Easter in Kent is 3rd April – 19th April so if you're starting to plan your perfect family spring break, we've got it covered. Easter in Kent is bursting with springtime charm, chocolate-filled adventures, and unforgettable days out. From medieval castle quests and dragon egg hunts to animal encounters and steam train adventures, there's something to delight visitors of all ages. Whether you're planning a short break or a fun-filled day trip, Kent is the ultimate Easter destination.
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Hever Castle
Hever Castle's Great Dragon Egg Hunt returns from 28th March to 19th April 2026. Brave young adventurers can embark on a magical quest to find dragon eggs hidden throughout the estate, discovering hidden letters to complete a secret word challenge and winning prizes along the way. On Easter weekend (3rd - 6th April), families can meet a real dragon with special encounters at 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm and 3:30pm. The creative Dragon Shield making station in the Think Tank runs daily from 11am to 5pm, letting children design their own knightly kit before setting off on their quest. With spring flowers blooming throughout the award-winning gardens, it's the perfect time to enjoy an Easter day out.
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle promises egg-citing adventures from 3rd April – 19th April 2026. While specific details are still being finalised, expect the castle's signature blend of family fun including trails, activities, and the chance to explore this magnificent historic estate. The castle beach will reopen in spring 2026, offering even more space for families to enjoy. Keep an eye on their website for the full Easter programme announcement.
Dover Castle
Dover Castle brings history to life this Easter with their Adventure Quest running throughout the school holidays. Young explorers can crack clues hidden around the grounds and enjoy a delicious chocolate reward at the end. The quest costs just £2 per child on top of admission. Don't miss The Big Brick Build happening from 12th – 21st April, where visitors can create their own piece of Dover Castle's lighthouse out of Lego. Expert builders will bring all the pieces together at the end to create one spectacular large-scale model. With medieval chambers, secret wartime tunnels, and stunning views across the English Channel, Dover Castle offers a full day of family adventure.
Wildlife encounters
Spring is the perfect time to meet Kent's amazing animal residents! Howletts Wild Animal Park near Canterbury and its sister park Port Lympne Reserve near Hythe offer incredible opportunities to get up close with rare and endangered animals. Home to over 390 animals at Howletts including the UK's largest herd of African elephants, and 900 animals across 75 species at Port Lympne, these conservation parks promise a wild day out. Watch for special Easter activities and keeper talks throughout the holidays. Both parks are run by The Aspinall Foundation, supporting vital conservation work worldwide.
Kent Life
Kent Life in Maidstone is planning an egg-citing Easter weekend with fluffy new lamb arrivals and bottle-feeding demonstrations throughout the day. Hop on a farm ride, explore the countryside, and get crafty in the Paint-a-Pot studio. Step into the Big Top for fantastic live shows, animal feeding sessions, and owl flying demonstrations. Let the little ones burn off energy in Mr Moo's Messy Play and explore both indoor and outdoor play areas. Plus, there's a special Easter egg trail where families can find giant Easter eggs hidden around the site to win chocolate treats!
Spa Valley Railway
Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells will be steaming through the countryside on selected days throughout the Easter holidays, offering the perfect blend of nostalgia and family fun. Experience heritage steam locomotives puffing through the beautiful Kent countryside between Tunbridge Wells West and Eridge stations. You can hop off at any station with an all-day ticket to enjoy walks, visit nearby pubs, or let the kids loose in Groombridge's play park. Don't forget to bring a pre-written, stamped postcard to post in the unique postbox – a special touch that makes memories last!
Tonbridge Castle
Tonbridge Castle in the heart of Tonbridge offers families a wonderful historic day out this Easter. This impressive motte and bailey castle with its magnificent 13th century gatehouse comes alive with Easter activities perfect for all ages. While specific 2026 details are still being finalised, the castle typically hosts Easter egg hunts and family trails throughout the school holidays. Explore the castle grounds, climb the gatehouse for panoramic views across the town, and let the kids discover the rich medieval history that makes this one of Kent's most impressive fortifications. The castle's riverside location on the banks of the River Medway makes it perfect for combining with a picnic or riverside walk. With free entry to the grounds and regular events throughout the year, Tonbridge Castle is an ideal Easter destination. Keep an eye on their events page for the full Easter programme announcement.
Cyclopark
Over in Gravesham, Cyclopark near Gravesend offers something completely different for active families this Easter! While the little ones enjoy the extensive cycle-based playground and adventure play area, older children and adults can take on the mountain bike trails, BMX tracks, or hire bikes to explore the 2.9km tarmac circuit. The onsite café provides refreshments, and with changing facilities, skatepark, and multi-use sports areas, Cyclopark is the perfect place for an action-packed Easter day out. Just off the A2 with easy parking, it's wonderfully accessible for families across North Kent and beyond.
National Trust
Kent's National Trust properties transform into Easter wonderlands with trails, games, and activities. Knole's parkland becomes the site of a egg-celent Easter egg hunt while Sissinghurst Castle Garden showcases spring in all its glory with vibrant blooms, and outdoor trails perfect for the season.
Penshurst Place and Gardens
Penshurst Place and Gardens near Tonbridge is one of Kent's most enchanting family destinations, and Easter sees this medieval manor house and its stunning 11-acre gardens come alive with springtime activities. Explore this 14th century manor house that's been in the Sidney family for over 470 years, let the kids loose in the large adventure playground set amongst grassy hills, and wander through beautiful formal gardens bursting with spring colour. The Porcupine Pantry serves delicious refreshments, and there's a brilliant Gift Shop and Plant Centre to browse. With 2,500 acres of parkland crossed by public footpaths, it's perfect for combining history, gardens, and countryside walks.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
Step back in time at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, an 80-acre maritime treasure trove in Medway that brings 400 years of naval history to life. The Dockyard is home to three historic warships you can climb aboard, immersive exhibition galleries including Command of the Oceans and The Ropery, and collections from Royal Museums Greenwich and Imperial War Museums.
Canterbury Cathedral
No visit to Kent is complete without experiencing the majesty of Canterbury Cathedral, and Easter is an especially meaningful time to explore this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site. With over 1,400 years of history, stunning medieval architecture, and the most extensive collection of medieval stained glass in Britain, the Cathedral offers families a truly awe-inspiring day out. What's more, kids go free when visiting with a paying adult!
