As hordes of fans queue at Wimbledon hoping to snag a ticket to watch the world's best tennis players, those who actually want to pick up a racket themselves are discovering that booking a court can be as difficult as returning a professional serve. And for families trying to be healthy, active, and entertained, the cost of sports often feels like a love match with your wallet.

But fear not: there are free options. "Record numbers of adults and children are active, and cost should never be a barrier," says Simon Hayes, chief executive of Sport England, which focuses on grassroots participation. "But the reality is that for many people and families, amid rising bills, it's increasingly a concern."

Football, with the men's World Cup giving it unrivalled prominence, is often hailed as a cheap mass participation sport. However, the classic "ball and jumpers for goalposts" scenario might ignore the cost of kit, club fees, and transport to matches.

Tennis has long battled an elitist reputation, but anyone can attend free sessions - often on Saturday mornings - through a Lawn Tennis Association scheme. Search for a park near you, though not every UK area is covered.

Beyond tennis, leisure centres offer free fitness class taster sessions. Cricket's Chance to Shine charity runs hundreds of free street cricket sessions nationwide, often within walking distance for children in poorer areas. British Blind Sport hosts Have a Go days for people with sight loss to try rugby, rowing, and more for free. Parkrun has become a massively popular free running and walking activity across the UK.

There's no central database for free sports, but campaigns like Every Body Moves (for disabilities), London Sport Get Active, and This Girl Can aim to get people moving. Sport England also invests in the Active Partnerships network to boost local free activities. Charity-run options range from free table tennis in Brighton to street dance in Blackpool.

And for those still worried about bills, millions can get discounts on their utilities - but that's a different serve.