School’s out! Your Summer starts here

With the school holidays here, it’s time to make the most of everything Barking and Dagenham has to offer this Summer.

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Your Summer Starts here slogen on red background. The other side of the banner is a photo of a child running in front of a house

 

Whether you’ve got a few hours to fill or you’re planning a full day out, there’s plenty happening across the borough to keep the whole family entertained.

You don’t have to travel far to make great summer memories. From award-winning parks and sports facilities, to family events, creative activities and community celebrations, your next adventure is closer than you think.

Cool off at Splashy Land in Barking Park, explore the great outdoors at Eastbrookend Country Park and enjoy the annual Teddy Bears Picnic, discover free activities in our libraries and Family Hubs, or soak up the atmosphere at one of many summer events. With so much happening throughout the holidays, there’s something for all ages to enjoy.

Take a look at what’s on below and start planning your summer in Barking and Dagenham. Your next great day out starts here!

Events

See the list of holiday activities

School’s out! Your Summer starts here

Other summer offers

Family hubs for under 5s

Discover free summer fun with Barking and Dagenham Family Hubs! Under 5s can enjoy fun activities and stay and play sessions, including Peep-a-Boo, Messy Play, and Musical Movements! 

Full list of events and more about Family hubs for under 5s

Summer half programme

Enjoy a range of fun, enriching, and healthy activities from sports and dance, to arts and crafts at locations including Future Youth Zone and The Rising Generation youth centre. Sessions include a healthy hot meal. 

For ages 5 to 16 years old. Both free and fee-paying spaces are available.

Weblink to find out more is coming soon

Get creative with pen to print

Get inspired with Pen to Print’s free summer programme of events. From author talks and storytelling events, to creative writing workshops and reading groups, there’s something for everyone.

Find out more about Pen to Print

Playground adventures

If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids busy – you’ll know play areas are just the thing! And, to keep things interesting there are 14 play areas to choose from in parks across the borough – so take your pick! 

Find out more on our 'Love your parks' page

Get active this summer

From tennis and basketball courts to football pitches and outdoor gyms, – there’s plenty you can do to get active this Summer. So, if you fancy trying your hand at something new, it starts here! 

Find out more on our 'Love your parks' page  

Or, why not check out ‘Much More This Summer’ at Everyone Active, offering £2 activities over the summer holidays! 

‘Much More This Summer’ at Everyone Active

Summer savings on your family day out

The government has cut VAT from 20% to 5% on family days out - from cinema and theatre tickets, to attractions and children's meals out. Less to pay, more summer to enjoy! Runs until Tuesday 1 September.

Pop in your postcode and see where you can save this summer:

Visit the Summer savings website

Kids eat free or £1 deals

Check out this round-up of major restaurant chains and supermarket cafés offering kids' meals for free or £1 including Ask Italian, Turtle Bay, The Real Greek and more!

See the options for kids eating free