Whether you’re visiting Hampshire this summer holidays or you need something to entertain the children locally, a summer activity trail makes for a great family day out – here are five of our faves.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar trail at Marwell Zoo
Head to Marwell Zoo this summer in search of The Very Hungry Caterpillar from 24 July to 1 September for a fun and interactive trail inspired by Eric Carle's bestselling children's book.
The trail tells the popular children's story through a series of supersized 3D installations with interactive AR smartphone elements including giant apple, pear archways and plum tunnels; a virtual feast of cheese, sausages, cake and sweets; and a beautiful butterfly wings photo opportunity.
Find out more about the Very Hungry Caterpillar trail at Marwell Zoo
The Wind in the Willows Story Trail at Gilbert White's House and Gardens
This summer, Ratty, Mole, Toad, and Badger from children's classic The Wind In the Willows will be hiding in the grounds of Gilbert White's House.
Collect a map and journey stick then head to the Riverbank, Mole's Meadow, and Toad Hall to find the characters and follow the story completing the activities and marking your stick as you go.
Find out more about the Wind in the Willows Story Trail at Gilbert White's House and Gardens
Light the South Art Trail, Southampton
80 arty lighthouses have been dotted around Southampton and Cowes this summer for the Light the South Art Trail to raise money for Southampton Hospitals Charity.
The family-friendly public art trail is a colourful and fun way to explore the city with each lighthouse featuring a unique design by local artists and children.
Download a map and track your trail on the Light the South App.
Find out more about the Light the South Art Trail, Southampton
John Burningham’s Bedtime Stories exhibition and trail at Mottisfont
Discover the wild and wonderful world of children's author and illustrator John Burningham this summer at Mottisfont with over illustrations filling the indoor gallery spaces, comfy reading zones, colourful blown-up scenes for family photos, dressing up inspiration, and an outdoor activity trail with games and challenges to complete. Play a game of Would You Rather and step bravely onto the pirate ship, just like Shirley does in ‘Come Away From the Water, Shirley’.
Find out more about John Burningham’s Bedtime Stories exhibition and trail at Mottisfont
Heritage explorer trail at The Vyne
To celebrate the Festival of Archaeology, and The Vyne’s very own 800 years of history and hidden treasures, the National Trust mansion has a special Heritage explorer trail running from 13 to 28 July.
Then, from 24 July - 1 September children can burn off energy with summer games including bean bag shot put, an obstacle course, long jump, high jump, triple jump, relay race, hurdles and ribbon gymnastics in the gardens.
Find out more about the Heritage explorer trail at The Vyne
Find out more about the summer holiday events in Hampshire
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