Whatever the weather there is something to suit all ages in Winchester. Many of Winchester’s attractions are family-friendly and offer a host of hands-on activities including interactive puzzles, trails, games, quizzes and opportunities to try on costumes from bygone eras. See re-enactors and enjoy special events throughout the year including make-and-take workshops, book readings by famous authors to plays and shows. You’ll find plenty of play parks and picnic spots too.
Don’t miss the Winchester Bunny Hop – every Easter Winchester’s Easter bunny hides colourful clues around the city and families flock to Winchester to help find them and crack a puzzling code to win an ‘egg’citing treat. And, if you dare, the Spooky Winch trail will be sure to 'trick or treat' you over Halloween.
Step back in time at the Great Hall, home to the legendary King Arthur’s Round Table. This historic venue not only showcases medieval architecture but also offers an insight into Winchester’s rich heritage. The impressive Round Table and the beautiful Queen Eleanor's Garden are must-see attractions within hall. Afterwards, head to the Westgate Museum and climb the steep stone steps, open the creaky door and read the graffiti etched in the wall by prisoners.
The whole family will love dressing like a Roman and searching through the galleries to track down answers to the quizzes at Winchester City Museum.
Take advantage of the Marwell Zoo ticket family ticket and spend the whole day searching for tigers, giraffes, Tashi - the Red Panda! the zoo is home to over 250 species of animal. A visit to this world-famous zoological park, set in 140 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside is both fun and educational with something for everyone.
It’s hands-on not hands-off for kids at Winchester Science Centre (pictured above). Bringing to life the world of science, this interactive centre is housed in a futuristic pyramid on the outskirts of Winchester. Engineered for children of all ages, you can discover how to bend light, become a human battery and work your own production line. A particular favourite on a rainy day so make sure you get there early.
Find out exactly how it felt to be a Pilgrim, discover hidden treasures, explore the creepy crypt and search for the bones of early kings and bishops on the children’s trail at Winchester Cathedral.
Outside of the city explore spooky underground tunnels and stroll along the ramparts of Fort Nelson and don’t miss the noise and power of the midday gun-firings.
It’s ‘all aboard’ for a family ride on the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line. The picnic area at Ropley station gives you space to stretch your legs and children will enjoy playing on the climbing frame. Enjoy following in some famous footsteps by crossing the Kings Cross footbridge that featured in the Harry Potter films.
Family fun
Family fun
DATE: 10 Jan 2024 - 1 Oct 2024
DATE: 29 Nov 2024 - 30 Dec 2024
DATE: 4 Jul 2025 - 6 Jul 2025
DATE: 22 Nov 2024 - 22 Dec 2024
Family fun
Family fun
Every September Winchester throws open its doors to celebrate our heritage, community and history. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.
Things to do when the skies turn grey and the rain starts to fall.
There is an abundance of public art across Winchester district as well as plenty of galleries and spaces to view, purchase and participate in making your own art.
