The county of Kent is found in the south-eastern region of England and is most well-known for its stunning Kent countryside, charming seaside towns, and world-famous coastline.
The county is home to a variety of quaint villages, in addition to a few larger towns that have emerged as popular weekend getaways.
The culinary scene in Kent is often regarded as some of the best in the UK, making it one of the county’s primary draws.
Along the Kent coast, there are a variety of stunning beaches, in addition to winding country lanes that are great for exploring on foot or by bike.
You’ll also find a number of Kent theme parks, Castles, historic sites and other attractions that are certain to win the favour of both grownups and kids.
Things To Do In Kent
1. Dover Castle
Dover Castle is a huge, imposing castle that has been around for more than 900 years.
It looks out over the English Channel and the iconic white cliffs of Dover.
The castle has withstood many assaults from a wide variety of invaders over it’s long history, but is now used as a museum after having been preserved in its original state.
It provides guests with an excellent glimpse of what life was like in the castle even during times of conflict.
One of the most popular points of interest is the Great Tower with it’s superb medieval interior that includes furnishings, wall hangings and over 500 objects that give visitors an authentic feel.
In addition, there are displays that detail the history of the castle during different time periods, such as the English Civil War and World War II.
The intricate network of tunnels beneath the Castle is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating aspects.
The tunnels were initially carved out, during the Napoleonic Wars and then, during World War II, they served as headquarters and a hospital.
They provide an intriguing look into the ways the castle was utilised throughout various times of hostilities in the past.
This large English Heritage site is home to a wide variety of fascinating artefacts, and the castle is widely regarded as one of the most interesting historical sites in England.
Address: Dover Castle, Castle Hill Road, Dover, CT16 1HU
2. Viking Coastal Trail
The Viking Coastal Trail is a winding path that travels along Kent’s gorgeous coastline.
The trail is approximately 7 miles long and takes in several scenic bays, beautiful beaches and breath-taking panoramas of the North Sea.
It starts in the town of Reculver, and from there up the hill to the ruins of the Reculver Abbey.
From this point, the trail continues along the coast, passing through a number of coastal towns and villages, including Whitstable, Herne Bay, Margate, and Ramsgate.
Hikers will enjoy the many beaches and cliff-top walks that give views of the ocean, while cyclists will find enough modest ascents and descents to keep them interested.
Visitors can walk, hike or bike the route in the opposite way starting at at the village of Cliffsend near Ramsgate.
Address: Viking Coastal Trail, Kent
3. Leeds Castle
A stunning castle that has been standing since the 9th century, Leeds Castle has been a well-known destination for vacationers over the years.
Located on the outskirts of Maidstone in Kent, it is described as the world’s loveliest castle, with a picturesque garden and stunning architecture.
Festivals, jousting competitions, craft displays, and market days are just few of the activities that are available to participate in and enjoy at the castle.
Great for the whole family including kids, guests can take advantage of the land train, Segway rentals, aerial walkway, and falconry displays.
The annual Leeds Castle Concert is regarded by many guests as the highlight of their time spent at the castle.
Address: Broomfield, Maidstone ME17 1PL
4. Canterbury Cathedral
The Canterbury Cathedral is both one of the oldest churches in Europe and one of the most visited.
The Cathedral was built in stone by the Normans and is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visiting the Cathedral with a guide (a Cathedral tour) is highly recommended although numbers are limited, it’s about 75 minutes long and mostly inside.
It will give you access to the Great Cloister, the Chapter House, and the choir that dates back to the 12th century.
Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the Northwest Transept of Canterbury Cathedral in 1170 at the behest of King Henry II.
After touring the Cathedral, visitors are welcome to spend more time roaming the grounds.
Address: Canterbury Cathedral, Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH
5. White Cliffs of Dover
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover are a stunning natural landmark and one of England’s most spectacular natural features.
One of the best ways to see the cliffs is to walk along the coastal path towards South Foreland Lighthouse that gives great view of the cliffs.
Clifftops and World War II tunnels, such as the Fan Bay Deep Shelter, can be reached through trails.
Before venturing out to explore the cliffs, you may want get some knowledge about the geology, flora, and animals of the region from the visitor centre.
The car park in the area has easy access to the cliffs, the walking trails, and toilets, with the Visitor Centre offering information, refreshments, and a shop selling gifts and souvenirs,
Address: Langdon Cliffs, Upper Rd, Dover CT16 1HJ
6. Howletts Wild Animal Park
Located in the Kent countryside about 4 miles from Canterbury, Howletts Wild Animal Park is the perfect place for a family day out.
Over 390 animals live in the 100 acre park that has a sizable herd of African elephants and a family of gorillas, in addition to the usual assortment of animals seen in zoos.
There are a few events that you can participate in such as help feed and care for the animals, take part in programmes called “Junior Keeper,” or even spend the day learning from the zookeepers.
The park is open daily from 9:30am until 5pm in Winter with slightly longer hours in Summer.
Address: Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bekesbourne Ln, Bekesbourne, Littlebourne, Canterbury CT4 5EL
7. Hever Castle
The grounds of Hever Castle are stunning and contain a historic English Yew Maze, a water maze, a lake, various gardens, a topiary giant chess set and plenty to explore.
The castle itself has some beautiful panelled rooms with important collections of Tudor portraits, fine furniture, antiques, tapestries and artefacts.
Hever was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII, and has the Boleyn family coat of arms carved above the fireplace in the Great Hall, making it a very interesting place for history lovers.
Great for a day out with kids, that will definitely enjoy getting lost in the mazes, and for all the family with so much to do and see here.
Address: Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG
8. Groombridge Place Enchanted Forest and Gardens
Located near Tunbridge Wells in Kent, this large estate has something for everyone including the enchanted forest to explore.
There are giant swings, zip wire, wooden bridges and an exciting forest trail that has many challenges and mystical secrets.
A popular part of the estate is the Birds of Prey sanctuary which has various flying displays throughout the day,
Great for a fun day out, with award winning gardens to see and beautiful peacocks that roam the area, there is so much to see and do for all the family.
Address: Groombridge Hill, Tunbridge Wells TN3 9QG
9. Rochester Castle
The Rochester Castle is a prominent landmark in the city of Rochester, which is located on the River Medway.
Built in 1087, it is one of England’s finest examples of a Norman castle and the tallest Norman central keep in England that has been well preserved with spectacular views.
Gatherings and celebrations of all kinds can be hosted on its meticulously maintained grounds and there are also places to have picnics.
Address: Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SW
10. Kent & East Sussex Railway
You can take in some breath-taking scenery along the Kent and East Sussex Railway line.
It takes around 10 and a half miles to travel between Tenterden to Bodiam, and along the route it offers a magnificent view of the English countryside.
Visitors can ride in beautifully restored coaches and locomotives that date back to the Victorian era and the railway is considered to be the best rural light railway in England.
Address: Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden TN30 6HE
11. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
Visit the Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest if you love the outdoors and have an appreciation for plant and tree species that can be found in different parts of the world.
This park is home to 1,800 different species of flora, including a significant collection of conifers, which are among of the park’s most well-liked trees.
If you’re looking for something to do outside in the fresh air, Bedgebury has a wide variety of activities for you to choose from, including bird watching, fishing, bicycling, and hiking.
This lovely park offers activities for people of all ages and interests.
Address: Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Bedgebury Rd, Goudhurst TN17 2SJ
12. Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery
Located in the town centre of Dover, the Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the region.
It includes genuine artefacts, models, and historic photographs of Dover’s archaeology and history.
The museum hosts annual family days and programmes, it also has a gift shop.
Address: Market Sq, Dover CT16 1PH
13. Big Cat Sanctuary Kent
The Big Cat Sanctuary is located in the stunning Kent countryside at Smarden, near Ashford.
This important centre is dedicated to the conservation of wild cats and is open year round for visitors.
The Sanctuary concentrates on the welfare, breeding, and conservation of wild cats.
The Sanctuary is available to visit on open days and the public can see the big cat world, from a jaguar, leopards, pumas, a tiger, lynx, lions and many more.
Address: Headcorn Rd, Smarden, Ashford TN27 8PJ
14. Walmer Castle and Gardens
Henry VIII ordered the construction of Walmer Castle in 1540 as a component of his coastal defences.
The castle has been transformed into a magnificent property over the course of several centuries, and it now features breath-taking grounds and formal gardens.
It is the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, and guests can tour the rooms that once belonged to the Duke of Wellington and Queen Elizabeth.
There are also some beautiful trees to be seen on the Oval Lawn and Woodland Walk.
Great for anyone interested in local history.
Address: Kingsdown Rd, Walmer, Deal CT14 7LJ
15. Dreamland Margate
Located on the Kent coast, Dreamland Margate is a great day out with vintage rides, roller coasters and a Scenic Railway.
A large Ferris Wheel in the middle of the park offers visitors a great view of the local area and seafront.
There’s also a Dreamland Margate Roller Disco, which is brilliant fun for all the family.
Address: Dreamland Margate, 49-51, Marine Terrace, Margate CT9 1XJ
16. Pirate Cove Adventure Golf
Great fun for the whole family, Pirate Cove has two 18 hole mini golf courses for all ages.
Kids can choose their putter size and the colour of their ball before they tee off in either the Pirate Trail or the Smugglers Course.
Located in Bluewater, Kent, it’s a fun day out to be had for the whole family.
Address: Pirate Cove Adventure Golf, Greenhithe, Kent, DA9 9SF
FAQ
What is the most attractive part of Kent?
Canterbury is probably one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kent.
Why you should visit Kent?
Kent is famous for its white cliffs of Dover, stunning English landscape, fun seaside resorts, award-winning heritage sites, historic castles and beautiful Cathedrals.
What are good days out in Kent with kids?
There are loads of things to do in Kent for all ages.
With some of the best places to visit with kids include theme parks, national trust sites, the Kent coastline, zip wires and Port Lympne Safari Park.
Is there a ‘cold war submarine’ moored in Kent?
There is a Soviet Navy U-475 Black Widow Submarine from the Cold war period, which is in private hands and moored at Strood, on the River Medway, in Kent.
