6 Things To Do During September in Kent

A new school year, a chill in the air and the days are getting shorter - there’s something very transitional and exciting about September.

With Autumn around the corner and conkers appearing on the trees, it’s the ideal time to get out exploring our beautiful county of Kent. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some perfect activities for September in Kent…

Go apple picking

It’s apple picking season and the perfect time to explore some of the county’s beautiful orchards in the late Summer sunshine.

Castle Farm are hosting PYO apple weekends in early September with a chance to select some of their rosy red Norfolk Royal varieties.

Meanwhile, Penshurst Place is holding its first Apple Weekend on 17th and 18th September which will include apple pressing demonstrations, fruit tastings, children's crafts and games, and information about the many historic apple trees in the gardens.

Alternatively, head over to Faversham to visit Brogdale for a self-guided walk through the orchards or PYO fruit weekends.

Visit a vineyard

This is prime time for visiting vineyards, with vines full of produce just before harvest takes place. 

We’re spoilt for choice for vineyards to visit here in Kent, but top picks for a tour and tasting include Biddenden Vineyard, Balfour Winery, The Mount Vineyard, Gusbourne and of course, Chapel Down.

Gusbourne are hosting a Harvest Tour and Lunch package throughout September which is sure to be a fabulous day of wine and food, whilst The Mount Vineyard’s Autumn Walk & Lunch in October is one to add to the calendar!

Take an Autumnal walk

As the colours begin to turn but the blue skies (hopefully!) linger, take the opportunity to walk in one of Kent’s picturesque spots.

Personally favourites for the Autumnal months include Bedgebury Pinetum, Hole Park and Knole, all of which look magnificent as the leaves change. 

Combine with a cosy pub lunch (suggestions below) to warm up and refuel after your walk.

Step back in time at a historic castle

Speaking of picture perfect, it doesn’t get much more dramatic than a stroll around a historic castle.

Again, we’re spoilt for choice but Scotney Castle and Hever Castle are particularly stunning as the leaves begin to change.

For a day out with the kids, Leeds Castle is an ideal place to explore with beautiful gardens, a maze and fantastic play areas to spend time in.

Ride a steam train

With the weather less predictable (though, let’s be honest , is it ever in England?!) a steam train ride is a brilliant activity to book to both see the countryside and learn about the history of the railways.

The Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells offers a wide variety of events throughout the month. From afternoon tea dining and wine tasting experiences, through to their dinosaur weekend and fish and chip suppers, there’s something for everyone.

Similarly, The Kent & East Sussex Railway in Tenterden are hosting a muder mystery evening on board the heritage train as well as their Junior Engineering experience.

Enjoy a delicious pub lunch

Cosy season is almost upon us and I don’t know about you, but I don’t need to be asked twice to start enjoying a delicious Sunday roast again. 

Get inside by the fire and enjoy wooden beams and good food at one of the many highly-rated pubs in Kent. The George & Dragon in Speldhurst and The Star & Eagle in Goudhurst are two of my top picks, but check out our full list of cosy pubs with good food in Kent here.