A family walking beside the river in the gardens at Mottisfont, Hampshire — A family group in the gardens at Mottisfont | © National Trust Images/James Dobson

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.

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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.

Two small children with adult crouching down to study woodland floor in autumn

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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.

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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.

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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.

An illustration of Mr Gumpy by John Burningham

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John Burningham exhibition and trail

Step into the hilarious world of children’s author and illustrator John Burningham at Mottisfont. You’ll be transported into stories like Borka the Featherless Goose, Avocado Baby, and Oi! Get Off Our Train! with playful spaces, a life-size ‘magic’ bed (great for snuggling up with a book) and an outdoor adventure trail. Until 29 September. Trail £3.

Back view of small girl in navy sparkly dress and gold witch's hat, on lawn, generic

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Wilma the Witch's Potions Trail at Hinton Ampner

Hidden in the spookiest corners of Hinton Ampner's gardens are the ingredients Wilma the Witch wants for her magic potion. But she needs your help! Race on your broomstick, toss a ring onto the witch's hat, and move your pet spider through the maze to complete the challenge and make the potion. 19 October to 3 November, trail £2

Close up of several orange and white pumpkins carved with Hallowe'en- themed faces

Mottisfont's Pumpkin Parade

Follow Mottisfont's Pumpkin Parade trail to discover Hallowe’en fun, from pumpkin noughts and crosses to pumpkin rolling. There are skeletons to spot in the spooky medieval cellarium, then balance and crawl in the Creepy Critters climbing area. For little ones, tiny doors open to reveal cute Hallowe’en pictures. Kids can create pumpkin designs to add to Mottisfont’s bunting, and there are quirky pumpkin displays for family photos. 19 October to 3 November

Young girl in witch's costume with witch's hat inside Hughenden Manor

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Hallowe'en pumpkin trail at The Vyne

Journey through The Vyne's ancient mansion on the hunt for 10 vibrant suncatchers featuring mysterious, magical pumpkins. In the gardens, the jack-o’-lantern theme continues, with pumpkin patch bean bag toss, ring toss and noughts and crosses. 26 October to 3 November, £2 with sweetie prize

A crowd sit watching outdoor cinema at an event.

Spooky cinema at The Vyne

Wrap up warm to enjoy Hallowe'en Disney film, Hocus Pocus, under the stars at The Vyne. Fancy dress encouraged! There’s a spooky soundtrack to enjoy before the film, with specially curated songs for witches, ghouls, ghosts, and vampires. Hot drinks and refreshments available to buy. 5 October, gates open 5.30pm, booking essential. Film rated PG