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.

Children on a bridge in the gardens at Mottisfont, Hampshire

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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 run past daffodils with a lady out of focus sat behind them.

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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 wetlands – check out the big bird hide - and build dens in the wood.

Children are seen playing in the Yew Avenue in June at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire

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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.

Children holding bags of flour that has been milled at Winchester City Mill

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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.

Summer at our places in Hampshire will introduce families to all sorts of wonderful new experiences, stretching kids’ imaginations and encouraging them to try new activities, in glorious summer spaces.

Female circus performer making large bubbles in garden surrounded by adults and children

Family adventures this summer

Step into the funny world of children’s author John Burningham at Mottisfont. You’ll be transported into stories like Borka the Featherless Goose and Avocado Baby, with playful spaces, a life-size ‘magic’ bed and an outdoor adventure trail. The circus comes to Hinton Ampner, with lots of fun ways to test your juggling, balancing and dancing skills plus tuition from real circus performers! Look out for the amazing circus caravan selfie station too. At The Vyne you can host your own mini sporting tournament. The gardens are packed with sporty games the whole family can enjoy, from long jump and hurdles to relay racing and bean bag shot.