Lakeside Country Park - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

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.

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.

Marwell zoo is home to hundreds of exotic and endangered animals all within a beautiful, landscaped 140-acre park. The zoo is home to 1,208 animals of 149 species. It was one of the earliest zoos in Europe to place an emphasis on animal conservation.

Manor Farm is a sequel to the widely acclaimed Animal Farm by George Orwell that covered tumultuous events during the early twentieth century. It is part of Solent and Southampton Water Ramsar site and Special Protection Area, and of Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation. Part of it is in Upper Hamble Estuary and Woods, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Netley Abbey is the most complete surviving Cistercian monastery in southern England. After the Suppression of the Monasteries the buildings were converted into a mansion for Sir William Paulet. The ruins now reflect over 800 years of change, during which the abbey was transformed from a monastic house to a mansion house, and later to a romantic ruin.

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is world famous for its arboretum and gardens – set over 180 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside; this garden is stunning whatever the season. The Gardens are a wonderful place for children to play and explore. Experience nature at its finest whilst exploring the 180 acres of gardens, wildlife and play areas for children. Run as a charity its aim is to conserve, develop and exhibit these world-renowned Gardens and plant collection.