Play Wild this summer!

Get outside, get curious and Play Wild this summer with three brand-new outdoor exhibits.

Dig for fossils and climb across a giant mosasaur skeleton to uncover the secrets of the prehistoric chalk sea at Dino Dig. Wade into the wonders of The Chalk Stream, experimenting with water flow and discovering the creatures that depend on this rare and unique habitat. Then climb, crawl and explore Dormouse Den, where you'll uncover the hidden world of one of our most elusive woodland mammals and the delicate ecosystem it calls home.

Step outside and discover the science hidden beneath your feet. This summer, explore three brand-new outdoor exhibits inspired by the remarkable chalk landscape that shapes our local environment.

From ancient seas and crystal-clear chalk streams to thriving woodlands, every adventure reveals how nature, wildlife and people are connected. Through play, discovery and hands-on exploration, children can become scientists, palaeontologists and nature champions as they investigate real-world ecosystem and learn how they can help protect them.

Get outside, get curious and Play Wild this summer at Winchester Science Centre from the 18th July 2026.

In addition to new outdoor exhibits, don't miss out on all the usual Science Centre fun! Take a break from all the action in The Planetarium with the ultimate family summer journey, A Skyful of Wonder, a live presenter-led show. Or join Ted the bear and his friend Plant on a playful journey through our Solar System in this fun and educational fulldome planetarium show.*

And don’t forget our two floors of exciting hands-on fun! Discover more about sound, hearing and vibration on the upper floor. Climb inside a giant guitar. Explore the acoustic rocket. And even learn some British Sign Language. On the lower floor blast off on a journey through Explorer:Space. Discover more about what it’s like to live and work in space in our interactive space zone.

*Please note, one Planetarium show is included in your ticket

The perfect thing to do this summer in Winchester

Finding exciting and engaging things to do this summer in Winchester doesn’t need to be a slog. Visit Winchester Science Centre for an educational adventure like no other. With interactive summer holiday events in Winchester and mind blowing science experiences, there is something to spark curiosity in every child. 

Step into the epic Planetarium to watch exciting presenter-led or fun subtitled film shows, enjoy a live science show filled with awesome experiments and experience huge demos every day throughout the 6-week holidays. Finish up your day of exploration with a visit to the science shop or cafes where you will find a delicious selection of meals, snacks and drinks.