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Two children in cream and red Christmas jumpers sitting on huge cream and gold thrones with Christmas trees behind, in Mottisfont's Whistler room for A Cinderella Christmas
Children seated on huge thrones in Mottisfont's Whistler rooms, during A Cinderella Christmas | © National Trust Images/Megan Taylor

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.

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.

Four children in jeans and long sleeved tops searching for conkers in fallen autumn leaves on a lawn

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.

A boy and a girl building a den in woodland

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.

Two small Asian children in coats walking in parkland with tree in background

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.

A child takes part in a milling demonstration at Winchester City Mill, Hampshire

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.

A child explores the outdoors with their family in autumn

Planning ahead for Christmas

Christmas in and around Hampshire 

This Christmas, our Hampshire places are filled with colour, fun and sparkle, as they celebrate favourite pantomimes and fairytales. Will Cinderella escape her kitchen for the glamorous ball at Mottisfont? Discover scenes inspired by Aladdin and Snow White at Hinton Ampner. At The Vyne you’ll find the Snow Queen’s glittering realm, plus a Neverland play area for tiny tots.

Man and woman both holding a young girl, standing smiling into the distance in Mottisfont's dining room, with decorated Christmas trees in backgroune
Chalk path through undulating open heathland in summer, New Forest, Hampshire

Discover more in Hampshire

Centuries-old mansions, a working watermill and wildlife-rich heathland await you in Hampshire.