15 Free or Cheap Things to Do with a Baby This Winter

Winter days with a baby can feel long, especially when cold weather limits how much time you want to spend out and about. But getting out of the house, or simply changing up the day, does not have to cost much.

Here's our list of free and cheap things to do with a baby this winter, designed to fit around naps, feeds and energy levels:

1. Go for a Winter-Friendly Pram Walk

A short walk in the cold air can lift everyone’s mood. Local parks, woodland paths and even quiet streets feel completely different in winter.

Cubbi tip 💡 A sturdy pram makes winter walks much easier. Look out for all-terrain options (from brands like Ickle Bubba, iCandy and Silver Cross for a little Cubbi discout!) built for uneven ground and colder weather.

2. Free Tea or Coffee Break

Sometimes the goal of leaving the house is simple: a hot drink and a seat.

Cubbi tip 💡 Check Cubbi for free tea or coffee offers at Boston Tea Party. Ideal for slow mornings when you just need a change of scene.

3. Library Visits and Baby Story Time

Libraries are warm, calm and baby-friendly. Many offer free baby rhyme time or story sessions during the week.

Cubbi tip 💡 Even without a class, choosing books together is an easy, free outing that feels purposeful.

4. Simple Craft Time at Home

You do not need elaborate crafts. Stickers and chunky crayons are more than enough.

Cubbi tip 💡 Craft supplies add up quickly. Check Cubbi for discounts at Hobbycraft and stick to basics you will reuse.

5. Sensory Play Using What You Already Have

Household items like fabric, spoons, cardboard and measuring cups make excellent sensory toys for babies.

Cubbi tip 💡 Rotate a few items at a time to keep things interesting without buying more.

6. Create a Cosy Play Area at Home

A blanket, a couple of cushions and a small basket of toys can instantly change the feel of a room.

Cubbi tip 💡 Soft, warm layers are especially useful in winter. Throws and blankets from Mabel & Fox work well for floor play and quiet time.

7. Window Shop Somewhere Warm

Department stores are warm, spacious and easy to navigate with a pram, making them a good winter option.

Cubbi tip 💡 Baby sections are full of colour and movement, and browsing is completely free.

8. Make Mealtimes Exciting

Winter meals can feel repetitive, especially when time and energy are limited. Mealkits can spice things up with new recipes and limited effort.

Cubbi tip 💡 Meal kits from Gousto and HelloFresh help keep dinners simple while reducing food waste and planning time.

9. Turn Bath Time into an Activity

A longer, calmer bath can easily fill a winter afternoon when outdoor plans are limited.

Cubbi tip 💡 Sensory-focused bath toys from Natural Baby Shower help make everyday baths feel more engaging without overstimulation.

10. DIY Winter Photoshoot at Home

If professional photos are not on the cards, a simple home setup works surprisingly well. Natural light, neutral backgrounds and warm layers are all you need.

Cubbi tip 💡 Window light and a phone camera are often enough to capture meaningful keepsakes without added cost.

11. Soft Play at Home

You do not need a soft-play centre to encourage movement. Play mats and roll toys are perfect for early climbing and rolling.

Cubbi tip 💡 Simple safe setups work best.

12. Baby or Postnatal Yoga at Home

Gentle baby yoga or postnatal stretching at home can help with bonding, recovery and relaxation during winter months.

Cubbi tip 💡 Look for short, beginner-friendly YouTube sessions you can pause or stop at any point if your baby needs you.

13. Handprint or Footprint Cards

Handprint and footprint cards are simple, meaningful keepsakes for the grandparents and a lovely way to mark the season.

Cubbi tip 💡 Plain card and washable paint work just as well as anything decorative.

14. Budget-Friendly Baby Classes

Churches, community centres and local venues often run free or low-cost baby groups. They are a great way to get out of the house and meet other parents.

Cubbi tip 💡 Boston Tea Party have some great sessions for parents and little ones, and a free coffee after? Nor brainer.

15. Do-Nothing Days

Some days, even getting out of your pyjamas feels like a stretch and that is completely okay. Winter can be a time for slowing down, staying in and letting the day be whatever it needs to be.

Cubbi tip 💡 Rest is still productive. Not every day needs plans, progress or spending.