Looking for the perfect way to keep the kids entertained in Hampshire? Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or seeking a bit of indoor fun, there’s something for every young adventurer in this beautiful county. From thrilling outdoor activities to unique family-friendly attractions, you’ll find plenty of options that will have your kids laughing, exploring, and making memories. Get ready to discover the best activities Hampshire has to offer! 🌳🦅🏎️🦓🛼🎢
Click below to explore activities in different areas of the county! ✨
👉 Hampshire is great for a short break – don’t miss out on these highly-rated accommodation options.
New Forest
Beaulieu
Exploring the fun of Beaulieu, National Motor Museum! 🏎️
We always like to combine a visit to the motor museum when they host big events as it represents excellent value for money when doing it all as a full family day! Museum, top gear show, monorail, gardens, Beaulieu house, little Beaulieu, their adventure playground and a huge show with lots of music acts, talks and stalls. 🚗
However, even when their isn’t an event on it is still well worth the visit for a fun day out for the kids where they can play and learn!
Check out their events calendar for other things going on throughout the year! 🗓️
📍Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire, United Kingdom SO42 7ZN
New Forest Wildlife Park
This great attraction on the east side of the New Forest, near Southampton. We visited when the kids were young and in the winter so was nice to return with the kids older and a sunny trip too!
Although a smaller attraction, perfect for half a day there’s still tons to do and it is perfect for families with younger kids.
They have diverse animal species, including wallabies and our faves the giant otters. The staff were clearly very passionate about what they do and we loved the feeding times and talks throughout the day, they have a big focus on conservation at the park and the animals looked well taken care of.
The park is set in woodland so some great winding trails to explore and their huge adventure playgrounds for both younger and older kids are brilliant. We enjoyed a picnic at one of the many picnic tables surrounding the older kids adventure playground.
📍New Forest Wildlife Park, Deerleap Ln, Southampton SO40 4UH
Longdown Activity Farm
Images from Longdown Activity Farm Website
Longdown Activity Farm in Hampshire is a fantastic animal attraction for families and animal lovers alike. With its wide range of farm animals, including goats, pigs, cows, and chickens, kids and adults can enjoy interactive experiences such as feeding baby animals and petting them. 🐐🐖🐄🐓
The farm also offers exciting activities like tractor rides and a play area for children, making it an ideal destination for a fun, hands-on day out. Its welcoming atmosphere and educational opportunities make Longdown Activity Farm a great choice for an activity with the kids.
📍Longdown Activity Farm, Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH
Images from Longdown Activity Farm Website
Lymington Sea Water Baths
Inflatable fun at Lymington Sea Water Baths! 
During the summer months, large blow-up inflatables are set up in the seawater pools, turning this tranquil spot into an action-packed adventure zone. From giant slides to obstacle courses, the inflatables provide hours of entertainment for both kids and adults, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. With the natural seawater of the Solent and the thrill of the inflatables, Lymington’s Sea Water Baths offer a unique and lively way to enjoy the outdoors and cool off on a warm day.
Starting from just £10 an hour we love a visit to the 110m sea water pool in the sunshine. It has 200 metres of inflatable courses to go crazy on, which both kids and adults love!
It’s the UK’s oldest sea water baths dating back to 1833! 
📍Lymington Sea Water Baths, Bath Rd, Lymington SO41 3SE
New Forest Walks
The New Forest has plenty of walks that are great for kids of all ages. From Buckler’s Hard to the Deer Sanctuary, where you might spot some deer from a distance, it’s a great way to get outside, let the kids run off some energy, and enjoy everything the forest has to offer. 🌳🥾
For some great walk ideas in the New Forest, take a look at these blog posts 👇
7 Winter walks in the New Forest
6 Must do New Forest walks for the summer
12 Family Friendly walks in the New Forest
Deer Safari
Image from https://burleymanor.newforesthotels.co.uk/things-to-do/new-forest-deer-safari
The Deer Safari in the New Forest at Burley Manor is an awesome way to spend the day with the family, especially if you want to see some amazing wildlife up close. On the safari, you’ll get the chance to spot herds of deer roaming freely in their natural habitat, along with other animals like ponies and cattle. It’s a fun and exciting way to explore the forest, and the kids will love the thrill of spotting these beautiful animals in the wild. Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a unique experience, the Deer Safari is a fantastic adventure for all ages! 🦌
📍Deer Safari, Burley Park, Burley, BH24 4AA
New Forest Reptile Centre
Image from Forestry England Website
The New Forest Reptile Centre is a fantastic stop for animal lovers and families exploring the beautiful New Forest. With its impressive collection of native reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates, it offers a hands-on, educational experience for kids and adults alike. The centre provides a unique chance to see local species like adders, slow worms, and lizards up close in their natural habitat. The friendly staff are always on hand to share fascinating facts about these often-misunderstood creatures, making it an engaging and fun day out for all ages. Plus, the surrounding forest offers plenty of opportunities for a scenic walk after your visit. 🦎
📍New Forest Reptile Centre, A35 Bournemouth Rd, Lyndhurst SO43 7GR
Portsmouth
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must-see heritage destination in our County which is popular with both locals and tourists alike. We enjoy the HMS Warrior, The Mary Rose, HMS Victory, action stations and much more. Learning plenty of history and the kids also keeping entertained by friendly staff, interactive exhibits and amazing sights. The climbing wall and obstacle course in action stations were top highlights for the kids too! 
You can also make you way across to the two Gosport attractions included in the ticket; the Explosion Museum of Naval Firepower and the Royal Navy Submarine Museum. The water bus takes you there and also gives a harbour tour, but there is so much to do on the Portsmouth side alone you would be very ambitious to fit it all in for just one day alone! 
📍Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsea, Portsmouth PO1 3LJ
Southsea Beach and Arcades
Southsea is the perfect destination for an adventure with the kids, offering endless fun for everyone. Stroll along the long, scenic beach, ideal for a relaxing walk or a fun day out when the weather warms up. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a refreshing dip in the sea? 🌊
No visit to Southsea is complete without a trip to the funfair, either on South Parade Pier or Clarence Pier Amusement Park. Whether to go on the rides, spend some pennies in the arcades, or eat fish and chips, ice cream, or candy floss. The pier has been restored and you are free to stroll along the wooden decks and look out over the Solent, watch the people fishing, or try crabbing yourself. The amusement park is one of the largest on the south coast and whilst it shows its age there is no doubt children still love the fun and excitement of the fair! 🎢🎡
📍Clarence Pier, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 3AA
Old Portsmouth
Old Portsmouth is a great spot for kids with its mix of history and outdoor fun. The cobbled streets and historic buildings spark curiosity, while the waterfront and nearby parks like Canoe Lake give plenty of space for play. It’s a safe, family-friendly area where kids can explore, enjoy nature, and have fun! 🌊
👉 Discover the top-rated accommodations in Hampshire with these great choices!
Winchester
Museums of Winchester – Hampshire Cultural Trust
Winchester offers a few Museums for the kids to enjoy and learn. One being Westgate Museum with great views over the high street, lots of history to see and dress up for the kids as well as trails inside too etc. It’s run by Hampshire Cultural Trust who also run other attractions in the City like the great hall, city museum and 878 AD.
📍West Gate Museum, High St, Winchester SO23 9AP
Winchester Science Centre
Winchester Science Centre is a fantastic day out for kids, it offers a fun, interactive learning experience that sparks curiosity and creativity. With hands-on exhibits, an immersive planetarium, and exciting science shows, children can explore everything from space to engineering in a way that’s engaging and easy to understand. It’s the perfect mix of education and entertainment, making it a great spot for kids to learn, play, and discover the wonders of science! 🧪
📍Winchester Science Centre, Telegraph Way, Winchester SO21 1HZ
Marwell Zoo
Marwell Zoo is the ultimate family day out, offering an exciting and diverse range of animals for everyone to enjoy. From majestic giraffes and playful penguins to exotic tigers and curious lemurs, there’s something to captivate animal lovers of all ages. The zoo is set in beautifully landscaped grounds, perfect for a relaxing stroll, or for spreading out a picnic on the grass in front of the Marwell House. With plenty of space to explore, the kids will love the adventure with the many playgrounds the zoo has to offer. Whether you’re watching the animals interact or enjoying the scenic surroundings, it’s a day trip the whole family will treasure! 🦓🐧
📍Marwell Zoo, Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH
Climb the hundreds of steps down & up St Catherine’s Hill
St. Catherine’s Hill in Winchester is a great spot to take the kids for a fun adventure and some amazing views of the city. While there are quite a few steps to climb, it’s definitely worth the effort. The kids will love the challenge of reaching the top, and once there, they’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Winchester. It’s the perfect place for a family day out, offering a chance to explore nature, get some fresh air, and enjoy time together. 🌅
📍St Catherine’s Hill Nature Reserve, Garnier Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9PA
👉 For those planning a longer visit, Hampshire provides some fantastic accommodation choices that come highly recommended!
Southampton
Sea City Museum
The Sea City Museum offers a fantastic day out for families, blending education and fun in a way that will captivate kids of all ages. With a wide variety of interactive exhibits, children can engage with history in hands-on ways, making learning exciting and memorable. One of the museum’s highlights is its deep connection to the Titanic story, where visitors can explore fascinating exhibits about the ship, its passengers, and the city’s important role in its history. Whether it’s exploring the interactive displays or discovering the rich maritime heritage, Sea City Museum provides an immersive experience that makes for a perfect day out with the kids. 🌊🛳️
📍Sea City Museum, Havelock Rd, Southampton SO14 7FY
See Southampton tour
Heading out on a fantastic walking tour of Southamptons wonderful architectural, historical and cultural heritage with one of the passionate guides and a group of locals and tourists from the likes of America, Japan and the Netherlands is a perfect activity to do with the kids. ⚔️🌊👑
Taking 90 minutes you get to visit many landmarks as well as underground vaults only the guides have the keys to get special access into, Katie kept it fun and informative both for adults and kids alike. I’d recommend locals to get out on this tour learn more about the City and the history on their doorstep, see more of the old town and make sure to take the kids too!
Westquay shopping centre
West Quay is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out with the whole family. With exciting activities available year-round, like bowling, an arcade, shopping, an array of restaurants and a cinema, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In addition, West Quay hosts special events throughout the year, including ice skating, roller skating, and outdoor screenings of major sports events during the summer and so much more. With so much to offer, there’s always something new to discover! ⛸️✨🛼
Be sure to check out up coming events here!
📍Wesy Quay Shopping Centre, Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1QF
The Quays
Image from https://www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/attractions/the-quays-swimming-and-diving-centre-4c2a9ed9
The Quays Leisure Centre in Southampton is a brilliant spot for kids, offering loads of fun activities to keep them entertained. They can splash around in the swimming pool, enjoy the water slides, or even take part in fun fitness classes designed just for them. There’s also a soft play area for younger kids, so there’s something for all ages. Whether they’re swimming, playing, or just having fun with friends, the Quays Leisure Centre is a great way to keep the kids active and happy! 🏊♂️
📍The Quays Swimming & Diving Complex, 27 Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA
Tudor house
The Tudor House is a great place to take the kids for a family day out. It offers an engaging mix of history, hands-on activities, and interactive exhibits. The museum is housed in a beautiful, historic building dating back to the 15th century, which sparks curiosity and allows children to explore a real piece of the past. The museum often runs family-friendly events, such as craft workshops and storytelling sessions, which makes the learning fun. ✨
It’s an educational experience that combines history with creativity, making it an enjoyable and interactive activity for kids.
📍Tudor House, Bugle St, Southampton SO14 2AD
Manor Farm
Images from Manor Farm Website
Manor Farm, nestled within the River Hamble Country Park, is a charming farm that’s home to a variety of beloved animals, including pigs and horses. Beyond being a delightful animal attraction, the farm offers interactive feeding experiences and the chance to hold adorable creatures like guinea pigs and rabbits, perfect for the kids to get up close to some of there favourite animals.
The farm is set within beautiful grounds, perfect for a relaxing walk after visiting the animals. There is also a indoor play area, perfect for a rainy day. You can stop by the onsite café to enjoy a delicious lunch, or treat yourself to a coffee and cake. Definitely worth the visit especially with little ones!
📍Manor Farm, Pyland’s Ln, Southampton SO31 1BH
Images from Manor Farm Website
Southamptons Centre Parks
The parks in Southampton’s city centre are ideal for kids, offering a mix of green space and fun activities. Places like East Park, Hoglands Park and Mayflower Park have playgrounds, open areas to play games, and plenty of space for a picnic or a family outing. These parks are easy to access and provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, with paths for walking and benches for relaxing. They’re perfect for children to run around, enjoy the outdoors, and take part in seasonal events or festivals.
Southampton Common
Southampton Common is a great spot for kids, offering plenty of space to run, play, and explore. With large grassy areas, playgrounds, and a scenic lake with ducks, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy. The park also features tennis courts and a splash park for added fun. It’s the perfect place for outdoor activities, family picnics, and enjoying nature in a relaxed setting. 🌳
📍Southampton Common, The Avenue, Southampton SO15 7NN
👉 Looking to stay in Hampshire? Here are some highly-rated accommodation options.
Basingstoke
Whitchurch Silk Mill
The Whitchurch Silk Mill is a great spot for kids, offering a unique chance to learn about the traditional craft of silk weaving. Children can watch the historic looms in action and even take part in interactive workshops, trying their hand at weaving or designing their own patterns. The mill also has a lovely café where families can relax and enjoy a snack or drink after exploring. Set in beautiful surroundings, it’s a perfect spot for a fun, educational outing. 🧵
📍Whitchurch Silk Mill, 28 Winchester St, Whitchurch RG28 7AL
IFLY Indoor Sky Diving
Images from https://www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk/attractions/ifly-indoor-skydiving-basingstoke-ab97efde
iFly Indoor Skydiving in Basingstoke is an exciting adventure for kids who love a thrill! It lets them experience the sensation of skydiving in a safe, controlled environment. The instructors are super friendly and guide them through every step, making it perfect for beginners. It’s a fun way to try something totally unique and feel the rush of flying without having to jump out of a plane! Whether they’re into adrenaline-pumping activities or just want to try something new, iFly is sure to leave them with big smiles. 🪂
📍IFLY Indoor Sky Diving, Basingstoke Leisure Park, Euskirchen Way, Basingstoke RG22 6PG
Bowling
Image from https://www.tenpin.co.uk/our-locations/southampton/bowling/
You can’t go wrong with bowling! It’s always a hit with kids, offering fun, friendly competition and plenty of laughs. Whether they’re trying to knock down their first pin or aiming for a strike, it’s an activity that’s perfect for all ages. The atmosphere is relaxed, and there’s always something for everyone, making it a great way to keep the kids entertained for hours. Plus, with food and drinks on hand, it’s a fun activity for the kids and adults alike. 🎳
Romsey
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a stunning destination featuring vibrant, colorful gardens and three delightful cafes. Visitors can marvel at the enormous treehouse and explore multiple play areas, making it a perfect spot for families. With picnic spots scattered throughout, you’re encouraged to bring your own spread and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Hidden trails offer a sense of adventure, while seasonal events and exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to experience. 🌸
📍Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Jermyns Ln, Romsey SO51 0QA
Paultons Park
Paulton’s Park is the perfect destination for a fun-filled family day out, especially for kids. With a wide range of rides and attractions suited for all ages, from gentle carousels to thrilling roller coasters, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. The park’s well-designed layout and friendly atmosphere make it easy to navigate, and the themed areas add an extra layer of excitement. Plus, with plenty of spots for picnics and family-friendly dining options, it’s an ideal place for making lasting memories with your kids. 🎢🎠
📍Paultons Park, Romsey SO51 6AL
Romsey Rapids
Images from https://www.dorsetmums.co.uk/blog/read_131633/our-trip-to-romsey-rapids.html
Romsey Rapids is a fantastic spot for a fun-filled activity with the kids. This leisure complex boasts an exciting mix of indoor and outdoor water attractions, including a wave pool, water slides, and a lazy river, making it perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking to swim, splash around, or relax in the warm pools, there’s something for everyone. The friendly staff, clean facilities, and family-oriented atmosphere make it an ideal place to spend the day, especially if you’re looking for a bit of water-based fun. Plus, there are plenty of nearby cafes to grab a bite after all the action! 💦
📍Romsey Rapids, Southampton Rd, Romsey SO51 8AF
👉 Hampshire offers highly-rated accommodation options for longer stays, too!
Andover
Thruxton Event day out
Thruxton is a fantastic place for kids, offering a wide range of events and experiences throughout the year. We have attended Thruxton Historic and the kids loved the day out. The venue is family-friendly with easy parking, plenty of space to enjoy picnics, and exciting sights like car and motorbike displays, army jeeps, and even aviation shows with helicopter and plane flypasts. Kids will love the action, especially when the cars zoom past!
The paddock area is free to enter during certain events and you can grab a bite at the restaurant overlooking the track. The 4×4 off-roading experience is a hit with children, offering an adventure through steep banks, mud, and water for just £5 a person. With a full calendar of events, like the British Trucks event, Thruxton is a must-visit for families looking for a day full of excitement! 🏎️
📍Thruxton Circuit, 695R+HC, Andover SP11 8PW
Hawk Conservancy Trust
Images from Hawk Conservancy Trust Website
The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a fantastic day out for families, set in 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows. Home to over 150 birds of prey, the Trust offers exciting flying and feeding displays, along with interactive shows that kids will love. It’s a great opportunity to learn about these incredible birds and their conservation while enjoying the outdoors. Definitely worth a visit! 🦅
📍Hawk Conservancy Trust, Sarson Ln, Andover SP11 8DY
Images from Hawk Conservancy Trust Website
Alresford/Alton
Watercress Line
Images from Watercress Line Website
The Watercress Line in Alresford, Hampshire is a fantastic family-friendly destination, offering a delightful mix of history and fun. Kids will be thrilled by the chance to ride on historic steam trains through beautiful countryside with hop on/hop off tickets available to be able to explore more of Hampshire! 🚂
The line often hosts special events, including the much-loved “Day Out with Thomas,” where children can meet the famous blue engine and enjoy themed activities. With old-fashioned stations to explore, treasure hunts, and seasonal events, the Watercress Line provides a memorable experience for families looking for a day of adventure. ✨
ℹ️ It is recommended to either hop on the train at Alresford or Alton unless an specifically stated otherwise.
📍Alresford Station, Station road SO24 9JG
📍Alton Station, Station Road GU34 2PZ
Images from Watercress Line Website
Hampshire border
BirdWorld
BirdWorld on the outskirts of Hampshire is a smaller animal attraction than your larger local ones but this does mean it’s a nice quiet day out too. It’s not as modern as some too but it’s got some fantastic areas and facts for the kids to get immersed in as well as the fact it’s home to some of the world’s rarest birds and 40% of the species that live at the park are threatened with extinction. 🦜
Our visit was around 3 hours and enjoyable with some fun interactions.
✨ Interactive areas for kids including playgrounds and exhibits with things to spin around and more, Louis’ fave was the indoor area called Love & Colour.
🗣️ Talks from keepers at times throughout the day with a info board near the entrance
✅ Perfect for toddlers and buggy friendly pathways too
🗺️ Birdworld is the United Kingdom’s largest bird park, covering 26 acres
🐧 They have two penguin species: Humboldt Penguin; African Penguin
📍BirdWorld, Holt Pound Ln, A325, Farnham GU10 4LD
