Things to do with the kids in and around Hampshire

There’s loads to see and do with the family at our places around Hampshire in spring. There are buggy friendly paths and acres of space to roam in, or enjoy a family picnic. The parklands and fields beyond the gardens are full of new wildlife to spot, and the woods are littered with bluebells in April and early May. You'll find kid-size lunch boxes and other little treats in our family-friendly cafes.

Two young children play on a bridge at Mottisfont, Hampshire

Mottisfont 

There are lots of large spaces to run, jump and play outdoors at Mottisfont. The paddocks are great for ball games, and there are picnic benches nearby too. Or try out Wild Play areas like Pump, Pool and Paddle. There are plenty of ’50 things to do before you're 11¾’ challenges – with its bridges and a rushing river, it’s our top destination for Pooh Sticks.

Wild play adventures
Visitors in the bird hide at The Vyne

The Vyne 

This country estate is perfect for roaming in and exploring the natural world. Visit the woods to find scented bluebells, and tick off some of our ’50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges. You can build a camp, look for animal clues like feathers and paw prints, and make wild art. At our wetlands, there’s lots of spring bird activity to look out for, from our cosy birdhide. You’ll find a café close to the house, plus plenty of picnic benches.

Bluebell woods and wetlands
A family group following a trail in a spring garden with daffodils.

Hinton Ampner 

Hinton’s spacious parkland is a great place to run off steam in spring The Tree Trail introduces you to amazing facts about our ancient trees. Some of them can even be crawled inside. Further afield lies magnificent woodlands full of bluebells Try a spot of den-building or scavenger-hunting whilst you’re there.

Tree-time adventures
Uppark's meadow in the spring

Uppark 

Set high on the South Downs, Uppark’s gardens are a great spot for kite-flying on a blustery spring day. Or you can wander into the wildflower meadow to look for insects and enjoy a picnic. The small woodland is good for den-building and close by, the café serves pick ‘n’ mix lunch boxes. In the house you'll discover a 6ft dolls’ house.

Meadow picnics and kite-flying
Children learning about Winchester City Mill on a miller's guided tour

Winchester City Mill 

There's loads of hands-on family fun at this ancient working watermill. Experience the Thrill of the Mill when you see the water roaring beneath the building. There's otter webcam footage to enjoy, and wildlife to spot in the little island garden. Learn how to grind flour too, or watch our expert millers. Open Wed-Sun.

Island wildlife in the city