Top 50 Things to Do in Hampshire With Kids

Hampshire is one of the UK’s best family‑friendly counties — packed with attractions, outdoor adventures, animal encounters, museums, beaches, and rainy‑day gems. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, a school‑holiday itinerary, or a spontaneous day out, this guide rounds up 50 fantastic things to do with kids in Hampshire.

Animal Adventures & Wildlife Parks

Marwell Zoo – Meet giraffes, tigers, penguins, and explore five adventure playgrounds.

New Forest Wildlife Park – Otters, owls, deer, and woodland trails.

Longdown Activity Farm – Bottle‑feed baby animals and enjoy tractor rides.

Manor Farm Country Park – A working historic farm with animals and hands‑on activities.

Staunton Country Park – Farm animals, maze, gardens, and a huge play barn.

Birdworld (near Farnham) – A favourite for little ones who love penguins and parrots.

Hawk Conservancy Trust – Incredible bird‑of‑prey flying displays.

Blue Reef Aquarium (Southsea) – Sharks, rays, and underwater tunnels.

Transport, Trains & Planes

Mid‑Hants Watercress Line – Ride a real steam train through the countryside.

Beaulieu Motor Museum – Cars, monorail, Top Gear displays, and the stunning grounds.

Solent Sky Museum – Explore Southampton’s aviation history and climb into cockpits.

Basingstoke Milestones Museum – A recreated Victorian town kids can walk through.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – HMS Victory, Warrior, and hands‑on naval exhibits.

Hovercraft Ride to the Isle of Wight – A fun, fast mini‑adventure from Southsea.

Outdoor Fun & Nature Trails

New Forest National Park – Wild ponies, cycling trails, and picnic spots.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park – Forest trails, play areas, and family cycling.

Itchen Valley Country Park – Go Ape, woodland walks, and a huge adventure playground.

Royal Victoria Country Park – Beachfront walks, play areas, and the historic chapel.

Alice Holt Forest – Gruffalo trails, bike hire, and forest play zones.

Moors Valley Country Park – Tree‑top trails, lakes, and miniature railway.

Lepe Country Park – Beach, nature trails, and D‑Day history.

South Downs National Park – Rolling hills perfect for family walks.

Theme Parks & Big Days Out

Paultons Park & Peppa Pig World – A must‑visit for families with younger children.

Clarence Pier (Southsea) – Rides, arcades, and seaside fun.

Funland Hayling Island – Traditional rides and beachfront amusements.

Finkley Down Farm – Indoor play barns, animals, and outdoor fun.

4 Kingdoms Adventure Park – Soft play, animals, and themed zones.

History, Castles & Culture

Winchester Cathedral – Trails, tours, and beautiful grounds.

Wolvesey Castle – Free to explore and great for imaginative play.

Portchester Castle – A huge Roman fort overlooking the harbour.

Tudor House & Garden (Southampton) – Interactive exhibits and family trails.

Winchester City Mill – Working watermill with hands‑on demos.

Fort Nelson – Cannons, tunnels, and dramatic views (free entry).

The Mary Rose Museum – Henry VIII’s famous ship brought to life.

Indoor Fun & Rainy‑Day Ideas

Winchester Science Centre – Planetarium, experiments, and hands‑on exhibits.

Flip Out Basingstoke – Trampolines, inflatables, and ninja courses.

Rock Up (Whiteley) – Indoor climbing walls for all ages.

Oxygen Freejumping (Southampton) – Trampolines, foam pits, and toddler sessions.

Hollywood Bowl (multiple locations) – Family bowling fun.

Vue / Odeon / Harbour Lights Cinema – Kids’ screenings and family deals.

The Arc Winchester – Crafts, exhibitions, and children’s workshops.

Play cafés & soft play – Including Jungle Jeans, Krazy Kaves, and Little Play Town.

Beaches, Water & Coastal Fun

Southsea Beach – Pebbles, arcades, and ice cream.

Hill Head Beach – Great for paddling and kite flying.

Calshot Activities Centre – Skiing, climbing, velodrome, and water sports.

Hayling Island Beach – Sandy stretches and family‑friendly facilities.

Lymington Sea Water Baths – Inflatable obstacle course in summer.

Free & Budget‑Friendly Activities

Southampton Common – Lakes, play areas, and wildlife.

Basingstoke’s Eastrop Park – Boating lake and splash pad.

New Forest Reptile Centre – Free entry and fascinating native species.

Final Thoughts

Hampshire is bursting with family adventures — from wild animal encounters and historic ships to forest trails, beaches, and brilliant indoor attractions. Whether you’re planning a full day out or a quick after‑school treat, there’s always something new to explore.