10 things you must do in Kent

By Rebecca Younger

Ride the old school theme park

Dreamland Margate, the vintage all-you-can-treat amusement park by the seaside in Kent, celebrates its 100th birthday in 2020. Described as the heartbeat of Margate, Dreamland has been entertaining visitors since 1920 – with the iconic Grade 2-listed Scenic Railway as its centrepiece. There’s festival fun, must-try rides, street food, a roller disco plus indoor play for kids too!

Discover vintage rides at Dreamland Margate

Try some local ales

Kent is home to a number of breweries and you’ll find local beers in most pubs across the county. In Faversham there’s England’s oldest brewer Shepherd Neame – take a tour around the brewery to find out about the history and try a few samples.

Take a pilgrimage

Forming part of a World Heritage Site and seat of the leader of the Church of England, Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England. Whether you go as an act of pilgrimage or just want to marvel at the building’s stunning architecture and interior murals, the cathedral is a must-see.

Explore Leeds Castle

Known as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’, Leeds Castle is a true spectacle. With a daily programme of events and activities, there’s plenty to see and do inside the moated castle, as well as 500 acres of parkland. Don’t worry if you don’t manage to squeeze it all into one visit however, as every ticket to the castle is valid for one year, so you can visit the castle and grounds again and again.

Visit the animals

Get up close and personal with lions, tigers and Europe’s largest collection of wild African elephants at the award-winning Howletts Wild Animal Park, where you can see conservation in action surrounded by the park’s 450 animals. Also owned by the Aspinall Foundation is Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, home to more than 700 rare and endangered animals, this plush hotel offers a unique opportunity to sleep at the heart of the foundation’s 600-acre park.

Climb aboard a steam train

Go back in time for a journey of pure nostalgia on one of Kent’s rural light railways. The Spa Valley Railway is one of the most famous with heritage steam and diesel trains running for 5.5 miles through the picturesque countryside between Eridge and Royal Tunbridge Wells, stopping off at Groombridge and High Rocks.

Visit Turner Contemporary

Situated on Margate seafront, on the same site where Turner stayed when visiting the town, Turner Contemporary was opened in 2011 to build on the artist JMW Turner’s association with the town. Designed by Sir David Chipperfield, the gallery was a catalyst for the regeneration of East Kent.

Enjoy a perfect family day out

Bewl Water has a host of fun activities including boat hire, laser challenge, a giant aqua park, pirate playground and even soft play for the little ones. Be sure to look out for the wildlife and enjoy the spectacular natural setting.

Go for a spin at Brands Hatch

Located just off J3 of the M25 near Swanley, this is an unforgettable day out, whether you’re on or off the track. Put your driving skills to the test with a driving experience – just watch out for that renowned Paddock Hill Bend – or take to the stands and leave the professionals to it as you watch a track day.

Discover the secret tunnels

During the Second World War, more than 1,000 Ramsgate residents went below ground and lived in a 1.25km network of deep shelter tunnels built to protect them from warfare.

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