Barnet Families Benefit from Summer Savings Schemes

Families across Barnet are set to benefit from a series of initiatives designed to make summer days out more affordable. The government's Great British Summer Savings scheme, running until 1 September, offers reduced VAT on a range of family-friendly activities. This includes children's meals in restaurants, tickets for cinemas and theatres, and entry fees for attractions such as soft play centres and adventure parks.

Further support for families comes in the form of free bus travel for children. Throughout August, youngsters aged between five and 15 years old in England can travel for free on local bus services. Local businesses in Barnet are reportedly passing these savings directly to families, according to Dan Tomlinson MP, Labour MP for Chipping Barnet.

Local Events and Attractions

The borough is also hosting a variety of events throughout the summer months. The Music by Jack’s Lake Summer Music Festival is taking place on Hadley Common, with performances scheduled across June, July, and August. Visitors can also explore St John the Baptist’s tower, which is open to the public on Saturdays throughout July, offering panoramic views. The Barnet Food Festival is scheduled to take place at the RAF Museum on 12th and 13th September.

Other local attractions mentioned by Mr Tomlinson include GROW farm, where visitors can pick their own flowers on select days in July, August, and September, and open-air Shakespeare performances by Comedy of Errors on Hadley Green in August. North London Hospice's open gardens are also highlighted as a point of interest.

Mr Tomlinson also acknowledged the efforts of volunteers running school fetes and summer fairs, noting that some local events, such as the East Barnet Festival, have faced financial challenges this year due to rising costs.

Families seeking more information on eligible days out under the Great British Summer Savings scheme can visit summersavings.gov.uk.