Including free things to do in Hampshire
If you are looking for things to do in Hampshire today with the kids then this post is for you. We have over 100+ things to do ideas in Hampshire that are perfect for the whole family.
These are fun for the whole family! Use these days out in Hampshire if you are stuck for ideas on what to do during the summer holidays or at weekends.
If you are looking for more direct ideas or location-based ideas then have a look at:
The Biggest List of Things to do in Basingstoke With Kids – This is our biggest list of things to do in Basingstoke that will keep the whole family amused.
The Best Things to do in Andover with Kids – We love Andover! There is so much to do as a family and loads of great places to explore.
The Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Southampton With Kids – Southampton has so much to do as a family! Walk around the old walls or explore one of the many museums. Southampton is full of history.
The Full Guide to Things to do in Portsmouth – Right on the seafront, Portsmouth has everything you need for a fun fulled day out.
A Huge Guide to Things to do in New Forest – From beautiful walks to animal parks, the New Forest is a great place to visit to enjoy a different side of Hampshire.
Things to do in Hampshire Guide
Wondering what to do today? Then our guide for ALL things Hampshire is for you!
If you are looking for things to do in Hampshire with kids then this guide is for you. We have over 200+ ideas that you can use to keep your whole family amused while exploring everything Hampshire has to offer!
Have a look at our Things to do in Hampshire Guide here.
This is an up to date spreadsheet, in activity order, that you can use when you have no clue what to do. We’ve included everything from country parks, to splash pools, lakes, castles, days out, playgrounds and walks. You get lifetime access to this spreadsheet, so any updates we do, you get them, all included in the price!
100+ things to do in Hampshire
These things to do in Hampshire are going to keep you all busy and out the house. We’ve mixed up free ideas with some paid one’s too. All will be fun for the whole family including toddlers right up to teens.
We’ve also combined some activities together to make a great day out but they can be done just as an individual activity too.
We have split these up into regions so you can find something to do quickly and easily.
North Hampshire
There is loads to do in North Hampshire with family. Have a look at our Biggest List of Things to do in Basingstoke With Kids here for more ideas.
Animal encounters and Zoos in North Hampshire
These are the best places to visit if you want to see animals in North Hampshire.
The Hawk Conservancy Trust is set in 22 acres of beautiful countryside that offers the whole family flying displays and amazing animal experiences. The trust has loads of places to have a picnic, a great play area for the little ones, and a wide range of animals that will keep even the older kids amused.
You can find The Hawk Conservancy at Sarson Lane, Andover SP11 8DY.
We love Finkley Down Farm! It’s a great place to visit for the whole family. You can feed the farm animals yourself, play in the massive soft play that is undercover and run around this amazing farm.
You can find Finkley Down Farm at North Way, Andover SP11 6NF.
Cuddle lambs and visit all the other animals at this amazing farm. Times do vary so please check the website before going.
You can find Miler’s Ark Animals at Blackstocks Lane, Hook RG27 9PH.
4. Birdworld
This huge park is a great day out. It has a large selection of animals and other attractions that all ages will love. This is the home to a diverse array of avian species, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviours. From the majestic birds of prey soaring high above the countryside to the vibrant songbirds that grace our gardens, the world of British birds, or “Birdworld,” offers endless fascination for the whole family.
You can find Birdworld at Holt Pound Lane, A325, Farnham GU10 4LD.
This is a family farm that has a lot of activities for the whole family. They do sheep racing, have animal encounters and have a play barn for the winter months.
You can find Cholderton Charlies Farm at Amesbury Rd, Cholderton, Salisbury SP4 0EW.
6. Marwell Zoo
Visit Marwell Zoo in half term and you will come across amazing exotic animals from around the World. Our favourites are the penguins and the tigers. There is plenty to do all day at Marwell Zoo including undercover picnic spots and a land train. There is a lot of walking though so bring a buggy for little ones.
You can find Marwell Zoo at Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH.
Arts and crafts in North Hampshire
Looking for something different to do with the kids on a rainy day? Then why not try one of these arts and crafts locations.
Offering workshops for all ages, The Art of Craft is great for all ages to learn the many skills of crafting.
You can find The Art of Craft at Unit 1, Kingstons Industrial Estate, Kingston’s Industrial Estate, Eastern Rd, Aldershot GU12 4YA.
8. Fairground Craft & Design Centre
Fairground Craft and Design Centre has everything you need for a half day out for the whole family. They have a papercraft shop, product shop and other amazing craft shops.
You can find the Fairground Craft Centre at The Fairground, Weyhill, Andover SP11 0QN.
Viables Craft Centre has lots of little shops that you can visit and craft.
You can find Viables Centre at The Viables Craft Centre, 19 The Harrow Way, Basingstoke RG22 4BJ.
We love Bella Crafts. They offer workshops for all ages so please check their website for times.
You can find Bella Crafts at 13-14, Kings Walk, Silver Hill, Winchester SO23 8AF.
Bowling in North Hampshire
Looking for a rainy day activity for the whole family? Then why not have a look at bowling.
11. Riverside Bowl
Riverside Bowl has everything you need for a fun day out. Not only do they offer bowling, but AR Darts and crazy golf as well.
You can find Riverside Bowl at 22-30 Bridge St, Andover SP10 1BN.
12. Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl in Basingstoke offers all the fun you need as a family, from bowling to eating.
You can find Hollywood Bowl at Basingstoke Leisure Park, Worting Rd, Basingstoke RG22 6PG.
Castles in North Hampshire
Castles are a great day out for the whole family, no matter there age!
13. Chawton House
Owned by Jane Austen’s brother, Chawton House is the place that Jane Austen used to stroll around while creating her books. This Elizabethan manor is steeped in history and is great for the whole family who can really enjoy what life was like for Jane at the time. Chawton House has on-site parking and huge grounds for you to explore as well.
You can find Chawton House at Chawton, Alton GU34 1SJ.
14. Ludgershall Castle & Cross
Built in the late 11th century by a sheriff of Wiltshire, this old castle is a great place for the kids to run around and enjoy.
You can find Ludgershall Castle & Cross at Castle St, Ludgershall, Andover SP11 9QT.
15. Basing House
Basing House is a collection of banks and ditches that used to be home to an amazing royal house. There is still so much to do for the whole family from visiting the Great Barn which still has its holes from gun fire to the walled garden.
You can find Basing House at The St, Old Basing, Basingstoke RG24 7BH.
16. Highclere Castle
Home to the Carnarvon family since 1679, Highclere Castle is now home to many famous shows including Downton Abbey. Walk around these famous halls and gardens to really experience what life was like for those who really lived in this castle. There is parking on-site and a cafe for the whole family. You can also explore the grounds while having a family picnic. This really is a day out for the whole family.
You can find Highclere Castle at HighclerePark, Highclere, Newbury RG20 9RN.
Known as King John’s Castle, Odiham Castle is well known for being the host of the signing of the Magna Carta. It may be in ruins now but these grounds are steeped in local history.
You can find King John’s Castle at North Warnborough, Hook RG29 1HQ.
18. The Great Hall
Also known as Winchester Castle, The Great Hall is right in the middle of Winchester and is home to the legend of King Arther. The table has been dated as being made in the 13th or early 14th century. The hall is free to visit and makes a great day out with the Cathedral.
You can find The Great Hall at The Castle, Castle Ave, Winchester SO23 8UJ.
Right in the center of Winchester, Winchester Cathedral is a magnificent building that is home to some big names like Jane Austen and many Saxon kings. Charges do apply to walk around the cathedral. Being based right in the middle of city, there is loads of parking and all the paths are pushchair friendly. There are plenty of places to eat near the Cathedral or bring a picnic as there is loads of open green space too.
You can find Winchester Cathedral at 9 The Close, Winchester SO23 9LS.
20. Wolvesey Castle
Wolvesey Castle may be in ruins now, but it’s still an amazing setting and steeped in history. It housed Philip of Spain and Mary Tudor’s wedding feast and is the ideal place for family picnics.
You can find Wolvesey Castle at College St, Winchester SO23 9NB.
The Great Hall and The Round Table is set right in the middle of Winchester town center. It’s a great free morning out and fun to learn and explore our history.
You can find The Castle Passageways at Winchester SO23 8UH.
Cinemas and theatres in North Hampshire
These are the best cinemas in North Hampshire.
| Name | Postcode |
| 22. Cineworld Aldershot | Westgate, Unit 5 Princes Way, Aldershot GU11 1WG |
| 23. Odeon Andover | Anton Mill Rd, Andover SP10 2RW |
| 24. Odeon Basingstoke | Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way W, Westham, Basingstoke RG22 6PG |
| 25. Vue Basingstoke | Festival Place New Market Square, Basingstoke RG21 7BB |
| 26. Vue Farnborough | Kingsmead Shopping Centre, Queensmead, Farnborough GU14 7SR |
| 27. Odeon Salisbury | New Canal, Salisbury SP1 2AA |
Country parks and walks
These are the best country parks and walks in North Hampshire.
Nestled in the rolling countryside of the United Kingdom, Brickfields Country Park offers a peaceful haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. This picturesque green space, spanning over 100 acres, is a true gem that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
Visitors to Brickfields can immerse themselves in a diverse array of landscapes, from lush meadows and serene ponds to dense woodland trails. The park’s well-maintained footpaths provide ample opportunities for leisurely strolls, invigorating hikes, and birdwatching, allowing guests to reconnect with the great outdoors.
You can find Brickfields Country Park at Boxalls Ln, Aldershot GU11 3QJ.
29. Anstey Park
Anstey Park is a big green space is perfect for the whole family. It’s a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic or play garden games.
You can find Anstey Park at Alton GU34 2NB.
30. Selbourne Common
Selbourne Common is based west of the village. Selbourne Common has great meadows and woodlands for the whole family to explore.
You can find Selbourne Common at Alton GU34 3JR.
31. Kings Pond
Kings Pond has a great path that’s perfect for bikes or scooters. Enjoy the pond, wildlife, flowers and trees. This is the perfect place if you have mobility issues as the car park is close and the path is even.
You can find Kings Pond at Alton GU34 2SZ.
This is a great 4.5 mile walk that starts at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton and goes on through the village of Farringdon where Jane based all her books.
You can find Jane Austen’s Circular Walk at Alton, Chawton, Hampshire, GU34 1SD.
33. Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve
This is a small nature reserve with a pond. It’s a great place to walk around and enjoy.
You can find Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve at Rooksbury Mill Local nature Reserve, Barlows Ln, Andover SP10 2HA.
34. Ladies Walk
Based in the south eastern edge of Andover, Ladies Walk is a great getaway from the city center. It is pushchair friendly with a few hills so great for small legs as well.
You can find Ladies Walk at Andover, Hants, SP10 2DR.
35. Danebury Iron Age Hillfort
One of the most studied forts, Danebury Iron Age is over 2500 years ago. It is a great place to walk with the whole family with ‘ring’ of ramparts for the kids to explore.
You can find Danebury Iron Age Hillfort at Stockbridge SO20 6HZ.
Basingstoke Common is a huge area that is great for spotting the local horses. It’s a lovely picturesque location and a great place for the kids to run around. There is a playground close by and loads of different walks for the whole family.
You can find Basingstoke Common at Redbridge Lane, Old Basing, Basingstoke RG24 7HB.
This is a huge green space in Basingstoke that can see found on foot from Firecrest Road. It has a small car park next to the community building with a small playground. Walk one of the smaller paths to enjoy the local wildlife. Bring the buggy or bikes as the route is mostly flat.
You can find Old Down Woodland Park at 49 Firecrest Rd, Basingstoke RG22 5UL.
If the kids are looking for somewhere to run and play then have a look at Down Grange Meadow. It has a running track and lots of grass for the kids to enjoy.
You can find Down Grange Meadow at 90 Homesteads Rd, Basingstoke RG22 5LH.
39. Walled Garden
These gardens are about 2 acres with a great pond and stunning flowers. There’s so much history here and it’s a great place for the kids to explore.
You can find Walled Garden at Down Grange Sports Complex, Pack Lane, Basingstoke, Hampshire. RG22 4ET.
This is a great woodland for the whole family to enjoy. Crabtree is on the original Hackwood Estate and is full of historical grassland.
You can find the Crabtree at London Rd, Old Basing, Basingstoke RG24 7HB.
41. Eastrop Park
We love Eastrop Park! Set right in the middle of Basingstoke, the park has a lake, a play park and is flat, so is great for riding bikes or roller skating.
You can find Eastrop Park at Eastrop Ln, Basingstoke RG21 4QB.
This woodland is great for the whole family. Walkthrough the trees and see how many bugs you can spot.
You can find Binfields Woodland Park at 16 Elvetham Rise, Chineham, Basingstoke RG24 8ET.
43. Basing Wood
Explore the local wood and see how much wildlife you can spot. We’ve seen deer and rabbits through the trees on a quiet day. It has a great play area and loads of different walks so you never get bored!
You can find Basing Wood at 100 Carpenters Down, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9PJ.
44. Manor Park
Manor Park has everything a family needs for a great day out. It has a play area, tennis courts and a great skate park.
You can find Manor Park at 302 High St, Aldershot GU12 4LT.
There is an amazing nature trail that is around 1.7 miles long. Bring your wellies though as it can be muddy in the rainy months.
You can find Rowhill Nature Reserve at Cranmore Ln, Farnham, Aldershot GU11 3BD.
46. Tice’s Meadow Nature Reserve
This is a meadow full of nature! Walk around the small lake but remember your wellies as it can get muddy.
You can find Tice’s Meadow Nature Reserve at Badshot Lea Rd, Runfold, Farnham GU9 9LY.
47. Alice Holt Forest Country Park
Alice Holt Forest Country Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in the heart of Hampshire, England. Spanning over 2,000 acres, this expansive forest offers a wealth of outdoor activities and serene natural landscapes for visitors to explore.
Based near Farnham, there are loads of walking and cycling trails that take you around the park. They have a great playground with loads of green areas to play. This is a great full-day activity for the whole family.
You can find Alice Holt Forest Country Park at Farnham GU10 4LS.
48. Bourne Woods
With views over the pine forest, Bourne Woods has been used in films and TV shows for years. It has a great foot path that you can explore as well.
You can find Bourne Woods at Lower Bourne, Farnham GU10 3RW.
49. Gostrey Meadow
This is a small meadow that is right in the middle of Farnham.
You can find Gostrey Meadow at Weyside, Farnham GU9 7RH.
Fleet Pond is a great place to visit for the whole family. Remember your wellies as it can get boggy. There is a car park onsite.
You can find Fleet Pond Nature Reserve at 23a Wellington Ave, Fleet GU51 3AY.
Great for walking or cycling, Southwood Woodland has greenland that the whole family can enjoy.
You can find Southwood Woodland at Farnborough GU14 0QG.
52. Bassetts Mead Country Park
Bassetts Mead Country Park offers free parking and is a great circular walk. It takes you along the riverfront which is great for spotting fish and other water creatures. Explore the fields and long grass for the local wildlife too.
You can find Bassetts Mead Country Park at London Rd, Hook RG27 9EH.
Wellington Country Park is a 350 acres site that you can enjoy. There is an outdoor center that is chargeable but the rest of the country park is free to explore and have fun around.
For families, the park features a variety of playgrounds, picnic areas, and a miniature railway, providing endless opportunities for outdoor fun and adventure. Additionally, the on-site farm and animal enclosures allow visitors to get up close with a range of domestic and exotic creatures.
you can find Wellington Country Park at Odiham Rd, Riseley, Reading RG7 1SP.
This is a great historic walk for the whole family. It takes about 90 minutes and only has a few hills.
You can find Stockbridge Downs at Stockbridge SO20 6HN.
This is a stunning trail that takes you through lavender fields. You can cycle or walk through the trail.
You can find North Wessex Downs at Hungerford RG17 0UN.
With loads of places to park, little in-lays really, this country park is great if you love to explore. There are plenty of places for a picnic and a bike ride, plus the views from the actual mount are stunning.
You can find Farley Mount Country Park at Sparsholt, Winchester SO21 2NQ.
With it’s vast landscape and stunning views, St Catherine’s Hill in Winchester is a great day out for the whole family. You don’t have to walk to the top of the hill either to get the best views of Winchester. This stunning land is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to the general public who want to enjoy everything this beautiful chalk downland has to offer.
Parking is completely free on Garnier Road just before the bridge over the river. The postcode for the car park is SO23 9PA. If the car park is full then keep driving over the bridge and there is a few places on the side of the road.
You can find St Catherine’s Hill at Bull Drove, Winchester SO23 9PA.
This is a 12-mile walk that takes you from Winchester through to Bishops Waltham. It takes you past Winchester Cathedral and other historical buildings.
You can find The South Downs Way at Exton is just off the A32 near Bishops Waltham.
59. Winnall Moors Nature Reserve
This is a 4 mile walk that is surfaced. There is a meadow and the path is pretty flat.
You can find Winnall Moors Nature Reserve at Durngate Pl, Winchester SO23 8DX.
With stunning lavender fields and huge trees, Micheldever Forest really is a great walk for the whole family to enjoy.
You can find Micheldever Forest at A303, Winchester SO21 3SP.
61. Keat’s Walk
This is a round trip walk of about 2 miles. It covers so much of the main historic parts of Winchester.
You can find Keat’s Walk at Unnamed Road, Winchester SO23 9NG.
62. Yateley Common Country Park
Mostly flat, Yateley Common Country Park is the perfect place to fish with the kids or bird watch while enjoying a family picnic. Bring the bikes as the ground is mostly flat. They have free parking within easy walk of the park.
You can find Yateley Common Country Park at Yateley GU46 6BE.
Crazy Golf in North Hampshire
We love crazy golf! These are the best places in North Hampshire.
63. Crazy Golf
This is a great crazy golf course for the whole family. It has 12 holes and opens every day.
You can find this course at Caker Lane, Alton GU34 3BF.
64. Basingstoke Knights Realm Adventure Golf
Knights Realm Adventure Golf is a great morning or afternoon activity. It brings a whole new meaning to cray golf. This is an 18 hole course that is dragon themed. While demanding, it is fun for even the little ones.
You can find Basingstoke Knights Realm Adventure Golf at 354 Worting Rd, Basingstoke RG22 5DY.
If you are looking for a driving range or a smaller golf course instead of crazy golf then this is perfect. They offer junior rates and classes.
You can find Basingstoke Golf Centre at West Ham Leisure Park, Worting Road, Basingstoke RG22 6PG.
66. Junglemania Adventure Golf
Junglemania is a great crazy golf course for younger kids. It’s challenging but easy to walk around. Please check opening times as they do change.
You can find Junglemania Adventure Golf at Bowenhurst Ln, Mill Lane, Crondall, Farnham GU10 5HP.
67. Marwell Resort Adventure Golf
Marwell Resort has an 18-hole crazy golf course that is great for all ages. The course is built in nature and makes a nice walk as well.
You can find Marwell Resort Adventure Golf at Marwell Activity Centre, Winchester SO21 1EZ.
Fruit Picking in North Hampshire
These are the best fruit picking locations in North Hampshire.
From strawberries to pumpkins, you can pick whatever fruit and vegetables your kids love. Please check what is in season first before you visit.
You can find Bourne Valley PYO at Strawberry Fields, Hampshire, Egbury Rd, St Mary Bourne, Andover SP11 6DQ.
Gardens in North Hampshire
North Hampshire has so many amazing gardens that you can explore.
69. Hinton Ampner House and Garden
Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Hinton Ampner House and Garden offer visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era. This stunning 18th-century manor house, surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, is a true gem in the English countryside.
Hinton Ampner is not only full of history but stunning gardens and wildlife as well. This is a full day out that the whole family can enjoy.
You can find Hinton Ampner House and Garden at Hinton Ampner, Alresford SO24 0LA.
70. Gilbert White’s House & Gardens
Explore the beautiful historic house and gardens of Gilbert White. They have a museum on-site that also explains all the local history. The house is open from 1030am – 430pm on Tuesday – Sunday.
You can find Gilbert White’s House & Gardens at The Wakes, High Street, Selborne, Alton GU34 3JH.
These are beautiful gardens that the kids can run around in and enjoy. The gardens are full of nature!
You can find Gertrude Jekyll Garden at Church St, Upton Grey, Basingstoke RG25 2RD.
72. The Vyne House and Gardens
This huge Tudor house was built in the 16th Century by Henry VIII’s for Lord Sandys, who was his Lord Chamberlain. Many famous people have walked this red-bricked mansions hall including Jane Austen herself, Anne Boleyn, and Horace Walpole. The gardens are huge, around 13-acres that are included in the price of the ticket. Let the kids explore this amazing home while running around the gardens.Parking is free on-site and they have a great cafe that caters to kids, including kids’ meals and snacks. They also have loads of picnic benches throughout the grounds if you prefer to bring your own.
You can find The Vyne House and Gardens at Vyne Rd, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL.
73. Redan Hill Gardens and Play Area
We love Redan Hill and gardens. They have a log cabin, a playground and loads of grass to play on.
You can find Redan Hill Gardens and Play Area at Aldershot GU12 4NH.
Only five minutes from Stockbridge, Houghton Lodge Gardens has the River Test running through and a water meadow that is stunning in the summer months. Make sure you explore as many of the 15 acres of meadows as you can while spotting all the apple trees. Meet the resident alpacas and discover these beautiful gardens for yourself.
Houghton Lodge Gardens can be found at Houghton, North Houghton, Stockbridge SO20 6LQ.
75. Longstock Park Water Gardens
This is an enchanting garden with water landscapes and wooden bridges. You can book a 2 hour ticket slot to visit.
You can find Longstock Park Water Gardens at Longstock, Stockbridge SO20 6EH.
76. Longstock Park Water Gardens
This is an enchanting garden with water landscapes and wooden bridges. You can book a 2 hour ticket slot to visit.
You can find Longstock Park Water Gardens at Longstock, Stockbridge SO20 6EH.
Right in the centre of Winchester, Queen Eleanor’s Garden is a little bit of paradise in the centre of the city. Walk around and explore this old garden that is steeped in local history.
You can find Queen Eleanor’s Garden at 12 Peninsula Square, Winchester SO23 8GJ.
78. Abbey Gardens
With a play area and loads of green land, this is a great place for the whole family to go. Right by the River Itchen, this is a great place for the family to have a picnic and play.
You can find Abbey Gardens at 65 The Broadway, Winchester SO23 9BE.
Go Karting in North Hampshire
Go karting is a great way for the family to have fun together.
This is one of the best outside karting centers for juniors and adults. They have three different circuits with slow and technical courses. The cars can go up to 60mph!
You can find Thruxton Race Circuit at Thruxton Circuit, Andover SP11 8PW.
This is the ultimate go-karting experience that is great for older kids and adults. These go-karts can go up to 40mph!
You can find TeamSport Indoor Karting at 28 Invincible Rd, Farnborough GU14 7QU.
81. Ignition Racing Simulators
Ignition is a Racing Car Simulation centre with 12 individual racing pods, using professional race simulation software to create Simulated racing events for 1 to 12 drivers.
You can find Ignition Racing Simulators at Challenge Centre, Armstrong Way, The Fairway, Farnborough GU14 0LP.
This is more of a club than a day out but you can look at their race calendar and join in.
You can find Forest Edge Kart Club at Barton Stacey, Winchester SO21 3BF.
Horse Riding in North Hampshire
| Name | Postcode |
| 83. Stockbridge Riding School | Woolbury Place, Winton Hill, Stockbridge SO20 6HN |
| 84. Merriewood Equestrian Riding School | Alresford Drove, South Wonston, Winchester SO21 3HW |
Ice Skating in North Hampshire
| Name | Postcode |
| 85. Planet Ice Basingstoke | Planet Ice Arena, Leisure Park Rd, Basingstoke RG22 6PG |
Indoor Skydiving in North Hampshire
| Name | Postcode |
| 86. iFly Indoor Skydiving Basingstoke | Basingstoke Leisure Park, Euskirchen Way, Basingstoke RG22 6PG |
Lakes in North Hampshire
There are so many amazing lakes around North Hampshire. How many of these have you been too?
87. Kings Pond
Kings Pond in Alton is a scenic natural landmark that offers a peaceful respite for visitors. Located in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, this picturesque pond is a popular destination for those seeking to enjoy the great outdoors.
The pond is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including waterfowl, fish, and a variety of plant life. Visitors can stroll along the well-maintained pathways that wind around the pond, taking in the serene atmosphere and admiring the stunning reflections on the water’s surface.
You can find Kings Pond at Kings Pond, Alton.
88. Anton Lakes
The Anton Lakes feature two interconnected bodies of water, surrounded by lush greenery and walking trails. This natural oasis is a haven for wildlife, with a diverse range of flora and fauna thriving in the area. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, from waterfowl to woodland birds, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
The lakes are also a popular spot for fishing, with a well-stocked population of various fish species. Anglers can enjoy a peaceful day by the water, trying their luck at catching carp, roach, and other freshwater fish.
You can Anton Lakes at find Andover SP10 3SY.
Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Andover’s Charlton Lakeside offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This picturesque destination boasts a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful stroll, a day of fishing, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, Charlton Lakeside has something to offer everyone. The well-maintained walking trails wind through the scenic landscape, providing ample opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.
You can find Charlton Lakeside at Charlton Rd, Charlton, Andover SP10 3JH.
90. Basingstoke Canal
Over 32 miles long, Basingstoke Canal makes a great day out for the whole family. Follow the path along the river and enjoy the picturesque views and large grounds to enjoy. Bring a picnic and see how many boats you can spot or enjoy one of the many playgrounds that is along the river walk.
You can find Basingstoke Canal at Basingstoke Canal Towpath Trail, Basingstoke.
91. Black Dam Ponds
This has lovely flat and wide pathways that are perfect for scooters and bikes. Enjoy the pond while having a lovely picnic on the lush green fields. This is a great walk for younger families who need to be kept amused.
You can find these ponds at Basingstoke RG21 3QR.
Frensham Great Pond was originally created in the 13th century as a royal fishery, providing a reliable source of freshwater fish for the nearby Farnham Castle. Today, it serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained paths that encircle the pond, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding heathland and ancient oak trees. The pond is also a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, including a variety of waterfowl, dragonflies, and rare plant species.
You can find Frensham Great Pond at GU10 2QB.
Museums in North Hampshire
These are the best museums for families in North Hampshire.
93. Army Medical Services Museum
Open most of the year, the Army Medical Services Museum hosts the carriage used by Florence Nightingale during her time in the Crimea and details the story of the military and medicine. Think military ambulances, an Ambulance Train Ward Coach and a WWI Horse Drawn Ambulance. This museum is free but some of the others do charge an admission cost.
You can find Army Medical Services Museum at Keogh Barracks, Ash Vale, Aldershot GU12 5RQ.
94. Alton Abbey
Alton Abbey is quite little and a great place to enjoy the daylight hours. The Abbey grounds are open for visitors to wander around at any time in daylight hours. It’s also completely free!
You can find Alton Abbey at Abbey Rd, Alton GU34 4AR.
95. Allen Gallery
This free museum is in Alton and is great for the whole family. You do have to book in advance but it’s well worth it to see all the amazing Wedgwood and hidden secrets of this amazing museum. This museum is best for older kids.
You can find Allen Gallery at 10-12, Church St, Alton GU34 2BW.
96. Curtis Museum
Curtis Museum is open all year, Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, and is free to enter. The museum covers 100 million years of history and displays include prehistoric tools, Roman pottery reconstruction, Saxon burials, the Battle of Alton 1643 and the notorious tale of Sweet Fanny Adams.
You can find Curtis Museum at High St, Alton GU34 1BA.
This huge house and gardens are great for older kids. You get a real inside into how Jane Austen lived and worked.
You can find Jane Austen’s House at Winchester Rd, Chawton, Alton GU34 1SD.
This museum is great for all ages. You can visit the roundhouse and touch real Iron age objects. Learn more about life as a Roman and explore the hillfort.
You can find Museum of the Iron Age at 6 Church Cl, Andover SP10 1DP.
Open most of the year, the museum hosts the carriage used by Florence Nightingale during her time in the Crimea and details the story of the military and medicine.
You can find Army Flying Museum at Kentsboro, Stockbridge SO20 8FB.
100. Whitchurch Silk Mill
This is a great place for older kids to really get the fill of what it was like to work in a silk mill. This is a 19th-century water mill that weaves silk using the same machinery.
You can find Whitchurch Silk Mill at 28 Winchester St, Whitchurch RG28 7AL.
101. The Willis Museum
Open all year round, this is a local working museum with galleries on local archaeology and natural science. Learn more about Basingstoke and the history around you through the ages.
You can find The Willis Museum at Market Place, Basingstoke RG21 7QD.
102. Milestone Museum (Basingstoke)
The Milestone Museum in Basingstoke, UK, is a fascinating destination that takes visitors on a journey through the region’s rich history. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, the museum showcases an impressive collection of artefacts and exhibits that bring the past to life.
Visitors can explore the museum’s extensive displays, which cover a wide range of topics, from the area’s industrial heritage to its cultural traditions. The museum’s knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide insightful commentary and answer any questions, ensuring that guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the local history.
One of the museum’s standout features is its collection of vintage vehicles, including classic cars and motorcycles that have been meticulously restored to their former glory. Visitors can marvel at these engineering marvels and learn about the evolution of transportation in the region.
You can find Milestone Museum at Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke RG22 6PG.
103. Farnborough Air Sciences Trust
Farnborough Air Sciences is free to visit and fun for the whole family. It’s open from 10am to 4pm Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays. They display everything from aircrafts, cockpits and research and development. This is a great place for the whole family to visit.
You can find Farnborough Air Sciences Trust at Trenchard House, 85 Farnborough Rd, Farnborough GU14 6TF.
104. Aldershot Military Museum
This is a great museum for the whole family. You get to learn the basics of driving a tank and while seeing what it was really like to be in the military. They have a great cafe on-site and have loads of interactive exhibits.
You can find Aldershot Military Museum at Queen’s Ave, Aldershot GU11 2LG.
105. Rural Life Centre
This museum is great for all weathers. It has loads of outbuildings including a cycle workshop, cricket pavilion, Schoolroom built around 1900, the capel and Tweedsmuir Camp.
You can find Rural Life Centre at The Reeds Rd, Tilford, Farnham GU10 2DL.
106.
107.
Pottery Studios in North Hampshire
| Name | Description | Postcode |
| Basingstoke: | ||
| Pots to Doodle o Pottery Studio | Red Box House, Church Ln, Cliddesden, Basingstoke RG25 2JQ | |
| Farnham: | ||
| Ceramics Café | 13 Downing Street, Farnham, Surrey, GU9 7PB | |
| Salisbury: | ||
| Splash of colour The Pottery Painting Café | 72 Fisherton St, Salisbury SP2 7RB |
Skateparks in North Hampshire
These are the best skateparks in North Hampshire.
| Name | Description | Postcode |
Related Posts:
- 52 Things to do in Hampshire this Weekend
- The Definitive Guide To Days Out in Hampshire
- The Ultimate List of Walks in Hampshire That Are Child Friendly
Laura x
If you enjoyed this post and would like some more ideas on things to do in Hampshire then head over to the Things To Do section here on Things To Do In Hampshire With Kids where you’ll find over 50 day out ideas in Hampshire that the whole family will enjoy. You could also pop over and follow our Facebook page here or our Hampshire days out Pinterest boards for lots more ideas on what you can do as a family in Hampshire; Days Out For The Kids in Hampshire and Cheap and Free Days Out in Hampshire.
What the * means
If a link has an * by it, then this means it is an affiliate link and helps S4SM stay free for all. If you use the link, it may mean that we receive a very small payment. It will not cost you anymore that it would normally.
You shouldn’t notice any difference and the link will never negatively impact the product. The items we write about are NEVER dictated by these links. We aim to look at all products on the market. If it isn’t possible to get an affiliate link, then the link, or product is still included in the same way, just with a non-paying links.