Looking for free things to do in Kent during the summer holidays? Whether you’re planning days out with toddlers, school-age children or teenagers, Kent is packed with beautiful beaches, country parks, woodland adventures and historic places that won’t cost you a penny.
With six weeks of summer holidays stretching ahead, entertaining the children without spending a fortune can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, living in (or visiting) the Garden of England comes with one huge advantage – there are dozens of incredible places where children can run, climb, paddle, explore wildlife and burn off energy completely free of charge.
From rock pooling on the Kent coast and picnics beneath ancient oak trees to splash parks, nature reserves and giant adventure playgrounds, there are countless opportunities for memorable family days out that don’t involve expensive tickets.
In this guide I’ve rounded up more than 75 of the very best free things to do in Kent during the summer school holidays. Some are well-known family favourites, while others are hidden gems that even many local families haven’t discovered yet.
If the weather isn’t on your side, you can also take a look at my post about rainy day activities for kids.
Free Things To Do In Kent During The Summer Holidays
Whether the sun is shining or you’re simply looking for somewhere different to explore, you’re sure to find plenty of inspiration below.
1. Botany Bay, Broadstairs
One of Kent’s most photographed beaches, Botany Bay feels almost tropical on a sunny day. The striking white chalk cliffs, golden sand and fascinating rock pools make it a fantastic place for families looking to spend a whole day outdoors.
Children love searching for tiny crabs, shrimp and shells as the tide goes out, while older kids can scramble across the rocks and explore the coastline.
Bring a picnic, a bucket and spade and plenty of sunscreen, and you’ve got one of the best completely free family days out in Kent.
Why children love it
- Rock pools
- Sandy beach
- Chalk cliffs
- Fossil hunting
- Space to paddle
Facilities
- Seasonal café
- Toilets nearby
- Pay and display parking
- Lifeguards during peak season
Allow: Half a day to a full day
2. Viking Bay, Broadstairs
If your children love traditional seaside days, Viking Bay is hard to beat. The wide sandy beach is perfect for sandcastle competitions, paddling and beach games, while the promenade offers plenty of places to enjoy an ice cream if your budget stretches to a small treat. Even without spending a penny, there’s plenty of entertainment simply watching the boats come and go. The gentle slope into the sea also makes it one of Kent’s more family-friendly beaches.
Perfect for
- Young children
- Family picnics
- Beach cricket
- Swimming
- Sunset walks
Facilities
- Toilets
- Showers
- Cafés
- Parking
Allow: Half to full day
3. Minnis Bay
Minnis Bay is often quieter than some of Kent’s better-known beaches, making it ideal if you’re looking for a more relaxed family day out. There’s plenty of sand at low tide, wide open space for games and an attractive promenade that’s perfect for scooters and balance bikes. The sunsets here are spectacular, making it a lovely place for an evening picnic too.
Highlights
- Huge beach
- Wide promenade
- Family atmosphere
- Beautiful sunsets
4. Dymchurch Beach
Stretching for miles, Dymchurch Beach offers enough space that it rarely feels overcrowded. Children can spend hours collecting shells, flying kites or simply running along the shoreline. If you do fancy spending a little money later, the famous Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway is close by, but the beach itself is completely free to enjoy.
Great for
- Kite flying
- Long walks
- Sandcastle building
- Family games
5. St Margaret’s Bay
Nestled beneath dramatic white cliffs, St Margaret’s Bay feels like a hidden escape. The pebble beach offers fantastic opportunities for rock pooling, while the surrounding cliffs provide one of the most scenic coastal walks in Kent. Bring sturdy shoes if you’re planning to explore further along the coastline.
Best for
- Teenagers
- Scenic walks
- Photography
- Rock pooling
6. Lower Leas Coastal Park, Folkestone
Although technically a park rather than a beach attraction, Lower Leas Coastal Park deserves a place near the top of any list of free summer activities in Kent.
The enormous adventure play area is one of the best in the county, featuring climbing equipment, tunnels, rope bridges and slides that keep children entertained for hours.
The beautifully landscaped gardens are ideal for picnics, while the coastal location means you’re only a short walk from the beach.
Facilities
- Adventure playground
- Picnic lawns
- Café
- Toilets
Perfect age: 2–12
Allow: 2–4 hours
7. Samphire Hoe
Created from the spoil excavated during the construction of the Channel Tunnel, Samphire Hoe is now one of Kent’s most unusual nature destinations.
Families come here to spot butterflies, birds and wildflowers while enjoying spectacular views of the White Cliffs of Dover.
Children love watching ferries pass through the English Channel, and it’s also an excellent place to fly a kite on breezy summer days.
Look out for
- Butterflies
- Rabbits
- Seabirds
- Wildflowers
8. Reculver Towers & Roman Fort
History suddenly becomes much more exciting when children can actually climb around ancient ruins. The iconic twin towers overlooking the sea have become one of Kent’s most recognisable landmarks.
Pack a picnic and enjoy exploring the grassy surroundings before taking a stroll along the coast. There’s plenty of open space for children to run around, making it a surprisingly toddler-friendly historic site.
9. Knole Park, Sevenoaks
Knole Park feels more like a safari than a traditional park. Home to hundreds of free-roaming deer, it’s one of the easiest places in Kent to spot these magnificent animals in their natural surroundings.
Children are often amazed by how close the deer can appear, although it’s important to admire them from a respectful distance. The huge open parkland is perfect for family walks, den building, nature spotting and picnics beneath ancient trees.
Highlights
- Deer spotting
- Huge open spaces
- Ancient trees
- Walking trails
10. Jeskyns Community Woodland
If you’re looking for somewhere children can burn off energy, Jeskyns is hard to beat. There are miles of walking trails, dedicated cycling routes, open meadows, natural play features and picnic areas.
The wide paths also make it suitable for pushchairs and scooters. During summer, families often spend an entire day here without feeling short of things to do.
Why visit?
- Adventure play
- Woodland walks
- Picnic areas
- Open meadows
- Family cycling
One of the best things about Kent is that many of its most memorable family days out don’t require an entrance ticket. From ancient woodlands and wildlife-rich nature reserves to huge adventure playgrounds and dramatic cliff-top walks, these places offer children the freedom to explore, climb, discover and enjoy the outdoors.
Things To Do In Kent For Free
Here’s another collection of fantastic things to do for free in Kent to add to your summer holiday bucket list.
11. Shorne Woods Country Park
If you asked Kent parents to recommend one place for a family day out, Shorne Woods would almost certainly feature near the top of the list.
Spread across nearly 300 acres, this beautiful country park combines woodland, lakes, meadows, play areas and family-friendly walking trails. The award-winning visitor centre and café are there if you fancy a treat, but it’s perfectly possible to spend an entire day here without spending anything beyond parking.
Children particularly love the natural play spaces, trim trail and spotting dragonflies around the ponds.
Why families love it
- Woodland adventure playground
- Lakes and wildlife
- Family-friendly walking routes
- Excellent picnic spots
- Plenty of open space for games
Facilities
- Toilets
- Café
- Visitor centre
- Play area
- Picnic benches
Allow: Half a day to a full day
12. Trosley Country Park
Perched on the North Downs, Trosley Country Park rewards families with some of the best views in Kent.
There are several marked walking trails suitable for different abilities, including accessible routes, while children can burn off energy in the woodland play area before enjoying a picnic overlooking the surrounding countryside. It’s especially beautiful on clear summer mornings.
Perfect for
- Woodland walks
- Nature spotting
- Picnics
- Scenic family hikes
- Younger children who enjoy climbing and exploring
Facilities
- Woodland playground
- Café
- Toilets
- Accessible trails
Allow: 2–4 hours
Top tip: Entry is free, although parking charges apply.
13. Hucking Estate
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Hucking Estate is one of Kent’s hidden treasures.
Managed by the Woodland Trust, this peaceful landscape is filled with rolling meadows, ancient woodland and spectacular viewpoints.
Children can build dens, search for butterflies and enjoy some real countryside adventure. Bring binoculars if you have them—you’ll often spot birds of prey circling overhead.
Highlights
- Wildflower meadows
- Woodland walks
- Fantastic viewpoints
- Peaceful atmosphere
14. Blean Woods National Nature Reserve
Known as one of the largest areas of ancient woodland in southern England, Blean Woods feels wonderfully wild.
Towering trees provide welcome shade on hot summer days, while winding paths encourage children to explore.
Depending on the season, you may even spot butterflies, woodpeckers and other woodland wildlife.
It’s also an excellent place for introducing children to simple nature scavenger hunts.
Great for
- Bug hunting
- Woodland walks
- Bird watching
- Den building
15. Oare Marshes Nature Reserve
Young wildlife lovers will absolutely adore Oare Marshes.
Boardwalks and hides make it easy to watch birds without disturbing them, and children often enjoy seeing ducks, geese, herons and even birds of prey.
Pack a pair of binoculars and turn it into a family spotting challenge.
Every visit feels different depending on the season.
Why visit?
- Wildlife hides
- Easy walking
- Peaceful setting
- Great photography opportunities
16. Pegwell Bay Country Park
Pegwell Bay combines coastal scenery with fascinating wildlife.
Wide walking paths make it suitable for younger children, while older kids enjoy watching ships travelling through the English Channel.
It’s one of Kent’s best places to combine a coastal walk with birdwatching and a picnic.
Keep your eyes peeled for butterflies and migrating birds during the summer months.
17. White Cliffs of Dover Walking Trails
The iconic White Cliffs aren’t just for tourists.
Families can enjoy some incredible cliff-top walks completely free of charge while taking in breathtaking views across the English Channel.
Older children enjoy spotting ferries heading towards France, while younger ones simply love the huge open spaces.
There are plenty of shorter routes if little legs get tired.
Highlights
- Incredible scenery
- Wildflowers
- Butterfly spotting
- Historic viewpoints
18. Crab Fishing at Whitstable Harbour
Sometimes the simplest activities create the biggest memories.
Take a bucket, some string, a net and a little bacon, and children can spend hours trying to catch tiny shore crabs around the harbour walls.
It’s inexpensive, educational and surprisingly addictive for adults too.
Remember to return every crab gently back into the water.
You’ll need
- Bucket
- Crab line
- Small net
- Bacon
Plenty of patience!
19. Seal Spotting at Shellness
Many people are surprised to discover that Kent has its own resident seal population.
Around Shellness, near Leysdown, lucky visitors often spot seals resting on nearby sandbanks, particularly when the tide is low.
Children love scanning the shoreline looking for bobbing seal heads.
Bring binoculars to improve your chances.
Best time
- Low tide
- Calm weather
- Early morning
20. Crab and Winkle Way
This traffic-free walking and cycling route links Canterbury with Whitstable and follows part of the route of the world’s first regular passenger railway.
It’s mostly flat, making it ideal for children learning to ride bikes or families with scooters.
The woodland sections provide welcome shade during hot summer weather.
Why not cycle one way before rewarding yourselves with a picnic?
21. Capstone Country Park
When looking for places to visit in Kent for free, Capstone Country Park is one of Medway’s best-kept secrets.
Children can explore lakes, woodland trails, open grassland and one of Kent’s most impressive adventure playgrounds.
The wide open spaces make it perfect for football, frisbee or simply letting little ones run free.
Many local parents recommend it as an excellent alternative to some of Kent’s busier country parks.
22. Manor Park Country Park, West Malling
This beautifully maintained park offers something for every age.
There’s a modern playground, accessible paths, lakes and plenty of picnic spots.
The gentle walking routes make it especially suitable for pushchairs and younger children.
It’s easy to spend several relaxed hours here without feeling rushed.
23. Mote Park, Maidstone
One of Kent’s largest and most popular parks, Mote Park is packed with family-friendly activities that don’t cost a penny.
Children love watching ducks and swans on the lake, exploring the enormous playground and running across the huge open lawns.
Bring footballs, kites or scooters and you’ll have plenty of space.
Perfect for
- Picnics
- Playground fun
- Duck spotting
- Family games
24. Grosvenor & Hilbert Park, Tunbridge Wells
Recently restored, this Victorian park is brilliant for younger families.
The imaginative playground includes climbing equipment, swings and water play features during warmer weather, while older children enjoy exploring the woodland walks nearby.
Regular community events also help create a lovely atmosphere during the summer months.
25. Riverside Country Park, Gillingham
Situated beside the River Medway, Riverside Country Park combines wildlife, waterside walks and huge skies.
Children enjoy watching boats, spotting birds and exploring the varied habitats.
It’s also a fantastic place to teach youngsters about estuary wildlife.
26. Dane John Gardens, Canterbury
Located just outside Canterbury’s historic city walls, Dane John Gardens is ideal if you’re already exploring the city.
Children can tackle the playground, enjoy an ice cream on the lawns or climb the historic mound for panoramic views.
It makes a perfect stop during a family walk around Canterbury.
27. The Great Lines Heritage Park, Chatham
History and outdoor play combine beautifully here.
The enormous open spaces are ideal for football, frisbee and kite flying, while the impressive Napoleonic fortifications encourage plenty of imaginative adventures.
It’s also one of the best places in Medway to enjoy a sunset picnic.
28. Ashenbank Wood
Ashenbank Wood feels wonderfully untouched.
Children can climb fallen logs, search for woodland creatures and enjoy proper outdoor adventures away from screens.
If your family enjoys geocaching, there are often caches hidden nearby too.
29. Leybourne Lakes Country Park
Although swimming activities are paid, simply exploring the lakes and surrounding paths is completely free.
Families enjoy walking around the water, watching ducks and dragonflies and relaxing with a picnic.
The flat routes also make it excellent for balance bikes and scooters.
30. Blue Bell Hill Viewpoint
Finish the day with one of Kent’s most spectacular panoramic views.
Blue Bell Hill offers sweeping vistas across the Medway Valley, making it an ideal evening picnic destination.
Children can stretch their legs while parents enjoy watching the sun begin to set over the Kent countryside.
Sometimes the simplest places create the biggest memories.
By now, you’ve got enough free summer holiday activities near me to fill most of the summer holidays, but Kent still has plenty more to offer. Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, wander through charming seaside towns or keep the children entertained when the British weather inevitably changes its mind, these free things to do Kent are well worth adding to your list.
Things To Do In Kent Free
31. Deal Seafront
Deal has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for an easy family day out.
The long promenade is ideal for scooters, bikes and pushchairs, while the pebble beach is great for skimming stones and paddling on calm days.
Children often enjoy watching fishing boats and lifeboats coming and going from the shore.
Perfect for
- Scooter rides
- Stone skimming
- Family picnics
- Ice cream walks
Allow: 2–4 hours
32. Faversham Creek
If your children love boats, Faversham Creek is fascinating to explore.
Historic sailing barges, quirky little bridges and riverside paths make it feel completely different from Kent’s seaside towns.
It’s a peaceful place for a picnic and a gentle stroll, with plenty of opportunities to spot ducks, swans and moorhens.
33. Sandwich
Stepping into Sandwich is like travelling back in time.
Its medieval streets, timber-framed buildings and ancient gateways capture children’s imaginations, while the riverside offers plenty of green space for a picnic.
Keep an eye out for the ducks along the River Stour.
Don’t miss
- Medieval streets
- Historic gates
- Riverside walks
- Independent shop windows
34. Tenterden
Often called the “Jewel of the Weald”, Tenterden is a lovely town to wander around during the summer holidays.
Browse the interesting shop fronts, enjoy the flower displays and relax on the village green with a picnic.
If the Kent & East Sussex Railway is running, children will enjoy watching the steam trains arrive and depart—even if you don’t buy a ticket.
35. Rochester Riverside
Rochester is packed with history, but simply exploring the riverside won’t cost you a penny.
Children can watch boats travelling along the River Medway before walking through the historic High Street towards the impressive castle and cathedral.
There’s often plenty happening during the summer, creating a lively atmosphere.
36. Rochester Castle Gardens
Although there’s an admission charge to climb the castle keep, the surrounding gardens are completely free.
They’re a fantastic place for a picnic, with beautiful views of one of England’s best-preserved Norman castles.
Children love imagining knights, kings and medieval battles while running across the lawns.
37. Whitstable Castle Gardens
Many visitors head straight for Whitstable Beach and completely overlook these peaceful gardens.
The beautifully maintained grounds include colourful flower borders, mature trees and open lawns where children can safely play.
It’s a lovely spot to enjoy lunch away from the busy harbour.
38. Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells
This Victorian park is one of Kent’s prettiest green spaces.
Children can watch ducks gliding across the boating lake, explore winding woodland paths and enjoy the large playground.
There are plenty of shady spots for picnics during warmer weather.
Highlights
- Boating lake
- Adventure playground
- Woodland walks
- Beautiful gardens
39. Betteshanger Park
Although many activities here are paid, simply exploring the extensive walking and cycling trails is completely free.
Families often come to enjoy nature walks, wildlife spotting and wide open spaces.
It’s an excellent place for older children who enjoy cycling.
40. Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve
One of Kent’s best wildlife reserves, this peaceful haven is perfect for introducing children to nature.
Walking trails weave around lakes and reedbeds where you can spot dragonflies, butterflies, ducks, swans and sometimes kingfishers.
There’s also a visitor centre where children can learn more about local wildlife.
41. Free Splash Pad at Ramsgate
On a hot summer’s day, few things beat cooling off in a splash park.
Ramsgate’s free splash pad is hugely popular with younger children and makes a brilliant addition to a beach day.
Remember to pack spare clothes and towels!
42. Herne Bay Splash Pad
Another fantastic free option for hot weather.
Children can run through fountains, water jets and sprays while parents relax nearby.
Combine your visit with fish and chips on the seafront if you’re planning a full day out.
43. Margate Main Sands
Even if you’ve already visited another beach, Margate offers something different.
The wide sandy beach regularly hosts sand sculpture competitions, beach games and plenty of family-friendly entertainment during the summer.
Simply watching street performers along the seafront can keep children entertained for ages.
44. Turner Contemporary Grounds
You don’t have to go inside the gallery to enjoy this part of Margate.
The surrounding harbour arm and open spaces offer wonderful sea views, public artwork and plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by.
Older children often enjoy photographing the coastline here.
45. Canterbury Westgate Gardens
These beautiful riverside gardens provide a peaceful escape from Canterbury’s busy streets.
Children enjoy feeding ducks (with suitable bird food), watching punting boats drift past and exploring the colourful flower beds.
Bring a picnic blanket and spend a relaxing afternoon beside the River Stour.
46. Kent Libraries Summer Reading Challenge
If the weather turns wet, your local library can become one of your best friends during the holidays.
Many libraries across Kent run the annual Summer Reading Challenge, with free activities, crafts, storytelling sessions and rewards for children who complete their reading goals.
It’s an excellent way to encourage reading while enjoying free family entertainment.
47. Explore Your Local Nature Trail
Sometimes the best free activities in Kent are the closest to home.
Many Kent towns have signed nature trails, riverside walks or community woodlands that families rarely explore.
Download a trail map beforehand and create your own wildlife spotting challenge.
Children could look for:
- Butterflies
- Bees
- Oak leaves
- Squirrels
- Feather finds
- Different bird species
48. Go Geocaching
If you’ve never tried geocaching before, summer is the perfect time.
Using a free smartphone app, families can hunt for hidden containers all over Kent.
It turns an ordinary walk into an exciting treasure hunt and is especially popular with children aged 6–14.
49. Fly a Kite at Joss Bay
Joss Bay’s wide open clifftops are perfect for kite flying on breezy summer days.
Children love seeing colourful kites soaring over the coastline, and there’s plenty of room to play without disturbing others.
50. Create Your Own Beach Treasure Hunt
Rather than simply visiting a beach, why not turn it into a challenge?
See who can spot:
- A crab
- Five different shells
- A feather
- Sea glass
- Driftwood
- A tiny fish
- A lighthouse
- A sailing boat
- A jellyfish (from a safe distance!)
- A fossil
It costs absolutely nothing but can keep children happily exploring for hours.
Free Museums in Kent
If you fancy mixing education with fun, Kent has several museums where entry is free or donation-based. They’re ideal for cooler days or when you want a change from parks and beaches.
Some great options include:
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge (Canterbury) – An engaging mix of art, history and natural history, with family-friendly exhibitions and regular children’s activities.
The Royal Engineers Museum Grounds (Gillingham) – While the main museum is ticketed, keep an eye out for occasional free family events and open days.
The Powell-Cotton Museum Grounds (Quex Park, Birchington) – Although museum admission is paid, the surrounding parkland often hosts free seasonal events and is lovely for a walk.
Kent Police Museum (Chatham) – Opens on selected dates with free entry, offering an interesting look at policing through the years.
Top tip: Always check opening times before travelling, as some smaller museums only open on selected days during the summer holidays.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Making the Most of Your Day Out
A free day out doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. A little planning for free places to visit in Kent can make it just as enjoyable as an expensive attraction.
Here are a few ways to stretch your budget even further:
- Pack a picnic and refill water bottles before you leave.
- Freeze juice cartons overnight to keep your lunch cool.
- Take a football, frisbee or rounders set to make use of open spaces.
- Bring a nature spotting sheet or scavenger hunt for younger children.
- Keep a spare towel and change of clothes in the car—you’ll be surprised how often they’re needed!
- Download offline maps if you’re heading somewhere with limited signal.
These little touches can turn a simple walk or beach visit into an adventure the children will remember.
Whether you’ve lived in Kent for years or you’re visiting for the first time, there’s always somewhere new to discover. These final ideas will help you fill those last few weeks of the school holidays without emptying your wallet.
51. Explore Folkestone Harbour Arm
Folkestone Harbour Arm has become one of Kent’s most vibrant waterfront destinations.
Although many of the food stalls are paid, simply wandering along the harbour, watching fishing boats, listening to live music (when scheduled) and enjoying the sea views is completely free.
Children often enjoy watching people paddleboarding and kayaking below.
52. Walk the Saxon Shore Way
The Saxon Shore Way follows Kent’s incredible coastline and can easily be enjoyed in shorter family-friendly sections.
Choose a route suitable for your children’s age and enjoy spectacular sea views, wildlife and plenty of opportunities for a picnic.
53. Visit Elmley National Nature Reserve Viewpoints
While access to the reserve itself is ticketed, there are several public viewpoints around the Isle of Sheppey where families can enjoy incredible birdlife and expansive marshland views without paying an entrance fee.
Bring binoculars if you have them.
54. Watch the Sunset at Reculver
Reculver is one of the best places in Kent to finish a summer’s day.
Bring a picnic blanket, let the children play on the grass and watch the sun slowly disappear over the sea beside the famous twin towers.
It’s a wonderfully peaceful way to end the day.
55. Explore Your Local Park Differently
Challenge the children to complete:
- A bug hunt
- A leaf collection
- A tree identification challenge
- Cloud spotting
- Nature photography
- A mini obstacle course
Sometimes adding structure turns an ordinary park visit into an exciting adventure.
56. Have a Family Sports Day
Many parks throughout Kent have huge open spaces perfect for organising your own mini Olympics.
Bring:
- Egg and spoon races
- Sack races
- Three-legged race
- Football penalties
- Frisbee competition
- Relay races
Children usually remember these simple activities just as fondly as expensive attractions.
57. Create a Summer Nature Journal
Take a notebook on every adventure and encourage children to record:
- Birds they’ve seen
- Butterflies
- Wildflowers
- Beaches visited
- Favourite playground
- Best picnic spot
By September, they’ll have created a wonderful holiday keepsake.
58. Go Plane Spotting
Children fascinated by aircraft will love watching planes arriving and departing from nearby airports, particularly if you’re close to Kent’s western side.
Even helicopters and light aircraft can provide plenty of excitement.
59. Visit a Farmers’ Market
Browsing costs nothing!
Many Kent markets become lively community hubs during the summer and are great places for children to discover local fruit, vegetables, honey and homemade produce.
60. Have a Picnic Challenge
Rather than always eating at the same park, challenge yourselves to enjoy lunch somewhere different each week.
By the end of the holidays you might have discovered your new favourite family picnic location.
Make Your Own Kent Summer Bucket List
One of the best ways to keep children excited throughout the six-week break is to create a simple bucket list together.
Here are a few ideas to include:
- Visit five different beaches
- Spot a deer at Knole Park
- Catch (and release) a crab
- Build the biggest sandcastle
- Watch a sunset over the sea
- Fly a kite
- Complete a woodland scavenger hunt
- Visit a splash park
- Eat a picnic somewhere new
- Spot a seal
- Walk beneath the White Cliffs
- Visit three country parks
- Find ten different butterflies
- Watch a steam train
- Skip stones across the sea
Ticking off challenges like these helps make the holidays feel like one long adventure rather than a series of isolated days out.
Free Things to Do in Kent for Toddlers
If you’re entertaining little ones, these destinations are especially well suited to younger children:
- Lower Leas Coastal Park
- Mote Park
- Shorne Woods Country Park
- Manor Park Country Park
- Westgate Gardens
- Botany Bay
- Viking Bay
- Herne Bay Splash Pad
- Ramsgate Splash Pad
- Jeskyns Community Woodland
These locations all offer plenty of space to explore at a toddler-friendly pace, with facilities that make family visits easier.
Free Things to Do in Kent for Teenagers
Keeping teenagers entertained can be trickier, but these places tend to be big hits:
- White Cliffs of Dover
- Folkestone Harbour Arm
- Samphire Hoe
- Betteshanger Park
- Crab & Winkle Way
- Reculver Towers
- Blue Bell Hill
- Whitstable Harbour
- Geocaching adventures
- Sunset photography walks
Many older children enjoy the freedom of exploring somewhere scenic with friends or taking photographs for social media.
Free Rainy-Day Activities in Kent
Summer doesn’t always mean sunshine, but there are still plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained.
Ideas include:
- Join the Summer Reading Challenge at your local library.
- Visit a free museum or gallery.
- Explore a shopping centre and enjoy some window shopping.
- Attend a free community event at your local family hub.
- Try geocaching between showers.
- Browse local bookshops.
- Create a home movie afternoon after collecting snacks from a picnic planned for outdoors.
A flexible backup plan can save the day when the weather changes unexpectedly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there free things to do in Kent during the summer holidays?
Absolutely. Kent is packed with free beaches, country parks, nature reserves, woodland walks, playgrounds and historic sites that are perfect for families during the school holidays.
Where can I take children for free in Kent?
Some of the best free family attractions include Lower Leas Coastal Park, Botany Bay, Mote Park, Shorne Woods Country Park, Knole Park, Reculver Towers and the White Cliffs of Dover.
Which Kent beaches are free?
All public beaches are free to visit. Family favourites include:
- Botany Bay
- Viking Bay
- Minnis Bay
- Dymchurch
- Joss Bay
- St Margaret’s Bay
- Margate Main Sands
- Deal Beach
What are the best free country parks in Kent?
Some of the most popular include:
- Shorne Woods
- Jeskyns
- Trosley
- Mote Park
- Capstone Country Park
- Manor Park
- Leybourne Lakes
Are there free splash parks in Kent?
Yes. Ramsgate and Herne Bay both have popular free splash parks that are perfect for younger children on hot summer days.
Free Things To Do In Kent During The Summer Holidays
The summer holidays don’t have to cost a fortune to be unforgettable.
Some of the happiest family memories are made while skimming stones across the sea, spotting butterflies in ancient woodland, sharing a picnic beneath a shady tree or watching the sun set over the Kent coastline. Fortunately, the Garden of England is full of places where those moments happen naturally—and they don’t have to cost a penny.
Whether you’re planning a full day at the beach, a woodland adventure, a wildlife walk or simply looking for somewhere new to explore after lunch, there’s no shortage of fantastic free days out waiting to be discovered.
Why not challenge yourselves to visit somewhere different each week of the holidays? You may even uncover a new favourite family tradition along the way.
Happy exploring!