Discover more in Hampshire
Centuries-old mansions, a working watermill and wildlife-rich heathland await you in Hampshire.
Family-friendly places in Hampshire
Discover great places for family days out at our places around Hampshire. Whether you’re popping in for a couple of hours or planning a bigger adventure, you’ll find acres of space and lots of ideas to keep you and the kids entertained, from wild play areas to energetic activity trails. Takeaway snacks and kids’ lunch boxes, picnic benches and buggy-friendly paths will make your visit that much easier.
Autumn and Halloween family days out in Hampshire
A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Adventure at Mottisfont
Until 2 November: step into the magical world of flying car Chitty Bang Bang, with Mottisfont’s exhibition and activities. This story was written by Ian Fleming for his son Caspar and became a famous Disney film. Gallery rooms are filled with the original illustrations by artist John Burningham, plus there’s a life-size Chitty car you can climb into for family photos. Outside, an interactive trail introduces families to games inspired by the book’s characters. Normal admission charge only.
We're Going on a Ghost Hunt™ Halloween Adventure at The Vyne
11 October to 2 November: based on the bestselling children’s books, this Halloween the bunnies are setting off on an adventure to find the ghosts hidden around The Vyne, with heaps of exciting things to see and do. Pick your bunny name, play Halloween hoopla, race your broomstick and watch out for the warty toads as you cross the stepping stones. Then join the party and collect your sticker. Ideal for pre-schoolers and young children. Free.
Pumpkin displays at Hinton Ampner
1 October to 2 November: Hinton’s pumpkins are back! Over 200 pumpkins are nestled on benches and shelves, piled into carts and wheelbarrows. Don’t forget to visit the resident scarecrow, presiding over his own pumpkin patch in the kitchen garden.
Family cinema at The Vyne
Get the family in the mood for Halloween with two evenings of magical (PG-rated) outdoor cinema at The Vyne. Snuggle up under blankets for spooktacular Hocus Pocus (4 Oct) and family favourite The Nightmare Before Christmas (5 Oct). Hot drinks and snacks available.
Wilma the Witch Halloween Trail at Hinton Ampner
18 October to 2 November: join Wilma the Witch to help her crack this Halloween mystery at Hinton Ampner. Meet mysterious beasts, tackle the bean bag challenge, find clues and solve puzzles. Magic wands and pointy hats welcome! £2 per trail. Recommended for ages 4-7 years.
Agent 11¾ Spy Family Trail at Mottisfont
4 October – 2 November: sign up to the ‘Secret Service’ as you step into the world of spies on this exciting new trail, inspired by Mottisfont’s connection with fictional spy James Bond. Have fun with undercover challenges, from cracking codes to creating disguises. Recommended for ages 6-12 years. Free.
Top places to play in Hampshire
Mottisfont
With its rushing river and bridges, Mottisfont is our no.1 destination for Pooh Sticks. There’s acres of space for adventure – race across fields, test your limits on the Wild Play climbing apparatus, or play games in the Paddock.
The Vyne
This picturesque country estate has plenty of buggy-friendly routes and space to safely roam. Tiny tots can have fun in The Vyne’s natural play area, whilst older kids hunt for wildlife in the orchard. Check out the bird hide overlooking the wetlands, - and build dens in the wood.
Hinton Ampner
Hinton’s tall hedges and footpaths are perfect for hide and seek. Say hello to the scarecrow in the kitchen garden and go on a bug safari in the wilds of the parkland close to the gardens.
Winchester City Mill
The mill’s family activity book is packed with ideas for things to do at the mill and at home, from wildlife watching to baking shortbread. Watch the otters on the otter cam and look out for the naughty flour thief.
Uppark
Uppark House and Garden, perched high on the South Downs, is one of our top spots for kite flying. There’s lots of space to run and play here. Try our meadow walk, roll down the garden’s little hill, and hunt out the Gothic Seat.
