If you’re seeking an exciting family adventure and things to do with the kids, look no further. From hands-on animal encounters, to scavenger hunts and picture trails, there’s something to spark joy and curiosity round every corner. Immerse yourselves in the great outdoors with plenty of activities on the water, such as hire boats, paddle boards and canoes. Oxford Wet’n’Wild at Queenford Lakes Watersports Centre is hugely popular throughout the summer months!
Visitors can experience the magic of a bygone era with a ride on our heritage and steam railways, offering a nostalgic journey for all ages.
If you want even more things to do, our events calendar is brimming with family-friendly activities and festivals all year round, ensuring endless fun and unforgettable memories for the whole family.
There are plenty of Museums and Heritage Attractions to explore in Southern Oxfordshire. Discover the magic of yesteryear with a family day out at Didcot Railway Centre, where you will step back in time as you explore historic locomotives, vintage carriages and fascinating exhibits. Kids will love the interactive displays and the chance to ride a real steam train.
In Wantage, the Vale & Downland Museum offers a window into the cultural heritage of the Vale of White Horse region, complemented by a charming café with a terrace and garden.
Millets Farm Centre, near Abingdon, offers a variety of free, family-friendly activities, including a children’s play area, animal walkway and Phoebe Woods, a ten-acre site of woodland and wetland walks, with picnic facilities. There’s also a farm shop, café and garden centre to enjoy.
Additionally, Millets is home to a falconry centre, Sprouts Play Barn and seasonal events, including the Maize Maze, Farmyard Golf, Animal Walkway and Pick Your Own, making it an ideal destination for family fun.
Farmer Gow’s, near Faringdon, offers a hands-on farm experience. Children can enjoy feeding and handling animals, exploring play areas and taking tractor rides. With its interactive activities and educational opportunities, it provides a fun and engaging environment for family outings.
From scavenger hunts and picture trails, to film and tv location and art, there are many of light-hearted walking trails through Southern Oxfordshire’s market towns and countryside.
There are a wide variety of things to do on the water, from boating holidays to boat hire.
Farmoor reservoir is a great alternative to the river, offering stand up paddle board lessons. The reservoir is home to three nature reserves, an on-site fishery, walking routes and a waterside café.
Oxford Wet’n’Wild at Queenford Lakes Watersports Centre is hugely popular throughout the summer months. The park offers activities for all ages – run wild on the inflatable obstacle course, hire paddleboards and kayaks, or enjoy the benefits of open water wild swimming. Alternatively, relax and watch the activities from the comfort of the lakeside café.
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, Abbey House, Abbey Close, Abingdon, OX14 3JE
This website has been built as a joint venture by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils, as part of a project funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK, invest in communities and place, support local businesses and people, and develop skills.
For more information, read the UK Shared Prosperity Fund prospectus.