Did you hear? Bus travel is free in Kent and Medway for the weekend of 24th-25th June. That date sounds familiar you say? Well that’s because that’s the weekend of the Kent Big Weekend! So, not only are you in for the chance to win tickets from our ballot, but to top it all off you can be chauffeured to and from your winning attraction, for free! Don’t worry, for those of you who aren’t so lucky this year, you can still make the most of the free travel and head out for the weekend to your favourite Kent attractions, because as you know, we have lots of free or great value places to visit… looks like we’re all winners after all!
So, let’s step on the bus, take a seat, and enjoy the free ride. First stop, The Isle of Thanet…
We’re pleased to be partnering with Kent County Council on their Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) initiative, funded by the UK government through Kent’s Enhanced Bus Partnership Schemes. You can find out more about the scheme here.
East Kent
Thanet
We’re kicking things off in the lovely Isle of Thanet and have some amazing free and great value attractions that are easily accessible by bus…
Head to Turner Contemporary in Margate on a Stagecoach bus, where you can enter the stunning art gallery for free. The bus stop is just a short walk away, so soak in the fresh air and surroundings of this thriving seaside town as you make your way to see the artwork. From there, take a short 10-minute walk along the front to our next stop, Dreamland. Head on in for free and explore the fairground – all you need to do is pay for your rides!
After exploring Margate, hop back on the bus and why not make your way to Broadstairs? You can catch the bus from Margate, Cecil Street Council Offices and arrive at Broadstairs, Pierremont Hall in around 30 minutes. You have to visit the Blue Flag beach, Joss Bay whilst you’re there, but there’s also lots of attractions in the area like, Lillyput Mini Golf and Dickens House Museum. If you’re feeling peckish after a morning of exploring, there’s lots of choice for a snack and well, it wouldn’t be a day out in Broadstairs without an ice cream now would it!
Check out the Stagecoach Journey Planner and plan your route!
Canterbury
Next, you’re off to the busy city of Canterbury and guess what, we have thought of some wonderful things to do whilst you’re visiting…
It wouldn’t be a visit to the city without exploring the stunning Canterbury Cathedral. To enter, it’s £16 per adult and under 17s go free. There’s lots of history to discover, as well as architectural triumphs, spectacular stained glass windows, and magnificent collections, making this a valuable day out - so let’s just say it’s well worth the visit! With so much more to explore within the city, like The Beany House of Arts & Knowledge which is free, and we’ve come up with the perfect way to recharge and relax – a picnic at Westgate Gardens.
Still up for more? Catch the Triangle Stagecoach bus from Canterbury Bus Station and make your way to Whitstable, and don’t worry about the slowcoaches who dawdle, because this route runs every 20 minutes. Step off the bus and smell the fresh air of the popular seaside town. Known for its famous oysters and breath-taking sunsets, oh, and its independent shops, quirky coffee spots and other delicious foodie options. You must try the oysters at The Forge for the best oysters in town, and of course explore the Whitstable Harbour, or take a walk over to Whitstable Castle and discover the gardens.
Herne Bay is only a short bus ride from Whitstable and has a seafront and town full of things to do for the day. If you’ve got the kids then they’ll have lots to keep them entertained here, like the IFun Amusement arcade which has an ice cream shop and mini golf and of course the pier which has plenty of attractions, a mini retail village and food court. The Herne Bay Seaside Museum is also a great little gem to visit and is only £3 to enter and under 16s go free!
Check out the Stagecoach Journey Planner and plan your route!
Dover
Let’s head on over to Dover and its surrounding towns to find out which attractions you can visit on the Big Free Bus Weekend…
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover is something everyone must witness when visiting the town. To do this take the Stagecoach Diamond 15, Canterbury to Dover to Deal and be sure to bring your camera! If you fancy a walk, head up to the South Foreland Lighthouse costing £6 per adult and £3 per child to enter, where you can have a snack in the Tea Room, fly a kite, or simply soak in the views. Or, if you didn’t fancy the walk, after arriving at Dover, Taswell Street, you could wander around at your leisure. The Dover Museum is just an 8-minute walk from that stop and you’ll also be surrounded by shops, cafes and bars.
For those looking to adventure a little further, we suggest hopping back on the bus at Taswell Street and taking a 30-minute journey to Deal South Street. Step off here and you’ll find yourself just a short 3-minute walk to Deal Pier. Or, it might work out best for you to travel to Sandwich, in which case check out Sandwich Guildhall Museum for free, there’s also a kids playground and skatepark.
Check out the Stagecoach Journey Planner and plan your route!
Folkestone & Hythe
Heading to Folkestone for the day? Good choice! If you’ve already explored Folkestone, you’ll know you can easily spend the whole day here, or if you’ve always wanted to go, you’re in the right place to find out what you can get up to…
A must-visit when exploring the creative town is Folkestone Harbour Arm, served directly by the 74 and 75, so you don't even have to walk down from the city centre. You can fill up on your choice of delicious food from The Goods Yard or harbour restaurants, practice your swing at Putters! Adventure Golf Course, and on the Sunday, piano led jazz trio, Fewtrio will be playing classic rock and pop hits for free! Be sure to explore the creative quarter and its artwork and follow the map and routes here!
Did you know you can hop on the number 10 bus at Folkestone Bus Station and in around 45 minutes arrive at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park? Kent’s largest wildlife park makes for the perfect day out for the whole family with over 900 animals to see and with a bus stop right outside, making this an easily accessible attraction by bus.
Check out the Stagecoach Journey Planner and plan your route!
West Kent
Ashford
Take a Stagecoach bus for a big weekend in Ashford! There’s lots to explore in the heart of the town, as well as amazing attractions in the surrounding towns and villages…
Travelling into the town centre? Take the bus to Bank Street, then a 2-minute walk and you’ll arrive at Ashford Borough Museum where you can enter for free and discover the collection of artefacts, relating to the Borough of Ashford and its people. If you wanted to stay local and fancied an activity for the whole family to enjoy, then take a short walk to the Hollywood Bowls and take part in a bit of bowling. Did someone say shopping?! It wouldn’t be a trip to Ashford without a visit to the Designer Outlet, so let’s tell you how to get there. Catch the bus from Ashford, County Square and arrive at South Ashford, Designer Outlet and Asda (Stop B) in just over 10 minutes…then you’re ready to shop away. And, you couldn’t come at a better time as their summer sale has started, so you can now show your favourite designer brands at amazing price!
Let’s head to Tenterden now and see what we can do there. With the journey being just under an hour from Bank Street, Ashford, before you know it you’ll be stepping off the bus and exploring the many independent, shops, cafes and pubs, among its historic buildings. Why not take a short walk to Old Dairy Taproom or after exploring Tenterden, catch the bus from the Town Hall to Small Hythe, Church and head to Chapel Down Estate where you can take part in a tour or a winery experience.
Check out the Stagecoach Journey Planner and plan your route!
Maidstone
Maidstone here we come! Let’s see what you can get up to, and find some free and great value attractions for you to visit…
Now, it wouldn’t be a visit to Maidstone without checking out Leeds Castle. Once you’ve arrived, it’s time to begin the fun! Head to The Maze & Grotto or practice your swing at the Adventure Golf and of course explore the beautiful gardens. Did you know you can do a Segway Tour around the castle? Or get adventurous at GoApe? Now that’s a big weekend well spent.
If you are looking to stay a little more local to the town centre, then why not check out the Maidstone Museum & Bentlif Art Gallery – it’s free! Or for those of you looking to have an adventure, then be sure to visit The Climbing Experience, just a 10-mintue walk from the high street and costing just £12.50pp or £15pp at peak times.
Sevenoaks
Explore Sevenoaks for the Big Free Bus Weekend with Arriva! It’s another of Kent’s amazing gems, with attractions, beautiful National Trust properties and historic sites that are waiting to be explored…
Catch the bus from Sevenoaks Bus Station and arrive at Bidborough Corner (roughly 20 minutes). From there, take the bus to Institute (9 minutes) where you can then take a 7-minute walk to Penshurst Place and Gardens. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be greeted by a magnificent sight of the stunning house, gardens and grounds ready for you to wander, explore, and learn all about the history. The latest prices can be found here.
We’re back at Sevenoaks Bus Station now with some more bus routes that take you to some great attractions here in Sevenoaks. Knole Park is just a 14-minute bus journey from the bus station to Sevenoaks School, where you’ll take a short 15-minute walk to Knole Park. Be sure to visit some of this National Trust Property’s top features, like the Show Rooms, Gatehouse Tower, The Royal Oak Foundation Conservation Studio and Parkland. It is advised to book to guarantee your entry and pricing costs just £6 for adults and £3 for children!
Tunbridge Wells
We’ve got some great attractions on our list that you need to know about if you’re travelling to Tunbridge Wells for the Big Free Bus Weekend…
Right in the heart of this royal town you can find the Amelia Scott. Most of the bus services for Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre stop right outside at the Tunbridge Wells War Memorial or by Royal Victoria Place shopping centre – which is great news for those who are looking to visit and learn a little about the history of the town. Whilst you’re there, head to The Pantiles and soak in the scenery. Be sure to bring your camera and snap away as you can get some great shots here!
@David Hodgkinson
Tonbridge & Malling
So, you’re heading out for the Big Free Bus Weekend around Tonbridge and Malling? Good idea! Let’s take a look at what you can get up to…
When it comes to exploring Tonbridge, you’ve got lots of things that can keep you busy for the day. Starting off in Tonbridge High Street, arrive at Castle (Stop C) and from here you can explore the local shops and cafes. Take a walk down to the Big Bridge in Tonbridge High Street and hop on a river boat trip. If you love to keep active and don’t mind a bit of walking, then catch the bus to the Green Flag awarded park, Haysden Country Park, only 15 minutes walk from the nearest bus service Chaucer Gardens. Oh, don’t forget to pick up some snacks when you’re in town as there’s four different picnic areas to choose from. You can also go cycling, do some fishing or watersports and there’s also a children’s play area if you’re with your little ones.
Whilst you're there, why not visit Ightham Mote! This attraction is £16 per adult and £8 per child, but be sure to check out more information before you visit here. This 14th-century moated manor house has 14 acres of tranquil garden, pleasure grounds, orchard, water features, lakes and woodland to explore - another must-visit attraction for the hikers and nature-lovers!
Don’t forget, you could also visit West Malling and explore the area there. Another one for the walkers is Great Comp Gardens, with the closest bus stop being Flour Mill (just under 20-mintute walk). Or, if you’re heading to the town centre to explore the shops and cafes (bus stops in the High Street), take a 12-minute walk to Manor Park Country Park and you’ll find a large, open green space and an attractive lake, perfect for a family day out!
North Kent
Gravesham
We’re heading to North Kent now and taking a look at Gravesham. Let’s find out where to explore…
Let’s begin with Gravesend, and we’ve got just the thing for those heading out for the day with friends or even something for the family! Arrive at Clock Tower bus stop then head around the corner and you’ll arrive at one of the Panic Room Escape’s locations. Oh yes, you must have done an escape room before! Come along to this popular attraction and you’ll also find mini golf, axe throwing and so much more! They have locations scattered all around the town so be sure to check them out before you travel here. A must for when visiting Gravesend is the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurdwara. This stunning place of worship is well worth the visit and it’s just a 7-minute walk from the Clock Tower bus stop.
If you’re looking for something a little active, head to the Cyclopark. You can hop back on the Arriva bus at Clock Tower bus stop and head to Coldharbour Road Morrisons, Northfleet. From there, it’s just under a 10-minute walk to the Cyclopark where you can hire bikes, take to the mountain bike track or begin your lessons on the BMX track. Check all availability and further information before your visit.
Swale
Is there somewhere in Swale you’ve always wanted to go? Then let’s take a look at some of Swale’s favourite attractions that are accessible by bus…
We’re kicking things off on the outskirts of Faversham where you can catch the bus from the town centre for a short 5-minute bus journey to Love Lane. Just a 3-minute walk down the road and you’ll end up at Macknade Fine Foodhall. Try their delicious food, discover a range of incredible local produce or have a wander around their Wine Store. You could also pay a visit to Mount Ephraim Country House & Gardens. The 638 bus between Faversham and Whitstable stops by the Three Horseshoes Pub on Staple Street – a 5-minute walk on pavements. Here, entry to The Gardens will cost adults, £8 and children (aged 4-16), £3 but you can check out more of the entry prices here.
Let’s not forget, the Isle of Sheppey is accessible by bus and there’s so much you can explore! Catch one of the Island buses and explore the island. Did you know, here you can board a cruise with JetStream Tours? Cruise Around the Wreck or Around the Island, whatever tour suits you, just be sure to bring your camera and be sure to check their website for availability! Don’t want to end your day trip there? Then why not hop on the 361 bus to the Blue Flag beach, Minster Leas. Grab and ice cream and walk on the shingles. Sounds like a day in Sheppey well spent!
View the Chalkwalk Island Buses information to plan your travels.
Medway
Time to explore Medway with Arriva. From the stunning Rochester Cathedral to the wonderful Historic Dockyard Chatham, let’s get travelling…
Let’s kick things off in Rochester and see what you can get up to. First on our list has to be the glorious Rochester Cathedral. Stop at one of the local bus stops, some just a 2-minute walk to the Cathedral. Rochester Cathedral is England’s second oldest Cathedral and has a history steeping back 1400 years. What’s more, entering the Cathedral is free!
Take a 4-minute walk from the Cathedral to Railway Station D bus stop and hop on the bus to Chatham Waterfront Bus Station which will only take you roughly 7-minutes. Here, you can take a 2-minute bus to Chatham Dockyard Main Gate and guess where you’ll end up… The Historic Dockyard Chatham. To purchase online tickets it will cost £25.00 for adults and £15.00 for children, but with so much to explore, from Commands of the Ocean to the Historic Railway, as well as talks and tours included in the ticket price, it’s well worth the visit!
So there we have it, our Big Free Bus Weekend round-up! Be sure to make the most of the free travel and head on out to explore the many wonderful attractions here in Kent. Want to find out what other bus companies are offering free travel for the weekend? Check them out here.
