Top 10 Free Family Activities in Liverpool

Top 10 Free Family Activities in Liverpool

Liverpool is a city bursting with character, music, and history – but it’s also one of the most family-friendly places in the North West. Whether your children love exploring museums, running free in the park, or simply spotting boats by the water, there’s always something to do that doesn’t cost a penny.

For foster families, these days out can be especially meaningful. They’re a chance to create new memories together, try something different, and give children in your care the space to just be themselves. The good news is that in Liverpool, you don’t need to spend much to have a brilliant day out.

From dinosaurs to ducks, and libraries to beaches, here are ten of the best free family activities in Liverpool. Each one is perfect for spending time together, whether you’re fostering toddlers, teenagers, or anything in between.

Best Free Days Out for Families in Liverpool 

1. Albert Dock & The Waterfront

Liverpool’s Albert Dock is one of the city’s most iconic spots - and it’s completely free to wander. The cobbled walkways are lined with boats, museums, and colourful buildings that children love to explore. There’s plenty of open space for kids to run about, and families can enjoy the atmosphere without spending a thing.

For foster carers, simple outings like this are a great way to spend quality time together without the pressure of planning a full day out. A walk by the water, an ice cream on the dockside, or even just sitting watching the boats can spark natural conversations and moments of connection.

Plan your visit here

2. World Museum Liverpool

If you’ve got a child who’s curious about… well, everything, the World Museum is a brilliant free day out. From towering dinosaur skeletons and Egyptian mummies to bugs, aquariums, and even a planetarium (small fee applies), it’s a treasure trove of discovery.

Museums like this are perfect for foster families, especially when children arrive with different interests. There’s something for everyone, and it gives carers a chance to see what sparks a child’s curiosity. You might find that a love of space or animals becomes something you can nurture further at home.

Plan your visit here

3. Sefton Park

Sefton Park is one of Liverpool’s most beautiful green spaces, and best of all, it’s free. Families can picnic, kick a ball about, feed the ducks, or explore the palm house (a stunning glass structure filled with exotic plants!)

For foster children, open spaces like Sefton Park can be a chance to let off steam and simply play. For carers, it’s a gentle way to bond, whether you’re teaching a child to ride their bike, joining in a game of hide and seek, or just enjoying a walk together.

Plan your visit here

4. Museum of Liverpool

This family-friendly museum is dedicated to the city itself – from The Beatles to football, and from working life to children’s play. With interactive galleries and spaces designed for kids, it’s a fun way to learn more about Liverpool’s culture.

Foster children may have moved around or struggled with a sense of belonging, so exploring a city’s history together can help them feel more connected to where they live. Plus, it’s right on the waterfront, so you can combine it with Albert Dock for a full day out.

Plan your visit here

5. Croxteth Hall & Country Park

While there’s a fee to enter the hall itself, the grounds and country park are free to enjoy. Children can explore woodlands, spot wildlife, and run around in wide open spaces. It’s a great option for families who want a low-key, outdoor adventure.

For foster families, outdoor days like this can be a chance to slow down and enjoy the little things. Walking dogs, kicking leaves in autumn, or spotting rabbits and birds together can be just as meaningful as big days out.

Plan your visit here

6. Walker Art Gallery

The Walker Art Gallery is sometimes called the “National Gallery of the North”, and it’s completely free to visit. While you might not think of an art gallery as kid-friendly, the Walker has dedicated children’s areas with hands-on creative activities.

For foster carers, this is a lovely place to encourage creativity and imagination. Art can be a powerful way for children to express feelings, especially if they find talking difficult. You might find a child sketching, painting, or simply asking questions about what they see.

Plan your visit here

7. Liverpool Central Library

This is no ordinary library – it’s an experience in itself. The building is stunning, with a glass dome, sweeping staircases, and even a rooftop terrace with views of the city. Inside, the children’s library is huge, with colourful spaces for reading and play.

Libraries are also a great way for foster families to build routines. Borrowing books together can become a weekly ritual, and for children who’ve missed out on stories at home, it’s a gentle way to open up new worlds.

Plan your visit here

8. Crosby Beach & the Iron Men

Just outside the city, Crosby Beach is home to Antony Gormley’s famous Another Place sculptures – 100 iron men spread across the sand and sea. Kids love spotting them, running along the beach, and paddling when the tide is out.

For children in care, the wide-open space of a beach can feel freeing. It’s a place to laugh, play, and enjoy the kind of simple family fun every child deserves. Don’t forget a change of clothes though – splashing is almost guaranteed!

Plan your visit here

9. Calderstones Park & Storybarn

Calderstones Park is a local favourite with gardens, lakes, and play areas. Families can enjoy long walks or stop for storytelling sessions at The Storybarn, which often runs free or low-cost events.

For foster carers, storytelling is more than entertainment – it can be a way to spark imagination and help children process their own experiences. Listening to stories, or even making up your own as you walk, can become a shared tradition.

Plan your visit here

10. Mersey Ferry at Pier Head 

You don’t need to ride the ferry to enjoy it. Children love watching the boats come and go, hearing the horns, and spotting the Liver Birds looking down from the famous Royal Liver Building. The Pier Head is also a great place to soak up the buzz of the city.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest experiences – like watching ferries together – that children remember most. For foster carers, these little trips can become stepping stones to building trust and connection.

Plan your visit here

Why Free Days Out Matter for Foster Families

When you’re caring for children, especially those who’ve been through tough times, it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference. A walk in the park, feeding ducks, or exploring a museum can help children feel settled and cared for. These moments build happy memories and remind children that family life can be safe and fun.

At Olive Branch, we know that money can be a worry for foster carers. That’s why we provide a fostering allowance to cover day-to-day costs and family activities. And with so many free options in Liverpool, it’s easy to create those special moments without breaking the bank.

Learn more about foster carer pay and benefits.

Thinking About Fostering in Liverpool?

Liverpool is a warm, welcoming city with a strong sense of community – and it needs more foster carers. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could foster, our team is here to guide you through the fostering process and explain the different types of fostering available.

Every child deserves to enjoy days out at Sefton Park, World Museum, or Crosby Beach with a family who cares for them. You could be the one to make that happen.

Start fostering in Liverpool today and change a child’s life.

FAQs – Free Family Activities in Liverpool

Are Liverpool museums free to enter?
Yes – the main museums (World Museum, Museum of Liverpool, and Walker Art Gallery) are free. Some special exhibitions may have a charge.

What’s the best free activity for younger kids?
Sefton Park and Calderstones Park are great for little ones. For rainy days, the World Museum or Central Library are perfect.

Can foster carers claim back money for outings?
Your fostering allowance is designed to cover everyday costs, including family activities and travel. Free attractions make it even easier to make the most of this support.

Are there free seasonal events in Liverpool?
Yes – from summer festivals in Sefton Park to Christmas lights across the city, Liverpool is full of free community events for families.

Final Thoughts

Liverpool has so much to offer families, and the best part is that many of its highlights don’t cost a thing. From running free in Sefton Park to exploring dinosaurs at the World Museum or watching the ferries at Pier Head, there’s always something new to try.

For foster carers, these free activities are perfect for creating memories, building trust, and giving children the chance to experience the fun and freedom of family life. And with the support of a fostering allowance, it’s easier to make the most of these opportunities.

Every child deserves the chance to laugh, play, and feel part of a family. See more things to do in Liverpool, Manchester, or more budget-friendly family days out in the North West.