Marwell Zoo - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

St Catherine's Hill is a remnant of traditional downland, once widespread along the South Downs, but now rare. This 58 hectare flower-rich chalk grassland nature reserve is home to some stunning wild flowers, and over 25 different species of butterflies including the marbled white, chalkhill blue and brown argus. The top of the hill is ringed by the ramparts of an Iron Age hill fort. It is one of the iconic attractions in this area.

Itchen Valley's 440 acres of beautiful water meadows, woodland, and meadows been recognized by the award of a Green Flag for the past four years. The rural beauty of the park through the seasons can be enjoyed along the paths and trails taking you through woodland, water meadows, pasture, and hayfields. There are a number of facilities for children, including a play area and a play trail. The Itchen Way footpath borders the park.

Lakeside Country Park is made up of 22 hectares of lakes, wet meadow and woodland situated along Wide Lane between Eastleigh and Southampton. The park is situated between Eastleigh and Southampton and has easy access. The restored gravel workings and modern facilities provide opportunities for a wide range of outdoor activities.

Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway is a popular attraction near to Southampton, perfect for a day out with the kids. The railway runs from its main station, Eastleigh Parkway, to Monks Brook Halt and then back to Eastleigh Parkway. Trains are usually steam hauled and the journey of 1¼ miles takes about 15-20 minutes. Monks Brook Halt gives an opportunity to visit the lakes, children’s playground or use the adjacent picnic tables.

Winchester Science Centre is the South of England's interactive science and technology center which welcomes over 185,000 visitors each year and houses a range of interactive exhibits, aimed at a core audience of children aged 5-12 years old. The dome is now a state-of-the-art digital planetarium seating 168.

Wolvesey Castle was an extensive keep and bailey castle built about 1100 on a site in use during the Anglo-Saxon period. The first building on the site, an eyot in the River Itchen known as Wulveseye or Wulf's island, was constructed around 970 by Æthelwold of Winchester, the Bishop of Winchester from 963 to 984, as his official residence or palace.