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Summer Activities in Wiltshire: The Ultimate Guide to Family Days Out & Things to Do (2026)

Calne Chippenham Gloucestershire Lechlade Near Wiltshire Sevenhampton Swindon Wanborough

Planning a summer in Wiltshire? Whether you're entertaining the children during the school holidays, looking for outdoor adventures, or searching for fun indoor activities on rainy days, Wiltshire is packed with fantastic experiences for every age.

From Swindon and Salisbury to Marlborough, Chippenham, Malmesbury and the Cotswold Water Park, you'll find everything from country parks and wildlife attractions to bowling, swimming, museums, shopping, adventure activities and family-friendly days out.

This guide brings together some of the very best summer activities in Wiltshire, helping you discover new places, plan unforgettable family days out and make the most of the sunshine.

Looking for even more inspiration? Browse our guides to Things to Do in Wiltshire, Family Days Out, What's On in Wiltshire and Summer Events.

At A Glance

Perfect for: Families, couples, friends, school holiday adventures, outdoor explorers and rainy day fun.
Top locations: Swindon, Salisbury, Chippenham, Marlborough, Malmesbury, Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge and the Cotswold Water Park.
Best time to visit: May to September, with plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy throughout the year.
Budget: From free days out and affordable family attractions to premium experiences (£–£££).
Top experiences: Outdoor adventures, watersports, family attractions, historic landmarks, shopping, museums, gardens and seasonal events.
Ideal trip length: Perfect for half-day outings, full-day adventures or weekend breaks across Wiltshire.

Best Outdoor Summer Activities in Wiltshire

Wiltshire is home to some of the South West's best outdoor attractions, from historic landmarks and country estates to lakes, parks and watersports. Whether you're looking for an active family day out, a peaceful walk in nature or a chance to explore Wiltshire's rich heritage, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sunshine.

In this guide you'll discover outdoor attractions including:

South Cerney Outdoor
Lydiard Park
Coate Water Country Park
Westonbirt Arboretum
Lacock
Stonehenge
Avebury
Bowood House & Gardens
Cotswold Water Park

Who is this guide for?

This guide is ideal for:

Families with children
Parents planning the school holidays
Couples looking for day trips
Visitors exploring Wiltshire
Local residents searching for new experiences
Grandparents entertaining grandchildren
Anyone looking for indoor or outdoor summer activities

Why visit Wiltshire in summer?

Wiltshire offers one of the UK's most varied summer destinations, combining historic landmarks, countryside, family attractions, outdoor adventure and charming market towns. Whether you're planning a school holiday itinerary, a weekend escape or a spontaneous family day out, there's something for every age and budget across the county.

Last Updated: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Activities in Wiltshire

What are the best summer activities in Wiltshire?

Some of the best summer activities in Wiltshire include exploring Stonehenge and Avebury, visiting Bowood House and Gardens, enjoying watersports at the Cotswold Water Park, walking around Lacock, and spending the day at parks such as Lydiard Park and Coate Water.

What can you do in Wiltshire with children?

Families can enjoy adventure playgrounds, country parks, animal attractions, museums, swimming pools, watersports and historic landmarks. Popular choices include Bowood House and Gardens, Coate Water Country Park, Lydiard Park and the Cotswold Water Park.

What are the best free summer activities in Wiltshire?

Free summer activities in Wiltshire include exploring the Avebury stone circle, walking through market towns and villages, enjoying local parks, following countryside trails and visiting selected museums and community attractions.

What can you do in Wiltshire when it rains?

Rainy day activities in Wiltshire include visiting museums, cinemas, bowling centres, soft-play venues, escape rooms, trampoline parks and indoor swimming pools. Historic houses and indoor attractions also provide plenty of all-weather options.

Where can you go swimming in Wiltshire?

Wiltshire has a range of leisure centres and indoor swimming pools across Swindon, Salisbury, Chippenham, Trowbridge and other towns. Open-water swimming is also available at selected lakes in and around the Cotswold Water Park.

What are the best outdoor activities in Wiltshire?

The best outdoor activities in Wiltshire include walking, cycling, paddleboarding, kayaking, open-water swimming, exploring country estates and visiting historic attractions such as Stonehenge, Avebury and Lacock.

Where can you go paddleboarding in Wiltshire?

The Cotswold Water Park is one of the most popular places for paddleboarding near Wiltshire. Activity providers around South Cerney offer paddleboarding, kayaking and other watersports for beginners, families and experienced visitors.

Which Wiltshire attractions are best for school holidays?

Popular school holiday attractions include Bowood House and Gardens, Lydiard Park, Coate Water Country Park, Stonehenge, Lacock and the Cotswold Water Park. Many attractions also run seasonal trails, workshops and family events.

What are the best summer days out near Swindon?

Summer days out near Swindon include Lydiard Park, Coate Water Country Park, the Cotswold Water Park, Avebury, Bowood House and Gardens and Westonbirt Arboretum. These attractions offer a mixture of outdoor adventure, history and family activities.

What are the best things to do near Salisbury in summer?

Summer highlights near Salisbury include visiting Salisbury Cathedral, exploring Old Sarum, walking through the city centre, visiting Stonehenge and discovering the surrounding Wiltshire countryside. Families can also enjoy nearby farms, parks and outdoor attractions.

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Calne

Bowood House & Gardens | Family Attraction in Calne

Location: Near Calne

Best for: Families, children, history lovers and garden enthusiasts

About: Spend a summer day exploring Bowood House & Gardens, one of Wiltshire's most popular family attractions. Discover beautiful landscaped gardens, wander through the historic house, let little ones burn off energy in the award-winning Adventure Playground and enjoy seasonal events and activities throughout the school holidays. With plenty to see and do for all ages, it's the perfect destination for a family day out.

Address: Old Road, Derry Hill, Calne, Wiltshire, SN11 0LZ

Telephone: 01249 812102

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Chippenham

Chippenham Museum | Museum in Chippenham

Location: Chippenham

Best for: Families, history lovers, rainy days and school holiday activities

About: Discover the fascinating history of Chippenham through interactive displays, hands-on exhibits and family-friendly activities at Chippenham Museum. During the summer holidays, the museum regularly hosts craft workshops, themed trails and special events, making it a great place for children and adults to learn, explore and have fun together.

Address: 9–10 Market Place, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 3HF

Telephone: 01249 705020

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Gloucestershire

Whitemead Forest Park | Camping & Glamping Near Wiltshire

Location: Forest of Dean, near Lydney

Best for: Families, couples, camping, glamping and woodland escapes

About: Escape to the Forest of Dean with a stay at Whitemead Forest Park, offering everything from camping pitches and glamping pods to woodland lodges and apartments. Guests can enjoy an indoor swimming pool, spa facilities, woodland walks, adventure golf and seasonal family entertainment, making it an ideal base for a relaxing or activity-filled summer break.

Address: Parkend, Lydney, Gloucestershire, GL15 4LA

Telephone: 03301 230374

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Lechlade

Cotswold Canoe Hire | Canoeing & Kayaking in Lechlade

Location: Lechlade-on-Thames

Best for: Families, couples, beginners and outdoor adventurers

About: Explore the beautiful River Thames with Cotswold Canoe Hire, offering canoe, kayak, paddleboard, rowing boat and pedalo hire just a short drive from Wiltshire. Whether you're planning a peaceful paddle through the countryside or an active family day out on the water, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors during the summer holidays. Hourly and full-day hire options are available, making it suitable for all experience levels.

Address: Park End Wharf, Lechlade-on-Thames, Gloucestershire, GL7 3AQ

Telephone: 01367 252303

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Kelmscott Manor | Historic Attraction in Lechlade

Location: Near Lechlade

Best for: History lovers, couples, gardens and Arts & Crafts enthusiasts

About: Step inside the former country home of William Morris, the founder of the Arts & Crafts Movement. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and peaceful countryside, Kelmscott Manor offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian history, inspiring interiors and picturesque riverside walks. It's an ideal summer day out for anyone looking to explore one of the region's most treasured historic homes. The gardens, tearoom and grounds can also be enjoyed during your visit.

Address: Kelmscott, Lechlade, GL7 3HJ

Telephone: 01367 252486

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Near Wiltshire

Westonbirt, The National Arboretum | Outdoor Attraction near Wiltshire

Location: Near Tetbury

Best for: Families, couples, walkers, nature lovers and dog owners

About: Just a short drive from Wiltshire, Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is one of the UK’s most spectacular outdoor attractions. Home to thousands of trees from around the world, it offers scenic walking trails, seasonal family activities, adventure play areas and beautiful surroundings throughout the summer.

Address: Westonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, GL8 8QS

Telephone: 0300 067 4890

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Sevenhampton

Roves Farm | Family Farm Attraction in Sevenhampton

Location: Sevenhampton

Best for: Families, toddlers, animal lovers and outdoor adventures

About: Enjoy a fun-filled family day out at Roves Farm, a working farm where children can get up close with friendly animals, take tractor and trailer rides, enjoy outdoor play areas and seasonal activities, and learn about life on the farm.

With plenty of open space and hands-on experiences, it's an ideal summer holiday attraction for all ages. The farm also features a café and farm shop, making it easy to spend the whole day there. Summer activities include animal racing, meet-and-feed sessions, nature activities and family events.

Address: Sevenhampton, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN6 7QG

Telephone: 01793 763939

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Swindon

Adventure Point | Indoor Family Entertainment in Swindon

Location: Swindon

Best for: Families, teenagers, groups and rainy-day fun

About: Looking for an action-packed activity during the summer holidays? Adventure Point brings together Laser Quest, Jungle Rocks Adventure Golf, Clue HQ Escape Rooms and interactive Electro Darts under one roof, making it a great choice for families, friends and groups whatever the weather.

Address: Shaw Ridge Leisure Park, Whitehill Way, Swindon, SN5 7DN

Telephone: 01793 758758

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Lydiard Park | Outdoor Activity in Swindon

Location: Swindon

Best for: Families, picnics, walks, outdoor play and free days out

About: Lydiard Park is a popular outdoor attraction in Swindon, offering historic parkland, woodland walks, open spaces and children’s play areas. During the summer, visitors can enjoy picnics, family games, scenic walks and seasonal events across the estate.

Good to know: Entry to the park is free, although parking charges and separate admission fees for Lydiard House may apply.

Address: Lydiard Tregoze, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 3PA

Telephone: 01793 466664

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The Link Centre | Family Swimming in Swindon

Location: Swindon

Best for: Families, children, cooling off and staying active

About: Looking for a way to beat the heat this summer? The Link Centre is a fantastic choice, offering family swimming sessions, leisure pools and lane swimming throughout the school holidays. Whether you're escaping the midday sun or looking for an active family day out, it's a great place to cool off whatever the weather.

Address: Whitehill Way, Westlea, Swindon, SN5 7DL

Telephone: 01793 877323

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Wanborough

Lotmead Pick Your Own | Strawberry Picking in Wanborough

Location: Wanborough

Best for: Families, young children, fruit picking and summer days out

About: Make the most of summer with a visit to Lotmead Pick Your Own, where you can wander the strawberry fields and pick your own fresh fruit straight from the farm. Alongside seasonal PYO, there's a family-friendly Farm Park with outdoor play, friendly animals, a café and farm shop, making it a fantastic day out for all ages. Be sure to check daily picking updates before you visit, as fruit availability changes throughout the season.

Address: Wanborough Road, Wanborough, Swindon, SN4 0SN

Telephone: 01793 790137

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