Here’s a little taste of what’s in store. For lots more things to do in Hampshire’s beautiful countryside and for fun-filled days out, see our things to do pages on our website.
Peter Rabbit and Friends Peter Rabbit is back at Manor Farm and this time he’s bringing all his friends! Come and explore the farm as you search for Peter Rabbit and his friends. The interactive trail runs until 8 September, 10am to 4pm. Trails cost £4.50 (plus farm admission) and include a booklet, gift and sticker. Trails available onsite, on the day; no advance booking required.
Alphabet Fairies
The Flower Fairies are back at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Inspired by Cicely Mary Barker’s classic illustrations, the trail is a must for fairy fans of all ages. Take part in the interactive Alphabet Fairies Garden Trail for £5 (plus normal Garden admission charges). Complete fairy games and activities around the Gardens. The Gardens are open from 10am to 6pm, last trail admission is at 4pm. Please allow at least a couple of hours to complete the trail.
Art in the Garden
Hillier Gardens Art in the Garden continues into the Autumn. Stunning sculptures are attractively presented in the beautiful setting of this world famous 180 acre Garden. Featuring award winning, local, new and established British sculptors and artists from overseas. (Free but garden admission fees apply)
Bush craft skills
Have you got what it takes to survive in the wild? Come and test your bush craft skills at River Hamble Country Park on Monday 5, 12, 19 August (1.30pm - 3.30pm). Suitable for children of all ages (must be accompanied by an adult). Cost is £6/child. Please book in advance by phoning (023 8045 5157).
Space Chase
Rocket to success by signing up at Hampshire’s libraries for the Space Chase, this year’s Summer Reading Challenge theme from the Reading Agency. Children aged four to 11 can sign up in their local library to read any six books of their choice, and in any format they like, by 15 September. They can choose fiction and non-fiction titles and enjoy them at home, or on the move, thanks to a great variety of audiobook, e-book and paperback loan options. Children taking part in the free Challenge will join the Reading Agency’s super space family, The Rockets, for a thrilling mission to track down books nabbed by mischievous aliens.
Rhymetime
Toe-tapping, knee-jogging, hand-clapping fun with songs and rhymes – what better way to keep young minds active on those long summer days? Rhymetime is free for everyone and is a great way to get young children engaged with rhymes and songs; it’s a great way to have fun and to develop early language skills. Find a Rhymetime session at a library near you (For children aged under two years and their parents/carers, who will participate in the session with their child or children).
Makery on the Move
Know any kids who love animation, coding, robotics, or are just looking for something new to get involved with this summer? The Makery is on tour to bring kids aged 8-13 some seriously out of this world space-themed STEM sessions: See the dates and prices and book a session near you.
Quirks Animal Encounter
Come along to meet a variety of animals from around the world at the Quirks' Animal Roadshows workshop! Children will have the opportunity to stroke and hold the animals as well as discovering lots of interesting facts about where they come from, what they eat and what makes them unique. Tickets are £6. Find an event at a library near you.
Fred in the Shed
Fred in the Shed returns with his Summer Reading Space Chase Magic Show! His shows keep kids of all ages absolutely enthralled. Fred blends comedy, games, balloon modelling and more with fantastic magical illusions that both kids and grownups find astounding. Is Fred appearing in a library near you? Check out his schedule and book tickets via Hampshire Libraries our Facebook page or our events page. Tickets are £5 per child, one accompanying adult free. Guardians must remain on site.
Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: A Different View
Don’t miss the chance to get up close to the world’s most famous frescos as Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: A Different View makes its UK premiere in Winchester this summer. The Hampshire Cultural Trust’s exhibition is on show at three venues across the city: City Space and The Gallery in Winchester Discovery Centre and the 13th century Great Hall until 29 September. Book online for £5 (16s and under free).
Action Adventure Days
If you're looking for something to keep the kids entertained and guaranteed to send them home tired and happy, check out the Action Adventure Days at Calshot Activities Centre, Runways End and Tile Barn. Indoors and outdoors, these multi-activity day, or half-day options let children aged from four to 17 try out activities like climbing, archery, skiing and water sports. Explore and book online.
Little Adventurers - Knights and Dragons
Calling Knights of the realm! Join us as we venture through the woods at Queen Elizabeth Country Park on 13 August. Each knight will make their own woodland sword and shield to battle any naughty dragons that may head their way. Finish with a yummy toasted treat. This session last approximately 1 ½ hours from 10.30am or 1pm. Suitable for children aged 2 ½ - 8 years. Adult supervision is required at all times. Cost £6, book online.
Marine Wonders
Where can you explore the coastline in a seashore safari, adventure into the woodlands and take a break and refreshments in The Lookout? Marine Wonders is a two-day extravaganza of marine themed fun on 7 and 8 August 10am to 3pm, including arts and crafts, storytelling and much more. With partners from the New Forest National Park, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Natural England and more. No need to book, just come along and join in the fun! Or why not join our rangers for a Seashore Safari on 28 August to discover the mysteries of the creatures that live there? Collect your shells, rummage amongst the seaweed and search for crabs, fun for all. 10am to midday. The cost is £5, book online.