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1
For an action-packed family day, the English Heritage property perched on Kent’s famous White Cliffs is hard to beat. Take time to walk the battlements and enjoy breath-taking views towards France.
Explore the Great Tower and unearth fascinating facts about its history.
You can also relive the turbulent times of the Second World War as you tour the underground hospital tucked away within the Secret Wartime Tunnels. Make sure you set aside the whole day – there’s a lot to do.
2
Ever wondered what it would be like to step back in time and experience the sights, sounds and smells of a bygone era? At the Canterbury Tales you can do just that.
Step into medieval Canterbury and accompany Geoffrey Chaucer’s colourful characters on their magical pilgrimage from London to the shrine of St Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral.
Along the way, their stories of love, romance, jealousy and trickery are vividly recreated. Ideal for a rainy day.
3
Hidden in picturesque countryside, straddling the border between Kent and East Sussex, Bewl Water is a hive of activity during the summer months.
The reservoir, set in 1,000 acres of land, has a popular cycle path and water sports including wind surfing, rowing and canoeing.
There is also a cafe and bistro which offers breathtaking views of the reservoir. It’s just off the A21 at Lamberhurst, 15 miles from Tunbridge Wells.
4
It is billed as being the loveliest castle in the world and it seems visitors agree. Leeds Castle has been a Norman stronghold, a royal palace, and an elegant early 20th century retreat for the rich and famous. More recently though it has become one of the most visited historic buildings in Britain, with more than half a million people going through the gates each year.
There’s plenty to explore besides the fortress itself, with 500 acres of parkland, a maze and an underground grotto. There are also free falconry displays and boat and train rides to keep families busy.
5
Ideal for a fine and sunny day, a drive through some of Kent’s beautiful countryside surrounding Tunbridge Wells brings you out to this little gem. Penshurst is a pretty, unspoilt, village with quaint tea rooms.
At the top of a hill just outside the village is the Spotted Dog, a 15th century pub with beams and open fires, and breathtaking views over Penshurst Place and Gardens.
The ancestral home once owned by Henry VIII is one for all the family as well as those interested in history. There’s an adventure playground, gardens and a restaurant.
6
This amazing place, on the coast between Dover and Folkestone, was made from the material dug to create the Channel Tunnel and the further you get from the car park, the more wild the site becomes.
Flowers, birds, sea angling, peace and quiet, painting or walks – there is something for everyone.
Guided walks and other activities are regularly organised.
There is also a snack kiosk.
7
There’s 700 years of history and award-winning gardens at 13th century Hever Castle, near Tonbridge. There’s plenty for everyone from three to 103 – including the water maze.
Situated on Sixteen Acre Island at the 700-year-old double-moated castle – once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn – the maze has stepping stone walkways which send out jets of water at odd intervals, soaking surprised visitors.
The aim is to reach the stone grotto in the centre without getting wet. Under fives must be accompanied by an adult. Just don’t forget the towel!
