Blog
Fun things to do in Kent
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Kent or exciting family days out in Kent, then you’ve come to the right place!
Families always struggle with planning the perfect getaway or day out, however, this time it’s our turn to plan it for you. From the best accommodation, the best places to eat and of course the greatest attractions to visit; we’ve got you covered.
Historical Things to Do in Kent
If you want historical things to do in Kent, then we recommend visiting Medway. The towns of Rochester, Gillingham and Chatham are rich in history and culture.
Let’s rewind to the 12th century, when Rochester Castle was built around the time of 1127 by William of Corbeil, the Archbishop of Canterbury, with the help of Henry I. This historical masterpiece has undergone siege after siege over the last few centuries, even enduring an onslaught from King John in the 1200s, then falling into ruin in the 17th century.
Now undergoing a restoration project, the castle is open to visitors and once you’ve climbed the stairs of the tallest keep in Europe, you’ll experience stunning views of the landscape across the River Medway. What’s more is that you’ll even be able to see the diggers at Diggerland!
Just across the stone cobbled pathway from Rochester Castle, you’ll find Rochester Cathedral, a building full of beautiful architecture. The Cathedral has been a place of Christian worship since AD604 and is the second oldest district under a Bishop’s control in England. The newly renovated crypt is home to the Textus Roffensis, the only record in the world of King Æthelberht’s laws from 600 AD!
The Medway towns for many years served a great purpose for protecting the country against enemy lines, with the Chatham Naval Dockyard and the military presence and barracks located in Gillingham. Keep reading to find out more!
The Greatest Attractions to Visit in Kent
Diggerland Kent Construction Theme Park
We couldn’t write a blog post without including Diggerland, could we! Family days out in Kent just wouldn’t be complete without visiting the only UK Theme Park for kids and adults alike to ride, drive and operate real JCB and Komatsu diggers.
There are thrills, spills and so much more fun to be had at Diggerland in Kent. Test your coordination and concentration skills whilst using a mini wrecking ball on the end of a digger arm to knock down Skittles. If that sounds too easy, then have a go at operating a digger to hook a duck, or perhaps see what you can find with the Buried Treasure attraction.
Be sure to sign up to the Diggerland newsletter for the latest news, special offers, competitions and much more by clicking here.
Historic Dockyard Chatham
Just a 20 minute drive or so from the Diggerland Kent Theme Park, you will find the Historic Dockyard Chatham. If you’ve experienced all of the diggers that you possibly can with a day at Diggerland, then turn your attention to ships and submarines, and see what’s on offer when you climb aboard!
Royal Engineers Museum
Once you’ve experienced diggers and ships, it’s time to move on to tanks! There are plenty of them to see at the Royal Engineers Museum, based in Gillingham.
The museum tells a wonderful story, focusing on the Royal Engineers and how they’ve helped the British Army survive for over 300 years.
The Best Places to Eat after your Diggerland Day Out in Kent
When visiting Diggerland, there’s the Dig Inn cafe with a vast selection of meals and snacks from which to choose. A 5* food hygiene rating and reasonably priced food and drink, the franchised café at Diggerland Kent Theme Park is loved by all who visit.
Rochester high street has a fantastic array of independent coffee shops, tea rooms and restaurants, including Tiny Tim’s, Crepe & Co., Cathedral Pie House (traditional pie & mash, anyone?), The Cheeseroom and Brettington’s Lobster & Steakhouse.
The Best Places to Stay when You’re Not Quite Ready to Leave
Just a 5 minute walk from the Diggerland Kent Theme Park, located within the Medway Valley Leisure Park, you have a Premier Inn, which is perfect for family stays. Better yet, the Leisure Park boasts some great chain restaurants including Frankie & Benny’s, as well as a cinema and even a bowling alley!
If you’re wanting more luxury, focus your attention to the Bridgewood Manor. On the outskirts of Chatham, just a stone’s throw from the beautiful BlueBell Hill Village (surrounded by nature trails and a breathtaking viewpoint), this hotel meets all of the families needs. A luxury spa, a gym and a bar will keep Mum and Dad happy, while the indoor pool awaits the kids who haven’t quite burned all that energy off at Diggerland.
For family days out in Kent and things to do in Kent, we’ve got you covered. A day at Diggerland can be coupled with a local stay, that has more than plenty to keep the whole family entertained!
