Family Fun in Southampton

Southampton is the perfect destination for a family-friendly adventure. With its mix of engaging attractions, green spaces, cultural activities, and all-weather entertainment, there’s no shortage of fun for kids and adults alike. Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a school holiday outing, or just a day of exploration, you’ll find a huge variety of family fun things to do in Southampton.

From outdoor parks and historical sites to creative indoor experiences and rainy-day ideas, this guide has been designed to help families get the most out of their time in this vibrant coastal city.

Top ten family-friendly things to do

There’s a fantastic range of family-friendly attractions in Southampton that are suitable for all ages. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teenagers, or multigenerational groups, these top ten experiences will keep everyone entertained and engaged.

  1. Paultons Park – Home of Peppa Pig World
    Just a short drive from the city centre, Paultons Park is one of the most popular theme parks in the UK and an essential stop for families. Featuring over 70 rides and attractions, it caters to children of all ages, with Peppa Pig World offering gentle rides for little ones and adrenaline rides like the Velociraptor and Storm Chaser for older kids. The beautifully maintained gardens and animal exhibits make this park a full-day destination that’s both exciting and educational.

  2. SeaCity Museum
    Explore Southampton’s rich maritime history in a way that captivates both children and adults. The SeaCity Museum brings the story of the Titanic to life through interactive exhibits, storytelling, and immersive displays. Kids can try steering a ship, listen to survivor accounts, and learn about life at sea. It’s a great mix of fun and learning and is ideal for school-age children.

  3. Southampton Common
    This expansive green space is a family favourite for picnics, outdoor play, and wildlife spotting. There’s a large play area with modern equipment, a seasonal paddling pool, and lovely walking paths. Southampton Common also regularly hosts funfairs, festivals, and open-air performances—making it a lively spot during school holidays.

  4. Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park
    For adventurous families, Go Ape offers high ropes, zip lines, and treetop obstacles that challenge coordination and nerve in the best way. The park also has nature trails, picnic areas, and a visitor centre with hands-on activities. It’s the perfect mix of exercise, outdoor adventure, and fun that will tire out even the most energetic children.

  5. Manor Farm Country Park
    Step back in time at Manor Farm, where costumed guides introduce visitors to life on a Victorian working farm. Children can meet farm animals, explore traditional barns, and try old-fashioned games. There are also woodland walks and a playground, making this one of the best family attractions in the Southampton area.

  6. Flip Out Southampton
    Let the kids bounce off some energy at Flip Out Southampton, a huge indoor adventure park featuring trampolines, ninja obstacle courses, soft play areas, and interactive games. Designed for all age groups, Flip Out offers dedicated toddler sessions as well as more challenging activities for older children and teens. It’s a dynamic space where fun and fitness go hand in hand, making it a great option for family bonding. With its indoor setting, it also serves as an ideal destination during colder or wetter days, ensuring the fun doesn’t stop regardless of the weather.

  7. Walk the Medieval Town Walls
    Turn a stroll into an adventure by walking Southampton’s medieval town walls. Children will love imagining they’re knights or explorers as they follow the old fortifications, towers, and gates. Parents can enjoy the historical context, and the views offer great photo opportunities. Add a self-guided audio tour for an educational twist.

  8. New Forest Wildlife Park
    Located just outside the city, this wildlife park gives families the chance to get close to native British animals like otters, wolves, deer, and wild boar. There are also play areas, educational talks, and feeding times that help children connect with nature in a meaningful way.

  9. SS Shieldhall – Steamship Cruises and Maritime Fun
    Hop aboard the SS Shieldhall, a fully operational heritage steamship and one of the finest examples of maritime preservation in the UK. Families can enjoy themed cruises around the Solent, explore the bridge and engine room, and meet the volunteer crew who bring the ship to life. It’s a hands-on and immersive experience that lets children see how things work while appreciating Southampton’s deep-rooted seafaring legacy. Educational, scenic, and fun—this floating attraction is a standout for curious minds of all ages.

  10. Westquay Shopping & Leisure Complex
    Westquay isn’t just for shopping. It also houses a large cinema, arcade games, and family-friendly restaurants. During school holidays, there are often pop-up events such as mini-golf, science shows, or craft zones. It’s a convenient one-stop destination for families looking for a bit of everything.

Whatever you decide to do whilst you’re here, the whole family are guaranteed to have a fantastic, fun time in Southampton. Take a look at all our family attractions below to discover more!

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