The end of the year is approaching, so it’s about time we look ahead to see what the next one has in store. And trust us when we say there are some unmissable days out on the horizon. The people and places of Kent are getting ready to pull out all the stops, with anniversaries, new places to eat, and overnight stays all coming together to make 2024 a year to remember. Join us in looking forward to what’s next…
Canterbury
It most definitely doesn’t come as a surprise that Canterbury’s made this list. Every year, we keep our diaries clear in anticipation for when those fun-filled days come to the city, and we’re certainly not disappointed for 2024. See Canterbury as it once was in the Medieval Pageant, where reenactments by costumed performers and fantastical parades will bring the city to life.
Celebrate the people of the county in the yearly Pride parade, get sipping on some amazing local produce at the Wine Festival or, for the full shebang, the Canterbury Festival is the place to be for all you arts lovers. You might want to stay the night to make the most of the area, so why not retire for the evening at Keepers Cottage’s West Cliff in the nearby seaside town of Whitstable? Pack those bags, throw yourself into the fun of Canterbury, and spend the night snoozing by the sea. It doesn’t get much more idyllic than that.
Got the Love Festival
Get 25th May in your diaries and bag your tickets to Got the Love Festival, a 90s and 00s music festival that promises to be a celebration of nostalgia. Set at the beautiful Quex Park, the lineup includes Basshunter, Blue, Vengaboys, Peter Andre, Diversity, Phats and Small, and so many more greats from the last few decades. What's more, there'll be 90s and 00s secret cinema, VR gaming, gourmet street food, retro stalls and plenty of fun for the whole family. Take us back!
Leeds Castle
Grab a few glasses and pop the bubbly, it’s time to celebrate! Next year marks Leeds Castle’s 50th year as a charitable trust, and it wouldn’t be right if we didn’t join in on the party to mark the occasion. Nearly a century ago, Lady Baillie was hosting evenings full of excited guests, where the music swept through the castle and the atmosphere was tangible. Today, let’s follow in their footsteps and head along to soak up its magnificence. Plus, with the all-new Lakeside Lodges, you can make your stay one to remember next year at Leeds Castle.
Historic Dockyard Chatham
And that’s not all! Just down the road at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, you’ll find another anniversary, with 2024 marking 40 years since the Dockyard Trust was established. Exciting exhibitions, official Call the Midwife location tours, and much more can all be found at the Dockyard, where 400 years of history are ready to be explored. All aboard, your next adventure awaits!
Produced in Kent
Every year, the foodies among us can’t help but get excited for the Taste of Kent Food Festival, held at the University of Kent’s fantastic theatre, The Gulbenkian. The day will be showcasing some of the best local food and drink makers as they promote, sample, and sell their lovingly made craft…our bellies are rumbling at just the thought of it! Keep an eye out for the date to be confirmed, we know we’ll be waiting in anticipation…
Gusbourne
Next year is looking great for all you budding sommeliers out there, with Gusbourne rolling out some amazing events from January to March. Sit back and enjoy guided tastings of their beautiful range of wines, followed by a delicious three-course lunch - so, what will you discover? Blanc de Blancs, the First Vintages, or Pinot Noirs? Book in today and start your year off with some of the best Kentish produce...
Turner Contemporary
Commemorating 250 years since the birth of JMW Turner, the eponymous gallery in Margate is most definitely one for any art lovers out there to pop on the 2024 bucket list (the anniversary is in 2025, but we just can’t wait that long!). Turner Contemporary, inspired by the life and work of the celebrated artist, boasts a fantastic range of year-round exhibitions and art installations, showcasing some of the brilliant talent that lies within Kent and beyond.
With a visit in 2024, you'll be able to stop off at the cafe-by-day, restaurant-by-night Louie on Sea. Bringing a whole new energy to the gallery, you can enjoy sea views and brilliant contemporary works as you enjoy a spot of brunch, a refreshing drink, or even some music in the evenings.
Medway: Festival 2024
We take pride in the people that make this county so special, so why not join us in celebrating our local communities and rich history in Medway’s Festival 2024? With it comes a year-long programme of cultural events and activities, all empowering Medway’s locals and their powerful creativity and ambition. To kick off the festival, they’ll be taking the 40th anniversary of the Historic Dockyard Chatham Trust and, from there on out, there’s so much more in store. Check back to see more news on their festivals and major events, and how you can enjoy the year in Medway.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
All aboard! The Kent & East Sussex Railway will be celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, and we’ll be the first to don our conductor caps and blow those train whistles. Take a scenic journey through the Kentish countryside, with uninterrupted views that will blow you away, stirring up feelings of awe and joy that can only come from those great expanses of sky and the uniquely beautiful outdoors.
WonderWorks
Brand new to Margate, your next family day out awaits at the all-new WonderWorks. Delve into the world of Britain’s most beloved model-making, education-providing, multi-generationally appealing brand. 2024 will mark Hornby’s 50th year anniversary, so it’s only right that we all take a trip down to one of our favourite seaside spots and spend the day building, racing, and discovering. Want to make the most of the East Kent coast? The Nomad House in Ramsgate is the perfect family getaway spot, so you can spend the night right by all the latest and greatest of the Kentish seaside at your next home-away-from-home.
Black Deer Festival
14th,15th,16th June 2024
It's back! Black Deer Festival will be arriving at Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells, this June, and we hear it's set to be a weekend you won't want to miss. With nine-time Grammy winner, Sheryl Crow announced as the first festival headliner, the excitement just doesn't stop! Dance, sing, camp and enjoy the feel-good vibes of Black Deer Festival.
Stay the night
All this talk of what’s coming up next year in Kent has got us feeling excited for the year ahead, so we’re filling up our diaries, and booking in some weekends to enjoy the county. With so much going on, you might want to take a look at Keepers Cottages beautiful properties across the county, fit for your closest friends or family to spend a few nights in while you discover the area. What will it be – a 3-bedroom renovated farm building with stunning country views, an airy apartment in Sandwich for a coastal cotch, or how about a luxurious cherry barn conversion straight out of your rural dreams?
