We don’t want to jinx it or anything but we’ve certainly had the hot weather on our side recently, yes we’ve had a couple days of rain, but we’re in England, what can you expect? But we’re hoping the sun decides to hang around a little longer (which hopefully it does) so we better make the most of it!
We’re covering everything from that perfect family day out, to what to explore right on your doorstep and the outdoor fun that’s not to be missed!
Events
Estuary Festival at Gravesend Town Pier
This summer, Gravesend Town Pier hosts the Estuary Festival, celebrating the Thames Estuary's rich heritage. From June 21–22, enjoy the "Pop Up on the Pier" event featuring live film screenings, artist talks, and interactive workshops for all ages. On June 25–29, step aboard the Nao Santa Maria, a replica of Columbus's flagship, and explore its decks. The festival also includes "Hop Aboard Gravesend!" and "Routes to Protest: the River, Vessels and People of 1381," offering immersive experiences and creative workshops.
Step back in time at Canterbury’s Medieval Pageant
On Saturday 5th July 2025, Canterbury bursts into life with its Medieval Pageant, a vibrant, free family event that brings the city’s history to your doorstep. Starting with a lively parade from Westgate Towers to Canterbury Cathedral, expect knights and giants!
After the parade, explore interactive trail stops across the city where you can try your hand at medieval crafts, watch knights in action, and visit historic sites like St Augustine’s Abbey. Kids visiting five stops get a giant chocolate coin, a tasty souvenir!
With live music, workshops, and fun for all ages, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day in Kent while stepping back in time.
Dive into summer fun at Herne Bay Festival!
From 20th July to 17th August 2025, Herne Bay comes alive with music, art, and seaside adventures for all ages! Catch toe-tapping jazz by the pier, explore quirky art trails, and get crafty at fun workshops. Don’t miss the colourful Carnival Day on 9th August and finish with fireworks lighting up the sky.
Whether you’re building sandcastles, dancing to live bands, or soaking up the seaside vibes, Herne Bay Festival is the ultimate way to make the most of summer in Kent!
Rock your bank holiday at Kent Tribute Festival!
On Sunday 24th August 2025, Strode Park, Herne Bay, turns into the ultimate tribute party! Dance and sing along to top tribute acts celebrating icons like Michael Bublé, Fleetwood Mac, Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift, and more.
With two stages pumping live music, tasty global eats, free inflatables for the kids, birds of prey, lizards, reptiles and spiders, there’s fun for the whole family. Feeling fancy? Grab a VIP ticket for comfy seating, a private bar, and a glass of bubbly on arrival, but hurry, they’re limited!
One Love Festival: Feel the reggae vibes!
On Saturday 23rd August 2025, Herne Bay’s Strode Park is the place to be! Groove to reggae legends Aswad, the 9 – piece Marley Experience, and UB40 tribute band, HomeGrown. Think good tunes, Caribbean food, rum punch, and pure island vibes.
Want to chill in style? VIP tickets get you covered seating, a private bar, and bubbly on arrival, but they’re limited, so act fast!
Art Meets Tide: Estuary 2025 Hits Kent!
From Gravesend to Chatham, Estuary 2025 is making waves with pop-up art, sound walks, and immersive storytelling all along Kent’s riverside.
Join the fun with live performances on the pier, step aboard creative installations, and explore muddy marshes through music and imagination.
Whether you’re an art lover, a curious explorer or just in it for the vibes, there’s something for everyone.
Attractions
Sun’s out paddles out with Canoe Wild!
From family adventures in the brand-new Super Canoe to peaceful evening paddles and fun kids’ clubs, Canoe Wild has everything you need for a summer on the water. Hire a kayak, canoe or paddleboard daily, or drop the kids at Young Paddlers Club while you enjoy some time to yourself (or hit the river too!).
Glide past kingfishers, drift through tranquil scenery, and feel like you’re miles from the everyday. Want to wow the kids? The Super Canoe is big enough for the whole crew, it’s like your own floating party! Evening paddle groups are perfect for winding down, meeting new people, and soaking up golden hour vibes. Whether you're a total beginner or a paddling pro, there's something for everyone.
Sunshine, Sea Breezes & the Best Views in Thanet!
Hop aboard Stagecoach’s open-top Route 69 and soak up Thanet’s stunning coastline in style! Running every weekend, bank holidays, and all summer long, this breezy beauty takes you from Ramsgate’s Boating Pool to Stone Bay in Broadstairs, with sea views all the way.
Feel the wind in your hair, spot hidden coves, and wave to beachgoers as you cruise along the clifftops. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and seaside fun!
Climb aboard, catch the views, and ride the sunshine express!
Gardens, Play & Ice Cream Days at Penshurst Place
Wander through 11 blooming garden rooms, each bursting with colour, scent, and seasonal surprises. From fragrant roses to peaceful ponds, there’s something new to discover around every corner.
Little explorers will love the adventure playground, packed with ziplines, high walks, and obstacle courses nestled in the grassy hills. After all that running, climbing, and imagining, treat the whole gang to a scoop (or two) of Taywell Ice Cream at the Porcupine Pantry Café.
A new kind of feel-good at Macknade
Macknade is turning up the feel-good factor! Already a foodie favourite, their Faversham site is now home to a new wellness hub designed to help you live better, body, mind and soul.
Start your journey with a sweat at Top to Toe Fitness, now in a brand-new studio offering even more energising classes. Fancy something a little more serene? Seascrub Sauna brings Nordic-style heat and cold therapy to the Kent countryside, complete with sauna, hot tub and cold plunge, all with stunning views. And when it's time to truly unwind, head upstairs to Serene Massage Therapies for a blissful Swedish, Deep Tissue or Hot Stone massage.
Sip, stroll and savour at Biddenden Vineyards
Step into the vines at Biddenden, a family-run vineyard since 1969 and nestled in the heart of the Garden of England.
From May to September, you can explore at your own pace with a self-guided tour (no booking needed!) or join a friendly guide for a behind-the-scenes look at the vineyard and winery, complete with a tutored tasting of Biddenden’s award-winning wines and ciders.
Feeling peckish? Round off your visit with a delicious sharing board loaded with Kentish cheese, charcuterie, crackers, chutney, and seasonal goodies.
Dreamland
Kicking things off with a visit to Dreamland, because seriously, who doesn’t want to be screaming at the top of their lungs from a roller coaster when the sun's out. Okay, maybe those of you who aren’t so keen on roller coasters wouldn’t agree, but you didn’t think we’d miss you out, did you? Because there’s plenty for you lot to do too! Try the maze or crazy golf or the amusements or roller disco (don’t tell us you can’t roller skate!) and we can’t forget to mention the line-up of events that’s taking place throughout the summer. So families, thrill-seekers and those looking for a fun time, head to Margate for a summer of fun because there quite literally is something for everyone!
Kent Cricket
Fancy going to watch a cricket match? The Spitfire Ground in Canterbury is the headquarters of Kent County Cricket Club and has some upcoming games throughout the summer that you need to check out! The grounds also have some upcoming events perfect for everyone! So whether a match is taking your fancy or you like the sound of their events, it’s definitely a great way to make the most of the weather this summer.
Powell Cotton Museum
Powel Cotton Museum, located in Quex Park is bringing all the fun for a nice sunny day. From sweeping lawns to shady tree-covered spots where you can enjoy a picnic or wander the gardens and woodlands with an ice cream. And of course, whilst you’re there, head inside the museum or take a tour of Quex House to discover its history.
Kent Downs National Landscape
Get out and about in the Garden of England this summer, because what better way to make the most of the weather than in a National Landscape! With plenty of stunning country parks for you to explore, it’s a no-brainer that a peaceful walk soaking in our stunning scenic views is top of the list for a summers day out. And if you’ve got the little ones, then browse the educational events running through the summer!
English Heritage
Of course we had to talk about English Heritage and the range of stunning sites and castles that you can enjoy on a warm day. Bring a pack-up of your favourite nibbles and snacks and take a seat at one of the sites for a delicious picnic. From Richborough Roman Fort, to Walmer and Dover Castle all with picnic tables, so you can enjoy your picnic surrounded by history. Don’t forget to explore whilst you’re there! From stunning gardens to amazing events, discover your perfect day out at an English Heritage property.
History, Gardens & Family Fun at Hever Castle
Step into 700 years of history at Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, and discover a summer day out fit for royalty. Wander through award-winning gardens bursting with colour, get lost in the water maze, or enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake.
Little ones can let off steam in the adventure playground, while grown-ups soak up the views with an ice cream in hand. Inside the castle, explore grand rooms, historic artefacts, and tales of Tudor intrigue.
Whether you're into history, horticulture or just a great family day out, Hever Castle delivers it all with a touch of magic.
Coastal charm and countryside bliss with Keepers Cottages
Dreaming of a Kent escape? Whether it’s a weekend by the sea or a longer countryside break, Keepers Cottages has your perfect home-from-home waiting. From stylish seaside accommodations in Deal and Kingsdown to cosy country retreats nestled in charming villages, every cottage is handpicked for comfort, character and location.
With dog-friendly options, family favourites and romantic hideaways, there's something for everyone, all just a short stroll from beaches, pubs, and scenic walks.
Destinations
Whitstable & Herne Bay
Sunny walks along Whitstable Harbour or Herne Bay pier? Yes please! What better way to make the most of the weather than heading down to the coast for some beach-side fun. Whether that be with your family, friends significant other or on your own! You can enjoy crabbing, walks along the promenade and if you’re in Herne Bay it wouldn’t be a day out at the beach without a visit to the arcades. Let’s not forget to factor in some time to explore the local areas, with both towns having quirky independent shops and local cafes for you to fill up on some delicious lunch, oh and you must try some oysters when in Whitstable!
Hole Park
Ashford
Exploring Ashford has to be on your list of things to do this summer and we’ve got the perfect ideas on how you can spend your time here…
A visit to Godinton House & Gardens is definitely a must-visit, with beautiful gardens like the Rose Garden, to the Lily Pond and fountain - definitely a great way to enjoy the sunshine.
You can’t go wrong with a picnic on a summers day. Luckily for you, Ashford has some great spots where you can relax and soak in the beautiful surroundings and enjoy a picnic. From Devils Kneading Trough with stunning views, Royal Military Canal with amazing wildlife, to scenic walks, cycle routes and the Wye Crown, nestled in the hills of the Kent Downs AONB – take your pick!
Viking Bay
Isle of Thanet
Heading to the Isle of Thanet is just the right thing to do on a hot day. In this part of the county we’re blessed with beautiful blue flag beaches, a list of wonderful attractions and towns will lots to do and explore. First things first, when you arrive you’re going to want to head straight to an ice cream parlour because who can wait until later for an ice cream? Don’t worry, we won’t judge you if you went back to get another. And if you’re feeling peckish, bring a picnic and head to one of the many picnic locations here in Thanet!
Have you heard of the Viking Coastal Trail? This is the best way to see the coastline with a circular leisure cycle route around Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. It’s family-friendly with traffic free promenades and broad sea walls, or along leisurely country lanes.
So, what else can you do whilst you’re here? Why not ride the waves or learn a new skill surfing or stand up paddle boarding with Joss Bay Surf School or Kent Surf School or head to a golf course and practice your swing or go with the family for a bit of competitive fun!
Medway
Hmm, what to do in Medway? From perfect picnics to wonderful walks there’s so much to do, the only thing you need to worry about is how you can fit it all in! If you’re looking for a treat to cool you down (you must know we’re on about ice cream of course!) then check out Creams at Dockside and indulge in a crepe, waffle or sundae, or maybe a milkshake or smoothie tickles your fancy.
Maidstone
We’re going on an ice cream hunt in Maidstone, so let’s head to the heart of the town and see what we can find on those hot days in summer. The Old Boat Café is something you must check out, serving refreshing Solley's ice cream so you can either take a waterside walk with it or stop and relax at one of the sets of tables and chairs, and be sure to head for the shade if it’s a hot day! The Kentish Lady River Cruises also sells a good selection of ice creams from their ticket kiosk. Here you can settle in the Archbishop's Palace Gardens or on their benches whilst waiting for your boat to come in, or simply enjoy an ice cream in a waterside location
There we have it, a rather jam-packed round up of some of the things you can get up to here in Kent on a nice sunny day. So, whatever you decide to do, whether that's stepping out into the Garden of England, enjoying an ice cream along the river, or creating lasting memories with the family, be sure to do one thing...make the most of it!
