Kent is packed with things to see and places to go whatever your interest. It is full of terrific places to take the family and, with easy access by train across the county, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to visit next.
We’ve rounded up some of our favourite family days out in Kent. Which will you choose?
Diggerland
A brilliant day out for the whole family doesn’t get very much better than this, especially if the kids love diggers! Even very young children have the opportunity to try out the real, full-sized diggers for themselves. There’s even a soft play area too.
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is undoubtedly one of our family’s firm favourites. As if the castle itself isn’t stunning enough, the grounds are absolutely marvellous to enjoy a summer’s picnic. As well as a general visit look out for events throughout the year including falconry displays, classical outdoor concerts or a splendid afternoon tea.
RAF Manston History Museum
Don’t be deceived by the outward size of this building, once you are inside it’s not only huge but packed with displays of real planes, jets and even Search and Rescue helicopters. With a comprehensive history on display including the First and Second World Wars and an extremely cheap entrance fee, this is one visit you definitely won’t want to miss.
Magna Carta Rediscovered
800 years ago the Magna Carta (or ‘Great Charter’) was the key turning point for British politics, setting out the principles of freedom, justice and liberty which stand today. To mark the anniversary of King John’s agreement at Runnymede, the Magna Carta is embarking on a tour of Kent throughout 2015 though an interactive exhibition. The tour has completed its first part of the journey at Faversham but will also appear in Canterbury, Maidstone, Dover and Sandwich before ending at Rochester Cathedral. We are definitely looking forward to booking our place for this exhibition.
Dover Castle
This 12th century medieval castle is the largest in England – its colourful history seeing it used as an Iron age fort, a Roman lighthouse and a Saxon Castle amongst others. Visit the Great Tower, travel through the winding, medieval tunnels and experience the underground hospital as it was during World War II. There is so much to do and see here that one visit might not be quite enough!
Chartwell
Now a National Trust property, Chartwell was once the home of Sir Winston Churchill. The rooms are preserved much as Churchill himself had them, including various pictures, books and mementos of his life there. Summer is a wonderful time to explore the gardens that include lakes Churchill created, while winter sees additional items removed from storage to create a more in-depth exhibition exploring his life. Do be aware that you can’t just turn up at the door and gain entry. You do need to book a timed ticket in advance.
Viking Bay
Enjoy the fine weather (hopefully!) with a trip to the sandy shores of Viking Bay in Broadstairs. It isn’t a very large beach but is perfect for the traditional British seaside day out.
Quex Park and the Powell-Cotton Museum
We just adore the peace of Quex Park. Spanning 250 acres in Birchington, East Kent, it is also home to the Powell-Cotton Museum with its many galleries and dioramas that history lovers and culture fans will love.
Port Lympne Reserve
Port Lympne and its sister wildlife park Howletts are the most fantastic way to see a range of wild animals. Dedicated to animal conservation, both parks are part of the Aspinall Foundation, a charity which works to return animals to the wild where possible, and to care for them where it’s not. The whole family will love the safari experience of a journey around the park by jeep, and they even offer safari camp breaks too.
Kent Life
This has to be one of our family’s most frequented attraction. The Museum of Kent Life in Sandling, Maidstone, is an open air museum that takes you back in time. Wander through houses of times gone by, completely furnished and reproduced as they would have been back in the era they represent. The farm is lovely, providing children with the opportunity to feed some of the animals or to participate in the farm’s Cuddle Corner. They also have a range of events throughout the year. Our favourite is the World War II Christmas re-enactment which we’ve visited a few times.
Visiting any of these attractions is easy with Southeastern. Check travel times, the latest travel updates and book your tickets online quickly and easily online at http://www.southeasternrailway.co.uk and have a fabulous family day out in Kent this summer!
