The Ultimate Kent Summer Bucket List - 33 Activities in Kent this Summer
- Girl About Kent
- Jul 12
- 19 min read
Updated: Sep 17
Whether you're planning days out with the kids, looking for memorable date ideas, or just want to make the most of the sunshine with friends, Kent has something for everyone this Summer.
From fossil hunting on ancient beaches and indulging in next-level ice cream creations, to watching Shakespeare under the stars, unwinding in scenic saunas, and wandering through fragrant lavender fields - this is your go-to guide for an unforgettable Summer of activities in Kent.
We've rounded up 30 must-do experiences across the county - whether you're craving adventure, relaxation, culture, or simply a bit of fun in the sun. So grab your shades, your bucket list, and let’s make this a Summer to remember in the Garden of England!
Visit the lavender fields at Castle Farm
Located near Shoreham and the largest producers of lavender in the UK, family run estate, Castle Farm, is a very special place to visit and one of our favourite days out in the Summer.
Offering BYO picnics, guided tours, lavender field walks and a charming farm shop full of beautiful lavender products and seasonal items, this is an unmissable experience in Kent between mid-June and mid-July.
Walking through the fields is intoxicating and the views are spectacular. You'll be sure to get some stunning photos before finishing your visit off with a delicious Taywell's ice cream - it even comes in lavender flavour, which is surprisingly good!
Tickets must be booked in advance and Lavender Field Walks are £7 for adults / £4.50 for children. See more prices at the link below.
Follow the Peter Rabbit Storytime Trail at Knole
This Summer, Knole are hosting a wonderful The World of Peter Rabbit™ Storytime Trail in celebration of Beatrix Potter's classic tale. This immersive, walkthrough experience features gates to crawl through, mirror ponds to peer into and a classic, illustrated Peter Rabbit story to follow.
Visitors are given a trail sheet with tasks for the little ones to do, and there is colouring, dressing up clothes and toys to play with at the end of the story trail. My two (aged 5 and 1) both adored exploring it!
Afterwards, you can stop off at the gorgeous bookshop where there's a huge array of Peter Rabbit books, toys and homeware to buy, before treating yourself to something from the cafe.
Entry to the trail is included with admission tickets and free for National Trust members. Booking is essential so hop on over to the website to book your visit!
Have a Bears ice cream in Whitstable
You’ll be amazed by the variety of ice cream on offer—and the creativity of the flavours is next level. We’ve tried everything from strawberry, olive oil & basil to brown butter & popcorn, and there’s a brilliant selection of vegan options too.
My two absolutely love the Bear Cubs - soft serve dipped in chocolate and decorated to look like the cutest little bears. It’s always their first pick! I’m a sucker for their giant signature cones myself - soft serve piled high and covered in incredible toppings. Everything’s made with top-quality ingredients many sourced right here in Kent, which makes it all taste even better.
Just remember to eat them quick before they melt!
Enjoy some rides at Dreamland in Margate
I spent so many summer days at Dreamland as a child, and I love that I get to relive that same joy now with my own kids!
There’s so much to do on a day out there. With unlimited ride wristbands, you can go on as many rides as you (or the kids!) like. Even though my daughter is still little, there are plenty of rides she can enjoy—and my older, thrill-seeking son definitely makes the most of the bigger, more adrenaline-fuelled ones.
It’s not just about the rides either. There’s mini golf (included with the wristband), and an indoor roller skating rink—perfect for those inevitable rainy summer days. They often show family films on the big screen too, which makes a great spot to chill out with something tasty from one of the on-site food trucks.
Search for shark’s teeth in Beltinge
Surely there’s nothing more exciting for a child than finding something that’s thousands of years old, right? My kids loved hunting for shark teeth, and we chose one of the most popular spots in Kent for it - Beltinge, near Herne Bay.
On our first visit, it took us a little while to get the hang of it. I kept staring at the rocks and sand, digging around aimlessly, and the kids were doing the same - excited but not quite sure what to look for. Luckily, we spotted someone nearby who seemed to be having better luck, and she kindly showed us exactly what to look out for. After that, all of us managed to find some sharks teeth and came away really pleased with our treasures.
Pick strawberries at Lower Ladysden Farm
Strawberries are a staple in our house over the Summer months, with both kids often stained pink and covered in sticky, delicious strawberry juice! So, since discovering Lower Ladysden's strawberry picking sessions a few years ago, it's become one of our go-to days out each Summer.
This family-run farm in Goudhurst is a stunning spot and has a range of PYO options throughout the year. There's a large car park, and you collect your punnet from the farm shop before heading down to the polytunnels to fill it up. The challenge is to try to stop the little ones from eating them all before you get back to the shop to pay!
Afterwards, enjoy a coffee and cake in the sunshine at the cafe whilst taking in the beautiful Kent countryside. These are honestly the best strawberries I've ever tasted, so well worth a visit.
Enjoy a sauna at Sea Scrub Sauna
There’s nothing more relaxing than taking some time out for yourself and unwinding in a sauna set in a beautiful location. Sea Scrub Sauna offers just that, with three stunning spots across Kent - and more on the way! There’s the original in Margate, the charming Whitstable location, and the newest addition in Faversham.
Each one has its own unique vibe - Margate and Whitstable boast incredible sea views, perfect for a peaceful coastal escape. Meanwhile, Faversham gives you a gorgeous countryside outlook and an extra treat: a hot tub to soak in after your sauna session. All three also have cold plunge barrels, perfect for some revitalising cold water therapy.
And if you can grab yourself a sunset session, I can guarantee you won’t regret it—it’s an unforgettable way to end the day.
Take on the zipwire at St Andrew’s Lakes
There's so much to keep you entertained during a visit to St Andrew's — from the serene private beach and the exciting water park to the relaxing sauna and steaming hot tubs. But this summer, one experience stands out above the rest: the zip wire.
Suspended high above the ground, the zip wire whisks you across the sparkling lake, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. As you soar through the air, you'll feel the rush of wind and adrenaline while taking in the peaceful beauty of the water below, the lush greenery that surrounds it, and the vibrant summer sky overhead. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or simply looking for a unique perspective on St Andrew's stunning scenery, the zip wire is an unforgettable adventure you won't want to miss.
Pick your own flowers at Denstroude Flower Farm
There's nothing quite as satisfying as bringing home and arranging a bunch of flowers that you have picked yourself.
The Flower Farm at Denstroude offers just this with an impressive array of beautiful flowers. Expect a stunning array of seasonal blooms, from delicate sweet peas and vibrant dahlias to classic roses and cheerful sunflowers. With so many varieties, colours, and fragrances to choose from, there's something to suit every taste, mood, or occasion.
Upon arrival, visitors are handed a bucket and a pair of cutters, then free to stroll through the flower fields at their own pace. It’s a peaceful, enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours. Whether you're picking flowers for a special occasion or just for your kitchen table, you'll leave with a beautiful bunch that you chose and cut yourself.
Watch Shakespeare's Twelfth Night under the open sky with the Changeling Theatre
Changeling Theatre is a professional touring company bringing live theatre to communities across South East England. They’re best known for their hugely popular open-air summer tours, performing Shakespeare’s most beloved plays in some truly stunning and unexpected locations - everything from castles and beaches to football stadiums.
I had the chance to see them perform Othello on Margate Beach at sunset, and it was an incredible experience - funny, sad, and truly magical all at once. This year, they’re presenting Twelfth Night across Kent in a variety of gorgeous spots, including beautiful beaches, historic castles, and even breweries. It’s the perfect way to enjoy world-class theatre under the open sky while soaking up the unique atmosphere of these incredible venues.
Take a scenic tour along the Medway with Paddleboarding with Ana
What better way to spend a Summer's day than gently paddling along with Medway, taking in the wildlife and scenic views of the Kent countryside? Get onto the water this Summer with one of SUP With Ana's wonderful river tours or 1:1 courses.
Located in Tonbridge and led by British Canoeing Level 3 Coach, Ana Teubler, paddleboarding is such a relaxing, fun and unique way to enjoy Kent's waterways and rural sights.
From yoga-based SUP days out to children's activities, there's something for everyone and no experience is necessary, so it's ideal for a girls days out, date or even family outing. Private tours are an hour and a half with a break for lunch or refreshments.
Meet the goats, alpacas or sheep at Frampton farm
Frampton Farm in Dover is a lovely, family-run farm that offers something a little different from the usual animal attractions. Instead of busy crowds, they provide private sessions, so your group gets the whole place to yourselves. It’s a truly special experience—intimate, relaxed, and perfect for getting up close with the animals.
At Frampton Farm, you can choose from a range of animal experiences featuring alpacas, sheep, or goats—and my two immediately picked the goats. If you’ve never seen baby pygmy goats before, you need to get yourself down there—they’re unbelievably cute and so much smaller than regular goats, making them perfect for little ones.
My kids got to walk them on leads, feed them, and spend time getting to know them. They absolutely loved every second of it—and honestly, so did I! It’s such a hands-on, heartwarming experience that we’ll all remember for a long time.
Make a grotter at Whitstable Oyster Festival
Whitstable is famous for its oysters, and every September the town celebrates with its much-loved Oyster Festival. While the event has scaled down over the years, it’s still absolutely worth a visit. You’ll find delicious food and drink stalls, live music, and plenty of entertainment for the kids.
But my favourite part, hands down, is the grand finale—a magical evening of fireworks and grotters. As dusk falls, the beach fills with people creating their own grotters—beautiful little towers made from oyster shells. Once the sun sets, everyone adds candles to the centre of their grotters, and the beach lights up. It’s truly enchanting, and one of those special moments that’s definitely worth letting the kids stay up late for.
Sip wine amongst the vines with Wine Tours of Kent
Forget travelling to Provence or Tuscany this Summer - if you're looking to sip wine in the vines, there's no better spot than the Garden of England!
Kent is fast becoming the go-to spot for English wine, so make a day out of exploring some of the spectacular vineyards we have in this beautiful county with Wine Tours of Kent. Handling the transport and itinerary so that you can just relax and enjoy a chilled glass of something special, it is a fun, informative and sociable way of learning more about the South East's winemaking culture.
I did a tour with two friends back in 2022 and it's still one of our favourite days out ever! With tours of the vineyards, wine tastings and a stop-off for lunch at a gorgeous country pub, this is such an idyllic way to spend time together. Read my (Katy) review of our day out here.
Check out some free outdoor art at the Folkestone Triennial
Folkestone Triennial is the UK's largest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art. Uusally held every three years, artists from around the world are invited to make work that responds to the town. In 2025, the theme is Here Lies the Land?—with 18 artists producing thought-provoking pieces that explore the ground beneath our feet.
Expect to find art in unexpected places throughout Folkestone, from large-scale sculptures and immersive sound installations to digital works and vibrant community collaborations. It’s a dynamic celebration of creativity that transforms the town into an open-air gallery.
We visited during the last exhibition in 2021 and loved following the trail to discover the diverse artworks. There’s so much to take in that you can choose to do as much or as little as you like—or even spread your visit over multiple days to explore different pieces at a relaxed pace.
The exhibition runs from 19th July to 19th October.
Book tickets for one of The Festival Theatre’s plays or performances
This Summer sees the return of popular cultural event, The Festival Theatre, for its most extensive season yet. Boasting an extensive array of unforgettable performances, this year’s offerings will take place at three of Kent’s iconic, historic locations - Hever Castle, Penshurst Place & Gardens and Chiddingstone Castle.
Running between May and October, The Festival Theatre's eclectic programme of theatrical and musical events celebrates both the county’s rich heritage and vibrant arts scene. From children’s theatre, comedy shows and immersive performances; right through to opera, historical speakers and jazz nights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you're looking for your next family day out or an unforgettable date night, check out the programme of events to experience something special.
Grab breakfast on the beach at Namaka
You’ll find Namaka right by the beautiful sandy Stone Bay beach in Broadstairs—a perfect spot for breakfast with a view. Get there early while the beach is still quiet to grab one of their delicious acai bowls and a refreshing smoothie.
You can either sit at one of their beachside tables or do what I do: grab a blanket, settle down on the sand with a good book, and enjoy a nutritious breakfast while listening to the waves crashing nearby. It’s the ideal way to start your day, soaking up the fresh sea air and laid-back vibes.
Spot seals with River Runner in Sandwich
Did you know that there is a colony of seals living off the Kent coast? No, me neither - until I was kindly introduced to the fabulous Lauren and Paul who run River Runner cruises along the River Stour to spot a glimpse of the seals.
Just a 15 minute drive from Deal itself, River Runner departs from Sandwich Quay for trips along the historic River Stour to see the resident seals. Trips are approximately 1 hour 45, with a 15 minute stop to admire the gorgeous creatures lounging on the riverbank. I was blown away with how many there were!
Hosted by Lauren and Paul themselves, the boat trip incorporates a lot of information about the local area and its history, taking in some of the stunning countryside en route whilst gliding through the calm waters. Binoculars are also provided to see the seals up close, as well as blankets for evening or colder trips, and a real focus is on conserving the seals’ natural habitat.
Visit the Brickwrecks exhibition at Historic Dockyard Chatham
Explore 400 years of heritage with a visit to the Historic Dockyard Chatham and visit their incredible Brickwrecks exhibition - a collection recreating some of the world’s most renowned shipwrecks using thousands of LEGO bricks.
We visited here at Easter and are thrilled to see that their Brickwrecks exhibition has been extended until November, making for an ideal day out over the Summer holidays.
Including replicas of the infamous RMS Titanic, HMS Erebus and HMS Pandora, as well as shipwrecks such as MV Rena and Batavia, the attention to detail and creativity is incredible. There were lots of interactive elements for the kids, and they loved building their own LEGO creations as well as exploring the multimedia elements.
Brickwrecks is included in your admission price and tickets are valid for a year.
Sleep under the stars with Caracol Camping
Make the most of those long Summer evenings with a night away camping under the stars. Nestled in the beautiful countryside of the High Weald, Caracol Camping is tucked away in a tranquil spot on the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells. Boasting 8 luxurious bell tents, and incredible views, this is a really special place to escape to and get back to nature.
Each of the carpeted bell tents are named after wild flowers and come fully furnished, with a comfy bed and cosy linen. They're also equipped with a private gas stove and BBQ - perfect for those alfresco nights of eating and drinking.
The shared facilities are also top-end, with indulgent rainfall showers and premium flushable toilets on site. There's also a lovely kitchen and snug area complete with kettle, fridges, microwaves and sofas to sink into. It makes for an ideal setting for families, groups of friends or even a solo trip.
Have a day out at Biddenden's Tractorfest
I may not be in-the-know when it comes to tractors, but this has become a surprise favourite family day out in the Summer calendar in recent years!
Taking place this year across the 16th and 17th August, the volunteer-run agricultural event boasts delicious food and drink stalls, children's entertainment, live music, falconry displays and - of course - a huge range of vintage tractors.
It's a real celebration of Kent produce and makes for a fabulous day out with friends or the kids. My one piece of advice would be to get there early though as the queue for the car park tends to get very long by late morning / lunchtime.
Tickets are available via the website and start from £7.50 for children / £14 for adults.
Splash about at Swanley Park
When those hot, sunny days hit (come on, England, you got this!) there's nothing better than taking the kids to cool off at a splash pad and Swanley Park's is one of our favourites.
With a large, shallow pool that little ones can splash about in, as well as sprinklers to run through and play with, it's the ideal way to cool off in hot weather. There's also a new inflatable slide and pool which we haven't tried yet but looks a lot of fun!
After making the most of the water activities, there's also a boating lake with pedalos and rowing boats, as well as a miniature railway, soft play centre, outdoor playground and bouncy castle. Perfect for a full day of family fun in the sun!
Get up close with your favourite animal with an encounter at Howletts or Port Lympne
Animal encounters are an amazing way to get up close and hands-on with some of the incredible animals at Howletts and Port Lympne. Whether you’re into gentle giants or hefty herbivores, there’s something for everyone — and it’s all part of an unforgettable day out!
You can choose from lots of different animal experiences, like feeding giraffes and rhinos by hand, or doing a scatter feed where you throw food into the enclosure for animals like baboons or bison. Each encounter is a fun and exciting way to learn more about the animals and get closer to them in a safe and memorable way.
The keepers have always been really friendly and full of interesting facts. It’s clear they care deeply about the animals and love what they do, which makes the whole experience even more special.
Discover somewhere new with a Quiz Trail
Quiz Trails are a fantastic way to explore a new town—or even discover surprising facts about places you already know. You can find quiz trails for many towns and cities across Kent, and even further afield in Surrey, East Sussex, and Middlesex.
These are self-guided circular walks with a fun quiz to complete as you spot different landmarks and points of interest along the route. There’s usually a more challenging version for adults and a simpler one for kids—though I’ll admit, sometimes the kids’ quiz can still stump me!
Recently, we’ve completed quiz trails in Whitstable, Herne Bay, and Faversham, taking us to some really interesting and beautiful locations.
*aff link
Go punting through Canterbury
Canterbury is a beautiful city that’s perfect for a day trip. With its mix of historic charm, great shopping, and plenty of places to eat, there’s something for everyone. One of the best (and most relaxing!) ways to explore the city is by taking a boat trip along the River Stour — it’s a peaceful experience and lets you see parts of Canterbury that you simply can’t reach on foot.
Your journey begins in the stunning Westgate Gardens, one of the city’s most scenic spots. From there, you can hop into a traditional punting boat, where an experienced guide gently steers you along the river.
There are several punting companies to choose from, each offering something a little different. You can book a shared group tour — perfect if you’re looking to relax and enjoy the sights with others — or go for a private punt if you want something a bit more personal and quiet, ideal for couples or families.
No matter which option you choose, punting is a wonderful way to see a different side of Canterbury while soaking in the city’s calm and historic atmosphere.
Take a walk along the White Cliffs
Is there a more famous sight in Kent than the White Cliffs of Dover? It's one of our absolute favourite walks in the county — and for good reason. Walking along the top of the cliffs offers breathtaking views out to sea, with the added bonus of watching ferries coming and going from the busy port below.
The cliff-top path is part of the England Coast Path and is easy to follow. It winds its way along the dramatic chalk cliffs and leads you to the historic South Foreland Lighthouse.
The lighthouse is the perfect place to take a break — there’s a lovely little tearoom (open seasonally) where you can enjoy a coffee and a slice of cake while taking in the views. On clear days, you can even see across the Channel to France.
This walk is great for anyone who loves coastal scenery, fresh air, and a bit of history. Just remember to bring comfy shoes, as the path can be uneven in places — and don’t forget your camera!
See the Sea Forts with Whitstable Boat Tours
If you’ve ever visited the coast in Whitstable, you may have spotted some strange black shapes rising out of the sea in the distance — and wondered what they are. These are the Red Sands Sea Forts, built during the Second World War to help defend the Thames Estuary from aerial and naval attacks.
Originally constructed in the 1940s, the forts played a key role in protecting Britain from enemy aircraft and ships. Later, in the 1960s and '70s, they found a new purpose as offshore bases for pirate radio stations, broadcasting music outside government control. Today, they stand abandoned, eerie and fascinating relics of the past.
If you’re curious to get a closer look, Whitstable Boat Trips offers guided group tours out to the Sea Forts. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes each way, with around 20 minutes spent at the site, giving you plenty of time to take in the surreal views and snap some amazing photos.
It's a great adventure for history lovers, photographers, or anyone looking for something a bit different to do at the seaside!
Walk the coastal path from Reculver Towers
Another one of our favourite coastal walks takes you past the striking Reculver Towers and the remains of the Roman fort. These twin towers are one of the most recognisable landmarks on the north Kent coast, standing tall against the sky near Herne Bay. Their dramatic silhouette makes for stunning views — especially at sunrise or sunset.
The walk follows the Saxon Shore Way, a scenic and mostly flat coastal path that runs from Herne Bay to Reculver, making it perfect for walkers of all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll enjoy wide open sea views, peaceful marshland, and plenty of fresh air.
As you arrive at Reculver Country Park, you’ll find lots to explore — from the ancient Roman fort ruins to the medieval church towers that now serve as a navigational marker for ships. There’s also a great children’s play park, ideal for letting little ones burn off some energy while you take a break.
With a nearby café, benches to relax on, and plenty of open space, it’s a fantastic spot for a family-friendly day out — combining nature, history, and play all in one beautiful setting.
Wander the gardens of Walmer Castle & Gardens
In our opinion, Walmer Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Kent — and the gardens are just as impressive. Managed by English Heritage, the site offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and family-friendly fun.
The gardens are stunning all year round, but they’re especially magical in the summer months, when everything is in full bloom. From colourful flower beds and neat hedgerows to peaceful woodland paths and a charming kitchen garden, it’s a lovely place for a gentle stroll or to simply sit and enjoy the surroundings.
For families, there’s a fantastic natural play area with adventure activities and space for kids to run wild. There are also plenty of picnic spots throughout the grounds, so don’t forget to bring a blanket and some lunch!
Whether you're interested in history, love gardening, or just want a relaxing day out, Walmer Castle & Gardens is a great choice for visitors of all ages.
Go rock pooling and build sandcastles at Botany Bay
Botany Bay is the perfect spot for a traditional day at the seaside. With its golden sandy beach, dramatic white chalk cliffs, and beautiful rock formations, it’s one of Kent’s most picturesque coastal gems.
It’s a great place for building sandcastles, paddling in the shallows, or simply relaxing with an ice cream. And if the kids need a bit more adventure, just wait for low tide — that’s when the real fun begins! The beach transforms into a perfect spot for rock pooling, with plenty of little crabs, sea snails, and other marine creatures waiting to be discovered. It’s a brilliant way to keep them entertained and engaged with nature.
Whether you're bringing a bucket and spade, a picnic blanket, or just your camera, Botany Bay offers a wonderful, family-friendly day out by the sea.
Sunflower Picking at Four Winds Farm
What says Summer more than a vibrant sea of beautiful yellow sunflowers? Enjoy a family day out amongst the sunflowers at Bidborough's Four Winds Farm.
Running from 9th - 17th August, there are opportunities to pick sunflowers, capture picture perfect moments, go for walks through the fields and enjoy s picnic or cake in the sunshine. We've been for the past three years and have always had a great day out.
Tickets must be booked in advance and are £850 for adults / £5 for children over 3.
Sunset Paddle with Canoe Wild
Make the most of the long evenings with a two and half hour guided evening paddle on canoe or kayak with Canoe Wild.
Departing from Fordwich and travelling to Grove Ferry, soak up peaceful moments on the water surrounded by nature as the sun dips low. With opportinities to see swooping herons, majestic swans and darting kingfishers, this is bound to be a special evening.
Tickets can be booked in advance via the Canoe Wild website.
Trail with a Tale around Tunbridge Wells
Launching on 11th July and running until 8th September, children's charity Demelza has installed a series of beautiful sculptures around the town, designed and decorated by a team of outstanding local artists. Featuring animals including hares, tortoises and owls, the unique trail aims to raise awareness and vital funds to support children with serious or life-limiting conditions, and their families.
Produced in partnership with innovative company Wild In Art, each of the 10 larger sculptures is accompanied by its own original tale, written by local author, Alex Brooks. Youngsters can follow the enchanting stories as they explore the trail using the free map available at key spots in Tunbridge Wells town centre.
There are also 28 smaller animal sculptures decorated by local school children and community groups, which are displayed in shops and businesses across Tunbridge Wells.
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