Free Family Fun

There is so much to see and do for an enjoyable day out with the children in the Hamble Valley. Here are some suggested ways to spend your time - and, best of all, most of these activities are FREE!

Had a great day out in the Hamble Valley?  Share your activities and memories by emailing hamblevalley@walkingdistance.co.uk 

Go for a walk!

Pick up a copy of the Hamble Valley Rail Trail, Cobbett Trail or Strawberry Trail and discover the villages and countryside - don't forget to pack a picnic.

Fun and games

Play hide-and-seek around the peaceful ruins of Netley Abbey with plenty of hiding places. Pick up a free leaflet before you go detailing the history and stories associated with the site.

Have a crabbing competition at Hamble Quay and see who can catch the most, and the biggest crab! Don't forget your bait, lines and bucket.

Visit one of the many carnivals that take place in the Hamble Valley, watch the processions and take part in the fun.

Days out

Windy day?  Head to Royal Victoria Country Park, Itchen Valley Country Park or Manor Farm and fly a kite.

Wet day? Pull on the wellies and try puddle-jumping! Remember the waterproofs and to check the depth of the puddle with a stick before letting the younger children leap. See who can make the biggest splash!

Sunny day? Try dragonfly spotting at Swanwick Lakes. Open from dawn to dusk every day with fantastic view points.

Feeling autumnal?  Go autumn-leaf hunting around one of the country parks and collect the many different leaves - try to find as many colours, shapes and sizes as you can.

Get arty and crafty

Get children into photography. Set up shots by creating pictures from twigs, leaves or pictures in the sand and get snapping.

Create a scrapbook of days out - bring out the young artist in them!

Go on a painting trip - what could be nicer than relaxing in one of the country parks or by the River Hamble and set the children's imagination free with paper, pens and paints. Make sure you tidy up when they've finished, though!

Foodie fun

For sticky-finger treats visit Pickwell Farm for delicious pick-your-own strawberries, raspberries and gooseberries... have fun guessing and naming the fruits and vegetables.

Enjoy an afternoon BBQ at Manor Farm Country Park - why not pick some award-winning sausages from Chalcroft Farm in Hedge End.