The British Government has announced a temporary reduction in VAT during the summer months for various leisure activities aimed at families, including cinema, zoos, and theme parks, as well as for children's menus in restaurants. The rate will be 5% compared to the usual 20%, with the aim of alleviating the impact of the rising cost of living on household budgets.
As detailed by HM Treasury, this reduced VAT rate will be applied temporarily from June 25 and will remain in effect until September 1, 2026, covering England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.
During this summer period, the new rate will apply to children's menus served in restaurants for consumption on the premises and to the price of tickets, for both children and adults, to access amusement parks, fairs, circuses, museums, zoos, adventure parks, children's play areas, and viewpoints. It will also cover children's and family tickets for cinema, theatre, exhibitions, shows, and concerts.
Furthermore, in August, children between the ages of 5 and 15 will be able to use bus services for free in England.
"This will help families afford life's little treats and create memories, from a meal out to a trip to the theme park or cinema, at a time when rising costs are putting pressure on family budgets," stated the Department led by Rachel Reeves.