WITH the Summer holidays fast approaching, The National Trust has some exciting places to visit in Hampshire that make for fun days out. 

From exhibitions and outdoor theatre to traditional games, there is something for everyone.

Whether you have a few hours or an entire day, there are activities to keep both parents and kids entertained.


SEE ALSO: The best Bluebell walks in Hampshire


Here are nine of the best National Trust Summer days out in Hampshire.

Mottisfont, near Romsey

Mottisfon is hosting a Happy Families: Adventures with the Ahlbergs exhibition and outdoor trail from July 22 - September 3.

"Step into the hilarious worlds of Burglar Bill, Mrs Wobble, The Jolly Postman and other much-loved Ahlberg storybook characters, in this exciting exhibition and outdoor trail."

This exciting exhibition features over 70 original artworks, interactive experiences, and comfy reading zones.

Outside, there is a colourful trail with games and challenges inspired by the Ahlberg characters.

Sandham Memorial Chapel, Burghclere

Sandham Memorial Chapel is showcasing the Life on Watership Down exhibition, which features oil paintings by Aldo Galli for the 40th anniversary edition of Richard Adams' famous novel about rabbits.

It will take place from July 27 - November 12.

Adams lived not far from Sandham, and the Down can be seen from the chapel’s orchard.

The chapel also has two trails available from July 22 - September 4.

The Morse code trail invites participants to crack a secret wartime code, while the Spot the Soldier trail challenges visitors to find hidden green soldiers in the exhibition space.


SEE ALSO: The best Spring Walks in Hampshire


The Vyne, Basingstoke

For those who enjoy traditional games and nature trails, The Vyne is hosting a Summer of Play event from July 22 - September 3.

Families can participate in classic games on the lakeside lawn, as well as go on a wildlife spotting hunt.

Activities include sack races, ring toss and pin the tail on the donkey.

Hinton Ampner, near Alresford

Hinton Ampner is offering the Tree-mendous Tree Trail from July 15 - September 3.

Families can become "Hinton dendrologists" and explore the gardens through a multi-sensory trail which leads to a prize.

" Don’t forget to pop into the kitchen garden to say hello to the resident scarecrow who looks after the garden produce."

For those who enjoy family theatre, Hinton Ampner is also hosting a production of The Wind in the Willows by Quantum Theatre. On July 5 and July 21.

This classic children's story follows Mole, Ratty, and Badger as they embark on mad-cap adventures.

Uppark, near Petersfield

Uppark has a Nature Explorer Adventure from July 15 - October 29.

Kids can grab an activity sheet and find fun challenges related to animals and nature at Uppark.

Uppark is also presenting a production of Alice in Wonderland by Dot Productions on August 8 and August 9.

This fun production takes place against the backdrop of Uppark's Palladian mansion and is suitable for all ages.

Winchester City Mill, Winchester

Winchester City Mill is hosting a Farm Fest – Summer Celebration from June 14 - August 27.

Those who attend can celebrate the lead-up to harvest and learn about harvest time in England throughout the centuries.

Visitors can even sit on the mill's beautifully decorated harvest throne for a photo opportunity.

For more information on all these activities and events, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hampshire.