From 25th June to 1st September 2026, VAT will be cut from 20% to 5% on a range of family days out, including children’s meals in restaurants, children’s and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts and shows, and admission to attractions such as amusement parks, zoos, soft play centres and adventure parks.
The UK Government says the £300 million scheme is a targeted, temporary measure designed to ease pressure on household budgets during the school holidays, while supporting local businesses through increased footfall over the summer season.
With the school summer holidays often one of the most expensive times of year for parents, the scheme is intended to make it easier for families to afford days out without cutting back elsewhere. Ministers say the cut has been designed to be as simple as possible for businesses to apply, with savings expected to be reflected directly in prices at the till rather than requiring customers to claim anything back.
Commenting on the announcement, Claire Hughes MP said:
“Families in Bangor Aberconwy have felt the squeeze of the cost of living, making the summer holidays especially tough.
“This Labour government is helping parents give their kids a summer to remember with this VAT cut.
“That means saving money at places like Zip World, Cineworld Llandudno, and the Welsh Mountain Zoo – as well as on family meals and days out right across the area.
“I’d encourage local businesses to get involved and make sure families in our area feel the benefit this summer.”
The scheme applies across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with the Government encouraging operators to pass on savings to customers in order to drive visitor numbers during the peak summer trading period. Businesses that sign up will be listed on the Government’s website, making it easier for local families to plan days out and see the savings on offer near them.
For more information on savings in your local area, head to Find your family’s summer offer — Summer Savings.
Promoted by Claire Hughes at House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. This website is paid for independently by Claire Hughes MP, no public funds have been used in the production of this website.
