Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature reserve, an interactive museum, or a supportive play centre, Kent offers a range of inclusive attractions where every child can feel welcome, engaged, and safe. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best SEND-friendly days out in Kent.
Canterbury
With museums, theatres and more, Canterbury is packed with days out that offer experiences made for those with special educational needs and disabilities. Canterbury Roman Museum is rich in more than 2000 years of history, and better yet, there are so many ways to discover it. Explore the museum with backpacks designed for visitors with SEND, which help visitors experience the museum with sensory support, fidget toys and more. The Beaney is another of Canterbury’s fab museums, telling the city’s story through artefacts and more. Pick up SEND family backpacks, meet the Beaney Buddy and use sensory toys, fidget toys, ear defenders, sand timers, an eye spy trail and so much more.
A taste of the theatrical
In the heart of Canterbury, the Marlowe Theatre is a hub of culture, offering everything from comedy to musicals. The team at the Marlowe are committed to making world-class theatre accessible to everyone and providing a safe and inclusive space for all communities. Book in for accessible performances, sign up to their Theatre Access Scheme, or even book in a familiarisation visit to make the most of your trip. Another thriving cultural gem, The Gulbenkian Arts Centre offers monthly relaxed screenings and performances of top cinema and theatre, with raised lighting, reduced sound and no adverts and trailers.
The Powell Cotton Museum
A gem of a museum in the Isle of Thanet, The Powell Cotton Museum has a strong emphasis on accessibility, with SEND family-friendly events and activities throughout the year. Discover everything from bird of prey displays and LEGO activities to musical performance, trails and interactive crafts in an inclusive and welcoming environment that’s packed with family-friendly fun.
Canoe Wild
Whether by kayak, canoe or stand-up-paddleboard, floating along the River Stour is one of our favourite ways to cool off come summer. With Canoe Wild, you can choose the right length of trip and vessel for you and the family, with a fun day guaranteed whatever your need. Just contact the team and let them know about any extra needs and they’ll strive to make your experience the best it can be.
Travel with Stagecoach
This summer enjoy hassle-free journeys around Kent on Stagecoach’s accessible buses. With low floor buses which can carry wheelchairs and approved mobility scooters, as well as audio-visual stop announcements on many of the routes. Be in the know as Stagecoach timetables show when accessible buses are in use. Plus you can guarantee that all buses are guide dog friendly as the team has partnered with Guide Dogs for the Blind to help train and socialise guide dog puppies for their future owners!
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
As one of Kent’s top days out, The Historic Dockyard Chatham should be top of your list. Discover hundreds of years of sea-faring history, family fun, interactive galleries and immersive exhibits. Pick up complimentary sensory support backpacks, stuffed full of resources to support your visit, or enjoy accessible events and activities throughout the year.
Discover more accessible days out in Kent that have specifically created tours and visits for those with access needs, from canoe trips and castles to the best accommodation.
