The centre of Southampton has a long history. You can visit the most important historical building in the city, the Tudor House and Garden, where audio guides take you on a journey around this building with over 800 years of history. To help bring learning to life for the little ones, there are ‘discovery boxes’ dotted around the house. Outside, the Tudor knot garden gives kids a chance to explore.

Also in the city centre is the SeaCity Museum. This state-of-the-art museum houses fascinating permanent display that tells the stories of the millions of people who have used Southampton as a gateway city. It wouldn’t be complete without the story of the Titanic, which began its fateful journey from the port of Southampton in 1912. The SeaCity Museum features a raft of hand-on activities to help keep children engaged.

For a rainy day, the Odeon cinema, in the Leisure World complex, has 13 screens including an IMAX auditorium. On weekend mornings throughout the year, they screen kids’ films with ‘pocket money’ ticket prices.

Outdoor activities

Southampton is situated in the beautiful county of Hampshire; there are loads of opportunities to get out and about. About 4.5 miles from the city centre is Manor Farm and Country Park. This interactive farm is a recreation of a working Victorian farm where children can meet the animals, help with milking, feed the chickens and learn all about farming in days gone by. The farm is set in a large country park, which gives plenty of opportunities for exploring the woods and playing in the fields. Barnfield, is a huge play area perfect for tiring the kids out before a long car journey home.

For something a little more wild, visit the New Forest Wildlife Centre, again only about 4.5 miles from the city of Southampton. The Centre is home to a range of native and European animals including otters, bison, polecats, deer and owls. There is also a huge adventure playground, with a separate area for under 6s, featuring a zip wire, climbing ropes, sand pits, slides, swings, and much more. If your children are a little older, and have a head for heights, in Itchen Valley Country Park there is a Go Ape! tree top adventure course. The Country Park is just over 3 miles from the city and the high ropes adventure is suitable for children and adults over the age of 10.

When the weather isn’t so great, it can be difficult to find children’s activities. However, aside from the museums in the city, there are a couple of great options within easy reach. Millbrook is only 2.3 miles from the city centre, and there you’ll find Tenpin Southampton. This bowling centre also offers laser quest, a cafe and free parking.

In the opposite direction is The Rapids leisure centre. Romsey is 8 miles from Southampton but the town is easily accessed via the M27. The Rapids provides 3 swimming pools including a feature pool with rapids, a tipping bucket pirate ship, bubble seats, water canons and a 75 m flume! The Rapids also has a soft play area for small children and a cafe. You could easily spend a whole morning or afternoon there.