Hampshire is far more than a historic corner of England. It is a popular place to visit, with many people visiting throughout the year. The challenge for many is finding fun, affordable things to do for the whole family. Here are a few great family-friendly things to do in Hampshire for everyone from little kids, all the way through to big kids and everyone in between.
Fort Nelson
Fort Nelson offers a number of things to do that are suitable for the whole family. Get your teenagers (or even parents) away from the first-person shooter game and let him tour the galleries with more than 300 artillery spanning 600 years of history. Younger children will enjoy exploring the tunnels and ramparts. They periodically have special gun firings so you can see them literally explode. In a controlled fashion, of course.
Lepe Country Park
Everyone can enjoy a day at the beach. You could build sandcastles with younger children, tour the nature reserve or explore the D-day remains. If the weather is warm enough, you can all go for a swim.
New Forest Activities
New Forest Activities is one of the ideal family days out in the south. Your kids could go on a guided canoe or kayak tour. They could learn how to shoot arrows or play Battlefield Live. They have a rope course, too for the mini adrenalin junkies in the family. Also, you are almost guaranteed to see some of the beautiful wild horses that call the New Forest their home.
The Isle of Wight
The island is dotted with authentic, historic English gardens. These are perfect for grandparents who want to enjoy carefully tended nature while the grandchildren run around. They could tour Queen Victoria’s summer home, too. Or drop by the Robin Hill Adventure Park to roam a safe, natural 88-acre woodland. Kids of all ages will be thrilled by the hovercraft ride to and from the island. Younger children will love the Exbury Steam Railways.
Marwell Zoo
Whether your kids want to save the animals or the little ones just want to see the animals, come out to the Marwell Zoo. If you call in advance, you could book some special experiences with the animals. There are also five adventure playgrounds to let the kids run loose.
Paultons Park
Paultons Park is one of the top family friendly things to do in Hampshire especially as it has a Peppa Pig world. That’s great for the little kids, but they offer plenty for the older ones. For example, there are roller coasters in the nearby theme park.
The Winchester Science Center and Planetarium
Not everyone wants to walk through the woods or ride roller coasters. That’s why we’ve mentioned the Winchester Science Center. They’re home to the largest stand-alone planetarium in the UK. You can also go up the 100 meter Emirates Spinnaker Tower or go across the Sky Walk.
Whitchurch Silk Mill
The Whitchurch Silk Mill is great if you’re an avid knitter or history buff. They offer activities open to the public like paper weaving and knitting lessons. Or see how centuries-old weaving frames were used.
Bursledon Brickworks
This used to be a brick factory, but it has become a kid-friendly activity area. They have hands-on puzzles and accessible exhibits. Your kids can play with a literal ton of lego blocks or follow various trails outside.
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