If you were a child when the ‘Blue Peter’ badge was introduced, you could well be a grandparent, or even a great-grandparent, today. Generations have now coveted these iconic blue-and-white pin badges—either awarded for appearing on the BBC children’s television show or in recognition of a great achievement.
But did you know that children can visit over 200 attractions for free in the UK if they own a ‘Blue Peter’ badge? More than a badge of pride, it can get your kids into everywhere from the Roman Baths to HMS Belfast. There are so many castles, zoos, museums, gardens, and family attractions to visit for free in the UK.
Where can my kids visit for free in London?
In London alone, there are dozens of attractions that welcome ‘Blue Peter’ badge holders for free. This includes Kensington Palace, Shakespeare’s Globe Exhibition, London Zoo, Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral and Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum. Badge holders can only gain free entry if accompanied by a paying adult, however, and you should remember to bring your badge ID card with you.
You can see a complete list of participating attractions on the BBC website here, but someone clever’s also made a way better unofficial map. It not only helps for visualising locations, but breaks each attraction into fun categories i.e. ‘Beside the Sea’, ‘Science’ or ‘Thrillseekers’. You can also filter for only attractions near a train station.
How do I get a ‘Blue Peter’ badge?
Approximately 22,000 ‘Blue Peter’ badges are handed out every year, and there are three main ways to get one:
- Appear on the show
- Win or finish runner-up in a ‘Blue Peter’ competition
- Apply online or by post
The easiest route of the three is the latter, and so, we’ll be focusing on that today. First of all, you’ve got to be between 5 and 15 years old to apply. Secondly, you should know which badge you’re applying for because you only apply for one per application.
To get your hands on the iconic Blue badge, the team is just asking you to send in a creative contribution—anything from a poem or story to a drawing or recipe. For the other badges, Book badges are for those who love reading, Green badges for kids passionate about nature, Music badges if you’re learning an instrument, and Sport badges are awarded to anyone trying a new sport
What other badges are there?
Orange badges are reserved for ‘Blue Peter’ competitions, while the Gold badge is handed out on very rare occasions. Often they go to ex-presenters, but you can apply or nominate someone for one by post only. To receive a Gold badge, you must have achieved one of the following:
- Acted selflessly, but responsibly, with a single act of bravery that saved the life of another person
- Acted with outstanding courage, overcome adversity and made life better for another personor community
- Worked independently, inspired others and effected positive change
- Made an extraordinary achievementagainst the odds.
To apply for a ‘Blue Peter’ badge, either send your application letter (including name, date of birth, and home address) to: Blue Peter, MediaCityUK, Salford, M50 2BHor head here.
