Summer is here and the pressure is on to find fun and interesting days out for you and the children. If this wasn’t tricky enough, with admission and ticket prices soaring and the current state of the economy, more attention needs to be paid to your wallet.

Don’t fear, in fact relax! As we outline the 10 best free things to do in London with children this Summer. Allowing you to plan a great day out and not worry about it breaking the bank.

The Woodland Gardens, Bushy Park

While the weather continues to surprise us by remaining dry and hot, what better place is there to be than in a park. The Woodland Gardens comprises of two enclosed micro-parks, nestled within Bushy Park. There really isn’t a more perfect family picnic location. Ducks ponds, rabbits and an extremely child friendly cafe make this oasis a must see.

London’s City Farms

London is home to 11 city farms, meaning that there really isn’t a geographic excuse to not visiting one of these inspirational centres. Because they are mainly run by volunteers 10 of the 11 are free to enter. So whether you decide to embark on a horse riding course at Hackney City farm or would just rather pick up some free range eggs from Hounslow, treat the family to some farmhouse fun!

The Mayor’s Thames Festival

Running over the 11^th and 12^th of September is the Thames Festival, a free festival celebrating everything to do with the capitals best know river. Every event over the two days is free, with our pick being the river parade – with the flotilla sailing from the QE2 pier to Tower Bridge from 14:50. Get your pirate hats on and walk the plank down to the river’s edge.

Parliament Hill Lido (open air swimming pool)

This iconic lido which is commonly known a ‘Hampstead Heath lido’ has just had a whopping £2.9 million spent on it. In a city where space isn’t in abundance this lido with its reflective water and elevated views of the city takes you away from it all. Free to under 16’s before midday, take the family down and whilst they splash around, relax in front of the 1930’s architecture.

Battersea Park

If you are looking for a park closer to the centre of town, look no further than Battersea. While the weather continues to surprise us by remaining dry and hot, what better place is there to be than in a park. As child-friendly parks go, Battersea leads the way with a testing adventure playground and plenty of open space.

Lambeth Country Show

 Taking over Brockwell Park on the 17^th and 18^th of July is the Lambeth Country show, the concept behind it all being to bring the country into the city. Bringing all the fun of a country fair, with live music, storytelling, fairground rides, farm animals and plenty of games for everyone to join in. So bring an empty stomach and a longing for country treat – you won’t be disappointed.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground

 Swashbuckle your way to possibly the coolest children’s playground in the country. Located in Kensington gardens and focused around a giant submerged pirate ship playground is the Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. Inspired by J M Barrie's novel, Peter Pan - designed to be accessible and inspiring, kids will love playing in the tepees, on the beach, and running between the sculptures.

Covent Garden

The original and still the best place to see top quality street performers, in an environment which probably couldn’t be more London. It won’t keep you entertained all day, but a quick visit to Covent Garden should help set the scene and get their imaginations flowing.

The Scoop – More London

The Scoop at More London is an outdoor sunken amphitheatre with seating for 800. Throughout the summer months it regularly hosts a variety of free events. If you don’t mind staying up a bit late, the Scoop is screening ‘Up’ – the Pixar animated film from 7.30pm on the 30^th September. Entry is free; don’t forget to bring a balloon and some popcorn!

A towpath bike ride

If you and the family can get to West London with a bicycle, then there is no better cycle path than the towpath from Richmond to Hampton court. Picturesque river paths and a span of 300 years worth of architecture make this cycle route a parents dream. The main benefit for the kids of this path is that it is almost 100% flat, meaning less strain on their little legs, which ultimately means a better day out for everyone. Make sure you stop at one of the great family-friendly river pubs for lunch.

These ten ideas should at least prove that a day out in London doesn’t need to break the bank. Wherever you are there is always an event or destination with something going on – which is ultimately the beauty of our capital city.

These ideas and information are brought to you by Go To Town a website dedicated to revealing the true hidden gems in your city. Whether you want to find a romantic picnic location to propose or watch duck racing at the Glasgow river festival, www.go-to-town.co.uk is there to help.