Top 9 family attractions in Kent the kids will love for autumn 2016
Dover Castle
Roam through 2,000 years of history at Dover Castle from the Romans to the Cold War. View medieval interiors, climb the Great Tower, understand the importance of the secret Wartime Tunnels and immerse yourself in the sounds and smells of an authentic underground hospital. An action-packed day out can be found within these castle’s walls.
Eagle Heights
One of the UK’s largest bird of prey centres, Eagle Heights is home to around 100 raptors many of which can be seen in daily flying demonstrations. The attraction, near Swanley, also has a growing wildlife sanctuary with huskies, meerkats, lizards and snakes among those it cares for. Special animal encounter days are running during the summer months.
Groombridge Place
Discover the beautiful award-winning gardens and the forest with its giant swings, wooden bridges, maze and zip wires. There are also deer, birds of prey and peacocks and a canal boat which can take you to and from the forest. With plenty to explore and enjoy, a beautiful day awaits you.
Hever Castle
The castle dates back to the 13th century and was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The castle houses historic 16th century Tudor portraits, furniture and tapestries. Other artefacts include two magnificent Books of Hours (prayer books), both signed and inscribed by Anne Boleyn. Costumed figures of Henry VIII and his six wives add to the atmosphere in the Long Gallery.
Historic Dockyard Chatham
Clamber over lifeboats, a warship and submarine, wander through historic buildings and museum galleries, inspect a collection of locomotives, visit the ropery and recharge with a picnic while younger members of your group visit the play area. The dockyard is packed full of things to do that stretch far beyond Medway’s naval history. Tickets are valid for 12 months giving you access to the site, all galleries and its programme of temporary exhibitions for a year.
Kent Life
There are animals to cuddle, tractors to ride, play areas to run about in and a fascinating selection of historic buildings to explore. And when you’ve finished all that there is a traditional Kentish tea room to relax in! Kent Life provides a great day out in its 28-acre site, which gives everyone a guide to life in the county through the decades and what it meant to be a farmer, hop picker or blacksmith in Kent.
Leeds Castle
Leeds is known as 'the loveliest castle in the world’ and has been home to royalty, lords and ladies for almost 900 years. It has a special blend of history, glorious gardens, attractions and a full programme of special events.
Wildwood
Ancient woodland in Herne Common is taking care of more than 200 animals native to Britain. The unique wildlife park is home creatures such as wolves, deer, owls, foxes, red squirrels, wild boar, badgers, beavers and wild horses. There is also an adventure playground, a 'cute corner’ designed for pre-school children, picnic areas and restaurant.
Wingham Wildlife Park
Described as 'Kent’s fastest growing zoo', the wildlife park between Canterbury and Sandwich also boasts play areas, places to picnic and hands-on encounters. From big cats and penguins to reptiles and primates there is more than enough for an action packed day out.
