A family walking beside the river in the gardens at Mottisfont, Hampshire — Families enjoying the river walk 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.

Illustration of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang flying through the air

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A Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Adventure at Mottisfont

19 July to 2 November: this summer, step into the magical world of flying car Chitty Bang Bang, with Mottisfont’s new exhibition and activities. The story, which celebrates its 60th birthday, was written by Ian Fleming for his son Caspar, and became a famous Disney film. Gallery rooms are transformed into colourful, creative spaces featuring artist John Burningham’s original illustrations, cosy reading areas and a custom-built Chitty front end you can climb into for family photos. Outside, an interactive trail takes families on a Chitty adventure through the gardens, with games inspired by the book’s characters. On set dates there are lively free storytelling performances too.

Text reading Tthe Very Hungry Caterpillar Trail with a drawing of green caterpillar with a red face standing to the right, and the sun up in the sky to the left.

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Family-friendly things to do at Hinton Ampner

19 July to 7 September: join us at Hinton Ampner where kids can become the world’s most famous caterpillar, from Eric Carle’s best-selling book The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. Wiggle along the trail to spot juicy fruits and tasty snacks before emerging as a beautiful butterfly. Along the way you’ll digest fascinating facts and enjoy games and activities in the gardens. 19 July to 7 September

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Family-friendly things to do at The Vyne

19 July to 31 August: come to The Vyne for a Summer of Play. Who’ll win the relay race and triumph at giant chess? Practice hoopla skills by the orchard and create tunes on our music station. In the wild garden there's a mini stage for outdoor plays, and in the summerhouse you'll find storybooks for a quiet read. Suitable for all ages.

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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 young children stand on a wooden outdoor stage holding props.

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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.