42 Amazing Childrens Attractions in Hampshire by A Local Family

What childrens attractions in Hampshire are there?

As a family of four that lives in Hamble in Hampshire we love to explore and take part in local experiences and attractions. We’ve tried so many of them. Cam loves to talk about his favourites such as Manor Farm and Marwell Zoo. Writing this post has reminded us that there are so many fantastic childrens attractions in Hampshire!

We’ve also included some of our regular activities such as bouldering and skate boarding. Just in case you want some different options. As well as these we’ve included some historical, castle and museum sites too. There are also some great free things to do in Hampshire, such as visiting the beaches and country parks.

We hope that you enjoy visiting them as much as we do!

Quick Guide to Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

Best of young kids – Finkley Down Farm, Longdown Activity Farm & Ride the Watrercress Line

Exciting for adventurous kidsGo Ape, Red Spider Climbing & Pitt Street Skate Park

Outdoor fun for all the family – Water Sports at YMCA Fairthorne Manor, explore a local beach & enjoy a country park

Best (only) theme park – Paultons Park

Animal Encounter Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

1. Finkley Down Farm

Finkley Down Farm is an awesome farm near near where I grew up in Thruxton. My sister lives nearby and we’ve taken my boys a handful of times.  It offers a perfect place for children to interact with animals and enjoy outdoor play areas. Young children will love the adventure playgrounds, tractor rides, and feeding the animals.  While older children will enjoy learning about farm life. 

The farm features interactive play areas where children can learn about farm animals through fun and engaging activities. These play areas help children develop social skills and learn about the importance of caring for animals.  One of our favourite activities is watching the goat racing – yes! You and your family can bet on which goat will win and shout them encouragement across the finish line!

A young boy is wearing a grey Jurassic Park t-shirt and shorts.  He is holding a cup of animal food and feeding some hungry young goats.

In addition to the play areas, Finkley Down Farm offers educational school experiences where children can learn about different animals and their habitats. These experiences are both fun and informative.

With a variety of activities and events such as Easter egg hunts on throughout the year. Finkley Down Farm is a great way to spend quality time with the whole family.

North Way, Andover SP11 6NF. Open 10am to 5:30pm every day

2. Marwell Zoo

Marwell Zoo is another great place to visit in Hampshire. We’ve had an annual membership before went pretty much every fortnight for a year.  What we love is that it offers a fantastic day out for children of all ages. With a wide variety of animals, including endangered species, children can learn about wildlife conservation while having a fun and educational experience. From giraffes to tigers, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Marwell Zoo.  There is so much to do that that it’s. full on great day out!

A father who is wearing a blue coat and beanie hat is holding his son who is wearing an orange coat and a beanie too.  They are looking over at the penguin enclosure which is part of Marwall Zoo which is a popular childrens attractions in Hampshire.

Marwell Zoo has a range of children’s activities. They include interactive sessions where children can learn more about their favourite animals. As well as feeding sessions where they can watch animals such as the penguins get fed. These activities are designed to be both fun and educational. And provide a great way for children to engage with the natural world.  One of the key highlights of Marwell Zoo is its focus on conservation efforts for endangered species. Children can learn about the importance of protecting wildlife and what they can do to help make a difference.

Marwell has a fun filled list of seasonal events which we love. One of the best that we’ve been to is their light themed Christmas event called “Glow”.

Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH. Open 10am to 5pm every day

3. Hawk Conservancy

I grew up in Thruxton which was just a bike ride away from The Hawk Conservancy. And yes, we went there a lot, and that’s because I love the birds of prey displays.  The Hawk Conservancy is a unique attraction in Hampshire that offers an exciting day out specifically for families interested in birds of prey. Families can watch thrilling flying displays, learn about different species of birds, and even get up close to these majestic creatures. With interactive experiences and educational talks, the Hawk Conservancy is a great way for children to connect with nature.

One of the main highlights of the Hawk Conservancy is its spectacular birds of prey displays where children can watch these magnificent birds soar through the sky and learn about their hunting techniques and behaviours.  It’s so much fun listening to the crowds reaction when the birds catch the food mid air. Or the laughter when one cheeky bird won’t come back at the end of the display.

A smiling man in a biege long sleeve shift is holding an small owl in each hand.  He has a bag on with the strap across his body.  The image is taken at the Hawk Conservancy which is a popular childrens attractions in Hampshire.

The trust also offers educational talks where children can learn more about the conservation efforts being made to protect birds of prey. These talks provide valuable insights into the importance of preserving these species and their habitats.

Sarson Ln, Andover SP11 8DY. Open 10am to 4pm every day (Winter) and 9am-5:30pm (Summer).

4. Longdown Activity Farm, New Forest

Longdown Activity Farm is a fantastic place for families to enjoy a day out in the countryside, we often head there to meet our friends who live the other side of the New Forest. With a range of farm animals to see and feed, as well as indoor and outdoor play areas, children of all ages can have a great time exploring and learning about farm life. The farm is a popular choice for family holidays and school holidays due to its close proximity to the New Forest.  It is a fun and educational experience for all the family.

Children can get up close to a selection of farm animals at Longdown Activity Farm, from sheep and pigs to goats and chickens. They can also learn about animal care and feeding while enjoying a hands-on experience.  Make sure to check out the activities board when you arrive as there are a lot of hands on feeding activities – we love the bottle feeding the baby goats.  As well as the chance to hold baby chicks.

A mum and her two sons are sat on a hale bale in. barn.  The baby is in her arms in a grey onsie looking surprised.  The three year old is wearing a baseball cap and in his hands is a baby chick wrapped in a scarf.

In addition to the animals, the farm features indoor and outdoor play areas where children can burn off energy and have fun.  One of the fun things that Cam and his friend Jake love whizzing around the course on the peddle tractors.  These play areas are designed to stimulate children’s imagination and creativity, providing a perfect balance of education and entertainment.

Top tip from a local family: There can be quite long queues at the animal feeding and handling experiences. Therefore we’d recommend arriving early so you don’t have to wait too long.

Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH. Seasonal opening times vary.

5. Manor Farm Country Park

Manor Farm Country Park is a living museum that offers a glimpse into rural life in Hampshire. We always have a membership here as it’s only 15 minutes from our home and great value.  Families can explore the historic farm buildings, meet farm animals, and learn about traditional farming practices. With interactive play areas and educational demonstrations, Manor Farm Country Park is a great place for children to experience the past while enjoying the present.

A little boy wearing a green t-shirt, multicoloured trousers and baseball cap is stood in his pram looking at the sheep in the field next to him.  The field is in the Manor Farm which is a popular childrens attractions in Hampshire.

The park features a range of historic farm buildings that have been preserved to showcase farm living (there’s even a pretend school) as well as traditional farming methods. Children can step back in time and see how people lived and worked on a farm in the past.  Visitors can also enjoy educational demonstrations at Manor Farm Country Park, where they can learn about activities such as butter churning, sheep shearing, and ploughing. These demonstrations provide a hands-on experience that is both informative and engaging for children.

Check out the activities board when you first arrive, one of the more unusual feeding sessions they offer is “feeding the pigs” which our boys find hysterical as you have to throw in the fruit for the pigs to snuffle out from the mud and eat.  They also run different family events throughout the year.

Pyland’s Ln, Southampton SO31 1BH. Seasonal opening times vary.

6. Blue Reef Aquarium, Southsea

Blue Reef Aquarium in Southsea is a fantastic underwater world waiting to be explored by young children and families.  With a variety of marine life on display, including colourful fish, sharks, and seahorses, children can learn about the wonders of the ocean while enjoying interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations. A visit to Blue Reef Aquarium is a great way to spark an interest in marine biology and conservation.

A young boy in a light blue top has his hand help against a glass display. On the other side and attached to the glass display is a star fish.

The aquarium features a wide range of marine life exhibits that showcase the diversity of underwater ecosystems. Children can marvel at the beauty of coral reefs, watch mesmerizing jellyfish, and learn about the importance of protecting our oceans.

In addition to the marine life exhibits, Blue Reef Aquarium offers interactive displays where children can touch and feel various sea creatures. These hands-on experiences help children develop a deeper appreciation for marine life and the need to conserve it.

Top tip from a local family: Make a day of it by enjoying the other family attractions in Southsea such as the pier, the canoe lake or the beach itself.

Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea PO5 3PB. Open 10am to 5:30pm every day

7. Pitt Street Skate Park

We love this place and it’s one of the fun things that we like to do on a Saturday by booking in for their 10am session.  Cam is massively into anything that has wheels, and can easily spend 2 hours at Pitt Street Skate Park riding non-stop having some indoor fun.  With ramps, rails, and obstacles for skateboarding, BMXing, and scootering, the skate park provides a safe and exciting environment for children to practice their skills and have fun with friends in an indoor skate environment. There’s even a roller disco evening!

A young boy is walking across an indoor skate park with his pink skateboard under his arm. He is wearing a black helmet with black knee and elbow pads.  This is Pitt Street Skatepark which is a very popular childrens attractions in Hampshire.

Whether your child is a beginner or a pro, Pitt Street Skate park offers a great way to spend quality time indoors burning off energy.

They also offer professional 1-2-1 coaching where they can learn new tricks and techniques in a safe and supervised environment. The park is suitable for all skill levels and ages, making it a great place for beginners to start their skating journey.

315 Commercial Rd, Portsmouth PO1 4AY. Opening hours vary.

8. Red Spider Climbing

This is a new hobby for Cam and is now one of his favourite childrens attractions in Hampshire. He’s become obsessed by learning to climb.  Red Spider Climbing is the perfect place to learn as it’s an indoor climbing centre in Fareham that offers a thrilling experience for children and families.  

What makes Red Spider unique in comparison to the other walls we’ve tried is that it has a massive kids indoor play area kitted out to encourage kids to climb in a fun environment. There’s a huge pirate ship that they climb up and into then slide down as well as a castle with tunnels and climbing activities – we can easily spend 3 hours here.

A boy in a yellow top and grey trousers is climbing a climbing wall with multicoloured hand holds.  On either side of the child is an adult, they are wearing jogging bottoms and hoodies and also climbing next to the boy.

With a variety of climbing walls and challenges suitable for all ages and abilities, children can test their strength and agility in a safe and controlled environment. The centre also provides expert instruction (starting at 5 years old and upwards) making it a great place for children to learn new skills and build confidence.  There is plenty of space, with climbs suitable for  beginners all the way to advanced climbers, there is a wall for everyone to enjoy.

What we love about climbing is that the boys can learn valuable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience while having fun on the walls.

Unit N, Fort Wallington Fort, Fareham PO16 8TT. Opening hours vary.

9. Go Ape

Go Ape is a thrilling treetop adventure course that offers a unique experience for families seeking outdoor excitement – a massive outdoor play area in the trees! Children can swing through the trees on zip lines, navigate obstacles in series of challenges, including rope bridges, and Tarzan swings, to test their balance and coordination. With a focus on adventure and nature, Go Ape is a great way for children to challenge themselves and enjoy the great outdoors.  

In Hampshire there are 3 Go Ape locations; Itchen Valley Country Park, Alice Holt Forest, Moors Valley

This is a view of the Go Ape high trees course, where there are platforms and rope bridges between the tall trees.  There is a woman in a harness walking along the tree top wooden bridge.  This is on of the top childrens attractions in Hampshire.

Children can explore the course at their own pace, enjoying the thrill of being high up in the trees.  For younger children there is a special “Treetop Adventure” course to help them build up confidence and skills.  In addition to the adventure course, Go Ape offers a nature experience where children can learn about the local flora and fauna. The course is designed to be both educational and fun, providing a well-rounded outdoor adventure for the whole family.

Itchen Valley Country Park, Alice Holt Forest, Moors Valley. Opening hours vary by location.

10. YMCA Fairthorne Manor

YMCA Fairthorne YMCA is a fantastic outdoor activity centre on the River Hamble that offers a wide range of activities and fun things for children and families to try.   From kayaking and paddle boarding on the River Hamble to archery and climbing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Fairthorne YMCA. Children can try new activities, make friends, and develop valuable skills in a safe and supportive environment.  These activities also help children build confidence, improve their coordination, and experience the beauty of the River Hamble.

In addition to water activities, Fairthorne YMCA offers archery and climbing sessions where children can test their aim and strength. These activities promote focus, determination, and teamwork, making them a great choice for children looking to try something new.

Lots of people in kayaks and on stand up paddle boards on the River Hamble.  In the foreground is lots of grass and then on the far side of the river is a row of trees and bushes.

You’ll often find us there are the weekend with friends and family making the most of the river access with our paddle boards and kayaks.  There’s also a wonderful BBQ area on the waterfront itself, so you can enjoy lunch watching the kids play about in the water – we also have some fun jumping from the jetty too seeing who can make the biggest bomb (Carl usually wins!).  There’s also a campsite that you can make the most of, what we love about it is that they have loads of free fun activities when you camp such as singing songs and roasting marshmallows around a campfire.

Top tip from a local: If you have your own paddle boards and kayaks then you can pay a small fee to launch here. Just make sure to book in advance as they have limited tickets available to stop the area getting too busy.

Fairthorne Manor, YMCA, Southampton SO30 2GH.

11. Exploring the River Hamble

The River Hamble is a sunning river that offers a perfect setting for paddle boarding and kayaking adventures.  What’s great for us is that we only live a short walk from the foreshore in Hamble and will often head there with friends to launch our paddle boards and kayaks.  When they’re out on the river, the kids can explore the river, spot wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the water while developing their water sports skills. Paddle boarding and kayaking on the River Hamble are great ways for children to connect with nature and stay active outdoors.  They also help children develop balance, coordination, and strength while having fun on the water.

The River Hamble is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures. It’s a great chance to see nature up close and learn about the importance of preserving them.  Hamble is also a great spot for crabbing, however, we always encourage everyone to be kind to the crabs – don’t leave them in the buckets in the sunshine, and always take them to the beach to go back into the water – we like to get the kids to race them back in.

Paddling activities are suitable for all ages and skill levels (even our baby heads out with us!), making them a great choice for family outings.

A woman in a blue inflatable kayak with her son between her legs in an orange life vest asleep.  They are paddling on the River Hamble which is a fun childrens attractions in Hampshire.

12. Have Fun at Beach in Hampshire

Hampshire boasts a stunning coastline with beautiful beaches that are perfect for family days out.  Visiting the beaches is one of the best free things to do in Hampshire. Children can build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, and enjoy picnics on the beach while soaking up the sun.  Which is great for boosting their Vitamin D whilst also giving them a little Vitamin Sea! 

Whether you prefer a bustling seaside resort such as Southsea Beach or a quieter spot such as Lepe Beach, Hampshire has plenty of places to explore and relax by the sea.  We’re massive beach fans (even if the UK ones aren’t as warm as the ones we’re used to in Antigua, hah!), and even on the coldest of winter days you’ll find us enjoying an ice cream! 

A couple of our favourites local beaches to head to are:

Southsea Beach – a full on beach with lots of exciting attractions for the kids ranging from amusements on the pier, crazy golf plus a canoe lake as well as Southsea castle to explore and much much more.  If you need some high energy beach day fun then this is where we’re recommend heading. On the last weekend of August it also sees some extra action when Victorious Festival is on.

An ariel view of the pier on Southsea Beach with the white building on it and amusements.  Plus along the beach are some other buildings too.

Stokes Bay – just a short walk from where Carl’s parents live and has an epic splash pad water play area for kids that Cam loves to head to.  As well as all the usual beach amenities like cafe, play areas and beach fun! 

Hill Head – we love water sports and this is the perfect beach for launching kitesurfing, wing foiling and windsurfing equipment – and for kids it’s great for kite flying.

13. Explore a Country Park in Hampshire

Hampshire is home to several beautiful country parks that offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with plenty of outdoor space to explore and walks to enjoy.  They are also a great free day out (except that some charge parking fees). Children can explore woodland trails, discover wildlife, and enjoy picnics in the great outdoors.  They can hike, bike, or simply stroll along these trails, discovering hidden treasures along the way. 

What we love about heading to any of the country parks in Hampshire is that they are ideal for family walks, nature spotting, and quality time spent together in the great outdoors.  From deer and birds to butterflies and wildflowers, they are teeming with wildlife waiting to be discovered. Children can bring binoculars and guidebooks to spot different species and learn more about the natural world.  Plus lots of them have small trains, play areas, splash pads and other fun activities for after the kids have enjoyed nature and want some extra fun!

Father in a blue jacket pushing a pram along a path towards a chapel in Royal Victoria Country Park which is a fun childrens attractions in Hampshire.

A couple of our favourites local country parks to head to are:

Royal Victoria Country Park

Well, it had to be on the list as it’s less than a 5 minute walk from our house, so we spend a lot of time there.  We often have friends and family visit as it’s such a diverse park, it’s got shingle beach on the River Hamble, a couple of fun play areas, a small train line (cash only!), a couple of cafes as well as tonnes of open space.  It’s a great day out with lots to do!

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Located on the edge of the South Downs National Park, QE, as it’s known locally, is all about the downhill mountain bike trails suitable for all ages!  It’s also got some amazing outdoor BBQ spaces that you can pre-book as well as an area where you can learn to axe throw (for a fee).

Alice Holt Forest

If your kids are into the Gruffalo (which in our opinion is one of the top children’s books!) then this is the place for you – as there’s a Gruffalo family trail they can enjoy!  There’s also Go Ape to book in on as well.

Father in a blue coat with a baby in a bear jacket on his shoulders walking along a track with woodland either side.  In the track is a black dog.

14. Spot Ponies In The New Forest

The New Forest Tour is a fantastic way for families to explore the beauty of the New Forest National Park. Children can hop on and off the open-top bus at various stops, including attractions, villages, and scenic viewpoints. The tour provides a fun way for children to learn about the history, wildlife, and culture of the New Forest while enjoying a leisurely ride through the park.  The bus has guided commentary on board which provides interesting facts and stories about the park’s rich heritage. Children can listen to tales of smugglers, wildlife, and ancient traditions as they travel through the forest.

A light brown New Forest Pony eating some grass.

The tour includes scenic stops at key locations where children can get off and explore the surroundings. Whether it’s a quaint village or a picturesque viewpoint, each stop offers a unique perspective on the New Forest landscape.

15. Take The New Forest Tour

The New Forest Tour is a fantastic way for families to explore the beauty of the New Forest National Park. Children can hop on and off the open-top bus at various stops, including attractions, villages, and scenic viewpoints. The tour provides a fun way for children to learn about the history, wildlife, and culture of the New Forest while enjoying a leisurely ride through the park.  Th bus has guided commentary on board which provides interesting facts and stories about the park’s rich heritage. Children can listen to tales of smugglers, wildlife, and ancient traditions as they travel through the forest.

The tour includes scenic stops at key locations where children can get off and explore the surroundings. Whether it’s a quaint village or a picturesque viewpoint, each stop offers a unique perspective on the New Forest landscape.

16. Enjoy The View At Spinnaker Tower

Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth is an iconic landmark that offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Children can ride the high-speed lift to the observation deck, where they can see panoramic views of the coastline, harbour, and surrounding areas. With interactive exhibits and a glass floor, Spinnaker Tower provides a fun and educational experience for children interested in architecture and engineering.

The view from the water of the front of the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth which is a sail shaped building. In front of it are some boats in the water.

In addition to the views, Spinnaker Tower features interactive exhibits that engage children in learning about the tower’s construction, history, and significance. Children can participate in hands-on activities that showcase the engineering marvels of the tower.

Gunwharf Quay, Portsmouth PO1 3TT. Open Monday to Thursday 10:30am-6pm and Friday to Sunday 10am-6pm.

17. Take A Ferry

The Hythe Ferry is a fantastic mode of transport that connects Hythe to Southampton.  With a scenic journey across the water. Children can enjoy the fresh sea breeze, watch boats sail by, and spot wildlife along the riverbanks. The ferry ride is a very relaxing and enjoyable way for families to travel between the two towns while taking in the beautiful views of the south coast.

The jetty in the River Hamble where the local, pink, ferry docks to take passengers to Warsash.  This is a fun childrens attractions in hampshire

If they enjoy this ferry then there is also a cool Hamble ferry that connects Hamble and Warsash.  It’s called the “Pink Ferry” by us locals because it is actually pink (it was once painted pink for a breast cancer awareness charity) and it crosses the River Hamble. We often take the ferry ride over, have a fun walk along the river then stop for a drink at Banana Wharf Universal Marina before then walking back again to take the ferry home.

18. Ride The Watercress Line Railway

The Watercress Line railway is a heritage steam railway that runs through the picturesque Hampshire countryside, offering a nostalgic journey back in time. Children can experience the thrill of riding on a steam train, passing through quaint stations and scenic landscapes along the way. The railway journey is a great way for families to appreciate the history of steam trains and enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside.

An old fashioned steam train with a black front section. The train appears to be moving as there is steam coming out of the train.  The train is on train tracks at The Watercress Line which is a fun childrens attractions in hampshire

What we love is that you can almost feel the power of the locomotive as it chugs along the tracks. The sights and sounds of the steam train evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder for passengers of all ages.  The railway route takes passengers through rolling hills, meadows, and woodlands, providing a picturesque backdrop for the journey. Children can admire the changing scenery from the comfort of the train carriage and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside.

Keep an eye out on their website as they often have themed events such as their Thomas the Tank Engine one.

The Railway Station, Station Road, New Alresford SO24 9JG. Opening hours vary

19. Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

Exbury Gardens is a stunning botanical garden in the New Forest that offers a feast for the senses with its vibrant flowers, exotic plants, and charming pathways. Children can explore the gardens on foot or hop aboard the steam railway for a scenic tour of the estate. With interactive play areas and seasonal events, Exbury Gardens is a great place for families to immerse themselves in nature and beauty.  

A still water pond in the foreground with some light red and pink leaf bushes in the back ground with some trees coming out of the same area.

The gardens at Exbury Gardens feature a diverse collection of plants from around the world, including rhododendrons, azaleas, and water lilies. Children can enjoy looking at the bright colours and fragrances of the gardens while learning about different plant species.  Both of our boys love smelling flowers and looking for insects such as butterflies and bees.

 Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AF. Opening hours vary.

20. New Forest Wildlife Park

For a day out surrounded by nature, the New Forest Wildlife Park is a must-visit attraction in Hampshire. With a focus on native species and conservation, you can learn about the local wildlife while exploring interactive play areas and enjoying outdoor activities. The park is perfect for families looking to have a great time in the great outdoors.  From red deer to otters, there is plenty to discover at the New Forest Wildlife Park.

Otter in the water swimming with water splashing around them.

In addition, the park also educates visitors about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting natural habitats. Children can learn about the impact of their actions on the environment and how they can help preserve it for future generations.

Deerleap Ln, Southampton SO40 4UH. Opening hours vary.

Theme Park Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

21. Rides and Attractions at Paultons Park

We need to confess – we’ve not actually been to Paultons Park – yet! We’ve been meaning to go for the last few years and somehow never gotten round to it. Which is odd as Cam loves Peppa (and George) Pig and they have Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park!

If you’ve not heard of Peppa Pig, then you really aren’t (as a parent) missing much, haha! But for kids under 5 years old, especially in the UK, it’s an extremely popular kids cartoon revolving around a pig and her family and friends.

Two adults in fluffy Peppa and George Pig costumes in front of a fairgrounf ride at Paultons Park.  This is the only theme park childrens attractions in hampshire

Paultons Park is a popular theme park in Hampshire that offers a wide range of attractions for children of all ages. From thrilling rides and water slides to interactive play areas and live shows. There is something for everyone to enjoy at Paultons Park. The highlight for young children is Peppa Pig World, where they can meet their favourite characters and explore themed rides and attractions.

Rider wise, Paultons Park features a variety of rides and attractions, including roller coasters, carousels, and water rides. Children can choose from gentle rides for little ones or adrenaline-pumping experiences for older children, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.

Romsey SO51 6AL. Opening hours vary

Castles and Other Historic Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

There are lots of fun castles and historic sites that even little kids can enjoy.  We wanted to include them on the list as we find it’s important to add in some education into our family days out.  Some of them charge and entry fee, and some have free entry which is great, you’ll find the opening times and ticket prices by clicking on the links in our list below:

22. Mary Rose Museum

A captivating museum in Portsmouth showcasing the Tudor warship Mary Rose and its preserved artefacts.

Looking through a display box at the Marie Rose which is a very old ship wreck that has been lifted out of the water and is now in a special display box.  This a very good educational childrens attractions in hampshire

23. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

An extensive maritime museum complex in Portsmouth, offering insights into Britain’s naval history.

24. Portchester Castle

A well-preserved medieval castle in Portchester, Hampshire, known for its Roman fortifications and strategic location.

25. Southsea Castle

A coastal fortress in Southsea, Portsmouth, with a rich history dating back to Henry VIII’s reign.

26. Hurst Castle

 A coastal fortress on the Hampshire coast, built by Henry VIII, offering stunning views of the Solent.

27. Tudor House and Garden, Southampton

A meticulously restored Tudor house in Southampton, providing a glimpse into life during the Tudor period.

28. Mottisfont

A historic estate in Hampshire, renowned for its romantic gardens, art collection, and riverside walks.

The outside of Mottisfont House in Romsey.  The facade is made up of a combination of red earthen bricks and lighter coloured grey cut stone bricks.

29. Hinton Ampner

 A stately home near Alresford, Hampshire, featuring elegant gardens and fine interiors.

30. Winchester Cathedral

A magnificent medieval cathedral in Winchester, Hampshire, boasting stunning architecture and a rich history.

31. Winchester Great Hall

A historic hall in Winchester, famous for housing King Arthur’s Round Table and its medieval architecture.

32. The Vyne, near Basingstoke

 A splendid Tudor mansion and estate near Basingstoke, offering beautiful gardens and intriguing historical connections.

33. Titchfield Abbey

A picturesque medieval abbey ruin in Titchfield, Hampshire, with remnants of its former grandeur still visible.

The outside view of Titchfield Abbey made of big stone bricks.

34. Chawton House

A beautifully preserved Elizabethan manor house in Hampshire, once the home of Jane Austen’s brother, now a museum and study centre dedicated to women’s literature.

35. Butser Ancient Farm

An experimental archaeology site near Petersfield, Hampshire, reconstructing prehistoric buildings and farming techniques.

Educational Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

36. Beaulieu National Motor Museum

A renowned museum in the New Forest, Hampshire, showcasing a vast collection of automobiles, motorcycles, and motoring memorabilia.

A car display featuring a light blue vintage car and a red vintage car. There is an information screen in the background and two people in the foreground looking at the cars wearing backpacks.  This is Beaulieu National Motor Museum one of the best childrens attractions in hampshire

37. Winchester City Museum

A captivating museum in Winchester, Hampshire, offering insights into the city’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day.

38. Westgate Museum

A charming museum located in Winchester’s historic Westgate, featuring exhibits on the city’s medieval past and offering panoramic views from its rooftop.

39. Winchester Science Centre

An engaging science museum and planetarium in Winchester, providing interactive exhibits and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.

40. Milestones Museum

A unique living history museum in Basingstoke, Hampshire, recreating streets and shops from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, offering a nostalgic journey through time.

41. Cumberland House Natural History Museum

A charming natural history museum located in Southsea, Portsmouth, featuring exhibits on local wildlife, habitats, and ecology.  It has an amazing butterfly house too!

Boy with a yellow quilted coat looking a transparent butterfuly on a big green leaf in a butterfly house at Cumberland House in Portsmouth.  This is is a fun childrens attractions in Hampshire

42. Iron Age Museum in Andover

An interesting museum in Andover, Hampshire, dedicated to showcasing artefacts and providing insights into the lives and culture of people living during the Iron Age period in Britain.

Final Thoughts on Childrens Attractions in Hampshire

Hampshire has to much to offer families with kids of all ages. There are country parks, beaches, castles, zoos, farms and much, much more. We love living in Hampshire and are always happy that there are such incredible things for our kids to enjoy locally!