1 / 6Wiltshire packs an astonishing amount into one county, from a world-famous stone circle to a drive-through safari park, historic railways and adventure playgrounds hidden in stately grounds. Whether you have toddlers who want to hand-feed goats or older kids chasing zip wires and steam trains, here are the best family days out in Wiltshire for 2026, all genuinely kid-friendly and easy to build a day around.
🎟️See things to do in Wiltshire on GetYourGuide →Stonehenge
One of the most famous prehistoric monuments in the world, Stonehenge near Amesbury pairs its ancient stone circle with a modern visitor centre, an exhibition and a shuttle bus across the ancient landscape. Kids can walk among the reconstructed Neolithic houses, watch volunteers demonstrate ancient crafts and cooking, and follow along with the family audio guide, and up to six children go free with English Heritage members. It is an easy, awe-inspiring introduction to history for all ages in Amesbury.
Longleat Safari & Adventure Park
Set in the grounds of a grand stately home near Warminster, Longleat at Horningsham is a full day out in itself. The drive-through safari brings you close to lions, tigers, monkeys and wolves, while Koala Creek, the Jungle Cruise, a giant hedge maze, a family farmyard, an adventure play castle and a miniature railway keep children entertained for hours. It is one of Wiltshire's biggest crowd-pleasers for families with kids of any age.
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway
In Swindon, STEAM tells the story of the Great Western Railway through historic steam locomotives and hands-on exhibits. Children can climb aboard powerful steam engines, drive a steam train simulator and operate an interactive GWR signal box, making it a hit with young train enthusiasts and a great rainy-day option in Swindon.
Stourhead
This National Trust landscape garden and Palladian mansion at Stourton, near Mere, is famous for its lakeside walks, hidden grottoes, temples and woodland trails. Families can explore the grottoes and temples, follow the lakeside circuit, hunt for wildlife and roam the wider estate, with seasonal family trails and events running through the year. It is a beautiful spot for a relaxed outdoor day in Wiltshire.
Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm
A friendly, family-run rare breeds farm park near Salisbury, Cholderton lets children get properly hands-on. Kids can hand-feed sheep, goats and pigs, join daily animal talks and burn off energy on slides and flying-fox zip lines set among the woods. It is an ideal choice for younger families in Cholderton.
Bowood House & Gardens
Near Calne, Bowood combines a historic house and Capability Brown gardens with one of the South West's largest adventure playgrounds. The award-winning play area features a full-sized pirate ship, aerial walkways, rope bridges, zip wires and a giant jumping pillow, plus a separate play pen for under-7s, so children of different ages can all find their level in Calne.
Cotswold Water Park
Straddling the Wiltshire and Gloucestershire border around Ashton Keynes and South Cerney, Cotswold Water Park is the UK's largest network of lakes. Families come for the inland beach with play areas and paddling, plus family-friendly watersports, cycling and nature trails around the water. It is a flexible day out that suits everything from gentle walks to active adventures.
Old Wardour Castle
This romantic ruined 14th-century hexagonal castle near Tisbury sits beside a lake and comes with a grotto and a tower to climb. Kids can play prince or princess exploring the castle rooms and grotto, climb to the top for lake views and enjoy a picnic in the grounds, all at a relaxed, low-key pace in Tisbury.
Tips for a family day out
- Check opening times and book ahead for the bigger attractions like Stonehenge and Longleat, especially in school holidays and at weekends.
- Pack for British weather — many of Wiltshire's best days out are outdoors, so bring layers, waterproofs and sun cream depending on the season.
- Bring a picnic. Places like Stourhead, Old Wardour Castle and the Cotswold Water Park have lovely spots to sit and eat.
- Consider membership. English Heritage and National Trust memberships can quickly pay for themselves across Stonehenge, Old Wardour Castle and Stourhead if you plan to visit more than once.
- Arrive early at farm parks and safari attractions to make the most of animal feeds, talks and quieter play areas.
FAQs
What is the best day out with kids in Wiltshire?
It depends on ages and interests, but Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is a firm all-round favourite for its mix of animals, mazes and play areas, while Stonehenge is unbeatable for a memorable slice of history.
Are there free or low-cost days out in Wiltshire?
Yes. Outdoor spaces such as the Cotswold Water Park offer plenty to do around the lakes and beach, and National Trust or English Heritage members can visit Stourhead, Stonehenge and Old Wardour Castle as part of their membership.
What can we do in Wiltshire on a rainy day?
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway in Swindon is a great indoor option with hands-on exhibits, and larger attractions like Longleat include several covered activities to help you dodge the showers.
🎟️ Top things to do in Wiltshire
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