It’s the last hurrah, the final days of summer and the only long weekend left before (we’ll say it) Christmas! The August bank holiday in Kent has arrived and the pressure is on to soak it up and make it the last big bonanza of the season. What are the bank holiday events in Kent and how on earth do I cope with that kind of pressure, we hear you ask? With vibrant vineyards, festivals, blooming gardens and maybe even a weekend away, you can’t go wrong with our list of ideas.
But don’t worry if you’re not ready to say goodbye to summer just yet, as the warmest and driest spot in the UK, we’re pretty sure we’ve got plenty more beautiful weekends in Kent to look forward to.
Vivacious vineyards
We’re looking to Kent’s vineyards for our last taste of lazy summer days this bank holiday. Head to The View, Hush Heath’s chic tasting room for roof terrace views across the vines, delectable wines and charcuterie platters too tempting to pass up. Or soak up the sunshine in Gusbourne’s very own wine garden. Sipping a chilled glass of their Blanc de Blancs, overlooking sundrenched vines sounds like the ultimate way to raise a toast to summer 2019.
Sensational short breaks
Go on, you deserve one last break before summer ends, so check into the Cave Hotel & Golf Resort for the ultimate luxury weekend. Whether it’s the spa, 18-hole course or gourmet restaurant you fancy, a break here will soon banish those end of summer blues. If you’re looking to really make the most of the last of the sunshine, a break with The Camping and Caravanning Club won’t disappoint. Choose from cityscapes in Canterbury, coastal views in Folkestone, or country living in Oldbury Woods and pitch up for fresh air and back-to-nature simplicity.
Marvelous Maidstone
History heroes, it’s time to head to Maidstone! The Military Odyssey is back with re-enactors galore celebrating history from the Romans to the American Civil War. With 4,000 re-enactors, a battlefield and 250 stalls, this is set to be one for the history buffs. For the sweet-toothed, the Kent Life Ice Cream Festival is back in town and sweeter than ever. Be it sorbet, soft serve or gelato, this Monday sundae is the cherry on top of the summer, with 20 flavours and endless toppings to choose from.
Your knight in shining armour
Saddle up, it’s time to live the Arthurian legend at Dover Castle this weekend! Skilful knights, magnificent steeds, jousting and jesters – this action packed medieval marvel will separate the cowards from the brave in an epic tournament, so you'd better shine up your armour!
Local & Live
The rolling gardens of Calverley Grounds, live music, family friendly events at The Spa Hotel and no entry fee – the Local & Live Music Festival sounds like a dream! With four days of local food, drink and music, bring along the family, take your pick of sensational live acts and enjoy the perfect way to bid farewell to the summer in Tunbridge Wells.
Something for the little ones
On Sunday 25th August, the mighty moving T-Rex will stalk the grounds of Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for the final time! Hunt for fossils, watch dinosaur shows and enjoy a prehistoric adventure that any budding archaeologist will dig! The Beach at Bluewater is hiding all sorts of hidden gems this bank holiday weekend as the Pirate Treasure Hunt commences! Who knew the kids could be so happy on a shopping trip?
By the seaside
A Kite Surfing Championship in Ramsgate, afternoon tea in the horticultural splendour of the Sands Hotel, a country show packed with falconry displays, classic cars and stunt teams at Quex Park and the rip-roaring Roller Coast Festival at Dreamland – whatever your interest, the bank holiday Weekend is looking sand-sensational in beautiful Thanet! Now all you have to do is choose which event will be your celebration of the last days of summer.
September festivals
What was that we said about the end of August not being the end of summer? Keep those lazy, hazy days rolling on at The Belmont Woodfest and Country Fair from 7th – 8th September with a tree-mendous celebration of the woodland. Watch chainsaw carving, basket weaving, The Galloping Acrobatics plus, dog lovers, stay calm, the Golden Retriever Display Team at this fantastic festival.
