February half term 2026 runs from 14 February to 22 February. Here in Kent, we've got the perfect blend of cosy rainy day plans and outdoor adventures - discover indoor escapes when the drizzle arrives and outdoor excitement when the sun peeks through those February clouds.
Whether you're locals looking for something new or families discovering the Garden of England for the first time, we've rounded up some brilliant family activities and things to do in Kent this February half term 2026.
Looking for the best way to get around? Why not let the train take the strain with Southeastern's great value Kids for a Quid tickets.
The Historic Dockyard Chatham
The Historic Dockyard Chatham is packed with maritime history, from incredible warships to the rope-making factory. This February half term you can become an apprentice deckhand too - choose a maritime trade, get hands on learning the skills and finish by being rewarded with a prize at the end! It's all genuinely fascinating stuff whatever your age, and the indoor spaces mean you can duck out of any drizzle too!
Marvel at Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is genuinely awe-inspiring, with soaring architecture that makes even the most restless children stop and stare. Pick up a family trail at the entrance to turn your visit into an adventure. The kids can hunt for carvings, discover hidden details, and learn stories about medieval life. The stained glass windows are spectacular, and there's something rather magical about walking through somewhere with over 1,400 years of history. The cathedral gardens are lovely for a run around afterwards, and the surrounding streets are packed with independent shops and cafes for refuelling.
Adventures at Leeds Castle
This February half term, Leeds Castle transforms into a Medieval royal court where families learn the art of courtly life. Guided by Lord Hugo and Lady Mary, children discover royal etiquette, master courtly dancing, and choose their own regal persona for a grand ball. The experience includes walking with royal poise, understanding Medieval mealtimes, and meeting fascinating court characters from peasants to knights. Beyond this enchanting event, explore the famous yew maze, three adventure playgrounds, woodland walks, and spectacular daily falconry displays - all included with admission.
Go Ape Leeds Castle
Escape the ordinary and head to Go Ape Leeds Castle, set in the Grounds of Leeds Castle, for an unforgettable outdoor adventure. Perfect for families, friends, and thrill seekers, Go Ape Leeds Castle offers action-packed forest adventures including Treetop Challenge, Treetop Adventure+ or high ropes experience, and axe throwing for an extra dash of excitement. It’s the ultimate family day out for anyone searching for outdoor activities near Maidstone, February half term adventures, or things to do with older kids in Kent. The forest doors will be open daily throughout February half term, making it easy to plan a fun, active day in nature. Wrap up warm, get outdoors, and enjoy quality time together while taking on an exciting challenge. What's more Go Ape Leeds Castle won gold in the Beautiful South Tourism Awards, so you can rest assured you're in for a fantastic day out!
Step Back in Time at Dover Castle
Set atop the White Cliffs of Dover, Dover Castle offers a jam-packed day out this half term. The castle itself is an adventure – tunnels to explore, medieval keeps to discover, and those views across the Channel are simply spectacular. Wrap up warm and prepare for a proper historical adventure.
Bugs, Boots and Backpacks at Hever Castle
Hever Castle near Edenbridge is running hands-on outdoor activities perfect for little environmental champions. Kids can try their hand at building bug hotels, creating clay creatures and collecting natural treasures while exploring the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The gardens are beautiful even in February, and the castle itself tells such rich stories. It's culture, nature, and history all wrapped up in one brilliant day out.
Get Wild at Port Lympne Reserve
There's something magical about watching the kids' faces light up when they spot a rhino or a pack of African wild dogs. Port Lympne Reserve near Hythe offers those wow moments in spades, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Kent during February half term. The February weather actually works in your favour here – the animals are often more active in cooler temperatures, and you'll dodge the summer crowds. Book onto one of their keeper experiences if you want to make it extra special. Trust us, feeding a giraffe is worth the early morning wake-up call.
Uncover Hidden Secrets at Betteshanger Park
Head to Betteshanger Park for their Fossil Hunting. Uncover the clues, track down prehistoric creatures, and get up close to ancient secrets with hands-on exploration. The park itself is gorgeous for a walk, with play areas and cycling paths if you want to make a full day of it. Pack a picnic if the weather's kind, or retreat to the café when you need warming up.
Get Wild in the Woods at Wildwood
Wildwood offers something truly special this February half term with experiences that let kids connect with nature properly. As you wander the ancient woodland trails, you'll spot native British wildlife from red squirrels to wildcats. It's outdoor learning at its best, and there's something deeply satisfying about watching children get muddy, creative, and completely absorbed in the natural world.
Credit Thanet District Council
Beach Walks and Fish and Chips
Don't let February's chill put you off a beach trip. Bundle everyone up and head to Ramsgate, Margate, or Broadstairs for that bracing sea air that somehow makes you feel more alive. February beaches have their own beauty – dramatic skies, fewer crowds, and the simple pleasure of stones skimming across winter waves. The Kent coast is stunning during half term in February, offering a different kind of seaside experience. Reward yourselves with proper fish and chips afterwards. You've earned it.
Discover Steam and Stories at the Kent & East Sussex Railway
All aboard for a journey back to the golden age of steam travel. The Kent & East Sussex Railway runs special events throughout February half term, and there's something wonderfully nostalgic about rattling through the countryside in a heritage carriage. Little ones obsessed with trains will be in heaven, and there's usually a buffet car for essential snacks. Check if Bluey is making an appearance during your visit – character meet-and-greets always make the day extra special.
Get Creative at Turner Contemporary
Margate's Turner Contemporary always has something fascinating on display, and their February half term activities are designed with families in mind. Free workshops, hands-on art sessions, and galleries overlooking the sea make for a cultured afternoon that doesn't feel like school. Plus, Margate's Dreamland is right around the corner if you need to balance art appreciation with arcade games.
Explore Enchanted Forests at Bedgebury
Bedgebury National Pinetum is stunning in February - crisp, quiet, and perfect for working off that half-term energy. The Go Ape treetop adventure course runs year-round if you've got confident climbers, or simply explore the walking trails and let them loose in the outdoor play areas. Pack a thermos and make a proper day of it.
PaintnGo
Looking for a creative half term activity that brings all generations together? PaintnGo's sessions in Tunbridge Wells offer the perfect solution. These relaxed daytime experiences welcome families of all ages and abilities to create large-scale wall art together. From toddlers to grandparents, everyone can splash, paint, and make memories in this inclusive, accessible studio on Calverley Road. It's creative fun without pressure, perfect for bonding across generations while getting delightfully messy together.
Showcase Cinema de Lux Bluewater
This February half term, Showcase Cinema de Lux Bluewater delights families with special screenings of beloved animations Frozen 2 and Sing. Young moviegoers can join Elsa and Anna's enchanting adventure or enjoy Buster Moon's spectacular singing competition on the big screen. These family-friendly showings provide the perfect indoor entertainment during the school break, combining comfortable luxury seating with captivating storytelling that appeals to children and parents alike in Bluewater's premier cinema destination.
Big Museum Build at Powell-Cotton Museum
This February half term, the Powell-Cotton Museum invites young visitors to unleash their creativity during the Big Museum Build event. Children can explore their imagination through hands-on construction activities, designing and building their own museum exhibits and structures. This engaging workshop encourages problem-solving, teamwork, and artistic expression while inspiring budding architects and designers. Set within the museum's fascinating collections of natural history and cultural artifacts, the Big Museum Build offers an educational and entertaining experience that combines learning with practical creativity, making it an ideal half-term activity for families seeking something beyond traditional museum visits in the Kent countryside.
February Half Term Adventures in the Isle of Thanet
The Isle of Thanet offers exciting half-term activities for families this February. RAF Manston History Museum hosts "Bricks at the Museum," where children can explore aviation history through creative LEGO building challenges inspired by the museum's remarkable aircraft collection. For outdoor enthusiasts, Thanet's Coastal Explorer Packs provide self-guided adventures along the stunning coastline, complete with activity sheets and discovery tools that encourage families to explore the area's rock pools, beaches, and maritime heritage. For even more adventures, be sure to check out Visit Thanet's half term guide.
Dino Trail at Betteshanger Park
Unleash prehistoric adventures this February half term at Betteshanger Country Park's Dino Hunt! Young explorers can track down dinosaurs hidden throughout the park's beautiful trails and woodlands. This exciting, family-friendly activity combines outdoor fun with educational discovery, perfect for burning off energy during the school holidays. Wrap up warm and embark on a roaring good time in the Kent countryside.
Penshurst Place
Penshurst Place reopens for 2026 on February 14th for half term fun, where families can enjoy a brand-new garden trail, helping Percy Porcupine find his lost party food around the gardens; crafting in the Old Coach House; interactive games and exhibits in the refurbished Toy Museum, and endless fun in the Adventure Playground. Discover crisp seasonal walks, as early signs of Spring begin to stir across the 11-acre heritage gardens, and warm up afterwards with hot drinks and delicious snacks and meals in the Porcupine Pantry café.
