Summer Holidays in Kent 2025

Set sail on a LEGO® adventure at The Historic Dockyard Chatham! 

8th March to 31st August 2025 

Ahoy, mini builders and adventure seekers, it’s time to set sail for fun at The Historic Dockyard Chatham’s Brickwrecks exhibition! This amazing LEGO® adventure brings real-life shipwreck stories to life, from the mighty Titanic to mysterious ancient vessels, all built from thousands of tiny bricks.  

Kids (and grown-ups!) can marvel at the incredible models, dive into fascinating underwater tales, and even take part in a super fun LEGO® building competition. There’s hands-on fun around every corner, perfect for curious minds and little explorers.  

So get ready to climb aboard and build memories!  

Paddle, play and splash the day away at Canoe Wild -  

Make a splash with the whole family this summer at Canoe Wild! Hop into a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and enjoy a sunny day out on the water. It’s the perfect way to spend time together and spot some local wildlife along the way.  

Brand new this year is the Super Canoe (yes, it’s as awesome as it sounds!) it’s big, it’s stable, and it’s made for giggles and group adventures, whether you're paddling for an hour or cruising all the way to Grove Ferry.  

Little explorers can join the Young Paddlers Club every Wednesday for fun, games, and learning new paddling skills. This is a fantastic way for kids to stay active and try something new! Plus, it’s a drop-off session, so grown-ups can relax or even enjoy a peaceful paddle of their own.  

With fresh air, family fun, and a bit of splashy adventure, Canoe Wild is the perfect summer day out! 

Six weeks of non-stop fun at Penshurst Place! 

Are you looking for summer holiday magic for the whole family to love? Penshurst Place and Gardens has six whole weeks of fun ready and waiting every single day! Little adventurers can follow the daily garden trail, get messy with crafts on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and go wild on Wednesdays with archery, axe-throwing, and delicious s’mores-making with Camp Wilderness. Saturdays are all about excitement with falconry or laser clay shooting, and Sundays bring storybook fun with Alice in Wonderland tales under the trees. And the best part? It’s all included in your ticket! Add in a huge adventure playground, woodland walks, beautiful gardens, and a cosy café (or pack a picnic!) and you’ve got the perfect family day out in the heart of Kent! 

Pack a picnic, round up the kids, and make this summer one to remember at Penshurst! 

Step back in time for a historic adventure at The Battle of Britain Memorial -  

Looking for a day out that’s full of fun and sneaks in a bit of learning? The Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne has got you covered this summer! Kids will love getting up close to replica aircraft, exploring hands-on activities in The Scramble Experience, and playing their way through history.  

Grown-ups can enjoy the stunning clifftop views and feel good knowing there’s plenty of educational fun packed in too. There's even an exciting audio-visual show that brings the stories of World War Two to life in a way kids will really enjoy. With a family-friendly café and a shop full of keepsakes, it’s the perfect mix of adventure, discovery and summer smiles. 

Take off on a day out they’ll never forget - history has never been this much fun! 

Unleash the adventure at Betteshanger Park this summer! 

Get ready for a summer of non-stop outdoor fun at Betteshanger Park! Whether you're biking through leafy trails, building epic dens in the woods, or hunting for treasure on a nature walk, there's something for every little explorer. Families can try archery, fossil hunting, or even go on a dinosaur discovery – perfect for curious minds and active feet. 

 With wide open spaces to run, play and picnic, it’s the ultimate place to burn off energy and make happy summer memories. The park café is ready with tasty treats when it’s time to refuel, and there are plenty of spots to relax with a picnic, while the kids let off steam. 

Adventure is calling! Round up the family and head to Betteshanger Park for a wild summer day out! 

Step into history and magic at Rochester Cathedral -  

Step into a real-life storybook this summer with a family day out to Rochester Cathedral! Kids can follow fun trails through one of England’s oldest cathedrals, spotting hidden details, fascinating features, and maybe even a knight or two. There are hands-on activities, craft sessions, and plenty of chances to let little imaginations run wild.  

Grown-ups will love the stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere, while little ones enjoy exploring the space where history comes to life. With family-friendly events running throughout the summer and a cosy café nearby, it’s the perfect mix of learning, creativity, and calm. 

Step inside, explore the past, and make magical memories together this summer at Rochester Cathedral! 

Hop on for a breezy seaside adventure with Stagecoach Route 69! 

Hop onboard the Stagecoach Route 69 open-top bus and turn your family day out into a seaside adventure! Feel the breeze in your hair as you ride from Ramsgate’s Boating Pool to the sandy shores of Stone Bay in Broadstairs, all with stunning coastal views along the way. Kids will love the novelty of riding up top, and grown-ups can sit back and soak up the sunshine Running every weekend, bank holiday, and school holiday throughout spring and summer the open-top bus is perfect for spontaneous family fun. Whether you're heading to the beach, grabbing ice cream, or just enjoying the ride, it’s a great way to explore Thanet without the stress of parking. 

Climb on, grab a seat up top, and let the coastal adventures begin! 

Unleash your creativity at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens -  

16th July to 31st August 2025 

Get ready for a summer of magical events at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens! Over seven weeks, your little ones can dive into a world of imagination and create their very own miniature masterpieces. From designing a mini garden in a box to building magical fairy homes, woodland creatures, and even toadstools made from cork… the fun never stops!  

Every week brings something new and exciting - think clay houses, puppet creatures, and fabric flowers that are out of this world. Plus, there's even a week to create a cozy little matchbox home or a comfy nook for a bear! With so many hands-on adventures, Riverhill is the perfect place for families to get crafty and let their imaginations run wild. 

Come join the creative fun at Riverhill this summer – where tiny ideas turn into big adventures! 

The ultimate family summer in Canterbury! 

Looking for the perfect summer holiday spot? Stay right here in Kent and head to the beautiful, historic city of Canterbury. Where cobbled streets, riverside walks, and stunning architecture set the scene for a magical family adventure.  

Start your day at The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, where kids can explore with specially designed SEND family backpacks, complete with sensory tools and a cuddly Beaney Buddy! Dive into the past at the Canterbury Roman Museum with hands-on fun like mosaic-making and ancient artefact hunts.  

Just a short hop away, (and just after the summer holidays) look forward to the Whitstable Oyster Festival (13–15 September) bringing seaside charm to life with live music, delicious seafood, and colourful parades. For family entertainment, catch a show at The Marlowe Theatre or the Gulbenkian Arts Centre. Whether you're uncovering history, enjoying the arts, or celebrating by the sea, Canterbury and the Kent coast are packed with unforgettable summer experiences for families. 

Embark on a summer of history and fun in Medway -

Get ready for a summer full of discovery in Medway, where history comes to life and adventure is around every corner! Step into the past at the Guildhall Museum in Rochester, where kids can explore and learn about pirates, smugglers, and life on the River Medway. For a proper castle quest, head to Upnor Castle, a real 16th-century fortress where children can roam the ancient halls, imagine battles from long ago, and enjoy stunning views over the river. With plenty of green spaces, charming tearooms, and exciting events popping up all summer long, Medway is packed with fun for curious minds and energetic explorers alike. With its blend of historic gems, lively towns and riverside charm, Medway is a must-visit destination for a family summer staycation.

Make a splash in Thanet this summer - 

This summer, Thanet transforms into a vibrant playground for families seeking seaside adventures and cultural delights. Embark on a Seashore Safari with the Thanet Coast Project, exploring the fascinating rockpool wildlife along the chalk rocky shores of West Bay, Botany Bay, and beyond perfect for young explorers aged 4 to 11. For a self-guided experience, pick up a Coastal Explorer Pack filled with equipment and activity cards to uncover the secrets of Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate's coastlines. In Margate, the Turner Contemporary offers free, drop-in family workshops every weekend, linked to the current exhibition at the gallery, and engaging Family Highlight Tours designed especially for young visitors. Add even more adventure with a Ramsgate Tunnels Explorer Tour, where kids can step back in time and wander through hidden underground passageways, or join a free guided walk with Bird Wise East Kent to discover the incredible coastal birdlife and habitats. Don't miss the lively events at Herne Bay Pier and the Seaside Museum Herne Bay, where history and fun collide in interactive exhibits and summer festivities. Whether it's hands-on art, coastal discoveries, or festive celebrations, Thanet offers endless opportunities for family fun under the sun. 

Get ready for a wild summer at Bedgebury -  

Are you ready for a summer adventure surrounded by nature? Head to Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, where towering trees and beautiful trails await families of all ages. Little adventurers will love the exciting play areas, wild bike rides, and Gruffalo-themed woodland walks. Pack a picnic or grab something tasty from the café and enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by nature. Whether you're climbing, cycling, or simply exploring, there’s something for everyone… even the dog! Get outdoors, get active, and make magical summer memories at Bedgebury! 

Swing into adventure fun this summer at Go Ape -  

How about a summer full of thrills and adventure? Head to Go Ape at Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest or Go Ape at Leeds Castle for treetop fun the whole family will love! 

At Bedgebury, tackle the Treetop Challenge with zip lines, rope ladders, and swinging Tarzan jumps or bring the little ones to the Treetop Adventure for a fun-filled climbing experience. Over at Leeds Castle, get your competitive spirit going with their brand new Axe Throwing challenge, perfect for older kids and adults!  Whether you’re soaring through the trees or aiming for the bullseye, there’s excitement for all ages this summer. So grab your harness and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure at Go Ape! 

The ultimate summer rides await at Dreamland -  

Get ready for a day of non-stop fun at Dreamland in Margate this summer! With the brand-new all-day wristbands, families can enjoy unlimited rides on the iconic Scenic Railway, the spinning Gallopers carousel, and the Big Wheel, all with amazing views of the seaside! Kids will love the Tiny Tots wristbands, giving them access to cute and fun rides like the Cup & Saucer and Mini Ferris Wheel. Plus, Dreamland isn’t just about the rides, there’s always something exciting happening, like outdoor movie nights and live music for all ages! With its lively atmosphere, classic fairground fun, and tons of family events, Dreamland is the perfect place to make summer memories. Come for the rides, stay for the fun, Dreamland is waiting for you!

Adventure, nature and fun at Belmont House and Gardens -  

Belmont House & Gardens in Kent is the perfect destination for family fun and adventure! Explore the beautiful Georgian house and its stunning gardens, where kids can roam freely and enjoy the open spaces. This summer, enjoy outdoor performances like Alice in Wonderland and get creative with hands-on workshops such as Wild Classroom Cooking Classes and watch the bird of prey soar. Whether you’re discovering the history of the house, playing in the gardens, or learning something new, Belmont House & Gardens is the ideal spot to make lasting family memories. 

Fly into family fun at Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation -  

Why don’t owls go on dates in the summer? Because it’s too hoot! Head to Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Kent for a day of family fun that’s anything but ordinary. Watch incredible birds of prey take to the skies, meet mischievous meerkats, and get up close to amazing animals from around the world. Kids will love the chance to explore, learn, and even join a husky hike through the stunning North Downs. With play areas, picnic spots, and a tearoom to refuel, there’s everything you need for a brilliant day out. Open every day in the holidays, Eagle Heights is the perfect summer adventure for curious little explorers, so grab your little adventurers and soar into a day of wild fun! 

Step into a fairytale adventure at Hever Castle this summer -  

Step into a real-life fairytale at Hever Castle, where history, gardens, and family fun come together in the most magical way! Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, this stunning castle is bursting with stories, secret passageways, and enough charm to capture every imagination. This summer, families can enjoy hands-on activities, adventure playgrounds, and the thrill of the famous water maze – perfect for keeping cool while getting lost in laughter.  Plus, don’t miss the incredible jousting tournaments, where gallant knights clash in thrilling battles, and the falconry displays, where majestic birds of prey soar across the skies in spectacular shows. 

Little knights and princesses will love exploring the castle grounds, spotting wildlife, and diving into the interactive exhibits. With seasonal events, outdoor games, and picnic-perfect lawns, every visit promises something new. History’s never been this fun – so gather your crew and make a royal day of it! 

Embark on a wild adventure at Powell-Cotton Museum -  

Get ready for a big adventure at Powell-Cotton Museum, where wild animals, epic explorers, and hands-on fun collide! This isn’t your average museum visit, kids can come face to face with life-sized animals in world-famous dioramas, discover amazing objects from around the globe, and dive into fun family activities all summer long. Pick up a free backpack buddy or a SEND-friendly explorer kit to make the most of your visit, then head out to explore the gorgeous gardens and spot the hidden animal sculptures. After all that adventuring, relax with a tasty treat from Felicity’s Café. Powell-Cotton is bursting with surprises, so pack your curiosity and set off for a day of discovery! 

All aboard for a steam-powered adventure on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway -  

Choo-choo! Get ready for a steam-powered adventure with the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, the perfect way to explore the Kent coast this summer! Hop aboard the steam trains and zoom through stunning countryside and seaside views, all while enjoying the thrill of the ride. Whether you're heading to Dungeness or Hythe, there’s something fun at every stop – from the interactive Model Railway Exhibition to the awesome outdoor play areas for the kids. 

Ready, set explore: Uncover history at the Royal Engineers Museum this summer! 

Looking for a summer adventure that’s equally fun and fascinating? The Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham is your ticket to a day of discovery! This family-friendly museum brings history to life with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and a treasure trove of stories waiting to be explored. Kids can try on uniforms, build their own fortress, and even handle real military objects in special sessions led by museum staff.  

Unwind in comfort by the sea at Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel and Spa- 

After a fun-filled day exploring Kent, relax at the Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa - the perfect family-friendly spot for your stay! Located by the beach with beautiful sea views, it offers spacious family rooms for a restful night. Kids can enjoy Dover Beach nearby, while parents unwind with a spa or relax in the hotel’s cozy restaurants with seaside dining. With Dover Castle just a short drive away and family-friendly amenities, it’s an ideal base for your Kent adventure.  

Relax and rechange at Boys Hall -  

Now that you’ve spent the whole day exploring Kent, retreat to the charming Boys Hall in Ashford, where history meets comfort in the most delightful way! This 17th-century manor offers spacious, family-friendly rooms with super king beds, perfect for a relaxing night. Enjoy delicious, locally sourced meals at the on-site restaurant or grab a cozy bite at the pub – perfect for unwinding after a busy day. With its beautiful surroundings and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Boys Hall makes the ideal spot to recharge and get ready for more adventures in Kent!  

Seaside fun and family comfort awaits at No.42 Margate -  

After a day of seaside adventures in Thanet, unwind at No.42 Margate by GuestHouse in Margate, a stylish, family-friendly retreat right by the beach. This boutique hotel offers spacious, soundproofed rooms with sea views, many featuring roll-top baths and connecting options for families. The hotel’s rooftop bar and restaurant, Pearly Cow, serve up delicious seafood and steaks with panoramic views of the sunset. With its central location near Dreamland, Turner Contemporary, and the beach, No. 42 is the perfect base for your Thanet getaway. 

Your family’s ultimate summer adventure starts with Bloom Stays -  

Turn your summer holiday into a home-from-home adventure with Bloom Stays!  Whether you're dreaming of a seaside escape, a countryside retreat, or a cosy cottage near Kent’s top attractions, Bloom Stays has the perfect pick for your family. Their beautiful holiday homes are packed with charm and thoughtful touches… think big gardens for picnics, cosy corners for story time, and even a few places with hot tubs for the grown-ups! There’s space for everyone to relax, play, and make memories, with plenty of dog-friendly options too. Pack the snacks, grab the buckets and spades, and dive into your next adventure - book with Bloom Stays and make Kent your family’s ultimate summer playground!