Yorkshire Families to Benefit from Great British Summer Savings Scheme Starting June 25, 2026

This summer, families in Yorkshire can look forward to some exciting savings thanks to a new government initiative aimed at making outings more affordable. From 25 June to 1 September 2026, the government is introducing a temporary reduction in VAT (Value Added Tax) on children’s meals at restaurants and on family leisure activities. This means that instead of the usual 20%, VAT will be slashed to just 5% for these specific services, allowing families to save money while enjoying summer fun.

Great British Summer Savings Explained

The initiative, known as the Great British Summer Savings, is designed to support families during the school holidays. It targets the costs associated with dining out and participating in leisure activities, making it easier for families to enjoy quality time together without breaking the bank. The scheme will apply to:

• Children’s meals in cafés and restaurants

• Children’s tickets for theatres and cinemas

• Tickets for family attractions, including soft play areas, adventure centres, and theme parks

This means that families can enjoy a day out at the theme park or a trip to the cinema without worrying as much about the costs involved.

How Will This Impact Families?

For many families, the summer holidays can be a time of financial strain, especially with the added costs of keeping children entertained. The reduced VAT rate is expected to make a significant difference. For example, if a family typically spends £40 on a children's meal, the VAT reduction could save them £6. This amount could help cover the cost of an extra ticket for a fun day out, making it easier to plan enjoyable activities.

Moreover, businesses will also benefit from this initiative, as it may encourage more families to dine out or visit attractions. This could lead to increased sales for local eateries and entertainment venues, helping to boost the economy in the region.

Webinars for Businesses

To ensure businesses are well-informed about the new VAT changes, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will be hosting webinars. These sessions will cover important topics, including:

• The background of the temporary VAT reduction

• Who is eligible to apply the reduced rate

• What products and services are included

• Details about bundles and mixed supplies

• Timing of the supplies

• Where to find additional information

Businesses interested in participating can register for the webinars through the HMRC website, allowing them to understand how to implement the changes effectively.

Supporting Local Families and Businesses

This initiative not only aims to ease the financial burden on families but also to invigorate local businesses in Yorkshire. Restaurants and leisure centres can expect an increase in footfall as families take advantage of the savings. The scheme is also a reminder of the importance of supporting local establishments, especially during the busy summer months.

For families considering how to make the most of their summer, this is an excellent opportunity to explore local attractions and enjoy meals out without the usual worry about costs. Whether it’s a trip to a nearby adventure park or a meal at a favourite café, the Great British Summer Savings scheme is set to make a positive impact.

Further Information

Register for the webinar organised by HMRC

or read the official notes here.