If you’re looking to keep the kids busy (and maybe even happy) in Southampton this summer, you’re in luck. The city might not have the attractions of London or the beaches of Bournemouth, but it’s full of surprises for families who want to make the most out of the school holidays. Here are five top picks to help you dodge the “I’m bored” chorus and actually enjoy the break.
1. SeaCity Museum
Let’s face it: every British summer comes with a few rainy days. SeaCity Museum is just the place when you need to escape the drizzle. This isn’t your average stuffy museum — with hands-on exhibits about the Titanic (which set sail from Southampton), interactive city history, and a dedicated kids’ area, you can easily kill a few hours here. Bonus: there’s enough to engage grown-ups, too, so you’re not just reading cartoon panels all afternoon. Highlights included the Lego Titanic, Released to commemorate the 110th anniversary of Titanic’s sinking, this 1:200 scale model is the second biggest set ever produced by Lego
2. Southampton Common
When the sun’s out, Southampton Common is the city’s green heart. There’s space for picnics, duck ponds for a bit of wildlife spotting, and a brilliant adventure playground where kids can blow off steam. Throughout the summer, you’ll find open-air events, pop-up markets, and sometimes even mini-festivals. Pack a football, bring a blanket, and let everyone run wild.
3. Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park
If your family’s got a head for heights (or you’re just feeling brave), Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park is a must. The treetop rope courses and zip wires are perfect for both seasoned climbers and newbies. There are different levels for younger and older kids, so no one’s left out. Afterward, the 440-acre country park has woodlands, picnic spots, and plenty of walking trails to unwind.
4. Solent Sky Museum
Aviation buffs — and frankly, any kid who loves planes — will get a kick out of Solent Sky Museum. It’s packed with vintage aircraft, including the legendary Spitfire, which was designed right here in Southampton. There are cockpits to climb into, engines to marvel at, and enough stories about local heroes to make history feel alive. It’s a quirky, hands-on place that’s far more fun than your standard museum trip.
5. Take a Ferry Trip to Hythe
For a little adventure without leaving the city behind, hop on the historic Hythe Ferry. The short ride across Southampton Water offers great views of the port and cruise ships, and you end up in the charming village of Hythe. There’s the world’s oldest continuously operating pier train, little shops, and the feeling you’ve gone on holiday — all in a morning or afternoon.
And if all else fails? Grab an ice cream on the Mayflower Park waterfront and call it a win. Happy holidays!
Do Southampton Council need to invest more in Tourism and Attractions? Judging by the traffic James to Bournemouth on the M27 everyday the answer is yes!
