With the warm weather fast approaching, Kent is pulling out all the stops and letting the sunshine guide our days. Sandy beaches, al fresco dining, festivals to amaze…and when we need a little shade, a moment out of the sun where we can keep the good times going, we’ve got just the list. Here are our favourite places to cool off in Kent.
And while you’re out and about in Kent, it’s important to stay hydrated. Grab your favourite water bottle and download the Refill app, so you always know where you can fill up on your days out – and trust us, there’s a lot in Kent. You’ll never have to buy another plastic bottle again!
Cool off indoors
Historic Dockyard Chatham
The Age of Sail is waiting to be explored at the Historic Dockyard Chatham, with its indoor exhibitions the perfect place to keep cool on those hot summer days. Take a moment inside as you wander breathtaking instalments, all tailored to tell the 400-year-old story of maritime adventure. And with the Medway Gaming Festival coming up on 15th June, you’ve got all the more reason to visit.
Thanet
On the Isle of Thanet, they’re ready for the warmer weather, with not one, not two, but three places to go underground! Whether it’s the Margate Caves, Ramsgate Tunnels, or the Shell Grotto, all not only offer a shady escape from the sun, but also a fantastic exploration into the history of the area. Be guided by the experts as you go down under!
Canterbury Cathedral
Just picturing the heavy stone walls of Canterbury Cathedral is enough to cool us down, so join us as we head down even further and see the crypts. Well out of the sunshine, a visit will leave you having learnt something new about the history of the world-known city, while also staying cool. Take a guided tour to explore even more, and be sure to stop off in the café for a refreshing drink on your way out.
Cool off with local produce
Macknade Beer & BBQ Festival
This July, let Macknade do the work for you as they bring to life their inaugural Beer and BBQ Festival on the spot where we’d usually head to for all our local produce needs. Sit back under the canopy, and see the site transformed into a buzz of live music, cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities, and (most importantly) delicious food to call in the season in style.
Maidstone Distillery
Nestled in the Grade II listed historic Market Buildings in Maidstone town centre, Maidstone Distillery most certainly makes the list of cool places to go this summer. With plenty of award-winning experiences on offer, as well as their unique and stylish bar, there are plenty of reasons to keep going back this summer – what better way to beat the heat than with a sip of a gin and tonic, distilled and made right in front of your eyes?
(c) Alex Hare
Shepherd Neame
The sun’s out…this calls for some locally crafted beer! With a crisp pint in hand, and unforgettable views out to sea, Shepherd Neame’s The Old Neptune is the place to go this summer. Sat on the seafront in Whitstable, the only thing that comes close to topping their drinks is the atmosphere. On a warm summer’s eve, you can catch that fiery sunset as you sip on a glass Whitstable Bay and soak in the glory of it all.
Cool off in the water
Faversham Swimming Pools
What better way to cool off than in an outdoor pool? Get beach towels at the ready and head along to Faversham Swimming Pools, where the heated pools are looking cool as can be, and ready to be dived into! With pools that are both kid friendly and accessible, there’s a day out waiting for everyone in the group.
Canoe Wild
Sun is shining in the sky, and we’re searching for active days out that will keep the whole group entertained while staying cool. At Canoe Wild, you can spend the day by the water, while enjoying the beautiful flora and fauna of the county. With paddling, canoeing, kayaking, raft building, and wildlife spotting, your summer diary is practically planning itself.
Tiller & Wheel
All aboard! Pop on your sailor hat and get to grips with life at sea. This family-run business could hold in its palm your next day out, with tidal cruises, estuary exploration, and much more to choose from along Kent's north coast. Experts will guide you along the way in your Tiller & Wheel experience, allowing you to master your nautical skills.
Cool off in nature
Hever Castle
Kent’s iconic attractions are getting creative, and just at the right time. To celebrate the sun coming out and getting to spend time outdoors, Hever Castle’s itinerary is jam-packed with fun. One thing we’ve got on our summer bucket list are their sessions with Tansy in the Wild, where the historic setting acts as the backdrop to incredible mindfulness and forest bathing sessions. Shaded in the trees, it’s time to get back to nature…
Go Ape
Don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying those adrenaline-fueled days out – it’s time to get active! Swing among the treetops at one of the thrilling Go Ape sites in the county, whether it be on the grounds of the dazzling Leeds Castle, or amongst the picturesque Bedgebury Pinetum. Get your heart pumping as you head up into the trees, shaded from the sunshine as you kick your body into full gear.
Cool off while you snooze
While staying in Kent at your self-catering accommodation, always remember to shop local for the best tasting food and drink, and take home your food that’s left over to savour it fully!
Keepers Cottages
Have peace of mind this summer, as Keepers Cottages bring you some of the best places to stay, making the perfect base for those outdoors adventures. Wander the Kingsdown Bluebell Woods with all of your closet friends, knowing that Oldestairs House awaits, sleeping 10 and just a short walk for when you want to pop to the beach. Get used to eating al fresco as their Whitstable property, Peace Cottage, brings with it a tranquil garden and sea views. Or dive into the season at Bowden Lodge, where their outdoor pool is enough to get us booking in a stay as soon as possible!
Bloom Stays
And for even more options on where to rest your head on this year’s staycation, why not peruse the list of Bloom Stays properties across the county? For those times when the friends, family, and plus ones are coming to visit, you can all find a home-away-from-home at the dreamy Finchcocks Oast, fit with an outdoor heated pool, tennis court, and brilliant indoor spaces where you can chat together late into the evening. Or how about the quintessentially luxurious Dormestone Farm, a 15th century farmhouse plucked straight out of a Country Living magazine?
Getting around
Take the stress away from those days outdoors as you sit back with Southeastern, who’re ready and waiting with your journey planned for you. Using their app, you can get from spot to spot at the click of a button, saving you on the pennies and the time. So, where will your next day out take you?
