Finding fantastic ways to keep children entertained, active, and inspired throughout the long summer holidays is remarkably easy across Southampton and the surrounding Hampshire region. Whether you are searching for free outdoor nature trails across scenic country parks, interactive wildlife encounters and animal feeding sessions, budget-friendly indoor soft play options on rainy afternoons, or high-energy festival days out, the local area provides an extraordinary selection of family activities.
This guide highlights the absolute best things to do with kids in Southampton this summer, covering top attractions, scenic parklands, local farms, and community play spaces across Southampton, Eastleigh, the New Forest, and Winchester. Each featured event and location offers brilliant value, great facilities, and unforgettable holiday experiences for toddlers, teenagers, and everyone in between.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is compiled based on the quality of activities offered, overall family value, accessibility for pushchairs, age-appropriate variety, and direct feedback from the local Southampton parenting community. I selected a well-rounded mix of completely free community pop-ups, affordable nature trails, all-weather soft play deals, and major regional family destinations.
When choosing the top summer activities in Southampton, I considered:
- Budget flexibility – Highlighting completely free events, low-cost trail booklets, special holiday discounts, and unlimited summer play passes.
- Age appeal – Ensuring activities cater across the spectrum, from under-2s and energetic toddlers to curious primary school kids and adventurous teens.
- All-weather options – Balancing sunny open-air country parks, coastal gardens, and farm yards with indoor play centres and science hubs for rainy days.
- Travel accessibility – Selecting locations easily reached via local bus routes, direct train connections, or venues offering ample parking.
- On-site amenities – Giving priority to venues with clean baby-changing facilities, accessible pathways, picnic spots, and family cafes.
No venue, commercial theme park, or event organiser has paid to be included in this guide.
20 Best Things to Do with Kids in Southampton This Summer
Whether you are planning a full-day family expedition to an action-packed wildlife park, hunting for bugs along the riverbank, enjoying free town-centre dinosaur events, or relaxing in coastal gardens, these top 20 summer activities in Southampton make a perfect trip.
1. Summer Holiday at Oasis City Farm
Oasis City Farm is a wonderful community haven located in Lordshill, offering city kids a hands-on experience with friendly farm animals, growing gardens, and outdoor learning. Running from Tuesday to Friday throughout August, their summer program is packed with budget-friendly fun.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Oasis City Farm, Lordshill, Southampton, SO16 8HY
When: 28 July to 28 August (Tuesday to Friday)
Admission: £3 Adult, £2 Child, Under 2s FREE
Special Offers: All extra daily activities are included free with standard admission
This local city farm provides an exceptionally welcoming, relaxed environment for toddlers and young children to meet goats, chickens, and rabbits without breaking the bank.
How to Get to Oasis City Farm
- By Bus: Take any direct Bluestar bus route operating to Lordshill Centre, leaving a short 5-minute walk to the farm site.
- By Car: Drive via Lordshill Way with free local parking available near the surrounding community centre blocks.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Plan your visit between Tuesday and Friday, as the main holiday sessions do not run on Mondays or weekends.
- Wear sturdy outdoor shoes or wellies, especially if rain has made the paddock walkways muddy.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the garden seating areas to keep your trip extra budget-friendly.
2. Zoofest 2026 at Marwell Zoo
Marwell Zoo brings back its highly anticipated Zoofest celebration for 2026, combining incredible wildlife viewing across 140 acres with vibrant summer festival vibes, live music, and child-friendly entertainment.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Marwell Wildlife, Colden Common, Winchester, SO21 1JH
When: 23 July to 31 August
Admission: Included with standard zoo admission
Special Offers: Kids tickets are half price when booked online, 15% off kids’ meals, and annual members enter free
From spotting rhinos and giraffes to dancing along at the festival stage, Zoofest offers a complete, action-packed full day out for families of all ages.
How to Get to Marwell Zoo
- By Car: Drive via the B3354 toward Colden Common, following clear brown tourist signs straight to the large, free main car park.
- By Public Transport: Connect via local taxi or seasonal bus links running from Eastleigh railway station.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure the half-price child discount and skip gate queues.
- Download the Marwell Zoo app to check daily feeding talk schedules and festival stage times.
- Utilise the 15% discount on kids’ meals at participating catering kiosks across the grounds.
3. Summer Fun at Manor Farm
Set within the historic surroundings of Manor Farm Country Park, this traditional working farm offers children an immersive glimpse into rural life, interactive animal feeding, and expansive play yards.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.7/5.0
Location: Manor Farm, Pamber Green Lane, Botley, SO30 2ER
When: 24 July to 31 August
Admission: Standard admission rates apply
Special Offers: 20% off child admission throughout August
Children will love meeting the farmyard animals, exploring the indoor play barn, and taking part in hands-on summer activities in the historic Victorian farmhouse.
How to Get to Manor Farm
- By Car: Take Junction 8 off the M27 and follow the signs for Manor Farm Country Park into the main parking areas.
- By Train: Hedge End Station is a 20-minute walk or brief taxi ride away.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Take advantage of the 20% child discount running all through August by booking your entry online.
- Combine your farm visit with a wander through the surrounding woodland trails of the wider country park.
- Check the daily blackboard at the entrance for meet-the-animal schedule times.
4. Pony Magic Summer at Manor Farm
In addition to standard farm activities, Manor Farm hosts Pony Magic sessions, giving younger children a gentle, unforgettable introductory horse riding experience around dedicated paddocks.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Manor Farm, Pamber Green Lane, Botley, SO30 2ER
When: 27 July to 28 August (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays)
Admission: £6 per ride (in addition to standard farm admission)
Specially tailored for young children aged 2 to 8, these pony rides are expertly handler-led, making them a safe and memorable summer highlight.
How to Get to Pony Magic
- By Car: Access via the main Manor Farm Country Park entrance off Pamber Green Lane.
- By Foot: Follow internal farm signs leading directly to the designated pony paddock area.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Note that rides only take place on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
- Ensure children wear closed-toe shoes or trainers for safety on the paddock grounds.
- Book ride slots early upon arrival, as popular times fill up fast.
5. Nature Guardian Quest at Itchen Valley Country Park
Itchen Valley Country Park spans 440 acres of beautiful water meadows and woodland. Their Nature Guardian Quest trail encourages children to complete fun ecological challenges as they explore the parkland.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, SO30 3HQ
When: 25 July to 27 August
Admission: £5 per trail booklet
Special Offers: Free special celebration session for quest completers on 27 August
A brilliant way to get kids off screens and into nature, this trail booklet leads families past play areas, sculpture paths, and scenic woodland spots.
How to Get to Itchen Valley Country Park
- By Car: Situated on Allington Lane, West End, with pay-and-display parking right by the Visitor Centre.
- By Bus: Local bus stops are located along Eastleigh Road with a brief walk down Allington Lane.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Pick up your trail booklet from the Visitor Centre counter upon arrival.
- Save the date for 27 August to attend the free celebration event for quest graduates.
- Make time to enjoy the adjacent wooden play parks and natural play trails.
6. I Spy Trail at Royal Victoria Country Park
Overlooking the Solent, Royal Victoria Country Park combines historical grounds with coastal breeze. The summer I Spy Trail gives young explorers an entertaining mission across the parklands.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Abbey, Southampton, SO31 5GA
When: 23 July to 31 August
Admission: £4 per trail pack
This low-cost trail leads families around historic landmarks, including the iconic chapel tower and open grassy fields perfect for flying kites.
How to Get to Royal Victoria Country Park
- By Train: Netley Station is just a 15-minute walk from the park entrance gates.
- By Car: Drive via Netley Abbey into the extensive coastal pay-and-display car parks.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Collect your trail sheet from the shop located inside the main Chapel Visitor Centre.
- Take a ride on the miniature railway after completing the trail for an extra treat.
- Bring a blanket and enjoy a coastal picnic right by the water’s edge.
7. Bug Hunt and Activity at River Hamble Country Park
River Hamble Country Park hosts guided Tuesday summer sessions where children can explore ancient oak woodlands and discover fascinating creepy crawlies up close.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.7/5.0
Location: River Hamble Country Park, Pamber Green Lane, Botley, SO30 2ER
When: Every Tuesday (28 July to 25 August)
Admission: £8 per participating child
Special Offers: Accompanying adults attend free (advance online booking required)
Led by knowledgeable park rangers, kids receive magnifying glasses and bug-hunting kits to identify woodland insects and learn about local biodiversity.
How to Get to River Hamble Country Park
- By Car: Access via Pamber Green Lane with spacious pay-and-display parking near Barnfield.
- By Bus: Local routes drop off near Botley with connection options down to the park gates.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Advance online booking is essential as participant spaces per Tuesday session are strictly capped.
- Dress kids in long trousers and sturdy shoes suitable for walking off-path through undergrowth.
- Head down to the pontoon area afterward for crab fishing along the River Hamble.
8. Wildlife Wonders at Lepe Country Park
Lepe Country Park offers breathtaking views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Their special two-day Wildlife Wonders pop-up provides interactive marine and nature activities for visiting families.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Lepe Country Park, Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AD
When: 5 to 6 August
Admission: FREE activity event
Special Offers: Standard vehicle parking charges apply
A brilliant free event where children can explore coastal ecosystems, discover shore wildlife, and join in with beachside craft sessions.
How to Get to Lepe Country Park
- By Car: Drive south through the New Forest via Exbury, following clear signs to the Lepe coastal parking areas.
- By Bike: Easily accessed along popular New Forest coastal cycle routes.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Arrive early in the day during the event weekend to easily secure a parking spot near the lookout cafe.
- Bring water shoes and buckets so children can safely explore the shingle beach and rockpools.
- Visit the modern visitor center to learn about Lepe’s vital role in the D-Day landings.
9. Summer Garden Games at Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway
Exbury Gardens is famous for its world-class woodland gardens and narrow-gauge steam railway. Throughout August, giant lawn games are set up across the grounds for active family play.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Exbury Gardens, Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AZ
When: Throughout August
Admission: Included with standard garden admission
Kids can challenge parents to giant Jenga, Connect 4, and croquet on the manicured lawns before hopping aboard the steam train for a ride through the woods.
How to Get to Exbury Gardens
- By Car: Located in the South East New Forest, approximately 20 minutes from central Southampton with large free parking areas.
- By Bus: Seasonal open-top tour buses stop directly at the garden gates during summer peak.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Purchase a combined garden and train ticket to ensure you do not miss out on the steam railway trip.
- Explore the dragonfly pond and play areas hidden along the shaded woodland paths.
- Check online for special family ticket bundles available during summer months.
10. Summer at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Spanning 180 acres near Romsey, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is an award-winning botanical paradise equipped with superb natural play features, treehouses, and wooden balance bridges.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA
When: Throughout August
Admission: Standard adult admission
Special Offers: Up to two children (aged 16 and under) go FREE per paying adult
With kids admitted free, this site delivers exceptional value for a relaxing outdoor day, featuring bamboo tunnels, woodland play structures, and wide paved paths perfect for pushchairs.
How to Get to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
- By Car: Situated off the A31002 near Romsey, featuring extensive free visitor parking.
- By Bus: Stagecoach bus services run regularly past Jermyns Lane from Romsey and Winchester.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Head straight for the Super Play Area to let kids explore the treehouse slide and wobbly bridge.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy near the educational pond-dipping platforms.
- Stop by the Pavilion Restaurant for refreshing summer ice creams and cakes.
11. Summer of Play at Mottisfont
Mottisfont is a historic National Trust estate nestled along the River Test. Their Summer of Play transforms the sweeping lawns and ancient woodlands into a massive, active outdoor play zone filled with grassy obstacle courses, giant lawn games, and natural building areas.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Mottisfont Lane, Romsey, SO51 0LP
When: Throughout the summer holidays
Admission: Included with standard National Trust admission (Free for NT members)
Mottisfont provides a serene, picturesque backdrop for families, where kids can climb, splash, build, and play in complete safety within the beautiful riverside gardens.
How to Get to Mottisfont
- By Car: Located just off the A3057 north of Romsey, with ample parking available on site.
- By Train: Mottisfont & Dunbridge Station is roughly a 1.2-mile walk from the main entrance gates.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Bring a spare set of clothes and a towel, as children will inevitably love paddling in the shallow stream play zones.
- National Trust members enter for free, making this one of the most cost-effective repeated summer outings for local families.
- Don’t miss the wild play area hidden in the woods featuring log balances and den-building structures.
12. Summer at Paultons Park
As the UK’s top-rated family theme park, Paultons Park is home to over 70 rides and attractions, including the world-famous Peppa Pig World, Tornado Springs, and Lost Kingdom dinosaur lands.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
5.0/5.0
Location: Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL
When: Throughout the summer holidays
Admission: Standard entry rates apply (Children under 1 metre tall go FREE)
Special Offers: FREE second park day when booking qualifying short break packages online
Paultons Park sets the gold standard for clean, impeccably maintained family theme parks with world-class rollercoasters, splash pads, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
How to Get to Paultons Park
- By Car: Located directly at Junction 2 of the M27 near Ower, featuring massive free parking facilities.
- By Bus: The X7 Coastliner bus stops right outside the main park entrance during peak summer schedules.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Pack swimming costumes and towels for the children so they can enjoy the expansive splash zones in Peppa Pig World and Water Kingdom.
- Pre-book your tickets online at least one day in advance to guarantee entry and save money compared to gate prices.
- Download the official Paultons Park app to keep track of live queue times and show schedules across the park.
13. Summer Play Pass at Kids2Day Indoor Play & Preschool
Kids2Day is a popular indoor soft play centre in Eastleigh featuring multi-level climbing frames, speed slides, and dedicated toddler zones to keep kids burning energy regardless of the weather.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: Renown Close, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, SO53 4WY
When: 17 July to 31 August
Admission: Play passes from £25
Special Offers: Unlimited soft play admission throughout the entire summer holiday period
The Summer Play Pass offers unmatched value for parents needing a reliable, air-conditioned indoor haven for energetic kids during rainy days.
How to Get to Kids2Day
- By Car: Located just off the M3/M27 in Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate with dedicated customer parking.
- By Train: Chandlers Ford railway station is a short 10-minute walk away.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Purchase the Summer Play Pass early in the holiday to maximize your savings across multiple visits.
- Ensure children wear socks at all times, as they are mandatory for playing on the soft play frames.
- Parents can relax in the comfortable seating area while enjoying hot beverages and snacks from the café.
14. Summer Play Pass at The Play Park, Romsey
The Play Park in Romsey is a fantastic indoor soft play and party centre designed to keep younger children active with clean, safe climbing equipment, role-play houses, and sensory areas.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Budds Lane Trading Estate, Romsey, SO51 0HA
When: 17 July to 31 August
Admission: Summer Play Passes start from £25
Special Offers: Unlimited play throughout the summer weeks
Perfect for toddlers and primary school children, this bright and welcoming facility offers an ideal indoor option during unpredictable British summer weather.
How to Get to The Play Park
- By Car: Drive via Budds Lane in Romsey with customer parking spaces directly outside the building.
- By Train: Romsey Station is situated within a 15-minute walk of the trading estate.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The unlimited pass pays for itself in just three visits, making it ideal for local families.
- Book your daily entry slots online to guarantee entry during peak morning sessions.
- Check their weekly schedule for special themed toddler sensory mornings.
15. Boogie in the Barn at Hanger Farm Arts Centre
Hanger Farm Arts Centre is a beautifully restored 18th-century timber barn in Totton. Their Boogie in the Barn summer sessions provide energetic music, dance, and movement fun for babies, toddlers, and young children.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.7/5.0
Location: Aikman Lane, West Totton, Southampton, SO40 8FT
When: 6 & 20 August
Admission: Check organiser website for session rates
A delightful, highly social activity set inside a unique historic venue where young kids can dance to lively songs, play with bubbles, and burn off energy.
How to Get to Hanger Farm Arts Centre
- By Car: Drive to Aikman Lane in West Totton, with free customer parking right beside the barn.
- By Bus: Local Bluestar bus services stop along nearby West Totton routes.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Pre-book your tickets through the Hanger Farm box office as barn dance spaces are limited.
- Grab a coffee and home-baked cake at the charming on-site community café before or after the show.
- The venue is fully accessible with plenty of space to park pushchairs safely.
16. Dino Day at The Swan Centre, Eastleigh
The Swan Shopping Centre in central Eastleigh brings prehistoric excitement to town with Dino Day, featuring life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, interactive ranger shows, and free family crafts.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: The Swan Centre, Wells Place, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF
When: 5 August
Admission: FREE community event
A brilliant, free town-centre pop-up event where young dinosaur enthusiasts can meet realistic walking dinos, snap photos, and join in fossil-hunting fun.
How to Get to The Swan Centre
- By Train: Eastleigh Railway Station is located directly opposite the shopping centre entrance.
- By Car: Park in the multi-story car park attached directly to the Swan Centre off Wells Place.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Check performance schedules upon arrival to secure a good viewing spot for the live dinosaur appearances.
- Combine the event with a visit to the nearby Eastleigh Museum or Leigh Road Park play area.
- Enjoy the indoor mall facilities, including family-friendly food options and baby change areas.
17. Toy Takeover at Westquay Retail Park Playground
Westquay’s outdoor retail park playground hosts the popular Toy Takeover on select August dates, featuring free pop-up entertainment, outdoor games, giant toys, and character meet-and-greets.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Westquay Retail Park Playground, Harbour Parade, Southampton, SO15 1BA
When: 8, 15, 22 & 29 August
Admission: FREE community event
An ideal free pitstop during a summer shopping trip in central Southampton, giving children a fun, interactive space to play outdoors.
How to Get to Westquay Retail Park
- By Foot: Located in central Southampton along Harbour Parade, just minutes from the main Westquay shopping mall.
- By Car: Park in the adjacent Westquay Retail Park surface car park or main multi-story garages.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Events take place on consecutive Saturdays throughout August, perfect for breaking up town visits.
- Pack sun hats and sunscreen as the outdoor play area gets plenty of direct summer sunlight.
- Head over to Westquay’s Esplanade afterwards to enjoy food trucks and open lawn space.
18. Summer at Longdown Activity Farm
Longdown Activity Farm in Ashurst is famous for its intensive schedule of hands-on animal experiences, including bottle-feeding kid goats and calves, handling chicks, and tractor rides.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 7EH
When: Throughout the summer holidays
Admission: Standard entry fees apply
Special Offers: Reduced admission rates available with Great British Summer Savings offers
Longdown provides the ultimate hands-on farm adventure for kids, paired with indoor play barns, outdoor go-karts, and splash play areas.
How to Get to Longdown Activity Farm
- By Car: Located off the A35 at Ashurst in the New Forest, with free parking on site.
- By Train: Ashurst New Forest station is a flat 15-minute walk from the farm entrance.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Check the daily activity timetable at entry so you don’t miss the popular calf and goat bottle-feeding sessions.
- Look out for Great British Summer Savings vouchers online to discount your family admission.
- Bring spare socks for the soft play areas and indoor straw bale barns.
19. Summer at New Forest Wildlife Park
Set within 25 acres of ancient woodland near Ashurst, the New Forest Wildlife Park is home to native European wildlife, including otters, wolves, lynx, deer, and giant timber play structures.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 7EZ
When: 23 July to 31 August
Admission: Standard entry rates apply
Special Offers: Optional £2 Wildlife Bingo activity pack available at entry
A peaceful and educational day out where kids can wander shaded woodland paths, watch friendly otters feed, and tackle two impressive adventure play zones.
How to Get to New Forest Wildlife Park
- By Car: Located on Deerleap Lane near Ashurst, with clear signage and free woodland car parking.
- By Taxi/Train: Take a short taxi ride from Ashurst or Totton railway stations.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Add the £2 Wildlife Bingo pack at the ticket desk to turn your walk into an interactive animal scavenger hunt.
- Plan your walk around the keeper talk schedules to see the otters and Asian short-clawed otters during feeding time.
- Allow plenty of time for kids to explore the two massive Go Wild adventure playgrounds.
20. Summer Discovery Ticket at Winchester Science Centre
Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium features two floors of hands-on interactive science exhibits, sound and space zones, and the UK’s largest standalone planetarium.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: Telegraph Way, Winchester, SO21 1CX
When: 1 to 31 August
Admission: £18.50 Adult, £18.50 Child
Special Offers: Under 3s and accompanying carers enter FREE
An extraordinary indoor destination where curious minds can trigger explosions, build circuits, test sound waves, and watch immersive planetarium shows.
How to Get to Winchester Science Centre
- By Car: Located just off the A31 near Winchester, with extensive parking facilities on site.
- By Bus: Stagecoach bus services run regularly from Winchester station straight to the centre gates.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Book your Summer Discovery Ticket online in advance to guarantee entry on busy summer days.
- Add a Planetarium show ticket to your booking for an unforgettable 360-degree journey through space.
- Explore the outdoor Bio-Space area and nature play zones behind the main science hall.
Why Summer in Southampton is Unbeatable for Families
Southampton and the surrounding Hampshire region offer a phenomenal balance of outdoor nature parks, interactive animal farms, major theme parks, and completely free community pop-ups. Taking advantage of local summer play passes, nature trails, and discounted advance tickets ensures you can build an unforgettable summer holiday itinerary for your children while staying within your family budget.
Which Summer Activity in Southampton Should You Choose?
Selecting the perfect summer outing depends on your children’s ages, the weather, and your family budget.
If you are looking for high-energy theme park thrills or world-class attractions, Paultons Park in Ower and Zoofest at Marwell Zoo deliver unforgettable, full-day adventures for all age groups.
For budget-friendly nature trails and outdoor exploration, head to Itchen Valley Country Park for the Nature Guardian Quest, explore Royal Victoria Country Park with the I Spy Trail, or take advantage of free admission for kids at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
If your kids love hands-on animal encounters, visit Oasis City Farm in Lordshill for an affordable urban farm trip, try bottle-feeding at Longdown Activity Farm, or enjoy pony rides at Manor Farm.
For completely free town-centre days out, pop along to Dino Day at The Swan Centre in Eastleigh or check out the Toy Takeover at Westquay Retail Park.
Finally, if you need a reliable rainy-day backup option, pick up an unlimited Summer Play Pass at Kids2Day or The Play Park, or dive into interactive science at Winchester Science Centre.
Looking to Stay Active This Summer?
If you want to enjoy some outdoor sport with the family after exploring these local attractions, check out our guide to the best tennis courts in Southampton to find top-quality park and club courts near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free things to do with kids in Southampton this summer?
Top free options include visiting the Wildlife Wonders event at Lepe Country Park, attending Dino Day at The Swan Centre in Eastleigh, enjoying the Toy Takeover playground days at Westquay Retail Park, or taking advantage of free entry for under-2s and carers across regional venues.
Are there affordable rainy-day activities for children in Southampton?
Yes. Unlimited Summer Play Passes at indoor soft play venues like Kids2Day in Eastleigh and The Play Park in Romsey allow repeated visits at a low cost. Winchester Science Centre also offers a fantastic all-weather indoor discovery day.
Which summer farm attractions in Southampton offer pony rides or animal feeding?
Manor Farm in Botley offers dedicated Pony Magic summer sessions alongside animal feeding, while Longdown Activity Farm in Ashurst features daily hands-on calf and kid goat bottle-feeding sessions.
Do country parks in Southampton run organized summer trails?
Yes. Itchen Valley Country Park offers the Nature Guardian Quest trail booklet (£5), Royal Victoria Country Park hosts the coastal I Spy Trail (£4), and River Hamble Country Park runs weekly guided Tuesday Bug Hunts (£8).
Can I get discounts when booking summer attractions near Southampton in advance?
Many major regional venues offer substantial discounts for online bookings. For example, Marwell Zoo offers half-price children’s tickets online for Zoofest, Manor Farm offers 20% off child tickets throughout August, and Sir Harold Hillier Gardens allows up to two children free per paying adult.
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