Oxford museum named top free family day out in the UK

Ahead of the summer, the accolade was given by GO Outdoors, based on search volume, Google reviews, and attraction popularity.

The museum, which opened in 1860 and contains over seven million specimens, scored 9.18 out of 10.

Last year, it was visited more than 877,000 times, with the museum’s collection and architecture receiving praise from TripAdvisor reviewers.

Second place went to Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was visited over 390,000 times last year.

The cathedral is noted for its café, gift shop, and its appearance in the Harry Potter films.

The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire came third, scoring 8.69 out of 10.

The arboretum features 25,000 trees and over 400 memorials, with visitors able to enjoy its calming and spotless grounds for free.

Natalie Wolfenden, an outdoor expert at GO Outdoors, commented: “The UK has an abundance of places to visit and activities to take part in.

“From walks in the Lake District to heritage sites, there is plenty on offer – and lots to do for free!”

The list of top free family day outs also includes Manchester Museum, Windsor Great Park, and the V&A East Storehouse.

The Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford also made it into the top 10.