What can I do with the kids this weekend in Kent?

by Emma Grafton-Williams

Are you looking for inspiration for family events?

Then let My Kent Family come to the rescue. Every week we search the county for some great ideas to keep you entertained.

A Dragon's Tale

@ Astor Theatre, Deal

Saturday, July 16

This magical story based on the tale of the Lambton Worm is told using puppets, song, music and sound effects. Based on the medieval folk legend from the North East, A Dragon’s Tale is suitable for ages four and up. The performance is followed by a workshop where the children can make their own dragon puppets.

Book tickets here

The humble cherry will be the star of the show this weekend at Brogdale

Cherry Fair

@ Brogdale, Faversham

Sunday, July 17

With over 300 varieties of cherries from the National Fruit Collection there's lots of fruit to discover this weekend. Rare and unusual varieties will be on display and you'll get the chance to try and buy a selection of the delicious cherries. With lots of activities and events on the day you can try your hand at archery, watch a falconry display, discover the orchards and get involved in competitions. Little festival goers can keep busy with free games and activities including cherry rocket launching and kids craft and face painting.

More details on Brogdale's website

The Working Horse Trust will be at the Grosvenor & Hilbert Park in Tunbridge Wells

Heavy Horses Day

@ Grosvenor and Hilbert Park, Tunbridge Wells

Saturday, July 16

There will be lots of fun with cart rides around the park and a barbecue for everyone to enjoy. The kids can also get involved with crafts and activities while mums can relax or browse the various stalls.

More details here

Tell the kids to get lost at Penshurst Place

Maize Maze

@ Penshurst Place & Gardens, Penshurst

From Saturday, July 16 to Saturday, September 4

Get lost in a field of maize at Penshurst Place, near Tunbridge Wells, over the weekend. Try and solve the Magna Carta puzzle with clues and riddles as you meander through the maze's twists and turns. There is a mini maze for younger adventurers, this is a shorter journey at just 15 minutes.

Penshurst Place has lots to see and do. Check out their website

A busy Sunny Sands beach in Folkestone overlooked by Cornelia Parker's permanent Triennial exhibit the Folkestone Mermaid

Sandcastle Competition

@ Sunny Sands Beach, Folkestone

Saturday, July 16

Grab your bucket and spade and head for Folkestone's Sunny Sands this Saturday. Teams of all ages will compete to create the best sandcastle on the beach. An annual event, the competition makes a great family day out.

More details here

Jousting tournaments will be taking place at Hever Castle

Summer Jousting Tournament

@ Hever Castle, near Edenbridge

Saturday, July 17 and Sunday, July 18

The Knights of Royal England return to battle it out at the annual jousting event. Join the procession from the castle forecourt as Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn make their way to the arena. The jousting event is included in the price of admission.

You can find details of the full day here

Teddy Bears' Picnic

@ Kent Life, Maidstone

Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17

Bring your favourite cuddly bear and enjoy a teddy bears' picnic at the family attraction just off the M20 near Maidstone. Treat your teddy to a donkey ride, or hop on a tractor for a tour around the grounds. As well as getting involved in the picnic, there are also lots of animals to see, including pigs, sheep, goats, ducks, alpacas, horses and ponies.

Head to the Kent Life website for a list of all their attractions