Ways to keep the children busy this summer

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Published on:12 AUGUST 2025

With schools out for summer, it’s the perfect time to pack in some fun and make some family memories. Whether you’re staying home or planning a day at Festival Place – we’ve pulled together some of our must have ideas to keep the kids entertained.

Garden fun
Transform your garden into a mini adventure zone with all the outdoor toys and games kids love. Head to The Entertainer for sand and water tables, perfect for sensory play on hot days.

For a splashing good time, grab water blasters from Poundland, Flying Tiger or Toy Town – guaranteed to keep the kids cool and active. Don’t forget the bubble machines, inflatable pools, and water slides for hours of bubbly, splashy fun.

Mini gardeners in training

Why not get kids stuck into gardening? You can grab all the essentials from TK Maxx, or Poundland – think mini trowels, watering cans and plant pots. Little ones could even build their own fairy garden using Søstrene Grene’s adorable mini fairy doors – a magical project they’ll remember all summer.

Get active outdoors

Bring out the classics with badminton sets, giant snakes and ladders, and other outdoor games to keep everyone moving. You can pick up oversized outdoor games from ToyTown or The Entertainer – ideal for picnics in the park or garden parties with friends.

Crafting & creating

Rainy day or sunny morning, crafting is always a winner. Stock up on supplies from Søstrene Grene, Flying Tiger, Poundland, and Ryman. Create chalk masterpieces on the patio, or make your own colourful bracelets and jewellery. Want something a little different? Try a wooden puzzle from GoGo Gadget – sure to put older children’s minds to the test.

Family time sorted

When the weather isn’t playing ball, keep little hands busy with Play-Doh sets from The Entertainer or try baking some tasty treats with essentials from ProCook.

Or why not create a den using soft throws from Homesense and turn your living room into a cinema for the evening, or head out for a family movie night at Vue Cinema – popcorn essential!

Make a day of it at Festival Place

Need to get out the house? Burn off some energy at Flip Out or the soft play area at Basingstoke Sports Centre. Fancy a mental challenge? Try an escape room experience at Escape Hunt. After all that activity, refuel with a bite from Pizza Express, Las Iguanas, or Five Guys.

With so much to explore, play and create, summer doesn’t need to be stressful. Pop into Festival Place and get everything you need for a summer full of fun.

© Festival Place 2025