25 fantastic free events to attend in February 2026

It might be the shortest month of the year, but February is still bursting with exciting free events guaranteed to lift your spirits. From half-term adventures for families at WWT centres to celebrating Chinese New Year and engaging talks you can enjoy from the comfort of your sofa, we’ve rounded up our pick of 25 brilliant free events to add to your calendar this February.

Please note that some of the listed events are exclusive to Boundless and Boundless Plus members.

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

As well as getting access to exclusive events, Boundless members enjoy unlimited free or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, plus year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

Simply click on a link below to jump straight to:

• Free nationwide events 
• Free events in London & the South East
• Free events in the South West & Wales
• Free events in the Midlands & East
• Free events in the North of England
• Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland
• Free online events

Already a Boundless member? Simply log in to gain full access to all the offers and benefits included in your membership.

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Boundless members enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

Free nationwide events

Credit: WWT

Support wildlife on World Wetlands Day

Worldwide, 2 February

Take inspiration from WWT wetland habitats and celebrate World Wetlands Day by helping to boost biodiversity by creating a pocket-sized wetland of your own at home. You don’t need a large garden to make a difference: an old sink, tub, or container placed beneath a drainpipe can become a simple, low-maintenance mini pond in no time.

Let it fill naturally with rainwater to provide a vital source of drinking water and a breeding spot for wildlife – before long, you may be welcoming frogs, insects, and even dragonflies.

Have a splashing great time at Mudfest

WWT centres nationwide, February half-term

It’s time for kids to get gloriously messy! WWT’s annual Mudfest flips the usual rules on their head, inviting little ones to splash, splatter, and squelch their way through half-term fun.

Tackle muddy obstacle courses, craft messy masterpieces, and whip up delightfully grimy creations in the special ‘mud’ kitchens. Most activities are included with admission, and Boundless members go free – just don’t forget those wellies!

Mudfest is taking place at WWT Martin Mere, Slimbridge, Arundel, London and Welney Wetland Centres; Llanelli and Washington and Castle Espie. Check out the full WWT schedule and discover the muddy adventures happening near you.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Enjoy a snowdrop walk with the Ramblers

Nationwide, anytime

After the long, dark months of winter, snowdrops are a heartening reminder that spring is just around the corner. This February, Ramblers is offering a fantastic programme of local guided walks and routes to suit all levels and abilities, which anyone can enjoy for free.

If you’re a Boundless Plus member looking to be more active this year, you’re in excellent hands as your membership unlocks access to thousands of guided group walks with the Ramblers, Britain’s leading walking community. You’ll find hundreds of scenic routes to explore and welcoming groups to join – all free with your Boundless Plus membership.

Join Boundless Plus

The Ramblers is a great way to start your walking journey, with thousands of guided walks and routes available to members. What’s more, Boundless Plus members benefit from free access to the Ramblers. 

Free events in London & the South East

Credit: Kew

Celebrate orchids at Kew

Kew, London, 7 February to 8 March

Step into a splash of colour and fragrance this winter as Kew Gardens marks 30 years of its iconic orchid festival.

Inspired by China’s rich heritage, unique design, and incredible biodiversity, the Princess of Wales Conservatory is alive with vibrant orchids, lanterns, dragons, and striking plant sculptures. The festival celebrates both the beauty of nature and Kew’s vital work in plant conservation.

And for an extra-special experience, don’t miss Orchids After Hours, a series of enchanting evening openings in the glasshouse after dark in February only.

Taking place from 7th February to 8th March, entry to Kew’s orchid festival is included with a Boundless membership – book your time slot and add the orchid festival before checkout.

Boundless members get unlimited annual access to Kew and Wakehurst. Members also get 50% off entry for an additional adult, free entry for up to five children and a 10% discount in the Kew shop, both online and in store.

Explore The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace

London, 14-22 February and weekends until April

After its winter slumber, Hampton Court Palace’s Magic Garden springs back to life, ready to welcome a new season of adventure. Inspired by the myths and legends of the Tudor Court, this enchanting playground invites little knights and princesses to explore mythical beast lairs, scale battlements, and discover a hidden grotto.

The Magic Garden reopens in time for February half-term, then returns on weekends only until April, when it will be open daily. Entry is included with general admission, check the website for the latest opening times.

Boundless Plus members get unlimited access to Hampton Court Palace (as well as other Historic Royal Palaces sites) and can take an additional adult and two children. Members also enjoy a 10% discount at Historic Royal Palaces shops and cafés. Find out more about Boundless Plus membership and how to join.

Enjoy family fun at Imagine Children's Festival

London, 11-21 February

Spark imagination and creativity this February half-term by heading to London’s Southbank Centre for the Imagine Children’s Festival. Held over 12 days, the festival offers a fantastic mix of events for all ages, from live music and theatre to comedy and poetry. Many activities are completely free, making it easy to spark their imagination without breaking the bank.

Celebrate Chinese New Year

London, 17 February

Celebrate Chinese New Year and the Year of the Horse on 17 February in London with the city’s vibrant festivities. Officially the largest celebration outside Asia, the festival lights up the West End and Chinatown with colour, music, and excitement.

Enjoy free street performances, traditional music, and lively entertainment, while Trafalgar Square hosts stage shows featuring dance, music, and martial arts. Don’t miss the spectacular parade of colourful floats, usually starting at 10 am on Charing Cross Road, bringing the streets alive with culture and celebration.

Flip a pancake at the Pancake Race

Milton Keynes, 17 February

The origins of Olney’s world-famous Pancake Race may be shrouded in mystery, but one thing is clear: it has become a beloved Shrove Tuesday tradition in the town’s calendar.

While the race itself is reserved for local residents, visitors are warmly invited to watch the historic 415-yard sprint, which kicks off at 11:55 am from Olney’s Market Place.

Free events in the South West & Wales

Credit: Getty Images

Explore Bristol Light Festival

Bristol, 19-28 February

Showcasing Bristol at its brightest, the Bristol Light Festival is a free, city-wide celebration of colour, creativity, and fun. Established in 2020, it features world premieres alongside the best local, national, and international artists, transforming streets and hidden corners into dazzling installations.

Now a firm fixture on the city’s calendar, explore both familiar and lesser-known paths, discovering Bristol in a whole new light.

Walk with a warden at WWT Llanelli

WWT Llanelli, 21 February

Pull on your walking boots and join February's Walk with a Warden at WWT Llanelli. Explore the wetland reserve with friendly experts on hand to help you spot seasonal highlights, uncover hidden signs and tracks, and identify a wide variety of wildlife along the way.

The walk is included with admission, and there’s no need to book in advance. Boundless members receive free entry. Visit WWT Llanelli website for the latest info and ticket prices.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Cycle the Colliers Trail

Forest of Dean, anytime

For a safe, scenic and family-friendly cycling adventure, try the Colliers Trail in the Forest of Dean. This 9-mile, well-surfaced circular route follows gentle former railway lines through beautiful woodland, with clear yellow waymarkers and easy paths perfect for beginners, little legs, and relaxed rides.

If you fancy escaping for half-term fun, Whitemead Forest Park is the perfect place for a forest break for families of all ages. Read on to discover how this family enjoyed their stay.

Boundless members can enjoy a saving of up to 20% on their stay at Whitemead Forest Park, on top of any other current offers available. This applies to its variety of accommodation options, including glamping pods, log cabins, and apartments.

Take a Valentine's Day stroll along Bournemouth's sandy beach

Bournemouth, anytime

This Valentine’s Day, wrap up warm and enjoy a romantic stroll along Bournemouth’s seven-mile sandy beach, dotted with colourful beach huts and backed by a pretty promenade. Continue inland to the free historic pleasure gardens, where quirky bridges and unusual trees add to the charm.

If you’d like to treat someone special to a weekend away, Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel is located near the beach and offers a luxurious spa and restaurant. Even better, Boundless members can save up to 20% on stays, enjoy complimentary spa access, and receive 10% off spa treatments.

Free events in the Midlands & East

Credit: Birmingham Light Festival

Get ready for takeoff at the RAF Midlands Museum

Cosford, open daily

Enjoy a full family day out at the RAF Midlands Museum, whatever the weather. From hands-on activities and an outdoor aviation-themed playground to the unforgettable chance to sit inside a Spitfire, there’s something to excite every member of the family. Entry is free, but some of the experiences have a small charge. Booking is recommended.

See Brum in a New Light at the Birmingham Light Festival

Birmingham, 12–15 February

The Birmingham Light Festival returns to brighten winter nights with an enchanting display of illuminated artworks across the city centre, inviting you to explore Brum after dark in a whole new way without spending a penny.

From mesmerising installations to playful light sculptures, this free, city‑wide trail encourages visitors to wander between dazzling displays all within walking distance of each other. Some artworks will even remain in place after the festival, adding a lasting sparkle to public spaces throughout the year.

Free events in the North of England

Credit: Getty Images

Splash in puddles on a Wild Welly Walk

Washington, until 2nd February

Enjoy the great outdoors this winter with a Wild Welly Walk at WWT Washington. A perfect activity for families, grab a free activity guide for kids and follow a trail full of fun challenges, from spotting and identifying winter wildlife to drawing and creating a stick person. Once completed, children can reward themselves with a free cookie from the Waterside Café.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. You’ll also get a 10% discount in the WWT’s on-site shops and cafés – perfect for warming up with a hot chocolate after a chilly walk.

Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

The Vikings are coming! Head to Jorvik Viking Festival

York, 16-22 February

The Vikings return to York for the JORVIK Viking Festival, bringing the city’s Norse heritage spectacularly back to life. Step into immersive living-history encampments to discover workshops, tours, Viking feasts and lively combat entertainment. Although some of the main events are ticketed, you’ll also find plenty of free fun during the festival, including a Viking encampment, trail and march.

Have Stalks of Fun at the Rhubarb Festival

Wakefield, 20-22 February

Wakefield celebrates its most famous vegetable with a vibrant, pink-hued weekend dedicated to all things rhubarb at its annual festival.

Enjoy live cooking demos from top chefs, browse bustling markets, and sample everything from rhubarb gin and cocktails to artisan bakes and sweet treats. With street performances, family-friendly activities, and a lively city-centre atmosphere, this delightfully quirky food and drink festival is a feast for all the senses.

Discover History Unearthed at the Museum of Liverpool

Liverpool, until 29 March

Don’t miss exploring 5,000 years of history through a remarkable collection of treasures at the Museum of Liverpool in the Treasure: History Unearthed exhibition.

Showcasing the largest collection of archaeological treasure ever displayed in the region, including Bronze Age gold, Viking silver and ancient coin hoards, the display reveals personal stories, global connections, and treasures both lost by chance and buried with purpose. This exhibition is ticketed, but Boundless Plus members get a discount using the National Art Pass and children (up to aged 17) are free.

New for Boundless Plus members, The National Art Pass gives Boundless Plus members free or discounted entry to hundreds of museums and galleries, historic places across the UK, including 50% off major exhibitions, a subscription to Art Quarterly magazine and Art in your inbox e-newsletters.

Learn about the last Ice Age at the Yorkshire Museum

Yorkshire, until 19 April

Step back 11,000 years to the Mesolithic settlement at Star Carr in North Yorkshire and discover how people lived, cooked, created, and worshipped after the last Ice Age.

Explore the landscape through an interactive mural and soundscape, and see incredible objects from the Yorkshire Museum Collection, including antler headdresses, a decorated stone pendant, the world’s oldest complete hunting bow, and Europe’s earliest evidence of carpentry. Younger visitors can follow the story through the eyes of a friendly dog who lived by the lake. Entry is free using National Art Pass.

The National Art Pass gives Boundless Plus members free or discounted entry to hundreds of museums and galleries, historic places across the UK, including 50% off major exhibitions, a subscription to Art Quarterly magazine and Art in your inbox e-newsletters. Learn more about how and where you can use your National Arts Pass in our guide.

Join daily feeds of thousands of migratory birds

Lancashire, daily until 15 March 2026

Head to WWT Martin Mere and join the wardens to witness the breathtaking spectacle of thousands of wild birds gathering to feed at the wetlands. Hundreds of Whooper swans take part in the action, while the wardens share fascinating insights about these majestic birds and explain why Martin Mere is their winter home.

This event is free with general entry, and there’s no need to book – simply drop in to the Discovery hide to take part. Visit WWT Martin Mere website for full details.

As a Boundless member, you and up to five children can enjoy unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, plus 50% off for one additional adult guest. Find out more about Boundless membership and how to join.

Free events in Scotland & Northern Ireland

Credit: Getty Images

Ignite Your Curiosity at Northern Ireland Science Festival

Hillsborough, 14-21 February

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens becomes a hub of discovery during the February half-term as part of the Northern Ireland Science Festival.

Young explorers can get hands-on with nature in an interactive Nest Quest workshop as they learn about birdlife and create their own nest-inpsired creations to take home. These family-friendly sessions are first-come, first-served and included with general admission, with Boundless Plus members able to use their Palace Pass.

Adults can dig deeper with specialist workshops, from learning the secrets of composting with the castle’s gardeners to exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into conservation at Hillsborough. These sessions require advance booking and a separate ticket, as the Palace Pass does not apply.

Boundless Plus members get unlimited access to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens (as well as other Historic Royal Palaces sites) and can take an additional adult and two children. Members also enjoy a 10% discount at Historic Royal Palaces shops and cafés. Find out more about Boundless Plus membership and how to join.

Marvel at Classic Trucks & Tractors

Ingliston, 28 February to 1 March

From the team behind Truckfest, Classic Trucks & Tractors is a brand-new event celebrating the very best vintage vehicles. From iconic trucks to charming old tractors, this family-friendly festival offers a chance to admire classic engineering, enjoy live entertainment and soak up the nostalgia of these beautiful old vehicles.

Perfect for motoring enthusiasts of all ages, entry is ticketed for adults, but children aged 15 and under go free. Free entry is offered to anyone showing off a classic truck or tractor.

Join Boundless Classic Vehicle Group

If you love vintage vehicles, why not join the Boundless Classic Vehicle Group? Open to all enthusiasts, it offers scenic drives, friendly meet-ups and plenty of motoring chat –  and you don’t need to own a classic vehicle to get involved.

Explore the great outdoors with the National Trust for Scotland

Various NTS locations, anytime

With the days slowly getting longer, head for the hills and bag a Munro. There’s nothing like a refreshing winter walk to lift the spirits and reconnect with nature – and Scotland’s scenery is hard to beat. From climbing Ben Lomond for spectacular views of Loch Lomond to conquering seven Munros in Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve, the National Trust for Scotland makes it easy to explore the great outdoors.

As a Boundless Plus member, you get free unlimited access to National Trust for Scotland sites, opening up stunning walking routes and historic locations. From gentle family strolls to invigorating winter hikes, there’s a walk to suit every ability amid breathtaking seasonal landscapes.

Many of the walks and sites of historic interest can be accessed for free and Boundless Plus members also enjoy unlimited access to all National Trust for Scotland places.

Free online events

Credit: Getty Images

Catch up or rewatch online Boundless talks

Each month, Boundless offers members an inspiring selection of free online talks with leading experts.

Covering everything from history and space to travel, motoring and conservation, there’s always something new to discover, whatever your interests.

If you miss an event – or fancy watching it again, you can catch up with the series anytime online. Simply register to join a live interactive talk or watch again if you missed the live recording.

Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.

Hidden London Walks

Online, 10 February

For more than 15 years, Jack Cornish has been on an extraordinary mission to walk every street in London, from secret mews to major avenues, uncovering the city’s hidden connections and stories along the way.

In this inspiring online talk, he shares how his epic journey reshaped his health, happiness, and understanding of the capital. Discover how walking with curiosity can reveal unexpected wonders in even the most familiar places. Get ready to see your own neighbourhood, and London itself, with fresh eyes.

This free online talk is open to all Boundless members – simply register via email to book your place. Don’t forget to add your membership number for the chance to win prizes.

Introductory Journey into the World of Herbalism

Online, 24 February

Join qualified herbalist Meghan Rhodes for a welcoming, interactive online insight into herbal medicine.  With a simple cup of herbal tea, using a single herb like chamomile, peppermint, or even something from your spice rack, you’ll explore how taste reveals the healing qualities of plants.

During the session, you’ll learn to “read” herbs through sensation, discover the four core principles of herbal medicine, and unlock the potential of everyday plants from your kitchen, garden, or the wild.

This free online talk is open to all Boundless members – simply register via email to book your place. As a special bonus, Boundless members will also have the chance to win an exclusive giveaway on the night.

Do more with Boundless

If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.

With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by Britannia Rescue.