We always spend part of the summer holidays in Great Yarmouth visiting family and are forever on the lookout for new places to go, on a budget, of course! If you're looking for fun, affordable days out in and around Great Yarmouth this summer, here's a guide full of free and cheap things to do, perfect for families.
Beach Day
Let’s start with the best and totally free option—beach day! Great Yarmouth’s Central Beach is ideal for sandcastle building, beach games, or a relaxing stroll with an ice cream. For a quieter spot, head to Gorleston-on-Sea or Hemsby Beach.
Pack a picnic to keep costs low, and you’ve got an entire day of fun sorted!
Joyland Amusement Park
Joyland gives the girls so much nostalgia. We've been visiting here for years and years. Entry is free, and you simply pay per ride using tokens.
The old-school vintage rides like the iconic Snails and Tyrolean Tubs are only a couple of pounds each. It’s great fun for the kids and honestly, I love them too!.
Time & Tide Museum
This fascinating museum is housed in a converted herring-curing works and tells the story of Yarmouth’s multicultural maritime history, from Ice Age beginnings to modern seaside life.
There are interactive exhibits, recreated Victorian streets, and historic fishing smacks, plenty for all ages. Entry is reasonably priced, and it's a nice change from the usual seaside activities.
In the summer, they also host fun extras like circus skills workshops, mechanisation demos, and heritage talks, many of which are included in the ticket price.
Wellington Pier
Looking for something indoors? Wellington Pier is a good option with affordable ten-pin bowling. It’s ideal for rainy days or just a break from the sun. There’s also a bar on-site, perfect for a cheeky shandy while the kids bowl!
Merrivale Model Village & Crazy Golf
For under a tenner, you can explore this charming mini-world packed with model buildings, gardens, crazy golf, a mini railway, and even a tearoom.
We’ve been coming here since the girls were little, and they still love it. They also decorate the village throughout the year—Halloween displays are always really cool.
Seafront Arcades
The arcades are everywhere along the seafront and can be as budget-friendly (or not) as you want them to be.
We love the 2p machines, there's always a bit of excitement trying to win some cheap and cheerful prizes - "tat," as we affectionately call it :)
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens
A bit further out, Thrigby Hall Wildlife Garden is a great family day out. You’ll find tigers, red pandas, and more exotic animals.
Located on Filby Road, it’s easy to find with Google Maps or a sat nav. You’ll get a map on arrival, showing you where everything is—from animals to the café and toilets. It’s spacious, walkable, and full of things to discover.
Hippodrome Circus
This was always my dad’s favourite place to go. The Hippodrome Circus is an affordable evening out that truly feels special, packed with acrobatics, laughs, and even a water finale.
They’ve got popcorn, ice cream, and even a little café for those who love an iced coffee and cake. Perfect for a family treat.
We’ve made so many memories over the years in this lovely little seaside town and we hope this guide helps you make some of your own too
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