26 things to do with kids in Hampshire

Planning a family day out in Hampshire? No worries…There’s plenty to do. From thrilling theme parks to educational museums, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of top attractions to enjoy with your kids. 1. Paultons Park & Peppa […]

Families enjoying a day out in Hampshire, featuring a mix of theme parks, nature trails, and interactive museums

Planning a family day out in Hampshire? No worries…There’s plenty to do. From thrilling theme parks to educational museums, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of top attractions to enjoy with your kids.

1. Paultons Park & Peppa Pig World

Evie poses on gaston at Peppa Pig World

Paultons Park is one of the best family attractions in the UK, with over 70 rides set in a beautiful theme park. Younger kids will love Peppa Pig World, while older children can enjoy roller coasters like Storm Chaser and The Flight of the Pterosaur. There’s also a dinosaur-themed Lost Kingdom, splash parks, and lovely gardens to explore.

2. Marwell Zoo

On the train at Marwell Zoo

Explore a diverse range of animals in a sprawling 140-acre park. Marwell Zoo is dedicated to conservation and offers a great day out for animal lovers.

  • Address: Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH
  • Directions: Located off the B2177 between Winchester and Bishops Waltham. Get directions
  • Website: Marwell Zoo
  • TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews

3. Jake’s Playbarn & Mini Farm

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Jake’s Playbarn is a fantastic indoor and outdoor play centre for younger children. It features soft play, slides, ball pits, and even a mini farm, where kids can meet friendly animals like rabbits, goats, and ponies. The outdoor adventure playground includes climbing frames, pedal tractors, and water play areas.

4. Eastleigh Lakeside Railway

For train-loving children, Eastleigh Lakeside Railway is a miniature steam and diesel railway offering scenic rides around a lake and through woodlands. Kids can watch the trains being prepared, take a turn in the driver’s seat on special event days, and enjoy the model railway exhibition.

5. Staunton Country Park

Family photo at Staunton Country Park

Staunton Country Park is a fantastic family-friendly farm and parkland, offering interactive animal encounters, beautiful gardens, and a maze for kids to explore. Families can also enjoy picnic areas, a lake, walking trails, and play zones. The Victorian glasshouse is a great place to learn about exotic plants!

6. The New Forest Reptile Centre

For something truly unique, visit the New Forest Reptile Centre, where families can get up close with native British reptiles like adders, grass snakes, and slow worms. The woodland walk and wildlife viewing areas make it a fantastic, free educational trip for kids who love nature.

7. Hawk Conservancy Trust

A brilliant day out for wildlife lovers, the Hawk Conservancy Trust is home to over 130 birds of prey. Kids can enjoy live flying demonstrations, hands-on experiences, and even the chance to meet owls up close. The site also has a great play area and woodland trails.

8. Manor Farm & Country Park

Manor Farm offers a fantastic mix of hands-on animal encounters, historic farm buildings, and open spaces for children to explore. The farm brings history to life with costumed actors and interactive displays, making it a great educational day out.

  • Address: Pyland’s Lane, Southampton SO31 1BH
  • Directions: Located between Southampton and Fareham, near the River Hamble. Get directions
  • Website: Manor Farm
  • TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews

9. Moors Valley Country Park

A haven for outdoor adventurers, Moors Valley offers a mix of woodland trails, adventure play areas, and even a steam railway. Families can explore the Gruffalo Trail, cycle through scenic routes, or take on the treetop challenge at Go Ape.

10. Explosion! Museum of Naval Firepower

For a unique and exciting day out, the Explosion! Museum in Gosport offers interactive exhibits on naval warfare, including torpedoes, missiles, and mines. Kids can learn through hands-on displays and see real historical artefacts from the Royal Navy.

11. Longdown Activity Farm

A fantastic choice for younger children, Longdown Activity Farm allows families to get up close with animals, from feeding goats to bottle-feeding baby lambs. There are also play areas, tractor rides, and a soft play barn.

12. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Step into history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to famous ships like HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, and the Mary Rose Museum. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits, dress up as sailors, and even try their hand at interactive naval challenges.

13. Alice Holt Forest

Evie and Liza pose at Alice Holt Forest with Stick Man

For families who love the great outdoors, Alice Holt Forest offers an exciting day out with cycling trails, playgrounds, and the popular Gruffalo Sculpture Trail. Older kids can tackle the Go Ape treetop adventure, while younger ones enjoy the walking routes and picnic spots.

14. Hayling Island Beach

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For a classic British seaside experience, Hayling Island Beach is the perfect family destination. With safe, shallow waters, an amusement park, and a miniature railway, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained while parents relax by the sea.

15. Finkley Down Farm

Perfect for younger children, Finkley Down Farm is a hands-on farm park where kids can feed animals, ride ponies, and play in the indoor and outdoor adventure areas. Daily activities include tractor rides, petting sessions, and even an exciting play barn with soft play.

16. South Downs Planetarium

If your kids love space and astronomy, the South Downs Planetarium in Chichester offers an immersive stargazing experience with regular shows on planets, galaxies, and space exploration. The engaging and interactive displays make it a fantastic educational day out.

17. Spinnaker Tower

For breathtaking views over Portsmouth and beyond, Spinnaker Tower is a must-visit. Kids will love the glass sky walk, which lets them see straight down to the harbour below! There are also interactive displays and a fun quiz trail to keep little explorers entertained.

18. Butser Ancient Farm

Step back in time at Butser Ancient Farm, a fascinating reconstructed Iron Age village where families can experience history hands-on. Kids can try ancient crafts, see archaeology in action, and explore traditional roundhouses.

19. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

For a peaceful outdoor adventure, visit Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary in the New Forest. This quiet spot is perfect for a nature walk, and kids can see wild deer up close from the viewing platforms.

20. The Brickworks Museum

LEGO fans will love The Brickworks Museum, where kids can discover the fascinating history of brick-making through interactive exhibits. The museum also runs fun brick-building workshops and vintage machinery demonstrations.

21. The Vyne

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For a mix of history and adventure, The Vyne, a National Trust property, offers woodland walks, a natural play area, and a fascinating look inside a Tudor mansion. It’s a great blend of education and outdoor fun for the whole family.

22. Winchester City Mill

Winchester mill

Winchester City Mill is one of the oldest working watermills in the UK, offering a hands-on experience where kids can see flour being milled and even take part in fun baking activities. The interactive exhibits make learning about history and engineering exciting!

23. Funland Hayling Island

For a traditional seaside amusement park experience, Funland Hayling Island is packed with funfair rides, go-karts, and an indoor play area. It’s a great spot for thrill-seekers and younger children alike.

24. Gilbert White’s House & The Oates Collection

This unique museum is dedicated to natural history, celebrating the work of Gilbert White, an early conservationist, and the explorers Captain Oates and Frank Oates. Kids can explore beautiful gardens, interactive wildlife exhibits, and even dress up in historical costumes.

25. The Curtis Museum

For families who love history, the Curtis Museum in Alton offers a fascinating look at Hampshire’s past, featuring everything from Anglo-Saxon artefacts to Victorian toys. The museum has a kid-friendly treasure hunt to keep younger visitors engaged.

26. Southampton City Art Gallery

For an artsy day out, the Southampton City Art Gallery has a collection of world-class paintings, sculptures, and modern art exhibits. The gallery often runs free family workshops, making it a great place to inspire creativity in kids.

27. West Green House Gardens

Daddy and daughter at West Green House in front of wisteria arch

We’ve recently discovered this little Hampshire beauty and loved it, as you can tell from our review. If you’re after a peaceful family day out surrounded by flowers, bridges, and space to explore, West Green House Gardens near Hartley Wintney is a beautiful option. With colourful gardens, quirky follies, and seasonal events (including opera in the summer and magical Christmas lights), there’s something for everyone—especially if your kids enjoy a good wander and a slice of cake. The tea room is lovely, and although the food can be a little pricey, it’s well worth it for the setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best theme park for kids in Hampshire?

Paultons Park, home to Peppa Pig World, is widely considered the best theme park for young children, offering a mix of gentle rides, themed attractions, and thrilling roller coasters for older kids.

Are there free things to do with kids in Hampshire?

Yes! The New Forest Reptile Centre, Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and many country parks such as Queen Elizabeth Country Park offer fantastic free activities for families.

What are the best indoor activities for kids in Hampshire?

For rainy days, consider visiting Winchester Science Centre, The Brickworks Museum, or Funland Hayling Island for indoor fun and learning experiences.

Where can I take my kids to see animals in Hampshire?

Marwell Zoo, Longdown Activity Farm, and the New Forest Wildlife Park are all excellent choices for seeing and interacting with animals.

What are some good outdoor activities for families in Hampshire?

Alice Holt Forest, Moors Valley Country Park, and Staunton Country Park all offer great opportunities for walking, cycling, and outdoor play areas.

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