Blast off into a world of science this weekend in Winchester
Looking for the perfect way to end your half-term? Enjoy a weekend of spectacular science in Winchester. Watch an out-of-this-world Planetarium show at Winchester Science Centre, be wowed by live demos at Theatre Royal Winchester and explore wonderful wildlife with a stay in the South Downs National Park.
Winchester Science Centre
Are you ready for an action-packed family adventure? Set off on an exciting journey through the world of science. Winchester Science Centre, the south of England's leading science and discovery centre, is perfect for children from three to 12 years old and their families.
Fly through the stars in the Planetarium. Until 23 March discover the icy secrets of space with Sub-zero Space Adventure, the live planetarium show. For just £4 on top of general admission, learn about ice and snow on other planets and how the colder temperatures affect them.
There is also plenty of hands-on fun! Explore two floors of interactive exhibits, where scientists of every age can climb inside a giant guitar, step into Mission Control to learn about space, get building with the mini construction site and see nature up close with the ant colonies.
Still curious? The Slime Show is an action-packed family-friendly 20-minute live show that takes an in-depth look into the scientific principles of slime through exciting experiments and daring demos. Don’t miss out - it’s free with general admission.
You’re never too young or old to learn something new and, with so much to discover across two floors of interactive exhibits, there’ll be something to astound, amaze and excite all ages.
Theatre Royal Winchester
Aspiring young scientists and their friends will be amazed by the mind-blowing experiments taking place in Exciting Science at Theatre Royal Winchester on Sunday 23 February, 11am.
Exciting Science is a brand-new educational show suitable for children aged 4 years and up, packed with fun, fact-filled, incredible experiments carried out on stage.
Watch as a volcanic eruption is recreated, a vacuum cleaner is transformed into a missile launcher, a smoke blaster takes aim, and more! Stand clear and prepare for action, as this show will be featuring plenty of whizz, bangs, pops and splurts!
Why not make a day of it and enjoy a meal before or after the show at one of Winchester's wonderful independent eateries? Just across the road is Josie's, a Hampshire staple serving up delicious breakfast and lunch. Also on Jewry Street is the newly-opened 5 Boroughs Pizza - perfect for a slice on the go!
South Downs National Park
Enjoy Winchester's best walks, most stunning views, and wonderful wildlife in the South Downs National Park. There are plenty of ways to enjoy nature with the whole family during your stay.
A route suitable for little legs is the Keats Trail, taking you along the water meadows (which inspired Keats' 'Ode to Autumn') to the Hospital of St Cross and Almshouse of Noble Poverty. Here, visitors are welcome to explore the stunning heritage site, walk around the majestic de Blois Chapel, as well as enjoy the stunning sculptural Master’s Gardens with views of St Catherine’s Hill.
Another site for nature-spotting is the Itchen River. The Itchen Heritage Navigation Trail is a pleasant natural strand of waterway which is ideal for exploring wildlife. There are various plants, trees, flowers, birds, small water creatures and all sorts of insects to discover; keep your eyes peeled for trout or pike in the water, water voles scooting about between the banks, and if you are very lucky - the flash of a colourful kingfisher! We recommend choosing a smaller section of the route to explore with children.
Why not stay in the South Downs? voco Winchester Hotel & Spa is located next to Winchester Science Centre and offers lovely views of the National Park - and it is just a 10 minute drive into the city centre! In the heart of the South Downs is the Avington Estate. The estate offers self-catering lake houses, pub rooms above The Chestnut Horse, and activities for families.
