Great days out in Kent this winter

The Garden of England will be transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland this festive season, with magical events taking place at all of Kent's favourite attractions. Take a charming winter walk along the White Cliffs of Dover to enjoy Kent's stunning coastline, share that perfect family moment at one of the many snow covered grottos and winter gardens, and sing along to traditional Christmas carols at one of Kent's inspirational historic buildings. Begin your countdown to Christmas now with a wide range of winter activities suiting all ages, interests and budgets.

Here are just some of the great indoor and outdoor attractions which are open over the winter months. Please check opening times before visiting as many attractions alter their opening times during the Christmas and New Year periods.

Browse all attractions with winter opening hours

 

Jet to Bluewater for 'Christmas in New York'

Relive the magic of a New York Christmas on your doorstep at Bluewater this December. An exciting month of festive fun will take place at Bluewater's brand new Events Venue, Glow, which has opened exclusively for Christmas 2011. The two huge halls will be transformed into a fairytale dream as a stunning recreation of the iconic New York skyline welcomes visitors to celebrate Christmas in front of the world famous Rockefeller Centre, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. (8th December- 8th January)

Meet Santa on board the Kent & East Sussex Railway

Come along to meet Santa at one of Kent's favourite attractions this Christmas. The Kent & East Sussex Railway Santa Special days provide an experience like no other, inviting families to take part in a one hour magical steam train journey beginning at Tenterden station, and passing through the charming village of Wittersham. The steam trains will be decorated with festive features and children can look out for the elves carrying sacks of presents! Every child will receive a surprise gift after meeting the beautiful snow queen. (Weekends in December)

Hever Castle 

Experience a magical day out at Hever Castle this Christmas from 30th November until 24th December (Wednesday to Sunday) and see the beautiful castle and gardens transformed into an enchanting Winter Wonderland. Rooms will be sprinkled with sparkling fairy lights and traditional festive decorations whilst the log fires will keep you warm during those cold winter evenings.Step into the snow-dusted Grotto where the festive magic continues and look out for Father Christmas when he appears in the grounds to collect his daily post.

Quexmas at Quex Park & the Powell Cotton Museum

Join the delightful Birchington village for its annual Christmas celebrations on 27th November! Stalls from all over Kent will be selling local gifts that will make ideal stocking fillers and unique Christmas presents. Visit Santa in his dazzling grotto and sing along to merry Christmas carols with the Choir of Birchington Primary School and the Quexmas singers. There is something for everyone at Quex Park this Christmas!

LaplandUK, Bewl Water 

An award winning recreation of Father Christmas's arctic homeland which takes place at Bewl Water from 26th November until 24th December. The Christmas magic begins when a signed and sealed envelope from Father Christmas is delivered through your letterbox to invite children to come and visit Santa at his native land. Come across elves at secret pathways and help them make Christmas presents, then visit the famous North Pole office where children can send a secret letter to Santa.

Father Christmas visits Penshurst Place

For the first three weekends in December, step through the beautiful gates of Penshurst Place and be immersed in the magical Winter Wonderland. Step into Santa's snow showered grotto and visit the gift shop during those festive winter evenings to enjoy delicious Christmas refreshments whilst listening to the sweet sounds of traditional Christmas carol singing on 7th December. The gift shop will be open until 8pm from 16th November until 14th December.

A Truly Magical Christmas at the Rare Breeds Centre

Visit the Rare Breeds Centre for a fun filled day of Christmas festivities this winter. In addition to cuddling the latest adorable farm animals including Luna the Jersey calf who is just over a month old, children can interact with the amazing ‘One man pantomime', who will be returning for 2011 with another exciting performance. Enter Santa's star filled grotto to sing along and hear fascinating stories and make delicious cakes with Mother Christmas! (10th-11th December, 17th-23rd December)

Scotney Castle

Gather with family and friends for some festive delight at the magical Scotney Castle on 3rd and 4th December. Enjoy a hearty sing-a-long to merry Christmas carols and have fun in the exciting Victorian fairground with traditional rides and activities. Adults can enjoy delicious mulled wine or non-alcoholic spiced apple with tasty hot chestnuts whilst the children take part in fascinating craft activities. Christmas at Scotney Castle is perfect for all ages and families.

Canterbury Cathedral

An inspirational collection of activities and displays celebrating the most important event on the Christian calendar. In addition to an enriching programme of music sung by the Cathedral Choir, the Christmas services at Canterbury's historic cathedral will showcase a wonderful collection of traditional decorations including a life size crib which is designed and created by the Cathedral staff and ‘Sewing Ladies'. (23rd-28th December)