Fantastic news for families feeling the pinch this summer! Tesco has brought back its wildly popular 'Kids Eat Free' scheme across hundreds of cafés nationwide.
Parents looking to keep little ones fed during the school holidays can breathe a sigh of relief as this money-saving offer returns just when household budgets are stretched thinnest.
1. What The Scheme Offers
Hungry youngsters can tuck into a free meal when an adult purchases any item from the café menu, even something as simple as a £1 cuppa.
The deal includes a hot or cold main, a choice of two sides, and a drink from the kids' menu. No minimum spend required - making this genuinely accessible for families watching their pennies.
2. When The Offer Runs
The scheme runs from 30 June to 29 August 2025, covering the school summer holidays in the UK.
It’s available Monday to Friday only, during normal Tesco café opening hours.
Children can enjoy a free hot meal, breakfast, or Pick ’n’ Mix when an adult makes any qualifying purchase and presents a Clubcard.
This weekday offer helps families make shopping trips more affordable during the summer break.
3. Who Is Eligible
Any child under 16 qualifies for the free meal deal when accompanied by an adult customer.
Teenagers aren't left out of this offer, unlike some restaurant schemes that cut off at age 10 or 12. Brilliant for families with children of various ages who often struggle with different eligibility criteria at other establishments.
4. How To Claim A Free Meal
Simply order any item from the adult menu - could be a sandwich, coffee, or even just a 95p tea.
Show your Clubcard at the till when paying, and request the free kids' meal. Staff will sort the rest without fuss. No complicated vouchers or apps needed - just your Clubcard and a simple purchase.
5. Where To Find Participating Cafés
Not just a handful of locations - a whopping 328 Tesco cafés across the UK are taking part!
Stores in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are included, making this truly nationwide. Check Tesco's website for the full list of participating stores before heading out to avoid disappointment.
6. Clubcard Requirement Explained
Forgotten your physical Clubcard? No worries! The digital version on the Tesco app works perfectly fine too.
If you're not already a member, signing up takes just minutes at the café. The scheme is designed to reward loyal customers while encouraging new shoppers to join the 20+ million Clubcard holders already saving money.
7. What's On The Kids' Menu
Youngsters aren't limited to boring options! The menu features proper hot meals like beans on toast, fish fingers, and sausages.
Cold options include sandwiches and lunch boxes with yoghurt and fruit. Vegetarian choices are available too, ensuring all dietary needs are catered for. Proper portions mean no hungry tummies after.
8. Why Tesco Brought It Back
Research by Tesco revealed 57% of parents worry about feeding their children during school holidays.
With the cost-of-living crisis still biting, this scheme addresses a genuine need. Last summer's iteration proved enormously popular, with thousands of families benefiting from the financial relief while maintaining the dignity of a café treat.
9. Part Of The Stronger Starts Campaign
The free meals scheme forms just one part of Tesco's broader 'Stronger Starts' initiative launched in 2023.
This £5 million campaign aims to help children from lower-income families access nutritious food and develop healthy habits. It works alongside charities including FareShare and The Trussell Trust to address child food poverty in Britain.
10. Helping Families This Summer
Beyond just free meals, participating cafés offer cool, safe spaces for families during heatwaves or rainy days.
Many locations have updated their seating areas with child-friendly facilities. Parents have praised the scheme for providing not just financial relief but also a change of scenery during the long summer break when entertaining children becomes challenging.
11. Similar Schemes At Other Supermarkets
Tesco isn't alone - Asda and Morrisons offer comparable schemes, though with different terms.
Asda requires a £1 minimum spend while Morrisons' offer only applies with an £4.50 adult meal purchase. Tesco's scheme stands out for its minimal purchase requirement (just a 95p tea will do!) and the generous age limit of 16.
12. Customer Feedback So Far
Social media has erupted with positive responses from grateful parents. One mum from Leeds reported saving over £100 during last year's scheme by visiting twice weekly. Another from Cardiff praised the quality of the meals, noting her fussy eater actually cleared his plate.
Staff have reportedly received thank-you cards from regular visitors.
