Things to Do Across Hampshire to Make the Most of Your Summer Holidays

So the summer holidays are nearly halfway through and your getting stuck for ideas of things to do with the kids!

Whether the sun’s blazing or the rain won’t quit, Hampshire is packed with brilliant ways to make the most of your summer holidays. From action-packed days out to hidden gems and cosy rainy-day escapes, here’s your go-to guide for keeping the kids entertained (and adults happy too!).

Sunny Day Adventures

We have the perfect selection of things to do on a sunny day near you…

1. Hit the Beach at Southsea or Lepe
Grab a bucket and spade and head to Southsea seafront for classic seaside fun. Or, explore Lepe Country Park for stunning coastal walks, rock pooling, and café treats with a view.

2. Pick Your Own at a Hampshire Farm
Visit places like Durleighmarsh Farm, Sunnyfields, or Pickwell Farm for fruit picking – perfect for little hands and outdoor fresh air. Some even offer play areas and picnic spots.

3. Go Wild at Marwell Zoo or New Forest Wildlife Park
Meet giraffes, penguins, and tigers at Marwell Zoo, or get up close to otters and deer at the New Forest Wildlife Park. Both are perfect full-day trips for animal lovers.

4. Explore the New Forest by Bike or Pony
Hire bikes in Brockenhurst or go pony trekking with one of the many New Forest riding stables. Don’t forget to pack a picnic – the forest is full of scenic spots to stop.

5. Climb High at Rock Up (Various locations)
Ideal for energetic kids and adventurous adults, Rock Up’s indoor climbing centres offer big thrills and soft play for younger ones too. Plus – aircon. Enough said.

Rainy Day Lifesavers

But if the weather turns we’ve also got you covered with loads of things to do on a rainy day…

6. Dive In at The Quays or Romsey Rapids
Rainy day? Head to a local leisure centre for swimming fun. Romsey Rapids has flumes and a lazy river – a firm family favourite.

7. Step into History at Winchester Science Centre or Milestones Museum
Both are packed with hands-on exhibits, interactive zones and themed activities through the summer. Educational? Yes. Boring? Never.

8. Cosy Up at an Indie Cinema or Theatre
Check out The Arc in Winchester, The Lights in Andover, or No.6 Cinema in Portsmouth for family-friendly screenings, workshops and live performances.

9. Visit a Local Library or Bookshop Trail
Rainy afternoons are perfect for storytelling sessions. Many libraries across Hampshire run free holiday clubs and craft activities. Waterstones in Winchester or P&G Wells often run summer book trails too.

10. Escape the Rain with Indoor Fun Centres
From soft play like 360 Play in Farnborough to Flip Out Basingstoke, there’s no shortage of indoor energy burners across the county.

Bonus: Summer Treat Stops
Don’t forget to pop into The Hampshire Pantry in Winchester, Bells in Alton for ice cream, or Josie’s in Bishop’s Waltham for pancakes and milkshakes that’ll make the whole family smile.

Make This Summer One to Remember
Whether you’re chasing the sun or dodging the drizzle, Hampshire has you covered. Bookmark this list, round up your crew, and start ticking off the fun – rain or shine!