However you’re spending the day — a big treat, a free afternoon, or a birthday party — there’s a guide here for it.
Over the past few months, I’ve put together honest, tried-and-tested guides covering the best of what Northamptonshire has to offer families: bigger ticketed attractions, free days out, buggy-friendly walks, birthday party ideas, and the planning know-how to tie it all together.
Rather than one long list trying to cover everything, this guide is organised by what you’re actually looking for right now. Pick the category below that matches your situation, and it’ll take you straight to the detail.
What’s covered in this guide
- Bigger, ticketed days out worth the price
- Free things to do that won’t cost a penny
- How to actually plan a day out that works for your family
- Buggy-friendly walks for new parents
- Birthday party ideas, including soft play specifically
Not sure where to start?
A quick way to work out which guide is right for you today.
Want a bigger day out and don’t mind paying? Start with places to visit
On a budget? Head straight to free things to do
Not sure how to choose? Read the planning guide first
Planning a birthday? Jump to party ideas
Browse by category
Find the right guide for today
Each one links through to the full, detailed guide.
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Bigger days out
5 Fun Places to Visit With Children in Northamptonshire
Ticketed attractions worth the price — Wicksteed Park, Billing Aquadrome, Go Ape Salcey Forest, and more, for when you want to make a full day of it.
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Free days out
5 Free Things to Do With Kids in Northamptonshire
No entry fee, no ticket needed — Abington Park, Stanwick Lakes, Sywell Country Park, and more, honestly reviewed including parking notes.
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Planning
5 Things to Know Before Planning a Family Day Out With Kids
The framework behind choosing where to go — weather backups, budget balance, and picking venues that work for mixed ages.
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Birthday parties
5 Brilliant Children’s Birthday Party Ideas in Northamptonshire
Soft play, dance parties, UV discos, farm adventures, and gymnastics — five venues tried and tested by local families.
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Soft play parties
5 Things to Know When Planning a Stress-Free Soft Play Birthday Party
A deep dive into soft play specifically — venue picks by age, package tips, and how to keep the whole day relaxed.
You don’t need to read everything to plan a great day.
Pick the one guide that matches what you need today. The rest will still be here next time.
Common questions about family days out in Northamptonshire
Written by a mum
Every guide linked here comes from genuine, tried-and-tested experience across Northamptonshire — not just the places that photograph well.
