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Things to do in Kent

Looking for things to do in Kent? Well you've come to the right place as our guide covers all of the key attractions, best walks, must-visit towns, stunning nature reserves and fun-filled theme parks that you need to know about within this beautiful county that's known as the Garden of Eden. Our Kent Coast Holiday Park, situated mere miles away from the historic town of Rochester, is the perfect base for exploring the best of Kent.

Leeds Castle

What are the best things to do in Kent with kids?

Kent delivers brilliant family days out for all ages, with wildlife parks and soft play for toddlers, and climbing centres, safari parks, and historic castles for older children. Haven's Kent Coast Holiday Park sits at the heart of it all.

Festive lighting hangs from a Christmas market stall.

Best Christmas markets and attractions near Kent

Kent boasts five brilliant Christmas markets and attractions within 45 miles of Kent Coast, including Rochester's 100-stall traditional market, Hever Castle's dazzling 125-acre light trail, and Canterbury's festive winter wonderland.

Aerial View Shot of Canterbury, Kent, England, United Kingdom

What’s on in Kent 2027?

Kent delivers a packed 2027 events calendar for all ages, from free street festivals and folk music to classic cars and two weeks of arts at the Canterbury Festival, all near Kent Coast Holiday Park.

A close up of a polecat

What are the best wildlife and nature reserves in Kent?

Kent boasts ten outstanding wildlife and nature reserves, from the vast wetlands of Elmley and Oare Marshes to the otherworldly landscape of Dungeness, offering incredible birdwatching, rare butterflies, and family-friendly trails throughout the county.

Wooden roller coaster

What are the best theme parks in Kent?

Kent offers six brilliant theme parks for families, from Dreamland Margate's century-old rollercoaster and Diggerland's real construction machinery to Buckmore Park's world-class karting circuit, all within easy reach of the Kent coast.

The stunning Rochester Castle

What are the best restaurants in Rochester?

Rochester boasts ten excellent restaurants for day-trippers from Kent Coast. Highlights include The George Vaults in a 14th-century crypt, The Cheese Room Botanicals set within the Cathedral grounds, and Thai Four Two for authentic Thai cuisine.

Colourful beach huts facing the calm Atlantic sea at Whitstable, Kent

What are the best things to do in Whitstable?

Whitstable boasts far more than its world-famous oysters. The Kent coastal town offers beach walks, a free historic castle, vibrant harbour market stalls, sailing taster sessions, and a charming beachside pub – all within easy reach of the Kent Coast.

Beautiful view of Canterbury houses

How to spend your days out in Kent?

Kent offers an outstanding variety of days out, from Leeds Castle and Canterbury's treasure trails to Dymchurch's golden beaches and Shepherd Neame's historic brewery tours, all within easy reach of Kent Coast Holiday Park.

Countryside footpath across green fields in Kent

What are the best walks in Kent?

Kent's best walks include the dramatic White Cliffs of Dover, King's Wood's sculpture trail, and the historic Weardale Circular from Chartwell, offering coastal paths, ancient woodland, and rich cultural heritage across the county.

Medieval half-timber houses beside Stour River in Canterbury Old Town

What are the best things to do in Canterbury?

Canterbury offers a remarkable mix of history, culture, and food. Visitors can explore a World Heritage Site cathedral, punt along the River Stour, uncover Roman ruins, and sample fresh Kent produce at the famous Goods Shed.

A stunning view of the White Cliffs of Dover

What are the best things to do in Dover?

Dover offers far more than a ferry port — walk the iconic White Cliffs, explore Dover Castle's secret wartime tunnels, discover a 3,500-year-old Bronze Age boat, and take to the water on a sea safari.

A stunning view of the Maidstone north downs

What are the best restaurants in Maidstone?

Maidstone boasts a vibrant and varied dining scene, with options ranging from cosy country pubs and authentic Spanish tapas to Nepalese thalis and Argentinian steaks, catering brilliantly for families and couples alike.

Rochester Cathedral on a sunny day

What are the best things to do in Rochester?

Rochester packs history, culture, and family fun into one compact city. Explore a Norman castle, England's second oldest cathedral, Dickens' literary haunts, and vibrant dining — all just 20 minutes from Kent Coast Holiday Park.

View of the beach at Margate on a sunny day

What are the best things to do in Margate?

Margate offers sandy beaches, independent culture, and seaside nostalgia, from the Turner Contemporary and Shell Grotto to Dreamland Amusement Park and the Old Town's boutiques.

Dog enjoying a sunny beer garden

What are the best dog-friendly pubs in Kent?

Kent has a great selection of dog-friendly pubs, especially around the Hoo Peninsula near Kent Coast Holiday Park, many welcoming dogs inside and in beer gardens with water bowls and treats.

Gillingham Marina, Chatham

What are the best things to do in Chatham?

Chatham offers a rich mix of maritime heritage, arts, food and family adventures. Explore The Historic Dockyard, Fort Amherst ghost tours, escape rooms, art cafes, and a gin distillery — all just 23 minutes from Kent Coast Holiday Park.

Boats moored in the creek at Oare near Faversham

What are the best restaurants in Faversham?

Faversham's restaurant scene genuinely rivals any Kent town, with standout options spanning creekside Italian at Posillipo, celebrated fish and chips at Ossies, cask ales at The Sun Inn, and Mexican-inspired flavours at Albion Taverna.

Dog-friendly beach, Kent

Which dog-friendly beaches in Kent should you visit?

Kent boasts several dog-friendly beaches open all year round, including Whitstable, Sandwich Bay, Dumpton Gap, and Samphire Hoe. With pebble shores, rock pools, and shallow seas, these spots welcome dogs in every season.

Margate beach, Devon

What are the 9 best beaches in Kent?

Kent's best beaches span 200km of coastline, from Allhallows near London to Viking Bay in Broadstairs. Sandy and pebbly options abound, with several holding Blue Flag status and many offering classic British seaside facilities for families.

Places to visit in Kent

What are the best places to visit in Kent?

Kent offers ten destinations, from Margate's seaside charm and Whitstable's oysters to Canterbury's medieval streets and Dover's coastline, with rich history and great beaches.

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