When the rainy days come and you can hear the pitter patter of raindrops on your windows, you may just feel like snuggling up on the sofa and staying warm. Don't get us wrong - we LOVE a lazy day - but when plans have been made and you're ready to seize the day, we know a spot or two you can head to no matter the weather! So grab your umbrella, put your hoods up and venture out on a rainy day in Kent...
Ashford Designer Outlet
When those dark clouds start looming in the sky, and you’re looking for somewhere to run for cover, where better than a spot that’s got all you could ask for – food, drink, and entertainment? At the Ashford Designer Outlet, you can spend a dry afternoon checking out amazing offers on essentials, great dining deals, and places where you can find a little treat for yourself (go on, you deserve it!).
Hever Castle
Discover the enchanting childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the queen consort sealed with a terrible fate as she was beheaded by order of the king, King Henry VIII, just three years into their marriage! Learn about Boleyn’s incredible story and about Hever Castle, the 13th century castle that formed the backdrop of events that changed the course of the UK’s history, monarchy and religion. Although there are plenty of outdoor attractions at Hever Castle the castle itself won’t disappoint with one of the best collections of Tudor portraits after the National Portrait Gallery.
Turner Contemporary
On the vibrant and cultural Margate seafront, sat tall and mighty, is Turner Contemporary. When the rain starts, head indoors to shelter, explore a diverse range of contemporary artworks, from paintings to sculptures and multimedia installations. The gallery's stunning architecture and panoramic sea views mean you can look out over stunning seascapes. Their latest exhibition is Anya Gallacio’s Preserve, and the gallery is alive with trees, apples, and a chalk-based 3D printed creation-in-progress. Interested? Take yourself around, or enjoy a highlight tour, running every Friday at 11:30am.
Escape Rooms in Thanet
And it doesn't stop there! Our beautiful Isle of Thanet has got even more days out in store, including a range of brilliant escape rooms. Take cover on those drizzly days, put your skills to the test, and see who in your group will come out reigning champion. With so much to see and explore in the area, you can follow up your challenge with a bite to eat that'll warm you right up.
Dover Castle
If it’s raining cats and dogs outside seek shelter in Dover Castle, a castle of many stories. Above ground step into the dazzling medieval royal palace in the Great Tower, where you can immerse yourself into the King’s court life; and meet the lifelike projected figures guiding you round the castle chambers. Below ground tells a very different story. Explore the dark atmosphere of the Secret War Tunnels, buried deep in the ground with vivid recreations telling the story of Churchills’ plans for the Dunkirk evacuation.
Leeds Castle
A Norman stronghold, a home to six medieval queens, a palace for Tudor royalty, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion and an elegant retreat for the rich and famous, Leeds Castle is one of the most visited historic buildings in the UK. Leeds Castle has always been a place to entertain and impress, so come rain or come shine there is always something to see and do no matter what the weather. Dine like royalty in one of the many delicious dinning places offering classic British dishes or settle in for afternoon tea in the Castle dining room.
The Battle of Britain Memorial
Find out about one of the most important battles fought in England in the 20th century at the Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne, near Folkestone. The modern visitor centre, The Wing, offers a perfect retreat from the rain with an audio-visual extravaganza in the shape of The Scramble Experience. Visit the shop and first floor café, where you'll find a bite to eat an unbeatable views. Get closer to those terrific seascapes and head outside to the Memorial itself to lookout over the Channel.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Until November this year, you and the kids can explore the depths of the ocean, all while keeping dry and warm! You'll explore the seaside tales that make the Historic Dockyard Chatham so iconic, and when better to do so than now, as they celebrate 40 years since becoming a trust? Dive into the excitement as you witness the Ralph Steadman: INKling exhibition, showcasing masterful works from the mind that illustrated the likes of Treasure Island, Alice in Wonderland, and the iconic Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.
Canterbury Roman Museum
Tucked away in the vibrant city of Canterbury, you’ll be transported back in time as you step through the doors of the Canterbury Roman Museum. Explore dazzling history around the remains of an original Roman Town House and see one of the UK’s only remaining in situ Roman pavement mosaics. Bring the little ones along for a day out sheltered from the rain and, with two kids going free per adult, you’ve even more reason to delve into Canterbury’s rich history!
The Beaney
With a year-round calendar of events, you and the kids can get stuck into the art and local history of Canterbury at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. From exploring Ancient Wisdom to getting creative, the whole family can enjoy their time at the museum, letting out that artistic and curious side on those cosy indoor rainy days.
The Gulbenkian
You just can’t beat a movie night when it’s stormy outside – tucked away in the warmth with a snack in hand and adventure ready to roll out before your eyes. So why not make it an extra special occasion and head over to The Gulbenkian, sat on top of the hill in the grounds of the University of Kent? With breathtaking views over the city, you can get a glimpse of the grand stormy skies (hello Canterbury Cathedral!), before heading inside to catch the latest movies and theatre productions.
Canterbury Cathedral
Whether it's discovering the history of the stained glass windows, delving into the history of the pilgrimage, or meeting the sculptured animals that dot the Cathedral's architecture, your next rainy day can be found in the heart of Canterbury. Bring along the whole family for a day of interactive, immersive, and interesting learning! Who's ready? We'll see you there...
Westgate Towers Escape Rooms
Set in England's largest surviving medieval gateway, Escape in the Towers has got to make it onto your next rainy day bucket list. Canterbury is the home to plenty of history, so why not immerse yourself in it in the best way possible, and take on the challenge to escape? Solve mysteries and look for clues, and see who will be the first one to make it out...
Penshurst Place and Gardens
Grab your wellies and get stuck in on these wet and windy days at Penshurst Place and Gardens! Zip your coats all the way up and embrace the wet weather in the Adventure Playground as you take on some brilliant obstacles and the high walk. Let your imagination run wild in the Gardens and Grounds and then head into the Porcupine Pantry café for a warming hot drink and scrumptious food to end a wonderful Autumnal day.
Wildwood Kent
We don't know about you, but we love an afternoon walk in the drizzly rain. At Wildwood Kent, you can have just that, plus the added bonus of seeing some beautiful animals, all native to the UK! This wildlife haven just outside of Canterbury will see you encountering wolves, bison, bears, and plenty more as the Wildwood Trust undergoes brilliant conservation work. If the rain gets too much, just head to their cosy cafe and treat yourself to a warm tea and cake - now that's a perfect rainy day!
Powell-Cotton Museum
With SEND friendly days, wheelchair access, and activities throughout, the Powell Cotton Museum is a must visit for everyone. Explore diverse collections from Africa and Asia, admire the stunning Quex House, stroll through the gardens, view natural history dioramas, enjoy interactive displays, and relax at the tea-room.
Kent Cookery School
Whether you’re the next Gordon Ramsey or you don’t know where the frying pans are in your kitchen, the Kent Cookery School is the place to go this rainy season to learn something new. Settle down and get ready to grow your foodie knowledge as the experts guide you through new recipes, cooking techniques, and cuisines. Bread-kneading, doughnut-making, and curry-simmering…here we come!
rochester cathedral
Heritage in Medway
On a rainy day in Medway, you’re in luck with heritage sites to choose from and enjoy. You can explore the second oldest cathedral at Rochester Cathedral, the Elizabethan Eastgate House, or even the inspiration for Dickens’ writings at Gad’s Hill Place. The Guildhall Museum and Eastgate House are also excellent options for a rainy day exploration of the region's history and architecture.
The Panic Room
When the weather's lousy in Gravesend, the Panic Room is the perfect indoor adventure spot! Escape the rain and make memories with the family, solving puzzles and finding clues in different themed rooms. Spend time together and challenge yourselves, all while staying warm and dry. From mysteries to horror, they've got it all, so you'll have a blast beating the bad weather blues.
The Long Rest Board Game Café
And if you fancy even more cosy afternoons spent battling it out with friends as the weather rages on outside, Canterbury's first board game cafe awaits. The Long Rest Cafe has got everything you could ask for on those drizzly days - great entertainment, a menu of hearty dishes (and plenty for the vegans in the group, too!), topped off by a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We can't wait for the next rainy day!
The Mug and Meeple
When the weather's gloomy, don't let it dampen your spirits! Head over to Mug and Meeple in Gravesend, the perfect spot to spend a cosy afternoon, getting stuck in to fantastic board games with a drink in hand and good vibes all around. No sun? No problem! You’re set for a fantastic day of games and adventure, away from the rain.
Lost Island Adventure Golf
Up for a challenge to show off your mini-golfing skills? At Lost Island Adventure Golf, get you’re a-game on as you make your way through adventure and challenges, tackling the secret shack, dense jungles, ferocious dinosaurs, and more. No sunshine? No problem! Get lost in the world of adventure, and you'll forget about the rain in no time...
