Seven things to do in Kent this weekend
Searching for some fun things to do with the family this weekend?
My Kent Family has got it covered.
From apple pressing to animal-themed fun, there's plenty of great events to enjoy, right on your doorstep. We've rounded up seven of the best:
1 Traditional apple pressing, Elham Valley Line Trust Countryside Centre, Folkestone
Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30 from 10am to 5pm
Say hello to autumn with a spot of traditional apple pressing in the heart of the Kentish countryside.
The family-friendly event will also feature live music, games, pebble painting and local arts and crafts.
Children can even take a ride on a miniature train, or try their hand at letterpress printing.
To find out more, visit elhamvalleylinetrust.org
2 Retreat Rescue Sanctuary open day, Cripple Hill, Bethersden
Saturday, September 29 from 12pm to 4pm
Animal-lovers can support the work of this rescue centre at this family open day, complete with stalls, face painting and more.
Meet all your favourite farm animals, while enjoying games, kiss a cow, little and large horse grooming, and animal tours.
Refreshments will be available at the site's café, and parking is free, with entry by donation.
Find out more at the event's Facebook page, or at retreatanimalrescue.org.uk
3 Snowdog Trail, Ashford
Saturday, September 29 and Sunday, September 30, all day
This enchanting trail of giant Snowdog sculptures is a great way to explore Ashford while raising money for charity.
The colourful characters are inspired by the much-loved novel and animated film, The Snowman and The Snowdog.
After the 10-week display, which ends on Sunday, November 18, the sculptures will be auctioned off by Pilgrims Hospice to raise funds.
Find out more at ashfordsnowdogs.co.u - and don't forget to visit Bark Kent, outside the Kentish Express offices.
4 Family Fun Run, Leeds Castle, near Maidstone
Sunday, September 30, from 9am
If you fancy venturing out into the open air this weekend, why not take part in a family-friendly run at Leeds Castle?
Both you and the little ones can enjoy a 2km run, or walk, through the castle's stunning grounds.
It costs £4 per person to take part, and under 4s go free.
Register online at leeds-castle.com
5 Learn to Ride, Betteshanger Park, Sandwich Road, Deal
Sunday, September 30 from 12pm to 1pm
Aimed at children aged between five and 12, these 'Learn to Ride' sessions are a great way for children to master riding a bike.
British Cycling qualified coaches will teach children the basics of balancing, pedalling and confidence, and games will be used to test newly-learnt skills.
So if your little ones are struggling to get out on their bikes, why not take a trip to the park?
Prices start from £14 for a hour session, and parents are required to stay on site during the lesson. Find out more at betteshanger-park.co.uk
6 Hey Diddle Diddle, EM Forster Studio, Tonbridge
Sunday, September 30, with showings at 11.30am and 2pm
Ever wondered how a cow jumped over the moon? Or why the dish ran away with the spoon?
Look no further than Hey Diddle Diddle, a new take on the classic nursery rhyme from acclaimed theatre company, Goblin.
Enjoy the antics of flying cows, jazzy cats and runaway crockery as performers jump and jive to live, original music.
Tickets cost £9 - to book visit emftheatre.com, or call 01732 304241
7 Family Fun Day, Pennard Vets Langley Park, Laight Road, Maidstone
Saturday, September 29 from 12pm to 4pm
Join Pennard Vets for a fun-filled family day of quizzes, face-painting and the chance to be a "mini-vet".
It will also include a raffle, colouring competitions and a visit from Medical Detection Dogs - Pennard Vets' charity of the year.
Organisers promise there will be something for everyone.
To find out more, contact the centre on 01622 808084, or email langleypark@pennardvets.com
