Where kids can swim for free this half term in Manchester

Half term is here, and if you’re looking for an easy, low‑cost indoor activity, Manchester’s free swimming offer is a great shout. Kids aged 16 and under can swim for free in public “Swim for All” sessions during school holidays, and older adults aged 60+ can also swim for free all year round. That makes swimming a brilliant grandparent‑and‑grandchild day out.

How the free swimming scheme works 

• Kids aged 16 and under swim for free in public general sessions during school holidays (including this half term).  

• Manchester residents aged 60 and over swim for free anytime in public general swim or “Swim for All” sessions throughout the year.  

• To use the offer, you need a free MCRactive Pay‑As‑You‑Go card (Junior for kids, Concessionary for 60+). You can sign up through the Better UK app, online, or at your local leisure centre.  

Once you’re registered, you simply book your swim session online or through the app. Full instructions are available via the Better website.  

Where you can swim for free 

Free swimming is available across many Manchester Active and Better UK pools, including: 

• Abraham Moss Library & Leisure Centre – offers free swims during the school holidays for under 16s and over 60s.   

• Arcadia Library & Leisure Centre – offers free Swim for All sessions for eligible swimmers. 

• East Manchester Leisure Centre – it's part of the free holiday swim programme.    

• Hough End Leisure Centre – it's open to free holiday swim bookings. 

• Moss Side Leisure Centre & Hulme High Street Library – offers free sessions for eligible age groups.   

• North City Family & Fitness Centre – it's part of the city’s free swim offer.   

• Manchester Aquatics Centre – offers free holiday sessions for residents under 17.    

• Wythenshawe Forum – has a leisure centre pool with free family swim sessions periodically (e.g. during special events and half term programmes).   

There are several sessions running during the week, and limited sessions during the weekends. If you’re heading there on a Saturday or Sunday, make sure to check your local swimming pools’ swim for free sessions and book in advance. Swimming pools typically only run one free swimming session during Saturday and Sunday.  

What to expect during half term 

Here’s exactly what you can expect from the free swim sessions this half term.  

Family‑friendly fun 

Half‑term swims are popular, so early booking is a good idea. Kids can splash, float and play in general public sessions.  

Grandparent‑friendly too 

Because over‑60s swim free all year round, this is a lovely activity for grandparents who want to join in without paying.  

Inclusive sessions 

Some centres offer disability‑friendly swims, quieter sessions and parent‑and‑child swims; check out Moss Side and Abraham Moss if this is of interest.  

What you need to know 

• You must live in Manchester and pay council tax to Manchester City Council to qualify.

• Kids under 8 usually need an adult in the water with them. 

• Free sessions can fill quickly during half term; best to check timetables and book early. 

Why it’s worth trying 

Manchester’s free swim scheme makes it easy to stay active without spending money — perfect for rainy days, bored kids and anyone looking for a warm indoor activity. Registration is simple, and once you’ve got your MCRactive card, you can dip into free sessions all year (if you’re 60+) or every school holiday (if you’re under 16).