Family Friendly Winter Walks
Hot chocolate season is here, and this can only mean one thing, the South of England is turning into a wonderland of frosty walks.
Why visit Hampshire?
Home to rich heritage, vibrant towns and rural charm, Hampshire is nestled in the southern coast of England. Only a short journey from busy London, the county offers a wide range of activities for all seasons. From spring walks to the thrill of summer coastal adventures. So if you’re looking for a getaway for the whole family with accommodation or just a day packed with adventure, Hampshire has something for you.
Iconic Landmarks & Historic Sites
At Danebury Iron Age Hill Fort, experience Hampshire’s natural beauty and a quiet family walk whilst stepping back 2,500 years in time. With expansive hillside views and completely free of cost, this has to be on your 2025 list! Or let your kids imagine life in the castle at Portchester Castle, a mediaeval fortress to the east of Fareham in Hampshire. Experience a real Roman fort by the sea.
Explore the longest medieval cathedral in the world and the burial site of King Alfred at Winchester Cathedral. The ancient city of Winchester is home to the magnificent Cathedral and was founded in 1079 by William the Conqueror. To the north west of the grounds, you can still see where the original minister stood today.
Military & Maritime History
- Visit the National Museum of the Royal Navy and set sail at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Containing historic ships from the HMS Victory, ordered for The Royal Navy in 1758.
- The Mary Rose Museum in Portsmouth lets you travel back in time to explore the rich history of The Mary Rose (1510). The crew of the Mary Rose are honoured in the museum as well as the wider collection sharing the same name and legacy.
- If you’re still looking for your fix of history you’ll find the D-Day Story Museum, also in Portsmouth, which tells the tale of the D-Day landings, focusing on the personal stories of those who were there and features exhibits like the LCT 7074, an aircraft that took part in the invasion.
National Parks & Nature Reserves
Minutes away from the life and buzz of the highstreets, The New Forest offers an otherworldly wilderness. It is perfect if you’re wanting a day out filled with making memories with your loved ones. Discover Lyndhurst village, the heartbeat of The New Forest. There is something for everyone from dreamy wildlife to cosy cafes. You can also hire bikes for the day at The Woods Cyclery, making it easier to see everything on your list. We recommend the route from Lyndhurst to Brockenhurst, it is mostly flat and includes lots of spots to stop and refuel. Or why not visit the stunning Exbury Gardens to see their large spring flower collections of Rhododendrons and Azaleas and you could make a day out of it. Pack sandwiches, your favourite snacks and drinks and make use of the picnic tables available there. If you want to find out more, check out our Top 10 New Forest Activities blog!
Limitless family friendly walks like Tall Trees Trail await at Blackwater Arboretum, perfect for a picnic or wildlife spotting. If you’re looking for a hiking trail why not visit the South Downs National Park, which is stunning all year round. Kings Langley Forest has some incredible walks with over 2,000 year old trees and some amazing viewpoints. Whilst you’re in the South Downs you should definitely visit the Winchester Science Centre. It is a fantastic place to get stuck into interactive exhibits, where children of all ages can expand their knowledge in a day packed with fun!
At Lepe Country Park you get the best of both! Enjoy gorgeous coastal walks or countryside hikes. Lepe has an incredible hidden history. Not only did Lepe have a military connection with the Royal Observer Corps but also played a significant part in D-Day and the physical reminders of the part it played are still there today.
New Forest Villages
There is so much to do at The New Forest and there is a New Forest Tour Bus that offers hourly tours from the end of June to mid September. You can hop off and when you like and switch between routes. This makes it so easy to see all the destinations on your list like Ringwood Brewery, Longdown Activity Farm, New Forest Wildlife Park, Exbury Garden and so much more!
Lymington:
Built by Henry VIII, Hurst Castle is located within The New Forest National Park, and is a lovely day out with plenty of space for children to explore. It is just a small walk from Lymington via Keyhaven along the Solent Way and when at the top you can expect fantastic views of the Isle of Wight. Whilst in Lymington you can find the UK’s oldest open air sea baths. They continue to be a popular destination for both tourists and locals known for their health giving waters and natural mud minerals. Some activities include, water zorbing, paddle boarding and fun inflatable obstacle courses. With a cafe serving hot snacks and ice cream, the Lymington Sea Water Baths is a must for any visitors in the area.
Brockenhurst:
Experience The New Forest National Park on two wheels! Explore the stunning coastlines and forest trails car-free. Why not embark on the 8 miles Brockenhurst to Rhinefield ride. Or if you’re more of a walker you can explore the South Taste Trail, a 7 mile walk… and you go past some gorgeous tea rooms, and for the adults, there are pubs and you’ll find The New Forest Cider Shop along the way.
Beaulieu:
You can certainly spend a full day in Beaulieu. You can take a guided family tour on the Beaulieu River Nature Reserve by canoe (children have to be 18 months +). Hire Kayaks and let the whole family see the stunning views of Beaulieu’s riverbanks. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worst, there’s more to see at Beaulieu. Home to the National Motor Museum, you can take the Monorail past the Palace house and gardens before entering the museum to take in all the beautiful nature the gardens have to offer. The museum holds over 250 vehicles and even holds on-screen car displays like Mr Bean’s iconic mini and the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car. Alongside Beaulieu Abbey, there is a little adventure play area called ‘Little Beaulieu’ ideal for the kids to explore.
Family-Friendly Attractions
- Located just on the edge of The New Forest National Park, Paultons Park has to be near the top of your 2025 list! Rated the UK’s number 1 family theme park by Google, this adrenaline packed adventure is for sure going to create excitement for the whole family. Here, you’ll also find it is home to Peppa Pig World, packed with 9 Peppa Pig rides, perfect for Peppa Pig lovers. There are family rides, indoor and outdoor play areas, splash park entertainment for your whole trip.
- If you’re wanting something more exotic, why not take a visit to Marwell Zoo. This zoo is home to over 500 animals, including Giraffes, Zebras, Cantaloupes and Rhinos. Taking on average 4 – 5 hours to get around the whole zoo, it can certainly work up an appetite so be sure to pack some lunch and lots of drinks to sit and refuel with an incredible backdrop. Or you could have a nosey at the cafe Marwell Zoo has to offer, they have a wide range of tasty snacks, meals and drinks. If you have any questions about planning your visit, see here for more information.
- At Winchester Science Centre, you can expect something that’ll amaze and excite all ages. Blast off through two floors of interactive exhibits, it is really fantastic and there is even a fun outdoor kitchen for kids. There are loads of places to burn off energy making this the ideal option for an action packed family day out. There are live demos and exhibits to explore the South Downs through the Bio: Space there, providing nature-based activities and gives you and your family this chance to explore outdoors and go on scavenger hunts!
If you and your family are looking for a day filled with activities like calf, duck and goat feeding AND meeting a range of other friendly farm animals then you have to add Longdown Activity Farm to your list this year. Your little ones can enjoy playing in the crazy golf course, trampolines, tractor and trailer rides (free of charge) and a brand new sandpit filled with sit on diggers and so many more sandpit toys. Longdown Activity Farm even has an outdoor play area which features an accessible swing for wheelchair users, making it a suitable day out for the whole family!
Outdoor Activities & Adventure
- Deep into The New Forest National Park, a whole new world of archery awaits! Whether you’ve never picked up a bow and arrow before or you want to perfect your skills, these woodland based archery classes are a unique outdoor opportunity for the whole family. (available from April to October).
- Or explore The New Forest of horseback and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Brockenhurst Stables has pony rides suitable for little ones and provide all that you would need to create a unique experience for your little ones.
- Did you know you can try out paragliding at Butser Hill? Local paragliding companies offer opportunities to soar over the South Downs at Butser Hill, after a short briefing your instructor will strap you in, both of you will get those feet moving and next thing your know… you’re in the air! This is a fantastic and exciting family activity in Hampshire that we definitely recommend. Note: Depending on which company you choose age limits apply, averaging at a limit of 9 years old.
- Located on the border of Hampshire and Dorset you’ll find Moors Valley Country Park, where one of the many popular Go Ape climbing centres are situated. Offering sky high thrills for all ages and levels, Go Ape features three high rope courses for your family to enjoy. After you’re finished, head out to explore the rest of Moors Valley with miles of walking and cycling trails, adventure play areas and more.
Outdoor Activities & Walking Adventures
Tall Trees Trail, New Forest, 1.5 miles
As mentioned previously a great family trail, the Tall Trees Trail is perfect if you’re looking for a flat, wheelchair friendly walk. Why not visit and discover the giant trees planted back in the 1850s? The 1.5 mile walk is gravelled smoothly with frequent places to stop and admire the views, or to stop for a bite to eat, a perfect day out for the whole family.
Our founder of Famshire absolutely loves spending time out in nature with his family, with regular visits to the New Forest, why not check it out?
The South Downs Way
A more challenging walk, most people take 8-9 days to complete this 100-mile long-distance footpath in the South of England, but that’s not to say it’s not for families. The South Downs Way is a trail that stretched from Winchester, Hampshire all the way to Eastbourne, East Sussex, so pick a spot nearby and start walking! The route is recognised for beautiful coastal scenery, chalk footpaths and rolling hills.
You don’t have to walk it either; the South Downs Way is suitable for cycling and horse riding, as well as walking. Water taps are available along the route, but be sure to plan your refills and they can be far apart, we recommend this route for families with older children as it may be challenging for younger children and elderly family members
Itchen Way
Itchen Way is another popular family walking route that stretches from Winchester to Southampton, following the River Itchen from source to mouth. The route is varied from rural to urban landscapes, whilst travelling along the upper river you’ll notice watercress beds and water meadows – maybe even take a slight detour to visit St Catherine’s Hill Iron-Age Fort. Along other areas of the trail you’ll past railways and landmarks including the Itchen Toll Bridge. Itchen Way is a great family walk to enjoy in a sunny day.
Cycling Routes
If you’re a family keen to get your wheels out on the trail, Hampshire has tons of beautiful cycling routes to explore.
Meon Valley Trail, West Meon, 11 miles
If you’re looking for a longer walk try the Meon Valley Trail, however we recommend taking the bikes to enjoy it to it’s full potential. Stretching from West Meon to Wickham this trail offers scenic views through the South Downs National Park, with mostly flat, wide paths, it’s an ideal route for cyclists and walkers alike.
New Forest Cycling Paths
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, The New Forest is a must-visit Hampshire destination, with tons of cycling paths to enjoy.
One of the most popular routes is the Brockenhurst to Beaulieu loop, at approximately 16 miles, the loop combines both road and gravel tracks and even takes you across a WW2 airfield (if you take the right track!)
Other popular cycling routes include Burley Hill Fort Loop, Brockenhurst to Lyndhurst Loop, the Hawkhill Trail and the Old Railway Cycle Route. So why not pack up the bikes and get exploring!
Market Towns & Hidden Gems
Hampshire is known for its quaint market towns and hidden gems. Let’s start in Alton, a market town situated in East Hampshire. Alton offers a mix of both historic buildings and modern shops and arcades, making it an ideal location for a day out shopping with the family.
Alton is popular for its regular Tuesday markets featuring local produce and artisan makers to enjoy. It is also known for it’s historical train line, The Watercress Line Steam Railway, where you can see steam trains running from Alton through to Ropley and Alresford. The historic connections don’t end there! The nearby village of Chawton is famously known as the home of Jane Austen, you even can visit the enchanting cottage where she would have written some of her most famous literary works.
Romsey
If you catch The Watercress Line you might find yourself in the village of Romsey, a picturesque town alongside the River Test. Winding streets and historical buildings will make you feel like you’ve travelled back in time, to find out more why not visit the Romsey Heritage and Visitor Centre and get your fix of history.
Looking for more? The impressive Romsey Norman Abbey is definitely worth a visit! As one of the largest parish churches in Hampshire, it dates back to 907AD and boasts the beautiful architecture of it’s time.
Petersfield
The next market town on our list has to be Petersfield, bustling with regular farmers’ markets every Wednesday and Saturday you’ll find delicious fresh and cooked foods, local artisans, plants and more.
Alongside it’s popular markets and fairs, Petersfield acts as a gateway to the South Downs National Park. The ideal location for walking, cycling and family countryside adventures, pretty lanes and public pathways make Petersfield the ideal spot for outdoorsy families who want to find nature in every direction.
Hampshire Vineyards
If you’re finding yourself looking for a Hampshire day out without the children, we recommend exploring one of Hampshire’s many vineyards. Hampshire is known for producing some of the best sparkling wines in the UK with many vineyards offering tours and tastings.
We recommend Hambledon Vineyard or Hattingley Valley, both offer tours, sampling and experiences for guests to see the entire winemaking process, from vine to bottle. A great day our for parents to enjoy, so drop of the kids at grandma and grandads and get sipping.
Water Activities & Coastal Fun
Hampshire is home to at least 5 notable coastal towns, and features tons of stunning rivers from the River Test to the River Hamble. Each Hampshire town offers it’s own unique experiences but in particular it shines in it’s water-based activities.
Explore the rivers
Looking to get out on the river and enjoy the flow of the waterways, hire a (or bring your own) kayak or canoe on the River Hamble. This river is popular for exploring with launching spots at Lower Swanwick and Burseldon, and is a great day out for the family.
The River Test is a well-known chalk stream in Hampshire and is famous for its brown trout and attracting an array of various other fish, making it a great location for fishing. A common method of fishing on the River Test is dry fly fishing, due to the clear waters, but be sure to check with the local services where/what is allowed.
Or the sea
The Solent is the straight between mainland England and the Isle of Wight, this makes the area relatively sheltered with moderate winds, making it popular for sailors of a variety of different experience levels.
Sailing in the Solent offers diverse destinations like the peaceful Newtown Creek to bustling harbors like Cowes. Or if sailing isn’t for you, why not take a stroll along The Solent Way and enjoy picturesque scenes of sails on the horizon, particularly beautiful at sunset.
Note: River, coastal and water-based activities can be dangerous. Make sure that you and your children understand how to enjoy the day safely, check the tides and take necessary safety gear on your trip.
Food & Drink in Hampshire
- Hampshire is well known for its wide selection of cosy pubs, fresh produce and friendly cafes and a great choice of restaurants. From traditional British cuisines to international dishes, there is something for everyone.
- If you’re looking for a relaxed restaurant with a sea front view, why not try the Pebble Beach restaurant. Experience their summer menu by the sea. They offer cliff top dining with a wide view of Hampshire and Dorsets coastline. They are open Wednesdays to Sundays and have a great children’s menu.
- Emsworth, a coastal town filled with local produce and fine dining restaurants is the ultimate foodie hub. Well known for their seafood and monthly markets, here you’ll find amazing restaurants with views stretching across The Solent.
- In Portsmouth there are so many seafood restaurants, so we’ve put together the top three most popular seafood restaurants in the county, the first is The Briny, here you can enjoy a relaxed environment with stunning views of The Solent. Check out their daily changing seafood bar and their expertly curated wine list. Next, we have The Fishermans Kitchen in Southsea, this restaurant offers perfectly battered fish, grilled fish and seafood. (All of the Fishermans Kitchen fryers are gluten free and they have vegetarian options available too). The Bridge Tavern is also a great traditional English pub. Located at the Camber Dock Quay, with bustling harbour life all around it. This pub has a speciality of fresh fish, making it a local’s favourite.
- Explore the exciting flavours of Hampshire and take a tour of one of the country’s award-winning vineyards. Go behind the scenes at Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery or discover how the fine beers and ales of Hampshire are made on a brewery tour.
- If you’re looking for a cosy, historic pub we recommend The Wykeham Arms. The menu is a seasonal mix of locally sourced ingredients and a great selection of ales and wines. This luxurious pub has everything, with accommodation available this is a must for your Hampshire list. Please note: Dogs are allowed in the bar area and outside however not in the restaurant area. Children under the age of 8 are not permitted. This pub does not have space for pushchairs or prams.
Family Friendly Pubs & Restaurants
Hampshire has loads of places to eat where the whole family are catered for. Let’s start at Gunwharf Quays, here you’ll find independent cafes and restaurants.
Or eat out with the whole family in Winchester where there are family friendly restaurants and cosy pubs like The Shoe Inn and The Northbrook Arms.
The White Post is another great family friendly pub. This gastropub has its own garden where fruits, vegetables and garnishes are grown and served. Whilst having a huge selection of starters, mains and desserts.
Food festivals in Hampshire
Experience the pick of the patch at festivals throughout the whole year. If you’re a foodie, we definitely recommend keeping your diary clear for local events and festivals especially the annual Winchester Foodies Festival, The Big Eat Festival in Netley and the Lymington Seafood Festival!
Afternoon Tea & Fine Dining
Located in the heart of Hampshire, Lainston House offers a luxury afternoon tea experience. You can celebrate 250 years of Jane Austen with a Regency inspired afternoon tea from until September 2025, they also have Austen novels available to purchase or take a stroll through their gardens to see their newly planted Jane Austen roses.
Seasonal Guide to Hampshire
You might be wondering “What time of year should I visit Hampshire?” and that depends! What do you want to see? Each season offers it’s own unique experiences across Hampshire.
Spring
- Spring is the season of new growth, the weather starts to warm up and the flowers start to bloom, and one of the flowers we just can’t get enough of are bluebells! In Hampshire there are tons of areas of natural beauty which showcase miles of woodland filled with bluebells.
- Bluebells can be seen from mid-April to as late as May depending on the weather, some popular locations see these short-lived blooms include Itchen Valley Country Park, Micheldever Woods, Farley Mount, Hollycombe and tons more.
- Lambing season also typically occurs in spring, many farms open their doors to families to get up close and personal with these adorable wooly creatures. In 2025 our team visited Miller’s Ark Animal farm where children can safely handle farm animals, see the newborn lambs in their pens and enjoy playing on the toy ride-on tractors in the picnic area. Other farms offering animal attractions include Longdown Activity Farm, Mucky Bucket Farm and Finkley down Farm.
Summer
Hampshire has some of the best beaches in the UK, which make for the ideal day out or even a week away during the summer holidays. Hayling Island is a beach known for it’s gently sloping shoreline, particularly ideal for water sport enthusiasts as well as families, offering amenities, cafes and plenty of places to refuel it’s a great summer spot.
We also recommend Milford-On-Sea, a shingle beach with colourful beach huts, a great place for the kids to play in the sun. Other iconic beaches on the Hampshire coast include Southsea, Lee-On-The-Solent, Lepe Beach and Netley.
Summer is also the ideal time to explore some of the blooming gardens, like Sir Harold Hillier Gardens and Exbury, where the flowers will be at their absolute best to enjoy.
Everyone knows summer is festival season, so get out an enjoy the sun at some of Hampshire’s most popular yearly events:
- Good Festival
- Basingstoke Festival
- Portsmouth International Kite Festival
- The New Forest Fairy Festival
- Foodies Festival
- The Big Eat Festival
Autumn
- As the cold air starts to creep in, spooky season begins, pick your own pumpkins for Halloween at some of Hampshires top pumpkin picking farms. Pickwell Farm Shop, Durleighmarsh Farm and Rogate Pumpkin Patch all offer pick your own pumpkin experiences which are great fun for the whole family.
- For families feeling a little braver, Halloween activities run all throughout the season, Paultons Park host a Halloween Spooktacular, Marwell Zoo has Boo at the Zoo, and even Exbury Gardens makes a feature with Halloween festivities. A family friendly Halloween activity in Hampshire we really recommend is the Halloween Build-A-Teddy workshop at Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth, which is typically hosted every year during the October half-term holidays.
- Shortly after Halloween you’ll find local fireworks displays and evening fairgrounds to celebrate bonfire night in Hampshire.
Winter
- As the cold air starts to creep in, spooky season begins, pick your own pumpkins for Halloween at some of Hampshires top pumpkin picking farms. Pickwell Farm Shop, Durleighmarsh Farm and Rogate Pumpkin Patch all offer pick your own pumpkin experiences which are great fun for the whole family.
- For families feeling a little braver, Halloween activities run all throughout the season, Paultons Park host a Halloween Spooktacular, Marwell Zoo has Boo at the Zoo, and even Exbury Gardens makes a feature with Halloween festivities. A family friendly Halloween activity in Hampshire we really recommend is the Halloween Build-A-Teddy workshop at Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth, which is typically hosted every year during the October half-term holidays.
- Shortly after Halloween you’ll find local fireworks displays and evening fairgrounds to celebrate bonfire night in Hampshire.
Famshire’s Ultimate Guide to Hampshire
So, are you sold? Explore one of England’s most diverse counties, filled with iconic landmarks, family friendly attractions, breathtaking countrysides and days out with Hampshire.
Whether you’re looking for just a day trip with the family or a longer stay in Hampshire, we hope this guide has filled you with inspiration and ideas of how to enjoy your time whilst visiting.
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