Where to entertain kids for the day near Oxford/ Newbury?

[Newbiecat]

We're en route to the ferry in Portsmouth from 'up North' and are stopping overnight near Oxford then driving again in the evening. We are looking for suggestions for wet weather and sunny weather activities for DD(7) DS(5) DS 10
Months. Any ideas?! Thanks

I'd head straight to Portsmouth TBH and spend the day in that area. In the city itself is the historic dockyard with HMS Victory, Mary Rose etc, Gunwharf Quays shopping/leisure complex with the Spinnaker tower. Also Southsea with beach, cafes, funfair etc. Just over the water in Gosport is the submarine museum. Just outside the city Portchester Castle and the Royal Armouries. Between Southampton and Portsmouth is The Royal Victoria Country Park.

Cotswold wildlife park is fantastic if you get good weather. Book online in advance to get better prices, but then you may be stuck with it even if it rains...

Thanks once but it's really too far for the baby so we've already booked a travel lodge room. We are however stopping in Portsmouth on the way back so I'll definitely keep your info in mind.
How far from Newbury would that be TheLong?

Farmer Gows farm park in Farringdon would fit the bill. Really lovely. Farmergow.co.uk

Hmmm... Just looked it up. Prob not a good option from Newbury. It's just under an hour, and you probably don't want longer in the car than necessary! I was thinking Oxford area, and it's only about 25 mins from Oxford.

Sorry, I meant for the day after your overnight stop, rather than going all the way in one go. It only takes an hour or so to get down to Portsmouth from Newbury.

Ah, sorry Once - I get what you meant now! Thanks for all the suggestions- we had a fab day in Oxford looking in museums then picnicking in park before tea in Port Solent. Think we'll explore Portsmouth on our way back

4 Kingdoms is popular petting zoo + softplay + adventure playground near Newbury. All activities once you're in are free including rides.

You can do boat trips on Newbury canal (tickets at tourist info).

Didcot railway? Highclere castle?