25 amazing free events to attend in April 2022

Leave your wallet at home! These free events for April 2022 include a Japanese tea ceremony, a classic car show, a drumming workshop – and even a webinar to help cut down your household bills.

With the school holidays approaching, April could be an expensive month – but luckily it’s packed with free events too, whether music workshops, nature walks or expert-led craft classes. Naturally, many of these fabulous freebies are Easter-themed, such as egg hunts and church gatherings, but others encompass everything from Peruvian dancing to African percussion, so there really is something for everyone. 

Here’s our pick of the best free things to do in April 2022, combining both in-person and virtual happenings. And it’s not just for the kids: there are plenty of adults-only events too. Enjoy them with family and friends during the Easter break, or treat yourself to a new hobby this spring…

1. Master some new moves 

Peruvian Dance Workshop, 23 April – London

Shake your tail feathers! Peruvian dance collective ArtPerUK is offering a free adults’ workshop in Vauxhall this month, with Latino beats, colourful costumes and catchy rhythms galore. You’ll try dance styles from all over the country, in a cardio extravaganza that definitely beats the gym. No experience is necessary (and leave your inhibitions at home). 

2. Get hot under the collar 

Margam Park Chilli Festival 2022, 3 April – Neath Port Talbot

If you love all things spicy, hot-foot it to Margam Park Chilli Festival. Everything in this food market comes with a kick, whether cheese, chocolates, sauces or snacks – as well as cooking pastes and pickles, and even chilli plants. Entry is free, as are many samples. 

3. Be money-saving savvy

Webinar: 7 Steps To Save Thousands On Your Household Bills, 26 April – online

The cost of living is soaring, but there are still ways to cut your bills significantly, without sacrificing your quality of life. Hosted by the Ladies’ Finance Club, this online session will give you the tools to potentially save thousands every year, with insights from life coaches and finance experts. A must-watch for anyone who’s concerned about rising prices. 

4. Meet a golden oldie

Magnificent Motors, 30 April-1 May – Eastbourne

Whether you’re an owner, an aficionado, or simply love vintage things, this classic car show will feature a huge range of vehicles on Eastbourne’s Western Lawns – with a fun, friendly atmosphere where everyone’s welcome. Alongside steam-powered and retro motors, the ‘Cars of the Future’ display will showcase the latest electric models. 

5. Have a Highland fling

Loch Lomond Springfest 2022, 2 & 3 April – Balloch

On the shores of Loch Lomond this month, foodies from all over Scotland will unite for a two-day feast of whisky tasting, cooking classes and fresh local produce. While the variety is always impressive, the setting is too: with live music, family entertainment and food stalls overlooking the water. 

6. Go with the flow

Webinar: Beginner's Ultimate Guide To Feng Shui, 12 April – online

’Tis the season for a spring clean, so take some inspiration from Feng Shui – the ancient Chinese study of how your environment affects your health and wellbeing. Focusing on energy flow in the home, this Zoom masterclass will explain how to refresh and harmonise your spaces, with practical tips for rearranging, redecorating and decluttering.

7. Bite into Biggin Hill

Farmers’ Market At Biggin Hill Memorial Museum, 2 April – London

Before it became one of Britain’s most important wartime aerodromes (known as Sir Winston Churchill’s ‘strongest link’), Biggin Hill was simply meadows and farmland. Now, every month, its Memorial Museum returns to its rural roots with a farmers’ market, a free gathering of local food producers. To enter the museum itself (optional), adult tickets cost from £5.75.

8. Find a free supper

Food & Climate Action Free School: Spring Foraging, 13 April – Glasgow 

After this workshop with herbalist Catriona Gibson, you’ll see every hedgerow in a whole new light. She’ll show how our urban parks are packed with free food and herbs, such as cleavers, nettles, berries and elderflowers. The three-hour walk will explore the Glasgow Green area, with plenty of stop-offs to pick (and nibble) the wild bounty. 

9. Drum it into the kids 

Rhythm And Drumming Workshop, 2 April – Shrewsbury

Drumming is a great way to get children into music, but rather than enduring the racket at home, it’s best to pack them off to a lesson with an expert – like percussionist Ben Mayho, who runs free taster sessions for ages 7 to 12. They’ll try the Cajon and Djembe drums (from Latin America and Africa), and explore the rhythms of samba, bhangra, reggaeton and pop. 

10. Trade on the towpath

RCTA Easter Floating Market, 15-18 April – Stafford

The canal boating community is crafty indeed, with talented artists, weavers, ceramicists and stitchers living all over Britain’s waterways. On this April weekend, a fleet of vessels will dock in Stafford, displaying their owners’ wares on the Trent and Mersey Canal towpath. It is run by the Roving Canal Traders Association, whose members make everything from bee boxes and glassware, to real ale and jewellery – so you’re sure to find something unique.

11. Get to know Glasgow

Coming Into View: Eric Watt's Photographs Of Glasgow, until March 2023 – Glasgow

Between the 1950s and 1990s, amateur photographer Eric Watt roamed the streets of Glasgow, taking striking and evocative images of the city. As well as capturing the wit and warmth of everyday events, his works chronicle the development of Glasgow too – as this exhibition at Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum will reveal. A compelling portrait of a city’s many faces. 

12. (Ex)change your clothes

Hackney Clothes Swap Shop, 3 April – London

If your wardrobe is full of clothes you never wear, why not swap them for something fresh at this innovative event? On arrival, you’ll exchange up to five garments for a handful of tokens, which you can use to ‘buy’ other pieces – and the better-quality your donation, the more tokens you’ll receive. Sewing cooperative The Seam will be on-hand to make alterations too.

13. Take a picnic to The Hall 

Easter At The Hall, 15-18 April – Bradford on Avon

The Hall is spectacular at all times of year, but is particularly dashing in spring, when it’s surrounded by blossoming gardens. This Easter weekend, entrance to the grounds is free, with family-friendly entertainment such as giant Jenga, lawn skittles and a nature trail – plus plenty of space for a picnic. For a small donation, the kids can join an Easter egg hunt too.   

14. Celebrate the dragon slayer

St George's Day Concert, 23 April – Northwood

Renowned for curing diseases and slaying dragons, St George was a pretty impressive guy. England’s patron saint is celebrated on 23 April, and whether you believe the myths or not, it’s a great excuse to revel in English-born music by the Harrow Concert Band. From the Beatles and Coldplay to William Walton and other classical talents, this eclectic programme salutes our nation’s top composers and crooners. 

15. Put a spring in your step

Spring Botany Walk, 28 April – London

Even though it’s right in the heart of Britain’s biggest city, Holland Park is a haven of biodiversity – rich in birdlife, wild plants and mature trees. On an evening walk around the park, local botanist Dr Mark Spencer will identify the extraordinary species that thrive here, and share his wildlife-watching tips. A treat for every city-dweller with a wild soul. 

16. Indulge your arty side

Drop In And Draw, 29 & 30 April – Sheffield

Whether you’re an utter beginner or an accomplished artist, everybody is welcome at Sheffield Central Library’s Drop In And Draw sessions. All materials are provided, and the supportive (and peaceful) setting should get your creative juices flowing, with a chance to meet some like-minded people too. 

17. Forage and feast 

Easter Celebration: Lunch And Wild Food Hunt, 3 April – Bristol

Designed for international students living in the UK, or the families and friends that are hosting them, Alma Church’s Easter celebration will feature a food-foraging walk through Clifton, with a chance to learn more about the religious holiday. In a sociable meetup, guests can ask questions and meet local people, before sharing lunch with them too.

18. Join a Welsh ‘safari’

Mumbles Seashore Safari, 30 April – Mumbles

Crabs, starfish and sea sponges – oh my! When the tide slips away, a trove of marine life remains on Mumbles’ shore, as this free walking tour with Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales will reveal. In the company of biologist Matt Green, you’ll sift and splash through the rock pools, witnessing the weird and wonderful creatures that live on Britain’s coast.  

19. Snaffle the chocolate eggs 

Easter Treasure Hunt, 2-5 April – North Yorkshire

Beady-eyed little ones will enjoy the Easter Treasure Hunt at Filey Bird Garden & Animal Park, a wildlife centre in North Yorkshire. It’s free to join, with a Cadbury's Creme Egg for anyone aged 2–16 who can solve the riddles to find the hidden letters. Park admission costs from £6.50: a small sum to meet meerkats, llamas, a 60-year-old tortoise – and much more. 

20. Travel back in time

Ancient Greeks: Science And Wisdom, until 5 June – London

Time is running out to visit this exhibition at the Science Museum, which delves into the remarkable achievements of Ancient Greece. Priceless artefacts and artworks illustrate its advancements in mathematics, philosophy, music and medicine, alongside an immersive section devoted to its early explorations of the cosmos. 

21. Hone your haggling skills

Carmarthen Vintage Antique & Makers Market, 9 April – Carmarthen

While it’s free to attend, be warned: Carmarthen Vintage Antique & Makers Market may spark a spending spree. Its stalls will be loaded with vintage collectables, artisan food and hand-made crafts, showcasing independent businesses from across West Wales. While you’re here, the beautiful Carmarthen Castle is also free to visit. 

22. Find some wild friends

London Wildlife Trust Events, various dates – London

Throughout the Easter holidays, London Wildlife Trust will be engaging curious young minds with immersive nature experiences – all for free. For budding birdwatchers, Brilliant Birds is a two-day course (4 & 5 April), with hands-on sessions and binocular tips, while Marvellous Minibeasts (11 April) is all about insects. There will also be nature-themed storytelling in various languages at Walthamstow Wetlands (12 April). 

23. Mooch around Manchester

Free Manchester Walking Tour, daily – Manchester

For tourists and locals alike, the Free Manchester Walking Tour aims to open participants’ eyes to the rich history, traditions and culture of the city. From politics to poetry, music to museums – these daily trips are a fast track to the heart of Manchester. The routes are wheelchair friendly, and last for three hours. You only pay what you want, and there’s no pressure to tip.

24. Try a tea ceremony

Windows On Tea: Live Chadō Demonstrations, until 6 April – London

Most of us enjoy a good cuppa, but tea-drinking has been elevated to an artform in Japan – known as Chadō, the Way of Tea. In Kensington, Japan House London has partnered with one of Japan’s largest tea schools to demonstrate the intricate ceremony of blending, serving and drinking green tea. It’s a little taste of Japan, without leaving the country. 

25. Build a birdhouse

Make A Nest Box With The Rangers, 2 April – Barry

Porthkerry Country Park is always a (free) treat for the kids, with its picnic spots, nature trails and pebble beach. But this month, the park rangers are hosting a complimentary craft masterclass too, with the chance to make a bird feeder or nesting box, as well as some suet balls. They’ll even share tips on how to identify – and encourage – your garden tweeters. 

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