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If the six weeks of the summer holidays have you pondering (or panicking) about what to do to keep the children entertained, fear not! We’ve done the summer research for you and pulled together our top ten family things to do this summer holidays in Hampshire.
From outdoor theatre to summer trails, there’s a whole host of summer events happening in Hampshire with plenty of things to do to fill that summer calendar.
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Follow a summer trail
Burn off some of the children’s energy and learn a few things along the way – a summer trail makes for a great day outdoors.
The National Trust trails are always a firm family favourite, and this summer’s selection goes back to nature with the Nature Explorer Adventure at Uppark House and Garden until October and the Tree-mendous Tree Trail at Hinton Ampner House and Garden until 3 September. At Mottisfont, explore the hilarious worlds of Burglar Bill, The Jolly Postman, and other much-loved Ahlberg storybook characters at the Happy Families: Adventures with the Ahlbergs exhibition and outdoor trail from 22 July to 3 September or test your code-cracking skills to decipher the Morse code trail at Sandham Memorial Chapel from 22 July to 4 September.
Another nature-themed expedition can be found at the Flutter-by Family Trail at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens until 1 September where young ecologists can follow the map whilst spotting butterflies and insects.
There’s also Summer fun at Fort Nelson where kids can explore the 19-acre site with a free, interactive 'Fun at the Fort' trail and try the junior assault course challenge from 24 July to 3 September.
Or put your navigation skills to the test with The Lost and Found Explorer Challenge 2023 at Gilbert White's House & Gardens from 20 July to 3 September.
Catch an outdoor theatre performance
Pack your picnic and roll out your blanket for a summer’s evening of al fresco entertainment with some seasonal outdoor theatre suitable for all ages.
Peter Pan will be flying into Staunton Country Park on 29 July and Itchen Valley Country Park on 11 August with the Slapstick Picnic’s uproarious theatrical take on the classic children’s play.
Everyone’s favourite fluffle of bunnies will be appearing at Quantum Theatre’s outdoor family theatre production of The Tale of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny at Gilbert White's House & Gardens on 8 August and the White Rabbit will be hopping into Uppark House and Garden with an outdoor performance of Alice in Wonderland on 8 and 9 August.
And another cherished children’s classic will be shown with The Wind in the Willows with Quantum Theatre at Hinton Ampner House and Garden on 15 and 21 July following Mole, Ratty, and Badger on their mad-cap adventures.
Summer theatre season wouldn’t be complete without Shakespeare – the Petersfield Shakespeare Festival emanates the legendary playwright with Twelfth Night at Wylds Farm from 18 to 23 July and you can also catch Twelfth Night at Furzey Gardens every day from 5 to 28 August.
Hampshire’s very own Jane Austen will be celebrated by the critically acclaimed Pantaloons bringing a hilarious but faithful new adaptation of the Regency rom-com Emma to The Vyne on 22 July and the historic surroundings of Winchester Cathedral provide the backdrop for the Chapterhouse Theatre company’s adaptation of The Secret Garden on 29 July.
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Family fun at Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral opens its (incredibly impressive) doors this summer for a heap of family fun.
Perfect for mini crafters, there will be summer family craft workshops at Winchester Cathedral Undercroft throughout August, and summer family tours will be tailored towards the inquisitiveness of children.
There’s also a summer family trail to discover medieval Queens, deep divers, pilgrims, and hidden creatures whilst completing a range of exciting activities around the Cathedral.
Watch a movie under the stars
Popcorn at the ready – sit back for a night at the movies under the stars this summer.
The Portsmouth Film Society is bringing a series of family-friendly movies to iconic Portsmouth locations this summer including Captain Marvel at Cumberland House Natural History Museum on 22 July and Mamma Mia at Fort Purbrook on 5 August.
Guaranteed to deliver a rain-free and star-filled movie experience, every Sunday during the summer school holidays the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium is holding Starlight Cinema summer specials including Monsters Inc. on 23 July, Shrek on 30 July, Aladdin on 6 August, The Lion King on 13 August, and Toy Story on 13 August.
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Ride into the summer hols at Paultons Park
Visitors travel from far and wide to spend the day at Paultons Park and 2023 marks the 40th anniversary of the UK’s Number 1 Family Theme Park.
Guaranteed to be labelled by the children as a top day out – highlights include hair-raising rollercoasters like the spinning Storm Chaser and leg-dangling Flight of the Pterosaur for the big and brave kids and the world-famous Peppa Pig World sure to make the little ones squeal with delight.
There’s also an owl sculpture trail in the park until October 2023 to mark Paulton’s 40th anniversary.
Meet real animals and TV favourites at Marwell
Encounter the CBeebies animals from adored children’s TV shows at Marwell Zoo this summer – Bluey, Bingo, and Hey Duggee will be at the zoo on Thursday Fun Days throughout the school holidays.
There are also the zoo’s incredible animals to visit from tigers and giraffes to sloths and meerkats making for a magical zoological day out.
Soak up some summer music
Tune into a summer of outdoor music with family-friendly festivals and symphonic concerts throughout the summer hols.
There’s Music in the Gardens at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens with a Summer Soul Picnic Concert on 11 and 12 August and Family Music in the Gardens on 26 August.
The Whitchurch Children's Festival 2023 promises to be a fun-filled music plus arts and crafts, live theatre, dance, and storytelling from 29 to 30 July, and family favourite the Wickham Festival 2023 will be held this year from 3 to 6 August with live music on four stages plus a host of other entertainment.
For headliners check out Chris Evans’ family-friendly Carfest South 2023 from 25 to 27 August with McFly and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, or Victorious Festival 2023 on Southsea seafront from 25 to 27 August with Jamiroquai, Mumford & Sons, and Ellie Goulding.
There are some great tribute acts billed to perform at the Picnic and Pop Family Festival Aldershot from 29 to 30 July including Dua Lipa, Elton John, and Harry Styles; and hear the hits from two of the 20th century's most iconic artists with 21st Century Events’ tribute to Queen & Elton John at Gilbert White's House & Gardens on 13 August.
Join in the classical summer tradition of the Proms with Proms in Gilbert's Garden at Gilbert White's House & Gardens on 28 July or the Proms Spectacular at Stansted Park on 19 August.
Awesome auto adventures at Beaulieu
A day out at Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum is always an action-packed motor-themed experience but during the summer holidays this terrific New Forest attraction goes up a gear with things to see and do.
There will be motoring parades with magnificent displays of vehicles from various eras as well as appearances from some of TV and film’s most iconic cars including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Mr Toad’s Car from Wind in the Willows.
Look out for Sculpture at Beaulieu featuring the works from international and national sculptors until 24 September and the regular Simply events are brilliant for family weekends including Beaulieu Supercar Weekend on 5 and 6 August and Simply VW on 13 August.
Fiesta at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium
There’s a festival for all the science senses at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium this summer with the Fiesta mini outdoor children's festival until 3 September.
Expect festival tents, mini stages, storytelling, and live science all set against the stunning backdrop of the South Downs National Park.
Get hands-on with history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Let your young crew explore a whole fleet of world-famous ships at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard this summer.
Book an ultimate explorer ticket for unlimited access for a whole year to all attractions at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – that’s most of the summer (and the year) sorted.
There will be hands-on history events taking place throughout the summer including Awesome Archery, Wicked Weapons, Beeswax Candle Making, and Jester Magic at the Mary Rose Museum as well as STEM in action at Action Stations from 25 to 26 July for two interactive days exploring science, technology, engineering, and maths.
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Uppark’s gardens and little woodland are great places for early adventures into our amazing natural world. Kids can grab a Nature Explorer activity sheet to find fun challenges all about the animals and nature at Uppark. When you fancy a break, there are snacks and lunches on offer, and a pretty wildflower meadow that’s perfect for picnics. Trail £1.
Take up the challenge of our Tree-mendous Adventure trail to become a ‘Hinton dendrologist’. Track down tree-themed activities including games and design challenges on this multi-sensory trail through the gardens, leading to a prize. Don’t forget to pop into the kitchen garden to say hello to the resident scarecrow who looks after the garden produce.
Step into the hilarious worlds of Burglar Bill, Mrs Wobble, The Jolly Postman and other much-loved Ahlberg storybook characters, in this exciting exhibition and outdoor trail. Mottisfont’s gallery rooms have been transformed into imaginative, playful spaces, with over 70 original artworks, comfy reading zones, interactive experiences, and blown-up backdrops for family photos.
Follow this new garden trail which has a secret wartime code to crack. Trail cost: 50p.
Summer is a great time for spotting butterflies and other insects. Follow the numbers on the map and have fun exploring Sir Harold Hillier Gardens!
An action-packed summer of fun awaits visitors to Fort Nelson, with barrel-loads of children's activities, including an exciting assault course.
Calling all would be explorers! Can you navigate unknown territory to find a lost animal somewhere in our grounds? Follow a map, solve clues and use a compass to locate and name the mystery creature who has strayed from their natural habitat!
This summer, join Slapstick Picnic for a theatrical treat like no other as they whip up a three-hander version of J M Barrie's classic play: Peter Pan.
This summer, join Slapstick Picnic for a theatrical treat like no other as they whip up a three-hander version of J M Barrie's classic play: Peter Pan.
Quantum Theatre are back with an enchanting new adaptation of two of Beatrix Potter's best-loved Tales, The Tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny.
‘Alice in Wonderland’ by Dot Productions. In this production, full of fun and laughter, you’ll join Alice as she explores Wonderland and meets fantastical characters, from the White Rabbit and Cheshire Cat, to the Mad Hatter and the dreaded Queen of Hearts. 8 & 9 August, 2-3.30pm, all tickets £11 (single) or £40 (up to 4 people inc one adult).
Join Mole, Ratty and Badger on their mad-cap adventures in this hilarious production of a much-loved children’s classic. 5 & 21 July, 6.30pm, adult £16, child (3-17 yrs) £11, family £46.
The Petersfield Shakespeare Festival returns for another rollicking season. Join us for a family-friendly festival in the beautiful surroundings of Wylds Farm. Start your evening with street food or a picnic and live music at the Bottoms Up Bar, before taking your seats for one of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies, Twelfth Night…
The West End comes to Furzey Gardens this summer with a magical, musical production of 'Twelfth Night' playing every day from August 5th - 28th.
Jane Austen’s ‘Emma’. The critically acclaimed Pantaloons bring a hilarious but faithful new adaptation of this Regency rom-com to the stage. 22 July, 7-9pm, adult £15, child £9.
Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, one of Southern England's most historic buildings, Winchester Cathedral boasts centuries of English heritage, magnificent architecture, priceless treasures and works of art.
Join the Winchester Cathedral Learning Team for an hour of crafting and story time. Taking place throughout August 2023, each week's craft activity will have a brand new theme.
Join the Winchester Cathedral Learning Team for a tailored tour of Winchester Cathedral especially for children and families. This August Emma and Aisha from the Winchester Cathedral Learning Team will be leading tailored tours of Winchester Cathedral especially for families.
Are you ready for an action-packed family adventure? Set off on an exciting journey through the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) at Winchester Science Centre.
Are you ready for the Starlight Cinema summer special? Every Sunday during the summer school holidays come and enjoy a completely unique family cinema experience.
Are you ready for the Starlight Cinema summer special? Every Sunday during the summer school holidays come and enjoy a completely unique family cinema experience.
Are you ready for the Starlight Cinema summer special? Every Sunday during the summer school holidays come and enjoy a completely unique family cinema experience.
Are you ready for the Starlight Cinema summer special? Every Sunday during the summer school holidays come and enjoy a completely unique family cinema experience.
Are you ready for the Starlight Cinema summer special? Every Sunday during the summer school holidays come and enjoy a completely unique family cinema experience.
Paultons is the UK’s Number 1 Family Theme Park — located in Hampshire with over 70 exciting rides and attractions, set within 140 acres of beautiful parkland on the edge of the New Forest National Park.
Marwell zoo is home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals all within a beautiful 140-acre park. Take a stroll around the outdoor attraction and enjoy the fresh air while spotting animals such as Rothschild’s giraffe, white rhinos, Amur tigers, Humboldt penguins, red pandas, clouded leopards, snow leopards and all three species of zebra (to name a few)!
Get onboard the soul train and join us for this spectacular tribute to the classic Soul and Tamla Motown hits featuring the exceptional 10-piece band Madison Heights.
Held at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Join us and the talented 75-piece orchestra and singers, Pops Incorporated UK. Internationally known having performed in Washington USA, Canada and Disney Land also the Royal Festival Hall London. They will be performing well-known hits and vocals for the whole family, taking inspiration from the movies with a good helping of well-known contemporary music for all to dance and sing along. A brilliant family evening out with free children's entertainment all set in the beautiful Gardens.
Join us for a fun weekend of arts and crafts activities, live theatre, music, dance, storytelling, poetry and live music at Whitchurch Children's Festival 2023!
The outskirts of historic Wickham village provide a picturesque setting for one of the safest and most relaxed festivals of the summer. Enjoy some great live music. Wickham is rated by many as one of the safest, most relaxed and family-friendly festivals in the UK.
Carfest South will be returning to Laverstoke Park Farm, Hampshire in August as One Big Carfest. The 2,500 acres farm, near Overton, is owned by ex-racing driver and 1979 Formula 1 World Champion Jody Scheckter.
Victorious is a family friendly festival for music lovers and a stone’s throw from the sea. It’s a day festival located on the picturesque Southsea Seafront and takes place over August Bank Holiday Weekend.
Picnic and Pop Family Festival returns to Manor Park in Aldershot on Saturday 27th July and Sunday 28th July 2024 for a weekend of fantastic family fun. We have some of the UK's top tribute bands including: Absolute Britney (Britney Spears) Chic to Chic (Nile Rogers & Chic) Lewish Capaldi (Lewis Capaldi) New Jovi (Bon Jovi) Vicky Jackson (Pink) Beyonce Fierce (Beyonce) Not the Rolling Stones (Rolling Stones) Pure Paloma (Paloma Faith) 21st Century Abba (Abba) There's also some amazing supporting bands and a second stage of local artists. Alongside the music we also have a Kids Zone with theatre shows, circus skills workshop, BMX and Mountain bike show, walkabout acts, a fun fair, licensed bar and a variety of street food vendors.
Music fans rejoice as 21st Century Events from Chapterhouse Theatre Company brings you two of the 20th century's most iconic artists in an open-air concert to remember!
Celebrate the beginning of the Proms in our beautiful grounds with rousing, uplifting music from the Otterbourne Brass Band. The concert will include orchestral classics such as Fanfare for the Common Man by American composer Aaron Copland, Nimrod by Elgar and Jerusalem by Hubert Parry, along with many more, making it a truly memorable evening of fantastic music.
The concerts at Hylands Estate provide the perfect setting in which to enjoy a picnic concert while appreciating four and half hours of wonderful entertainment.
Beaulieu featuring the world famous National Motor Museum, Palace House home of the Montagu family, and Abbey Ruins featuring an exhibition of monastic life.
Sculpture at Beaulieu returns in 2023, featuring the works from international and national sculptors from 17th June – 24th September.
One of the best places in the south to see stunning supercars up close, the Beaulieu Supercar Weekend will be going down a storm on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August, with impressive displays and action-packed demonstrations.
Owners of VWs are invited to drive into Beaulieu to park up in the National Motor Museum parkland, for a superb day that enthusiasts and owners will love.
Let's get the summer started with a bang – literally – with Fiesta, an exciting mini children's festival of curiosity!
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is the UK’s premier destination for exploring 500 years of naval history and a must-see for anyone visiting the South of England. A visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard allows you step on-board world-famous ships, explore heroic submarines and uncover some of the Navy’s best-kept secrets with first-hand accounts from the Royal Navy’s finest, past, and present.
Ready! Set! Fire! Hear those cannons roar! Discover fascinating facts about the wicked array of weapons found on board The Mary Rose. From bronze guns, iron guns and muskets, to bows and arrows, pikes and hailshot - the array of Tudor weaponry found is mind blowing. This week join us for family fun with live gun drills led by our costumed crew members, Tudor games and dressing up.
Let's illuminate history with this fun and engaging craft activity!
Magic! Merriment! Mayhem! Meet our Tudor Jester!
Explore the remains of Henry VIII’s favourite ship, recovered from the seabed in one of the most challenging archaeological excavations of all time. See thousands of genuine Tudor objects, from the large bronze and iron ship’s guns, to personal items like wooden bowls and nit combs, which recreate life on board with an authenticity no other attraction can provide.
