There are a lots of great family days out in Kent to be discovered, but deciding which to visit can be a challenge! Here we will help you find the most fun things to do in Kent with a shortlist of our favourite destinations in the region.
1. Diggerland
If you are looking for an adventure packed day out then head to the Diggerland theme park. It offers 20 different ride and drive experiences giving children and adults the chance to try out driving real JCBs and 180/360 excavators! If that wasn’t enough you can take a ride on the Spindizzy, take in the views of historic Rochester across the River Medway on the Skyshuttle or have some healthy family competition on the dodgems and go-karts. For younger children there are indoor and outdoor play areas with sandpits and coin operated rides, giving the kids a chance to enjoy themselves and parents a chance to relax! Diggerland is the perfect family day out offering great entertainment, a cafeteria, picnic tables and a fantastic gift shop, making it one of the most fun things to do in Kent.
2. Country Bike
Country Bike has a goal. To make bike hire more accessible to people across the countryside. Their bicycles enable those in more rural locations to discover hidden gems, great local pubs or simply head to the well known spots.
Their bikes are stationed at a number of Castles, Farm shops, pubs and other venues across the Kent and East Sussex countryside. Simply download the Linka Go app, which you can use to open the internet enabled bike locks at the locations listed on their website.
They even do special rates for hiring a bike for a number of days or a week and can arrange delivery and collection of the bikes within the area! This is the best way to explore the wonderful local countryside and to get away from technology and distractions, and simply spend quality time together.
They've arranged a special discount for individuals with a Goboony booking, simply email them in advance and give them your reservation number to recieve a 10% discount on your bike hire!
3. Hever Castle
Hever Castle is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and has a fascinating history to tell. Its main attraction are its award winning gardens, which are wonderful to explore! It has not one but two mazes, fountains, statues and 4000 stunning roses. You can also uncover the stories of those who lived in the honey colored stone walls of this picturesque castle, including the Boleyn family with their rise and fall from power in the Tudor period. For those looking for entertainment there are a host of family activities, from jousting tournaments in the summer to archery lessons during the school holidays. It is an attraction sure to keep the kids entertained!
4. Spa Valley Railway
The Spa Valley Railway will take you back in time to the age of steam on one of its beautiful diesel and steam locomotives through the Wealden countryside. The route will take you from Tumbridge Wells to Eridge via High Rocks and Groombridge with picturesque rural Kent all around for you to enjoy. Sounds like something for your family? Well if you head there on a variety of dates during the summer, children can travel for just £1! In December there is also the opportunity to meet Santa and experience Christmas on board with carols, mince pies and a wonderful festive atmosphere. For the adults, there are also delicious cream teas and dining events throughout the year for a unique culinary experience in beautiful heritage surroundings.
Countrybike bike hire is also available at this venue!
5. Chislehurst Caves
One of the best family days out in Kent, a tour through the Chislehurst Caves is a unique experience that you will not forget! Carrying a hurricane lamp to light your way in the blackness of the underground tunnels, you will follow your guide and learn about the fascinating history of these man made caves. You will hear about Celtic druids, Romans and Saxons, as well as the use of the caves as air raid shelters during the Second World War. Each guide tells their own version of the story of the caves and if you’re lucky you may get the opportunity to experience true darkness with the turning off of the lamps! This family run business is a very friendly affair and the fun day out for the kids who will be exhausted after all the excitement.
6. Leeds Castle
Another castle offering great family days out in Kent is Leeds Castle, just outside Maidstone. The ancient building is a hotchpotch of architectural styles from the original Norman fortifications, to a Tudor gloriette and 19th century additions creating an especially arresting sight in the 500 acres of parkland. As well as exploring the building and its eclectic collection of antiquities, visitors can lose themselves in the huge maze and underground grotto or enjoy one of the seasonal falconry displays with owls, hawks, vultures and falcons. Tired after all that exploring? Head to the Castle View Restaurant for delicious meals with magnificent views of the castle or if you fancy a treat book an afternoon tea in the castle dining room!
7. Chatham Historic Dockyard
Chatham was once the main dock facility for the Royal Navy and had its heyday in the 18th century - the Age of Sail. This historic attraction is one of the best family days out in Kent offering a variety of different activities suitable for all ages. Whether you want to be educated or entertained or both, there are a host of interactive exhibitions and exciting activities to be discovered. There are three restored ships which you and the young ones can explore, including HMS Gannet a Victorian sloop from 1878, HMS Cavalier a battleship from 1944 and HM Submarine Ocelot launched in Chatham in 1962. Gain an insight into life at sea and uncover the techniques used to survive in these cramped spaces!
8. Shell Grotto
Wondering what to do in Kent? Looking for something a bit different? Then head to the Shell Grotto in Margate and prepare to be amazed. In 1835 a father lowered his son into a hole in the ground after a cavity appeared while digging a pond in his garden. When he pulled him back up the boy excitedly described the wonderful shell covered tunnels that he had discovered. No-one knows exactly who created the tunnels, whether it was a Roman shrine, cultic temple or elaborate 19th century hoax, but the maze of shell covered tunnels and main room are certainly worth a visit! The elaborate patterns and staggering detail will surely amaze and are an impressive experience for all the family.
Photo © Keith Edkins (cc-by-sa/2.0)
Well there you have it, 8 fun things to do in Kent that will ensure that your next family holiday in the region is a success! Next time you are wondering what to do in Kent, you will have a host of options ready at your fingertips. If you are planning a short weekend away in the ‘Garden of England’ then why not also consider hiring a campervan in Kent? We have a variety of different options offered by private vehicle owners suitable for all your holiday needs. Book with Goboony and make wonderful family memories! And then check out these great campsites in the Kent Downs.
