Things to Do with Kids in Swindon

Swindon has a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages. Whether it's a rainy day or sunny, there are parks, adventure centres, museums, trampoline parks, and heritage attractions to explore. This guide gives an overview – for more detail on specific venues, follow the links to our dedicated articles.

Children playing and having fun together
Indoor and outdoor activities for kids in Swindon. Credit: Unsplash

Quick ideas

Indoor
Freedog, Link Centre (trampoline, soft play, ice rink, pool)
Outdoor
Lydiard Park, Coate Water, Swindon & Cricklade Railway
Museums
STEAM Museum, Museum & Art Swindon (free)

Indoor activities

Freedog Swindon – Adventure arena with ninja runs, Clip 'n Climb, Strike Arena (Crystal Maze-style challenges), soft play, and interactive sports. Ideal for older kids and teens. See our family days out guide.

The Link Centre – Trampoline park, soft play, ice rink, and swimming pool under one roof. Run by Better (GLL). Booking usually required. See leisure centres and swimming.

Shaw Ridge Leisure Park – Adventure Point and other activities. On the same estate as the Link Centre. See family days out.

STEAM Museum – Railway heritage, locomotives, and interactive displays. Great for train-mad kids. See STEAM Museum guide.

Museum & Art Swindon – Free admission. Art and history collections at the Civic Offices. See Museum & Art Swindon.

Outdoor activities

Lydiard Park – 260 acres with Palladian house, walled garden, church, play area, and café. Dogs welcome. See Lydiard Park & House.

Coate Water – Lake, woodland, meadows, play area, and café. One of Swindon's largest parks. See parks and green spaces.

Stanton Park – Woodland, grassland, and lake. Good for dog walking and quieter walks.

Barbury Castle – Iron Age hillfort with panoramic views. On the Ridgeway. Great for older kids who enjoy a walk.

Swindon & Cricklade Railway – Heritage steam and diesel train trips. Day Out with Thomas and other events. See Swindon & Cricklade Railway.

Town centre

Swindon town centre has the Brunel shopping centre, The Parade, and Regent Circus. Useful for a change of scene, cinema, or bite to eat. See our guide to Swindon town centre.

Events

Check What's On for family events, seasonal activities, and school holiday ideas. Many venues run special events during half term and holidays.

Information correct as of February 2026. Opening times, prices, and facilities can change. Always check venue websites before visiting. Some activities require advance booking.