While we don’t have a mountain range, and the chances of 70-foot waves are unlikely, our outdoors activities, from skiing and snowboarding (yes, in Kent) to virtual reality games are the perfect way to stay off the sofa and get active this season. You and the family are in for a treat with these top sports and thrilling activities on offer, so plan your next day out to impress and stun everyone in the group!
Canoe Wild
Head out onto the water this year with Canoe Wild, who are waiting with paddle in hand and experiences at the ready. The team are offering a range of fantastic days out to try out, with Beaver Talks giving you a glimpse into local wildlife, a Sunset Paddle the place to go for those Insta-worthy shots, and a Family Sunset Paddle to bring you closer together as you journey along the scenic river.
Margate SUP and Surf Club
What better introduction to the vibrant Margate than with a day spent paddling, looking back at the Turner, Harbour Arm, and Dreamland that mark its skyline. Stand up paddleboarding and surfing are both on offer, so now’s your chance to impress the family and bring them along for a day out they’d never expect from Kent. Better still, keep those sea-views coming as you settle down for the evening in Keepers Cottages’ Margate Abode, fit with everything you need in your home away from home.
Canterbury Running Tours
Looking to get into running, but don’t know how? Maybe you want to add a bit of flare to your next route? Or perhaps you need a day out for your next family trip, and you’ve all got plenty of energy to spare? Canterbury Running Tours are here to suit your every need. Explore the city in a whole new light as your guide takes you on a running tour, showing off the iconic spots and lesser-known gems. Choose between a 5k, 10k, and why not top it off with a locally made beer and spirit tasting at the Foundry Brewpub?
Dover Sea Safari
The stunning Dover coastline is about to be transformed, as your next day out sees you taking to the water with Dover Sea Safari and showing off that iconic chalk outline from a brand-new perspective. Embark on a coastal tour like no other from their base on the foreshore of one of the world's busiest passenger ferry ports, the Port of Dover. Once you’ve had your supply of seaside excitement, you can nip down the road and rest your head at Keepers Cottages’ Castle View, where a family-friendly stay overlooks the must-visit that is Dover Castle.
Chatham Snowsports Centre
Right, let’s jump in – yes, you can ski in Kent! At Chatham Snowsports Centre their dry ski slopes are perfect for total novices right up to those hoping to dust off their skills ahead of a skiing break. Take private lessons, group sessions, or train up as a family, whether you fancy having a go at skiing or snowboarding, and better yet, you don’t even need to bring your own equipment. For a little more light-hearted fun, we recommend having a go on the toboggan track, the longest in the UK and perfect for some fun.
Folkestone Sports Centre
Newly refurbished, Folkestone Sport Centre is another great spot for snow bunnies to test out their skills. Offering groups, children and adults a memorable experience on their 60 metre dry slope, this newly surfaced slope offers the chance to ski or even snow ring. Learn the ropes and build up your confidence in snow sports without ever having to take to the mountains!
Boom Battle Bar
Head to Boom Battle Bar at Canterbury Riverside and battle it out with their selection of games. But we’re not talking any old games, we’re talking the chance to have a go at something out of the ordinary with augmented reality axe throwing, crazier golf, augmented reality darts, beer pong and so much more! Once you’ve tried your hand at something a bit different, we recommend pulling up a chair and tucking into some of their Boom Bites.
The Panic Rooms Axe Throwing
Oh yes, we really do like to do things a little out of the ordinary around here. While the Panic Rooms in Gravesend have plenty of escape room challenges to test your brain and put your mind to work, their brand new Urban Axe Throwing sessions will test your coordination and throwing skills! Take on this new tradition, learn the techniques and see who in your group has the best and most accurate throw.
Virtual Recreation
Brand new and beyond your imagination, Virtual Recreation in Ashford has all sorts of games and activities to take on, but we love the Free Roam Arena. Book in with your friends and step into a world beyond reality in this free to move around experience, where you’ll be immersed in the virtual world with the ability to run, jump duck and even run through this new world.
The Isle of Thanet
If you do fancy stepping out into the real world, we recommend taking a visit to Thanet. Discover bracing clifftop walking trails along the coast with Active Ramsgate, enjoy guided cycling tours with Col’s Kent Bike Tours, or try your hand at something a little different with brand new Nordic Walking experiences. If you fancy takin on a real challenge, we recommend the Viking Coastal Trail, a 32 mile circular route through the coastline and villages of the Isle of Thanet.
Ashford Designer Outlet
Proper adventure deserves proper gear, so you’ll find us heading to Ashford Designer Outlet to source our active wear this year. Brand new stores including The North Face and Columbia are the perfect place to pick up winter weather clothing, ski gear and everything you need to proclaim the phrase, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.” And as a final added bonus, with outlet prices at up to 60% less, you may as well treat yourself while you’re here.
Stagecoach
As you journey across the county, be sure to make the most of the great transport links between activities. Plan out your day with Stagecoach, who can take you to your next stop, stress-free and car-free! With affordable tickets and travel across the South East, be sure to make Stagecoach part of your next day out.
