3/day for unlimited 30-minute journeys

Savings tip: Switching from Tube or bus to Santander Bikes just a few times a week can save £300–£500 a year.

5. Walk or Split Your Journey to Cut Travel Costs

Sometimes, walking a few extra minutes between stations can help you avoid crossing zone boundaries or unnecessary changes.

Examples:

• Walk from Elephant & Castle to Borough to avoid Zone 1 fares
• Walk instead of switching Tube lines during peak times

Savings tip: Smart walking and journey splitting can save £100–£200 a year.

SEO keywords: how to avoid Zone 1 fares, cheapest ways to commute in London, walking vs Tube savings

6. Cheap Days Out: Free Attractions & 2-for-1 Deals

Make the most of what London has to offer without breaking the bank:

• Check Bablands for free family events, play spaces, and holiday activities
• Use National Rail 2-for-1 deals for big attractions
• Get a London Pass or Go City Card for bundled entry savings

Savings tip: Families using these offers could save £400+ a year.

7. Advance Tickets, Cashback & Discount Sites

Booking early and shopping smart can boost your savings even further:

• Book train tickets in advance for up to 60% off
• Use TopCashback or Quidco for cashback
• Browse Wowcher and Travelzoo for travel and show deals

Savings tip: You could save £100–£200 annually with cashback and deal sites alone.

Summary: Estimated Annual Savings

Total possible saving: £1,200–£2,000+ per year

Conclusion: Travel London for Less in 2025

With fares rising and household budgets stretched, this is the year to get smart about how you travel. Whether you’re commuting, parenting, or planning a staycation, these tips can help you save over £1,000 a year.

Get started today: switch to contactless, apply for a railcard, check out Bablands, and start stacking those savings. London is yours to explore—without overspending.

The post How to Save Over £1,000 a Year on London Travel in 2025: Tips, Discounts & Hacks appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

At MoneyMagpie, we’ve rounded up the best Father’s Day 2025 offers – and don’t worry, this guide is gift-free. (For that, check out our Father’s Day Gift Guide).

Where Dads Eat Free on Father’s Day 2025

Frankie & Benny’s

• Free steak or pint for Dad when you pre-book a table over the Father’s Day weekend.

• First 1,000 bookings get a free sirloin steak with any child’s meal; all other bookings receive a free pint or bottle of Peroni.

The Coconut Tree

• Dads eat three dishes for free on Father’s Day when accompanied by a full-paying adult.

• Available at all branches UK-wide.

TGI Fridays

• Dads get a free drink when dining with family (check app for participating locations).

• Must be booked through their website or app.

Free Drinks for Dads

Greene King Pubs

• Claim a free Jack Daniel’s drink when dining with a paying guest between 12–18 June.

• Sign up to their mailing list to receive the voucher.

Wetherspoons (Selected Locations)

• Some locations offering free pint vouchers or discounts on meals – ask at your local branch.

Beefeater & Brewers Fayre

• Dads receive a free drink or dessert with the purchase of a main meal.

• Offers vary by location – check online in advance.

Free Entry for Dads at UK Attractions

Many UK attractions are letting Dads go free for Father’s Day 2025, provided they’re accompanied by a paying child or adult.

Dartmoor Zoo

• Free entry for dads on 15 June with a full-price ticket.

• Limited capacity – booking required.

Twinlakes Park & Wheelgate Theme Park

• Free dad entry on Father’s Day when accompanied by a full-paying child.

• Includes all rides and splash zones – perfect for a fun day out.

Powderham Castle

• Free access for fathers when visiting with a paying child.

• Enjoy beautiful grounds and Father’s Day-themed activities.

Eden Project (Cornwall)

• Free entry for dads and grandads with a paying child or grandchild.

• Dine in and Dad also gets a free pint with a main meal.

Quirky & Fun Father’s Day Freebies

Free Father’s Day Socks (Vodafone VeryMe Rewards)

• Vodafone customers can claim a free pair of socks from SOCKSHOP, only pay £2.95 P&P.

• Offer available from 6–12 June or until 30,000 pairs are claimed.

Free ‘Walk a Mile with Dad’ T-Shirt (Co-op)

• Co-op is giving away 5,000 Father’s Day T-shirts.

• Apply from 11 June via their website.

Freebies with Cashback (No Net Spend!)

Free Tool Kit via TopCashback

• New TopCashback users can claim a 100% cashback deal on a tool kit from Prezzybox (up to £10).

• Simply sign up, make the purchase, and receive cashback within weeks.

Tip: You can only claim this offer once per household and must use the exact tracking link provided by TopCashback.

Tips to Snag the Best Father’s Day Freebies

1. Pre-book everything – most deals require reservations or pre-registration.

2. Read the fine print – some offers require app downloads or newsletter sign-ups.

3. Check social media – local pubs, restaurants and attractions often post one-day-only offers.

4. Don’t delay – freebie deals often have limited stock or expire quickly.

Our Wild Card is…

‍ Joy Runs: A Thoughtful Gift for Active Dads

Joy Runs is a free, UK-based running community that introduces a new themed challenge each week—ranging from ‘nature’ to ‘colour’ to ‘wonder’. Participants are encouraged to interpret the theme in their own way, run at their own pace, and share photos from their journeys. It’s a creative and mindful approach to running that adds a fresh perspective to regular workouts

For Father’s Day 2025, consider introducing your dad to Joy Runs as a way to combine fitness with fun. It’s an excellent opportunity for him to engage in weekly challenges, connect with a community of like-minded individuals, and find new motivation in his running routine.

To get started, visit joyruns.co and sign up for the weekly themed challenges.

By incorporating Joy Runs into his routine, your dad can enjoy a renewed sense of purpose in his runs, making Father’s Day 2025 both memorable and meaningful.

Celebrate Dad the Smart Way

You don’t need to splash out to make Father’s Day 2025 special. With these brilliant UK Father’s Day deals and freebies, you can give Dad the royal treatment on a budget – and even join in on the fun.

Keep checking back, as we’ll update this page with any last-minute deals in the run-up to Father’s Day!

The post The Best Freebies and Deals for Father’s Day 2025 in the UK (No Gifts Required!) appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

If you’re looking for an affordable way to entertain the family during the summer holidays, you’re in luck. Kids Week 2025 is back—and it’s bigger than ever!

Running throughout August 2025, Kids Week offers free theatre tickets for children aged 17 and under, when accompanied by a full-paying adult. It’s one of the best deals in the London entertainment calendar—and yes, it’s 100% legit.

But these tickets go FAST. Read on to find out how it works, which shows are included, and how to grab your seats before they’re gone.

What Is Kids Week?

Kids Week is an annual initiative run by Society of London Theatre, aimed at making theatre more accessible to young people. Despite the name, it runs for the entire month of August, not just one week.

How it works:

• One child aged 17 or under goes free with a paying adult

• Up to two extra children can attend for half price

• Many shows also offer free activities, such as cast Q&As, backstage tours, or dance workshops

When Do Tickets Go On Sale?

Booking opens at 10am on Tuesday 11 June 2025

Tickets sell out quickly—set an alarm and be ready to book early that day!

You can only book through the official site:

Official Kids Week 2025 Booking Page (OfficialLondonTheatre.com)

What Shows Are Included in Kids Week 2025?

The full line-up will be confirmed closer to the booking date, but based on previous years, you can expect a mix of:

West End family favourites:

• The Lion King

• Wicked

• Frozen The Musical

• Matilda

• Mrs Doubtfire

• Back to the Future

Musicals and plays for older kids:

• Les Misérables

• Six

• The Play That Goes Wrong

• Phantom of the Opera

New or lesser-known shows often sneak in—great for bargain-hunting theatre fans!

How Much Can You Save?

The savings are substantial. With West End tickets often costing £50–£100+, Kids Week can save you:

• £50–£150 per family

• Up to 3 children per adult can benefit (1 free, 2 at half price)

• Some matinees and weekday performances offer the best seat availability

Tips to Get the Best Seats

Be flexible with dates and times
Mid-week shows often have better availability
Book early on 11 June—popular shows sell out fast
Create an account on Official London Theatre before tickets go live

Make It a Budget Day Out

Here are some quick tips to keep the rest of the trip affordable:

• Travel off-peak and book trains early

• Bring snacks or eat at a family-friendly spot like Pizza Express (kids eat free deals often available – check out our deal’s pages for the most up to date offers)

• Combine your trip with a free London museum or walk along the Southbank

Check out our guide: Free Things to Do in London with Kids

The post Act Now to Get Free West End Shows For Kids This Summer appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

Supermarket and In-Store Cafés

Asda Cafés

• Kids’ meals available for just £1 
• Includes vegan and healthy options.
• Comes with a free piece of fruit.
• Available all day, every day, with no minimum adult spend required. Check out the menu online.

Morrisons Cafés

• Kids eat free at Morrisons cafes with the purchase of an adult meal (£4.50 or more).
• Offer applies to children under 16.

Dunelm Pausa Cafés

• Kids eat free when an adult spends at least £4 at a Pausa cafe. Includes a main, drink, and two snacks.

IKEA Restaurants

• Ikea can always be relied upon to have affordable options, such as kids’ pasta with tomato sauce and a drink for 95p.
• Other kids’ meals available for £1.50.
• Offer available daily from 11 AM.

Family-Friendly Pubs

Beefeater, Brewers Fayre, Table Table & Whitbread Inns

• Unlimited breakfast: Up to two kids eat free with every adult breakfast (£10.99).
• Offer available daily.

Hungry Horse

• Kids’ meals for £1 every Monday.
• Larger kids’ meals for £1.50.
• Two children can dine per full-paying adult.

Sizzling Pubs

• Kids’ main meals for £1 Monday–Friday (3 PM – 7 PM).
• Offer extends to 12 PM – 7 PM during school holidays.

SA Brains Pubs

• Kids eat for £1 every Wednesday.
• Applies to children up to 12 years old.
• Offer valid with a full-priced adult main meal.

Restaurants Offering Kids’ Deals

Bella Italia

• Kids eat for £1 Sunday–Wednesday (4 PM – 6 PM).
• Kids eat free all day on Thursdays.
• Includes a three-course meal and a drink (for ages 2-11).

The Real Greek

• Free kids’ meal on Sundays with a £10 adult meal purchase.
• Includes a main, drink, and dessert (ice cream or sorbet).
• Applies to children under 12.

YO! Sushi

• Kids eat free during school holidays.
• Requires a £10 minimum adult spend.
• Offer includes a free Bento Box.

TGI Fridays

• Kids eat free all day every day for Stripes Rewards members.
• Available with an adult main meal purchase.
• Includes dishes like chicken burgers, hot dogs, and pasta.

Pizza Hut

• Free kids’ buffet (unlimited pizza, pasta, and salad) daily until 3 PM during summer.
• Requires a £10 adult spend.

Travel-Related Dining Deals

Heathrow Airport Restaurants

• Kids eat free at selected restaurants during school holidays.
• Requires an adult main menu item purchase.

Premier Inn

• Up to two kids eat breakfast free with a full-paying adult.

Travelodge

• Two kids (15 and under) eat breakfast free per full-paying adult.
• Excludes the ‘Breakfast To Go’ option.

May Half Term 2025 Special Offers

Cote Brasserie Kids Eat Free

• Kids under 12 eat free from 23rd May – 1st June
• Minimum adult spend £20
• Sign up to Cote club before booking

Marco Pierre White Restaurants

• Kids eat free during school holidays
• Excludes Saturdays after 6pm
• One free kids’ meal (starter + main or main + dessert) with every adult ordering from the à la carte menu.

Prezzo Italian Restaurants

• Kids eat free during Easter.
• Includes a three-course meal.
• Offer 26th May – 1st June.

BrewDog

• Kids under 13 eat free with an adult meal from 24th May – 1st June.
• Pre-book online using code: KIDS EAT FREE.

Bill’s

• Up to two kids eat free with one adult main purchase.
• Valid May 26th – 6th June (excludes weekends).

The Coconut Tree

• Kids eat free from May 25th – June 1st
• One child (under 10) per paying adult.

Burger King

• Kids eat free with an adult meal purchase.
• Offer valid via Burger King app (May 26th – June 1st).

Las Iguanas

• Free meal with drink for kids under 12 26th May – 1st June.
• No app or booking necessary.
• Adult meal purchase required.

Gordon Ramsay Restaurants

• Kids under 8 eat free all day, every day.
• Applies with an adult à la carte meal purchase.

Purezza

• Free pizza for kids under 10 with an adult meal.
• Offer valid all day, every day.

These offers provide great opportunities for families to dine out without stretching their budget. Availability and terms may vary, so it’s best to check with individual establishments before visiting. Enjoy your meals and happy savings!

If you or any know of any other places you would like us to add then pop them in the comments and we will check them out, or alternatively, if you are a business then email us at vicky.parry@moneymagpie.com.

The post Where Kids Can Eat Free or Cheap in the UK (2025 Guide) appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

It’s coming up to half-term for UK schools, and that means extra costs for parents as they find ways to entertain their kids. Worry not – we’ve got loads of ways to pack your half-term with fun things to do for free or cheap!

DINE OUT FOR £1! 

The school holidays can be an exciting time for many. Children are excited at the prospect time away from the confines of school and families can spend some quality time together. Some may even have a nice holiday booked or finally have the time to visit family who live far away. 

But the school holidays are not all sunshine and rainbows. For many, school holidays induce a sense of anxiety. Financial worry clouds the minds of many, as many household costs increase during this period. 

Time off school means many parents are spending more time at home with their children. This leads to increased energy use due to more electronics being used, food being cooked and the use of radiators as the days get chillier. Similarly, more food is being eaten at home, with the break not only on education but the provision of free school meals. Many people rely on these meals to feed their children one full, hot meal per day. 

Check out our EATING FOR £1 FEATURE to see where you can take your kids this half term for cheap. 

Leeds Royal Armouries

Leeds Royal Armouries always goes all-out for school holidays and May is no exception. This half term, go to a free jousting show and learn about the medieval sport; visit exhibits about gladiators, and take part in free workshops. Entry to the museum and jousting is entirely free; there are some extra paid activities such as learning to shoot a crossbow and an escape room experience (school holiday time only). Parking is plentiful and it is easy to get to by bus or train, too.

Story Explorers at The British Library, London

A new exhibition running from May 2025 – January 2026, Story Explorers at the British Library is an interactive exhibition exploring a collection of items related to important books and parts of literature, with lots of different areas to get stuck into. It’s free, but you need to book a ticket online to choose your time slot. Sessions are kept to 30 people maximum to allow plenty of space for everyone to take their time to enjoy the exhibit.

Greenwich Dog Show, Sunday 25th May 2025

A free event for all canine lovers, this popular dog show at the Old Royal Naval College grounds has plenty to keep the family (and pooches) entertained for the entire day. You can enter your dog into several different categories, from waggiest tail to best rescue dog to best golden oldie and even best Bridgerton dog! It’s free to attend the event, and tickets to enter dogs into the contest are £10. More activity and booking details are available on the website.

Brockwell Bounce, Wednesday 28th May 2025

A family friendly festival in Brockwell Park, Brockwell Bounce is a free event with music, entertainment, workshops, food and drink, and more. It’s only 0.3 miles from Herne Hill station and 1 mile from Brixton. Book tickets and find out more on the website.

THEATRE TREATS 

For older children, you could nab £10 theatre tickets for the National Theatre this half term with their 16-25 scheme. Your local theatres may also offer special discounts or there may even be free shows by your local theatre groups in half term, so take a look at your regional theatres to see if you could bag some cheap tickets.

Many theatres offer special discounted rates during half term – book fast, as tickets get snapped up quickly! Check out London Theatre Direct for London shows, or look at your local theatre for discounts and offers.

Some theatres offer discounted tickets for people in receipt of Universal Credit, Disability Living Allowance, Pension Credit and other income-tested benefits. For example, Opera North offers £10 tickets and National Theatre of Scotland offers £5 tickets – check your local theatre’s website for details.

CINEMA for £2.49 

And there are also heaps of kid-friendly offerings from Vue, with both adult and child tickets from only £2.49 per ticket. Vue’s Mighty Morning sessions for kids aged 4-11 give both adults and kids the chance to experience big screen entertainment for a very small price, and run every Saturday and Sunday morning from 10am, plus every day in the school holidays (with availability likely to change depending on when your child’s holidays occur).  

Picturehouse cinemas offer £3.30 kids tickets on Saturday mornings, while their family ticket for other showings saves a lot overall as adults pay a child’s fee, too! If you’re a frequent cinema goer, it’s also worth looking at investing in an annual membership. Picturehouse, for example, starts from £100 a year for an adult which includes ten ‘free’ tickets, access to £1-only screenings, and booking discounts plus more.

Make sure to check out more cinema deals on our dedicated page.

GO TO THE ZOO for only £3 

London Zoo offers £3 tickets for anyone currently receiving Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support or Jobseeker’s Allowance.  

• The £3 tickets are available for the whole family and under 3’s go free.  
• Tickets can be purchased from the admissions kiosk on the day, from 11am, every day of the week.  
• Just bring proof of benefit letter (electronic or paper). 
• Check offer details at www.zsl.org/CAS

Here’s a list compiled by TripAdvisor on some of the best zoos and aquariums in the UK. 

 If you regularly go for days out to your local Sea Life, as well as want to participate in other adventures like LegoLand, Thorpe Park, Chessington World of Adventures, Alton Towers and more, it could be worth investing in a Merlin pass, which gives you unlimited access to tons of places across the UK for a year.

Whipsnade Zoo and other zoos may also offer Universal Credit and means-tested benefit reduced ticket prices, check their websites before you visit.

VISIT MUSEUMS

Most local museums are free to enter, donation required, or have a small entry fee that can be minimised with a family ticket. They are a great way to entertain the kids in the May half term, and you’ll often find your local museum runs free activities during the school holidays to help further your child’s education and get them engaged in history.

Outdoor museums are also a great way to make the most of May sunshine while exhausting the kids as you go around!

If you’re in or near London, free museums can each take a whole day to explore, filling your May half term week! The British Museum, Natural History Museum, Science Museum and Victoria and Albert museum are all free, as are the Tate Modern and Tate Britain.

Don’t fret if you’re not in London either – there are literally hundreds of free museums in the UK. The CBeebies website has a brilliant free museum finding tool.

SWIM FOR FREE 

Check your local authority for their free swimming lessons opportunities, as well as the pools in your area. Wandsworth Council, for example, offers free swimming lessons for 5-7 year olds during half term and kids under 8 can always swim for free at their pools.

ENGLISH HERITAGE 

250 of the 400 sites run by English Heritage are free to visit. From remote stone circles to ruined abbeys, and Norman castles to Roman temples, you can explore thousands of years of history for absolutely nothing. 

The Neolithic Woodhenge is just over three miles from Stonehenge. Built around 2300BC, we know that six concentric rings of timber pillars once stood here, but no one is quite sure why. The timber posts may have supported a building, or they may have been painted and carved like totem poles. Today the holes where the timber would have been are marked with concrete blocks, but you can still get a sense of the size and atmosphere of this mysterious place. 

Intriguing and important moments in English history from the Roman period right up to the Cold War have left their mark on Dover Castle. It’s a fascinating site to visit. 

The beautiful gardens and woodlands at Wrest Park showcase three centuries of garden design influenced by French, Dutch, Italian and English styles. There are activity packs and audio trails for families as well as a play area by the cafe. 

The remains of Titchfield Abbey are impressive. After the Suppression of the Monasteries it was converted into a grand country house but you can still see some of the medieval remains. Look out for the elaborate chimneys. 

Netley Abbey is the most complete surviving Cistercian abbey in southern England. John Constable once came to paint here, and it’s rumoured to have inspired Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. It’s been a popular place to visit since at least the 1840s, when some visitors complained that the abbey’s atmosphere was being spoilt by ‘the popping of ginger beer’! 

Bishop’s Waltham Palace was once the grand home of the wealthy Bishops of Winchester. A three storey tower still stands, as do the palace’s high walls and some of the windows of its great hall.

Universal Credit Reduced Admission Fees

If you’re in receipt of Universal Credit, Pension Credit and sometimes also Housing Benefit or other income-related benefits, you could go to activities and attractions for a significantly reduced entry price if you have proof of receipt of the benefit. Always check the website for details as they are subject to change especially during popular times of year such as summer holiday season.

Examples include:

• Annual Royal Transport Museum Pass for just £1
• Chatsworth House – £3
• Westminster Abbey – £1 per adult, free child tickets
• RHS Gardens – £1 for six at some RHS venues
• Historic Royal Palaces – £1 at major attractions like the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace
• Kew Gardens – £1 Entry
• York Castle Museum – FREE
• Eden Project – £5 adult, £1 child up to 15 years old
• The King’s Galleries – £1
• St. Paul’s Cathedral – £1
• Roald Dahl Museum – £1
• Canterbury Cathedral – FREE
• London Wetland Centre – £3
• Blaenafon Ironworks – £1
• Castell Caernarfon – £1
• Chepstow Castle – £1
• HMS Belfast – £3
• Cutty Sark – £2
• Royal Greenwich Pirates – £2
• Royal Observatory – £2
• Manchester Jewish Museum – FREE
• York Art Gallery – FREE
• Dove Cottage and Wordsworth Museum, Grasmere – FREE
• Lightroom London – £5 Tues and Thurs after 1pm
• Castle Howard – £3
• Harewood House – £2
• Westonbirt, National Arboretum – £1

The post Cheap and Free Things To Do This Half Term appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

1. Exercise While Working From Home
2. Eat Healthily When Working From Home
3. Money and Health Tips
4. Stay Mentally Healthy While Working From Home
5. Working From Home Routine

Exercise while working from home

Something as simple as getting out for a walk or run everyday will improve your mood and keep you healthy. The best thing about this is it’s outside, so you can get some fresh air and maybe even some sunshine at the same time. Cycling is also a good option if you prefer it.

There’s also no shortage of online workouts you can do from home. YouTube has a wide range of workout videos for free that will suit all abilities. Whether a 20 minute lunchtime HIIT session is your thing or a pre-bed yoga routine is more your style, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Eat healthily when working from home

Endless takeaways seem like the easy option and the temptation to regularly order in is strong, especially as you aren’t walking past any shops on your way home from the office to pick up fresh groceries after work!

If you can, keep takeaways to the minimum or cook your own healthy alternatives to your favourite classics.

Keeping to regular meals can also help. It’s very easy to mindlessly snack while working from home – hands up if you’ve polished off a whole packet of biscuits in a day before!

Sticking to regular, nutritious meals will help prevent this as you should feel full and satisfied for longer after eating.

Don’t forget to drink water too. It’s very easy to find yourself on your fourth of fifth coffee without realising it, but don’t forget coffee is actually dehydrating. Make sure to balance it out with regular glasses of water. This is also a good way to keep you moving as you have to get up every hour or so to fill up your glass.

Money and health tips

Working from home can help you save money and improve your financial health. For starters, you don’t have the cost of the commute or the allure of after work drinks!

But, there are expenses to working from home and the costs could rack up quickly if you don’t watch out.

Electricity will be a big cost when you’re at home all the time. To keep your electricity costs down, turn your power switches off at the wall when you’re not using them. You could also consider switching providers. Many offer a referral bonus if you can convince a friend to switch, too.

Heating is another big expense, especially in the colder months. Try and wear extra socks and jumpers rather than heading to the thermostat as soon as you get a bit chilly.

Where possible try and avoid ordering lunch each day, however tempting it might be. Although cooking endless meals can get tiring, it will help you save a lot of money, so your bank balance will thank you in the long run.

If you’re finding you’re not spending as much money – whether it’s from not commuting or buying lunch each day – try and avoid leaving it sitting in your current account. This will just increase the temptation to spend it when the opportunity presents itself again.

Instead, consider opening a savings account. Out of site, out of mind really does work. Your money will be protected and ready for you to spend when you really need it.

Stay mentally healthy while working from home

Being isolated working from home alone (or just with your partner and family around) can take its toll on your mental health.

A good starting point is to stay connected with your friends. Arrange catch ups over coffee or even call your bestie on your lunch break. If you’re both freelancers, consider setting a regular ‘work date’ where you spend time together while working.

Take some time each day to relax and switch off. A lot of people find mindfulness helpful for this. You can find out more about mindfulness here.

If you find yourself struggling more than usual, it could be worth seeking individual therapy. Talking through your problems and getting specific help and guidance can be very helpful.

Of course, if your feelings are seriously worrying you do speak to your GP or a medical professional.

Set a routine

A routine is crucial to staying healthy while working from home.

It may seem tempting – particularly without the commute hanging over you – to keep snoozing your alarm, but try and avoid this.

Instead, get up each morning and follow the same pattern. Whether it’s having a coffee, a shower, or cooking yourself a nice breakfast, the important thing is to stick to a routine and avoid lying in bed with your laptop all morning.

It’s also really important to take breaks and get away from endless screens regularly. A quick stand up and stretch every hour, will help avoid aches and pains while giving your mind a much-needed break.

Where you can, take a proper break in the day and get some fresh air. Getting out in daylight will make a big difference if your working hours allow it. Schedule this into your day to stop yourself from putting it off because it’s a bit too cold or raining.

If you’re struggling with productivity, or social media scrolling is distracting you too much, try scheduling in fun activities as rewards. This could be anything from a break to watch an episode of your favourite TV show after you’ve met a deadline or even a bubble bath.

It’s a good idea to mark the end of the working day too. Try to avoid checking your emails well into the evening and working anti-social hours. Instead, shut your laptop down and put it away until the morning once you’ve finished for the day.

The post Working from Home – Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

If you’re a parent trying to save money (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), there’s a little-known gem that could unlock hundreds of pounds worth of free days out for your kids — and it’s been around for decades. We’re talking about the good old Blue Peter badge.

I had one myself when I was a child, and let me tell you — it felt like having a VIP pass to the best bits of Britain. I remember proudly showing it off at museums and gardens, convinced I was basically royalty. Now, seeing it still going strong (and still saving parents a small fortune) makes me a bit nostalgic — and very excited for today’s badge holders.

In 2025, a Blue Peter badge can get your child free entry to over 200 UK attractions — from wildlife parks and science centres to castles and theme parks. All they need to do is earn it and show their badge and ID at the gate. It’s that simple.

Let’s break down how it works, where you can use it, and how your child can bag one of their own.

What is a Blue Peter Badge?

Awarded to children aged 5–15, a Blue Peter badge is a reward for sending something creative to the Blue Peter team — think drawings, poems, short stories or ideas for the show. If successful, they’ll receive the badge in the post, along with a Blue Peter badge ID card.

Top Tip: The badge alone isn’t enough — they’ll need to show their personalised ID card too.

The badge and card give children free access to attractions until their 16th birthday.

Apply for a badge on the BBC site here

Where Can You Use the Blue Peter Badge in 2025?

Here are some standout destinations where your child gets in for free with a Blue Peter badge and valid ID:

Zoos & Wildlife Parks

• ZSL London Zoo – Home to over 750 species.

• ZSL Whipsnade Zoo – A huge safari-style zoo in Bedfordshire.

• Edinburgh Zoo – Famous for its pandas and penguins.

• Africa Alive! – An immersive wildlife park in Suffolk.

• Twycross Zoo – Offers badge holders free entry with a full-paying adult.

Museums, Science & Discovery

• Magna Science Adventure Centre – Industrial science meets hands-on fun in South Yorkshire.

• The Eden Project – Biodomes and interactive exhibits on sustainability.

• The Science and Industry Museum, Manchester – Engaging for all ages.

Castles, History & Culture

• Hever Castle – Childhood home of Anne Boleyn with stunning gardens.

• Jorvik Viking Centre – A ride through Viking York — smells included!

• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Get on board HMS Victory and explore maritime history.

Theme Parks & Outdoor Fun

• Adventure Island, Southend – Wristband deals available for badge holders.

• Wookey Hole Caves – Explore magical caves and dinosaurs!

• Heights of Abraham – Cable cars, caverns, and countryside views in the Peak District.

How to Get a Blue Peter Badge

Here’s the simple process:

1. Get Creative: Encourage your child to draw something, write a story, or create a poem.

2. Submit via Post or Online: You can apply for a badge on the BBC website.

3. Wait for the Badge & ID Card: If successful, they’ll receive the badge and later the all-important ID card.

It can take up to 10 weeks, so plan ahead if you’re thinking about summer holidays or half-term trips.

Tips for Using Your Badge

• Bring the badge AND the ID card – No card, no entry!

• Double-check in advance – Always visit the attraction’s website or call to confirm they still participate.

• One paying adult – The child gets in free, but they must be with a full-paying adult.

• Use it often – There’s no limit to how many times you use the badge — so milk it!

Final Thoughts from Vicky

Honestly, this is one of the best budget-saving tips I know for families — and it’s got a bit of nostalgic sparkle too. I remember being so proud of my badge as a kid, and now it’s lovely to see it still going strong, helping families make memories without the price tag.

So if your child’s even a little bit arty, story-loving or creative, encourage them to go for it. It’s a brilliant reward system — and a passport to free adventure.

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Free UK Attractions With a Blue Peter Badge in 2025 – Full List & How to Apply

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Discover how your child can get free entry to 200+ UK attractions in 2025 with a Blue Peter badge. Includes full list, how to apply, and money-saving tips.

The post How to Use a Blue Peter Badge to Get Free Days Out in 2025 appeared first on MoneyMagpie.

If you’re the sort of person who likes to take some reading material into the bathroom with you, then why not try to make money on the toilet instead?

Here are 10 things you can try:

1. Do an online survey – or three
2. Check Free Postcode Lottery for a chance to win money every day
3. Slogan competitions
4. Save money by switching your gas and electricity
5. Earn while you surf
6. Save money by switching your car insurance
7. Save money by your home insurance
8. Come up with a killer business idea
9. Come up with a new TV game show format
10. Sell your toilet roll tubes
11. Play Games

Do an online survey – or three

Online surveys are a quick and easy way to make money on the toilet. They can be quick or long, depending on which one you do.

We like Inbox Pounds. It’s easy to sign up simple to use wherever you are. Including the bathroom.

In fact they give you £1 just for signing up, so you’ll be making money even If it’s a very quick visit.

Take a look at our article on how to make money with online surveys to see even more survey sites that will can be used to make money on the toilet!

Check the Postcode Lottery for a chance to win money every day

Now this really is a quick and easy one.

Check the Free Postcode Lottery for an opportunity to win money every day. On some days they have over two thousand pounds to give away if it’s been a roll-over.

All you need to do is sign up with your email address and postcode. Then you check the site each day to see if your postcode is the winning one. It’s that easy. Read our article about it here.

They also have other ways to win such as an Emoji Lottery and a Video Lottery. So if you happen to be someone who takes a little while on the toilet, then this may be worth a try.

Check it out and sign up for free here.

Come up with slogans for competitions

We love competitions at MoneyMagpie. In fact, we often tell you about upcoming contests in our newsletter (sign up here to get them sent to your inbox).

As you can see in our article on how to get money and freebies through competitions, some companies run slogan competitions, here you have to come up with a clever little phrase about their product to win the prize.

Save money switching gas and electricity

If you’re reading this on your smartphone right now, you could be saving yourself a tidy sum just by switching your gas and electricity provider. You don’t even need your bills to see how much you could save. Just put your postcode into the box here and see which companies are offering you a cheaper deal.

It’s likely that it will be one of the smaller suppliers. They are doing their best to get into the market and compete with the larger providers who dominating it.

Check it out now and make some money!

Earn while you surf

You could win up to £250 a month just for surfing the net with this competition site called Neilsen.

They have been known to give up to £30,000 away every year.

 Save money switching your car insurance

Again, while you have your mobile phone on you consider switching your car insurance. Your car insurance premium may have gone up since you last checked, but you can save yourself money by switching to a cheaper deal than you have now.

Take this time do explore the different options that are available.

Switch to a better car insurance deal here.

 Save Money switching your home insurance

According to Which? Magazine you should be able to save money by switching your home insurance. While sitting on the throne you may have some time to kill. Why not try this?

Do it here. Switch to a better home insurance deal.

Come up with a killer business idea

Is visiting the loo the only time you get some peace and quiet and time to think? It is for some people, if so then spend a bit of extra time to ponder a killer business idea.

You probably already have one rattling around your mind. Use this time to work out how to do it, what you will need to start and how to make a profit.

We have plenty of ideas for you, as well as lots of help and advice to hey you started here on our small business section. For example, take a look at this article with twenty tips for setting up your own business.

Come up with a new TV game show format

Feeling creative? Being on the toilet can be a good time to come up with story ideas for a novel or other creative pursuit.

But have you ever considered creating a TV game show idea?

Game shows can be hugely lucrative if you can come up with an original concept it right. People make hundreds of thousands from a successful idea they came up with which was then sold to production companies all over the world.

See our article here on how to come up with a winning TV game show format.

Sell your toilet roll tubes

It’s possible to sell the cardboard insides of your toilet rolls on eBay. There really are people who need them for craft projects and will buy them off you. Sell them for about £7 per 50. If you have a family you will probably get through a lot and will be able to gather 50 rather quickly.

It’s not a major income by any means, but it’s simple enough to do.

Play Games

For all the gamers, help to improve game development by getting paid for testing games. Find out how here.

Sign Up – Newsletter

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