Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Winchester is a charming and historic city offering an abundance of family-friendly activities, perfect for a day out with children. Whether you're looking to explore history, enjoy outdoor adventures, or take in some cultural highlights, Winchester has something to offer every family. Here are some of the best activities to enjoy right now in Winchester with kids!
1. Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium
For a fun and educational experience, head to the Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, a fantastic interactive science museum that's perfect for kids. Right now, the science centre is hosting a variety of hands-on exhibits and live science shows that will captivate your children’s imaginations. The Planetarium offers exciting, child-friendly shows about space and the universe, taking families on a thrilling journey through the stars. It’s an engaging way to spark curiosity and inspire a love of science in young minds.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: £14.95 for adults, £10.95 for children
- What’s on Right Now: Interactive exhibits, live science shows, and space-themed planetarium shows.
- Learn More: https://www.winchestersciencecentre.org/
2. Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and a fantastic place to visit with children. Right now, the cathedral is offering family-friendly tours, where kids can learn about its fascinating history, its beautiful architecture, and its role in Winchester's past. For families with younger children, the cathedral also runs a special “Family Fun Trail,” which is perfect for keeping little ones engaged as they explore the cathedral’s stunning interior.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: £9 for adults, £4 for children
- What’s on Right Now: Family Fun Trail, guided tours, and history talks.
- Learn More: winchester-cathedral.org.uk
3. River Itchen Walks
If your family loves the outdoors, the River Itchen is a beautiful and peaceful spot to explore right now. There are several scenic walking routes along the river, with plenty of opportunities for children to spot wildlife, including birds, ducks, and sometimes even otters! The area is ideal for a relaxed family walk, a picnic by the river, or simply enjoying nature. The Water Meadows along the river are a lovely spot for a family outing, with wide open spaces for children to run and play.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: River walks, wildlife watching, and family picnics.
4. Marwell Zoo
Located just outside Winchester, Marwell Zoo is an excellent place for families to get up close to a wide range of animals. Right now, the zoo is hosting special exhibits and events, and children can enjoy meeting animals such as giraffes, tigers, penguins, and more. The zoo is large, with plenty of space for children to explore, and there are various interactive areas, such as the animal feeding stations and a playground where kids can play. Marwell Zoo is a fun way for children to learn about wildlife and conservation while having fun in a beautiful outdoor setting.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Ticket Price: £19.95 for adults, £14.95 for children
- What’s on Right Now: Animal encounters, feedings, and interactive exhibits.
- Learn More: https://www.marwell.org.uk/
5. The Great Hall
The Great Hall is another iconic historical site in Winchester, famous for its connection to King Arthur and the legendary Round Table. Right now, families can explore the Hall and take in the fascinating displays about King Arthur, the medieval history of Winchester, and the historical importance of the building. The King Arthur’s Round Table is a particular highlight, and kids will love the story behind the legends of Camelot.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry
- What’s on Right Now: Historical displays, King Arthur's Round Table, and family-friendly exhibits.
6. Hursley Park
For a quieter outdoor adventure, Hursley Park is a lovely spot just outside Winchester, ideal for families who enjoy exploring nature. The park offers trails through woodlands, open meadows, and streams. It’s a great place to take kids for a nature walk, or perhaps try a scavenger hunt to keep them entertained. The park’s picturesque setting and the large open spaces are perfect for running around or enjoying a peaceful family picnic.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round
- Ticket Price: Free
- What’s on Right Now: Nature walks, picnics, and scavenger hunts.
7. The Tortoise Garden
For a quirky and fun family experience, take the kids to The Tortoise Garden in Winchester. This little gem is home to a large collection of tortoises, both native and exotic, and provides a fascinating opportunity for children to learn about these slow-moving creatures. The garden is a great place to visit, with educational talks and the chance for kids to get up close to the tortoises and other animals. It's perfect for a more relaxed outing with young children.
- Opening Hours: By appointment only
- Ticket Price: £5 per person
- What’s on Right Now: Educational talks, tortoise viewing, and animal care sessions.
8. Winchester City Mill
The Winchester City Mill is a fascinating site where families can learn about the city’s history of milling and how grains are ground into flour. Right now, the mill is offering family-friendly tours, where children can see how the mill works and learn about traditional milling techniques. The mill is also located near the river, so you can enjoy a scenic walk after your visit.
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Ticket Price: £4.80 for adults, £2.40 for children
- What’s on Right Now: Milling demonstrations, historical tours, and interactive exhibits.
- Learn More: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/winchester-city-mill
9. Winchester Discovery Centre
For a more relaxed, indoor experience, visit the Winchester Discovery Centre, a vibrant arts venue offering a range of creative workshops and performances for children. Right now, the centre is hosting several family-friendly events, including storytelling sessions, arts and crafts workshops, and live performances aimed at younger audiences. It’s a wonderful place to introduce children to the world of art and creativity.
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Ticket Price: Free entry (some events may require booking)
- What’s on Right Now: Storytelling sessions, art workshops, and family-friendly performances.
10. The Watercress Line
For a fun and unique experience, families can visit the Watercress Line, a heritage railway that runs from Alresford to Alton, just outside Winchester. The line is home to vintage steam trains, and children can enjoy a nostalgic journey aboard the trains while taking in the beautiful countryside views. Right now, the railway is hosting family-friendly events, including themed train rides, which are perfect for making memories with your children.
- Opening Hours: Varies by event
- Ticket Price: £10 for adults, £5 for children (under 5s go free)
- What’s on Right Now: Family-friendly train rides and themed events.
11. Ultimate Activity Camps at Twyford School
Are you looking for exciting and caring school holiday childcare in Winchester? Ultimate Activity Camps provide outstanding, inspiring, and Ofsted-regulated activity day camps with the primary function of delivering a very high level of care and welfare for 4-14-year-olds during the Easter and Summer school holidays. We deliver this childcare through a fantastic range of exciting activities whether these be in the art room, the sports hall, playing fields or in the woods. We use our many years of experience and enthusiastic staff to create a programme that changes each day and delivers the outstanding levels of care you would expect whilst ensuring that the children of all ages are thoroughly engaged and inspired to try new activities and make new friends.
- Opening Hours: Easter and Summer School Holidays 8am to 6pm
- Ticket Price: Prices vary and early bird discounts available
- Suitable for: Children aged 4-14 years
- Book here: Winchester Summer Camps
Winchester is an incredibly family-friendly city, offering a variety of fun activities that will keep children of all ages entertained. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, learning about history, or having a hands-on experience with animals, Winchester has something for everyone. From the science museum to scenic parks and heritage sites, you’re sure to find plenty to do for a memorable family day out in this beautiful historic city. Be sure to check out these fantastic attractions right now for an unforgettable adventure with your little ones!