Top 10 Sunny Days Out in Hampshire

The sun is shining, the sky is blue and wonderful attractions are waiting for you. Take the plunge and enjoy our fine-weather days out in Hampshire. Whether you are visiting as a family, as a couple or on your own, there are plenty of things to do when it’s sunny here in Hampshire. Here are some of our highlights:

Paultons Theme Park & Peppa Pig World - Romsey

When the sun comes out, where better to go than a theme park? Paultons Park is super family friendly and has lots of great rides for children and teenagers. Adults will love its colourful, fun atmosphere and great facilities. You can easily make a full day of it here and if it gets a bit too hot, be sure to cool down in the park’s splash zone! 

Find out more about Paultons Theme Park & Peppa Pig World
 

Marwell Zoo - Winchester

Explore Marwell's 140 acres of land with over 180 species of exotic and endangered animals. Go back to nature with the likes of snow leopards, penguins and zebra on a day that's sure to delight any age group. During the summer months, hop aboard the land train* as it takes you around the zoo with a guide telling you a bit more about the animals you can see. (*charge applies)

Find out more about Marwell Zoo
 

A trip to the coast – explore Hampshire’s beaches and coastline

Hampshire has miles of stunning coastline and great beaches. From the pretty shores of Lepe Country Park to the quality beaches of Calshot and Hayling Island, there's lots of fun to be had along the county's coastline. Pack your bucket and spade and make sandcastles on the sand at Lepe or the sandy bars at Milford-on-Sea or step aboard the SS Shieldhall as she navigates her way along the Southampton Water for a different perspective of the Hampshire coastline. 

Find out more about Hampshire’s coastline
 

Portchester Castle - Portchester

Soak up spectacular views of Portsmouth from the top of the keep of this stunning Norman Castle. Whether you are looking for a picnic spot with views or want to learn more from the audio tour, Portchester Castle is great to visit on a sunny day.

Find out more about Portchester Castle
 

Cycling in a National Park 

Whether you prefer the flat bridleways of the New Forest or the hilly trails of the South Downs, our National Parks are well catered for people who love to cycle. With pretty villages, country pubs and wildlife galore, there is plenty to see at both locations. You’ll find various places to hire bikes, or bring your own and follow some of the much-loved trails. 

Find out more about cycling in Hampshire

Find out more about the New Forest National Park

Find out more about the South Downs National Park
 

Explore Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - Portsmouth

Learn about Portsmouth's rich naval heritage with a visit to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Step aboard famous warships the HMS Warrior and Nelson's HMS Victory or look at the Mary Rose Museum, home to Henry VIII's beloved flagship.

On a fine day, there’s nothing better than joining one of the harbour tours for a different view of the historic dockyard. 

Find out more about Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Go Ape! At a Hampshire Country Park - Hampshire

There are three Go Ape! adventure courses in Hampshire's country parks;

• Itchen Valley Country Park, Southampton

• Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood

• Alice Holt, on the Hampshire/Surrey border

Expect an action-packed time swinging from the zip wire or tackling the rope bridge. Look out for the tree top junior course at Moors Valley Country Park. 

Find out more about Go Ape!

Manor Farm Country Park - Southampton

Known for its part in the BBC documentary Wartime Farm, kids and adults can both enjoy a fun day out at Manor Farm Country Park. Whether you want to see the farm animals, peek inside the old buildings or simply stroll along one of the park's many paths, it's the perfect place to visit when the sun shines.

Find out more about Manor Farm Country Park

Exbury Gardens - New Forest

Discover 200 acres of gardens in this oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the New Forest. Take a quiet stroll or hop aboard the miniature steam railway for a great day out. The gardens (including steam railway) are also dog-friendly. 

Find out more about Exbury Gardens

Follow in the Footsteps of Jane Austen 

Learn about the county's most famous author with a visit to her house in Chawton, which is now a fascinating museum. There are several nearby walks and trails which take visitors past places which were significant in Jane's life and her work. She is buried in Winchester Cathedral which is also open to the public.

Find out more about the Jane Austen Museum at Chawton

Find out more about Jane Austen in Hampshire

To make the most of the sunny weather, we’d recommend staying for a short break. Then, you can easily combine a visit to the some of the places mentioned above as well as lots of other things to see and do.

Find places to stay in Hampshire

Find other things to do in Hampshire