Welcome in spring this March and refresh your calendar with 25 brilliant free events, including lively parades, fashion exhibitions and food festivals for fun-filled family days out.
Spring has finally sprung, making it the perfect time to get out and about to enjoy the longer, warmer days and make the most of what’s on. Celebrate St David’s Day, enjoy early Easter activities, explore local festivals or join inspiring talks without leaving home. Whatever your interests, plenty is happening this month – to inspire, we’ve rounded up 25 free events to brighten your March calendar.
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
Free nationwide events
Credit: Unsplash
Get stuck into a good book on World Book Day
Nationwide, 5 March
Celebrate the joy of reading this World Book Day with a good book and a warm drink in your favourite armchair. This nationwide event aims to champion the fun of reading and encourage children to read more books. Mark the occasion by hosting a book swap with friends, picking up a new read from your local library, or sharing story time with little ones.
BBC Bitesize is also hosting a free half hour Live Lesson on World Book Day. Suitable for 7-11-year-olds, the lesson aims to encourage reading for enjoyment.
If you’d prefer to listen to an audiobook, Boundless members get an exclusive offer with BookBeat, giving you access to more than 800,000 audiobooks for adults and kids. Simply log in to gain access to a free trial with 75 days free, plus a 10% discount on subscription, which can be shared with up to four family members.
Boundless members can also connect with fellow readers in our online book club, The Reading Room on Facebook—sharing reviews, recommendations and lively discussion all year round.
Celebrate International Women's Day
Nationwide, 8 March
Support the remarkable achievements of women across the UK this International Women’s Day. Events taking place include inspiring talks, community meet-ups, creative workshops, and cultural events that champion women-led initiatives both locally and beyond. While some events require tickets, there’s a wide range of free activities available – simply visit the IWD website to explore what’s happening near you.
Relax and give forest bathing a go
Nationwide, 21 March
Been feeling the winter blues? Celebrate International Day of Forests by trying forest bathing or shinrin-yoku. This Japanese practice encourages you to use your senses to connect with nature, reducing stress and improving sleep. With thousands of wooded areas across the UK, it’s easy to find the perfect spot for some natural therapy.
Alternatively, why not join a community tree planting event – you’ll find lots taking place across the country. The Woodland Trust provides free tree saplings for schools and communities.
Go birdwatching at WWT centres
Nationwide, anytime
Spring is one of the best seasons for birdwatching in the UK, as swallows, sand martins, cuckoos and kingfishers return and burst into action. Enjoy an encounter with these spectacular species at one of the nine WWT centres across the country – where hides and expert insights make spotting wildlife even easier. Don’t forget your binoculars for the best view!
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 spring walk with the Ramblers
Nationwide, anytime
As the first uplifting signs of spring appear, it’s the perfect time to lace up your boots and head outdoors. Give your mind and body a spring reset by joining a free Ramblers Wellbeing Walks with routes suitable for all abilities. For extra inspiration, explore these six spring walks.
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 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: Getty Images
Southampton Science and Engineering Festival
Southampton, 6-15 March
Celebrate British Science Week with a visit to the University of Southampton’s lively Science and Engineering Festival, running alongside the national event.
Expect a packed programme of free, family-friendly fun, including hands-on experiments, interactive workshops, inspiring talks, live shows, exhibits and even behind-the-scenes laboratory tours. It’s a brilliant opportunity to explore a university campus, meet STEM professionals and ignite curiosity in young minds.
Try Optics at WWT Arundel
West Sussex, 7 March
Take your wildlife-watching to the next level with hands-on demonstrations and expert advice at WWT Arundel’s Optics Day and find the perfect binoculars for your birdwatching and wildlife adventures.
From entry-level models to high-end optics, there’s something to suit every budget and experience level. Try out WWT binoculars, from cygnet-sized pairs for little explorers to Swarovski optics ideal for seasoned birdwatchers. Admission is included with entry and there’s no need to book in advance.
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.
Celebrate Orchids at Kew
Kew, London, until 8 March
Step into a world of colour and warmth at Kew Gardens’ 30th orchid festival. Inspired by China’s rich heritage and biodiversity, the Princess of Wales Conservatory bursts with vibrant orchids, lanterns, and stunning plant sculptures.
Running until 8th March, this is your last chance to see the festival – entry to Kew’s orchid festival is included with a Boundless membership – simply 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.
Enjoy the St Patrick's Day Parade and Festival
London, 15 March
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day at the Mayor of London’s St Patrick’s Festival and Parade in London. Soak up the atmosphere as marching bands, dancers and community groups bring colour and energy to the route from Hyde Park Corner to Whitehall, led by Grand Marshal Emma Dabiri.
In Trafalgar Square, enjoy a packed programme of free live music and dance on the Main Stage, alongside cultural workshops, film screenings, exhibitions and children’s activities. Browse Irish food and craft stalls, discover London-Irish talent and join the city-wide celebration of Irish culture, creativity and community.
Explore The Magic Garden at Hampton Court Palace
Surrey, Easter holidays and selected dates this spring
Step into a world of adventure this Easter as Hampton Court Palace’s Magic Garden for family fun. Inspired by the myths and legends of the Tudor court, this enchanting playground invites little knights and princesses to storm battlements, discover mythical beasts and uncover a secret grotto.
It’s the perfect spring day out for curious explorers, with plenty of space to climb, scramble and let imaginations run wild. Entry to the Magic Garden is included with palace admission – check the website for Easter opening times and details.
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.
Free events in the South West & Wales
Credit: Getty Images
Celebrate Cymru at the St David's Day Parade
Cardiff, 1 March
Honour Welsh heritage in the heart of the capital at Cardiff’s much-loved St David’s Day Parade. A vibrant procession of red dragons, traditional dress, school groups, community organisations and lively musicians fills the city with colour and sound.
The parade sets off at 12.30pm from King Edward VII Avenue, weaving through the city centre before arriving at St David’s Hall. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere, plenty of flag-waving and a proud showcase of Welsh language, culture and community spirit.
Walk With A Warden to spot early spring wildlife
WWT Llanelli, 21 March
Welcome spring wildlife back to the wetlands and join March’s Walk with a Warden at WWT Llanelli. Explore the wetland reserve with expert guides, spotting seasonal highlights including pussy willow catkins, blackthorn, and hawthorn blossom. There may even be a chance to spot early amphibians.
The walk is included with admission, and there’s no need to book in advance. Boundless members enjoy 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.
Take on the Gruffalo Orienteering Challenge
Symonds Yat Rock, Forest of Dean, anytime
Take your family off the beaten path and test your map-reading skills at Symonds Yat Rock. Navigate a Gruffalo-themed orienteering course through the deep, dark wood and track down twelve hidden markers along the way.
Start your adventure by picking up a Gruffalo orienteering leaflet from Symonds Yat Rock Café for just £1.50, which includes a map and certificate to mark your achievement.
If you fancy an Easter break, Whitemead Forest Park is a brilliant choice for a forest holiday for families of all ages – discover how this family enjoyed their stay.
Even better, 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.
Free events in the Midlands & East
Credit: Getty Images
Step back in time at Berrington Hall with The National Art Pass
Herefordshire, West Midlands, open daily in March
Discover the National Trust property and grounds of Berrington Hall, a rare neoclassical masterpiece by architect Henry Holland, set within Capability Brown’s final landscape. Explore the hall’s elegant interiors, including Louis XVI-style rooms, the sweeping Staircase Hall, and the Elmar Digby Collection of French furniture, ceramics, and fine art, featuring dramatic sea battle paintings.
Outside, wander 456 acres of parkland, enjoy a 14-acre artificial lake, and follow the special Capability Brown trail. Boundless Plus members enjoy free entry using The National Art Pass, while Boundless members can save 10% off entry by purchasing a National Trust gift card.
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.
Browse stalls at New Street Eats market
Birmingham, 26-29 March
Head to Birmingham hungry as New Street Eats returns to the city for four days of street food and artisan stalls in a lively atmosphere. Taking over New Street between Grand Central, Birmingham New Street Station and the Bullring (home to the famous Frankfurt Christmas Market), this free outdoor event brings together a curated selection of independent street food traders and artisan makers. Spend as much, or as little as you like.
Free events in the North of England
Credit: Forestry Commission
Explore the Room on the Broom Trail in Grizedale Forest
Ambleside, Lake District, anytime
Step into Julia Donaldson’s magical world and join Witch and her friends on an enchanting Room on the Broom adventure at Grizedale. This new interactive family trail is bursting with themed activities, forest facts, and hands-on fun for all ages. Help Witch recover her lost hat, bow, and wand, and gather the magical ingredients needed to complete her spell – while keeping an eye out for the mischievous Dragon!
Finish your journey by snapping a photo with Witch and her animal friends on their magnificent new broom. Trail packs (£4) include a colour-your-own kraft bag, pencil, lanyard, ingredient stickers, spell cards, and a craft card to make your own witchy wand. Entry to the one-mile trail is free, but parking charges apply.
Take part in daily feeds of thousands of migratory birds
Lancashire, Daily until 15 March
Don’t miss your final opportunity this season to witness thousands of wild birds flocking to feed at WWT Martin Mere. Join the wardens as they share fascinating insights into the hundreds of Whooper swans and other waterfowl, explaining why Martin Mere is such an important haven for these birds. It’s a spectacular display of wildlife in action, and the perfect way to enjoy a March visit to the wetlands before the season comes to an end.
This event is free with general entry, and there’s no need to book – simply drop in to the Discovery hide at 3pm and the Raines Observatory at 3.30pm 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
Discover iconic fashion in The Biba Story exhibition
Dovecot Studios, Edinburgh, throughout March (ends 27 June)
Step into the iconic world of Biba, the legendary label that revolutionised 1960s and 1970s fashion. This immersive exhibition showcases over 100 rare garments, lifestyle products, and original catalogues from Barbara Hulanicki’s private archives.
Discover how Biba’s bold, playful designs and innovative approach to style captured the imagination of a generation – and continues to influence fashion today. From striking clothing to quirky lifestyle pieces, explore the creativity, glamour, and enduring legacy of one of fashion’s most celebrated brands. This exhibition is ticketed, but Boundless Plus members get 50% off entry.
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 Art Pass in our guide.
Admire spring blooms at Hillsborough Castle
Near Belfast, Northern Ireland, 14 March - 4 May
Stroll through the gardens at Hillsborough Castle and immerse yourself in the sights and scents of spring. Admire bluebells, daffodils, tulips, narcissus, hyacinths, camellias, apple blossom, and rhododendrons as they brighten the grounds, with Northern Irish daffodils as a seasonal highlight.
With blooms evolving throughout spring, each visit offers fresh delights. Pick up a Bulbs and Blooms guide and enjoy a vibrant, sensory journey through one of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated gardens.
Boundless Plus members get unlimited access to Hillsborough Castle and Gardens (as well as other Historic Royal Palaces sites). Find out more about Boundless Plus membership and how to join.
Celebrate St Patrick's Day
Various locations in Northern Ireland, 17 March
St Patrick’s Day sees towns and cities across Northern Ireland come alive with colour, music and celebration. Enjoy a carnival atmosphere and cheer on parades featuring marching bands, dancers, community groups and spectacular pageantry, alongside festivals filled with live music, street theatre, family activities and local food and drink.
Belfast’s parade traditionally winds through the city centre with colourful costumes and cultural performances, while Derry (Londonderry) and Armagh – the home of St Patrick – host lively events that blend heritage with modern celebration, with lively musical performances and street markets.
Get outdoors this spring with the National Trust for Scotland
Various NTS locations, anytime
Reconnect with nature, enjoy seasonal blooms, and make the most of warmer spring days across Scotland’s great outdoors. Discover the tranquil gardens at Crathes Castle, wander the woodlands of Falkland Palace, or enjoy coastal paths and scenic views at Culzean Castle.
With Boundless Plus membership, you get free, unlimited access to all National Trust for Scotland places, granting access to historic properties and gardens and hundreds of walking routes. For non-members, many of the walks and sites of historic interest are free to visit, including the magnificent Glencoe National Nature Reserve and Killiecrankie woodland river gorge, among many other areas of natural beauty. Find out more about Boundless Plus membership.
Free online events
Credit: Pexels
Catch up or rewatch online Boundless talks
Each month, Boundless brings members a fascinating line-up of free online talks with leading experts across a wide range of topics. From history and space exploration to travel, motoring, and conservation, there’s always something new to discover.
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.
The Lost Villages of England
Online, 17 March
Join award-winning travel writer and novelist Luke Waterson for an enthralling online talk exploring Britain’s Deserted Medieval Villages – the ghostly remnants of once-thriving communities erased by time, tide, and history.
From the windswept Scottish Highlands to North Yorkshire’s abandoned streets and East Anglia’s drowned settlements, Luke uncovers the fascinating and often tragic stories behind villages emptied by landowners, the Ministry of Defence, or the sea. Discover half-buried churches, forgotten footpaths, and haunting landscapes where echoes of the past linger.
This free online talk is open to all Boundless members – simply register via email to book your place. Don’t forget to stay tuned until the end for the chance to win prizes.
Ultimate Guide to Time Travel
Online, 24 March
Time may seem like a steady, predictable river, but modern science reveals it to be far stranger and more flexible than we experience in daily life. Where does yesterday go? Where does tomorrow come from? Could we, in theory, revisit the past or leap into the future?
In this thought-provoking online Boundless talk, multi-award-winning astronomy author and writer Colin Stuart explores the surprising science of time, its mysteries, and what it reveals about existence, free will, and the nature of our choices.
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.
Practical First Aid for Families and Carers
Online, 31 March
Accidents can happen to anyone at home, whether you’re a parent, grandparent, carer, or simply want to feel more confident in an emergency. Join this practical online first aid session with Emma Hammett, a qualified nurse and award-winning trainer with over 30 years of experience, to learn essential skills for common household incidents.
Covering bleeding, burns, falls, head injuries, choking, and prevention tips, you’ll gain the confidence to act calmly, protect your loved ones, and get expert answers to your questions.
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.
Watch a Horrible Science Live Lesson
Online, 9 March
Encourage an interest in science with this 30-minute Horrible Science-inspired live lesson for British Science Week. Designed for 7–11-year-olds, pupils will create a movie starring the Moon while exploring light energy, the Moon, and our solar system – ensuring their script is science fact, not fiction.
Presenters Grace Webb and Matt Green guide the session, while artist Venessa Scott creates a classroom poster of key learning points. Plus, astronaut Tim Peake makes a special appearance, sharing Moon facts to mark 10 years since his ISS mission.
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.
Arts and Culture
Entertainment
Exhibitions
History
Literature
Hobbies
Music
Science
Theatre
Tips
