One popular facility that’s just a short drive away from London has three new outdoor interactive exhibits that have been designed for children aged between 3 to 12
With the school summer holidays now under way for many children across the UK, parents are already on the hunt for ways to keep their youngsters entertained over the coming weeks.
Alongside the wealth of summer attractions available in London, many families may be tempted to venture a little further afield to stave off the dreaded summer boredom. If that sounds familiar, Winchester Science Centre could be just the ticket — a mere 1.5-hour drive from London — boasting three brand-new outdoor interactive exhibits. The exhibits form part of its Play Wild summer campaign and are tailored for children aged 3 to 12.
The attractions — a Dino Dig, The Chalk Stream, and the Dormouse Den — are designed to spark a love of science through movement, nature and play.
Dino Dig
This prehistoric-themed zone transforms children into budding palaeontologists, inviting them to explore the ancient seas that shaped the local bedrock.
Little ones can clamber across an enormous model of a mosasaur (an extinct marine reptile), while a hands-on sand pit area allows them to dig up and unearth genuine ancient fossils.
The Chalk Stream
This zone invites children to step into the shoes of hydrologists and ecologists, gaining an understanding of one of the world’s rarest natural habitats.
The water-filled ecosystem experience allows kids to construct dams and divert flowing water, while also teaching them how local wildlife and crystal-clear chalk streams rely on environmental protection.
Dormouse Den
This interactive play space centres on woodland environments and one of Britain’s most secretive, legally protected native species.
It includes a natural woodland structure designed for climbing, crawling, and concealing oneself. Interactive elements also enable children to encounter a character named Dash the Dormouse while discovering how small creatures survive.
The new attractions were showcased on Instagram by account @ourhampshiredays, and it appears many parents are keen to visit with their children.
One person exclaimed: “Looks so good,” while another added: “This is definitely on my summer holiday to do list.”
Key visitor information
Admission: Entry to the Play Wild outdoor exhibits is fully included with standard admission tickets.
Cost: The regular general admission price to Winchester Science Centre for an adult and child (aged 3+) is £22.50 (without Gift Aid). Children under 3 and carers go free.
Availability: The outdoor exhibits are open during weekends and school holidays. The venue is open from 9:30am to 5pm.
What else is included in the price: Tickets also grant entry to the centre’s two floors of indoor interactive exhibits, live science demonstrations, and the Planetarium.
