Do you ever find yourself wincing as you come to pay for kid’s activities? An innocent day out can leave your purse feeling forlorn, especially when you add in the cost of meals. We’ve rounded up some budget friendly ideas in the North-east, so you don’t have to break the bank to have a fun day out.

ABERDEEN ART GALLERY
This is a real gem in Aberdeen’s crown, and surprisingly child friendly. Entry is free, and you can explore the incredible collection which features more than 700 pieces by artists including Monet and Renoir. The building itself is beautiful with plenty of space for little ones to explore. Head to the middle floor where children can get hands on with sketching and magnetic boards. There’s a brilliant dress up area where you can have your picture taken and appear in your very own portrait. If you plan ahead, you can attend some of the family friendly events including workshops and quizzes. Take a sketch pad in case inspiration should strike, you can easily spend the whole day here. If you’ve had your fill of all thing’s art, Marischal Square is only a short walk away. Kids will love the impressive leopard monument, and the fountains opposite Marischal College offer hours of fun on a warm day.

MARITIME MUSEUM
From incredible tales of life at sea to fascinating artefacts and more, the Maritime Museum can be found on Shiprow and is well worth a visit. The Aberdeen fishing memorial is right outside and a great talking point before you embark on a voyage back in time. You can learn more about life on shore thanks to a scale model of the Murchison Platform, challenge the whole family to spot the tiny divers. The top floor of the museum has fantastic views across the harbour, and the numerous exhibits unravel the stories of Aberdeen’s maritime history. Entry is free, happy sailing!

HADDO HOUSE & COUNTRY PARK
This beautiful estate near Tarves is run by the National Trust for Scotland, and is worth a visit all year round. The grounds offer the ultimate adventure playground, with equipment made from wood to suit the surroundings. Kids of all ages will love the tree house, mini castle and zip wire. You can buy duck food on site, remember no bread for the feathery residents of the two lakes. There are also geese, numerous trails through the woods to explore and wildlife to look out for. Multiple picnic areas are perfect for a packed lunch, although the courtyard café offers a delicious menu as does Mrs Smith’s where you’ll find tables under cover. Entry is free, unless you opt for a tour of the grand Haddo House itself which was completed in 1732.

Other purse friendly ideas

  • Rockpooling at Collieston Beach
  • Playdate at Aden Park, Mintlaw
  • University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum
  • Winter Gardens at Duthie Park