Looking for things to do that will keep those little whippersnappers entertained during the Easter holidays? Whether you live in this part of Kent or are visiting this Easter, here's our round-up of the best things to do and places to see.
Walmer Castle & Gardens
The gardens alone are worth the visit and are brilliant for little ones. There's plenty to explore as you walk through the grounds from a natural play trail to looking for tadpoles in the Queen Mother's Garden. Great for all ages!
Walmer Castle, Kingsdown Road, Deal, Ct14 7LJ
Walmer Castle & Gardens Website
Hut 55 Bikes & Coffee
Sitting right on the beach, Hut 55 is the perfect place to hang out on a sunny day. There's plenty of space for kids to let off steam on the beach whilst you sit and enjoy a relaxing coffee in one of their deckchairs. Bicycle hire is available and the perfect way to explore Deal and Walmer's coastline. They also sell yummy picnics and snacks to take with you.
Hut 55, Walmer Beach, Marine Road. CT14 7DN
Walk from Deal to Sandown Castle Gardens
Or continue to Sandwich Bay if you're feeling energetic! Only a few remains of the castle are left but a beautiful community garden sits amongst them. It's a really nice walk along the seafront and there's a well placed coffee and hot chocolate stall to provide refreshment at the end of your walk.
Sandown Castle Community Gardens, Sandown Road, Deal. CT14 6NY
Betteshanger Park
Hiring a bike is probably the best way to explore Betteshanger Country Park, with trails through the woods and plenty of tree climbing opportunities! You will probably find the odd den or two hidden away in the forest as well. The playpark is also very good with lots of variety to help them work off some energy. Over the Easter holidays there's an Easter Bunny hunt too but you need to book this in advance. Full details are on their website at the following link.
Betteshanger Park, Sandwich Road, Deal. CT14 0BF
The Kent Mining Museum
This brand new museum opens at 1pm on Saturday 2nd April. Situated within the grounds of Betteshanger Park, entry is FREE and there's a full programme of events over the Easter break. From drama workshops and banner making to craft sessions where you can make your own miners' safety lamp, there is something for all interests. Plus the Lamp Room restaurant looks amazing. Can't wait to check this one out!
Betteshanger Park, Sandwich Road, Deal. CT14 0BF
Kearnsey Abbey Forest School
Image courtesy of The Den Kit Company
Kearnsey Abbey is worth a visit anytime with its beautiful grounds, playpark and lovely new cafe. But if you're looking for a holiday club for little ones who love the outdoors, this could be just the thing. It's open for children aged 5+ from 4th - 14th April. Book their place at the following link.
Kearnsey Manor, Alkham Road, Temple Ewell, Dover CT16 3EQ
Kearnsey Abbey Forest School Website
Rock Pooling St Margaret's Bay
There are rockpools a plenty in St Margaret's Bay so grab a net and bucket and spend an afternoon seeing what you can find. The backdrop of the famous White Cliffs makes this a truly dramatic setting plus there's The Coastguard Pub and an ice cream kiosk for refreshments.
The Bay, St Margaret's Bay, Dover. CT15 6DY
Wingham Wildlife Park
The best thing about Wingham is that unlike some wildlife parks, you can get really close to the animals. There's so much to do here, it really is a full day out. Aside from the amazing variety of animals to see (my family's favourites include the Moon Bears, Red Pandas, Penguins, Tigers and Lemurs) there's a fabulous outdoor adventure playground, a dinosaur park and an indoor soft play area. Arrive early, take a picnic if the weather's nice and spend the whole day.
Wingham Wildlife Park, Rusham Road, Wingham, CT3 1JL
Easter Adventure Quest At Dover Castle
Fancy some old-fashioned Easter fun? Well this is for you! Egg rolling, egg and spoon races and an Easter Egg hunt in the grounds of historic Dover Castle. Explore the castle to hunt for clues and challenges, and discover traditional Easter games as you go. Track down the Easter eggs and you will be rewarded with a chocolate treat and an adventurer's certificate.
Saturday 2nd - Sunday 24th April
Dover Castle, Castle Hill, Dover, CT16 1HU
Easter Adventure Quest At Dover Castle
Dover Leisure Centre Holiday Camp
This holiday club is great for active kids. Sports on offer include swimming, badminton, rounders, football, squash and click n' climb. The activities vary so if your little one wants to do a particular sport, check what they are doing each day when you book. They also offer arts and crafts each day. Suitable for children aged 5-11 and open every week day (apart from the Bank Holidays) during the Easter break.
Dover Leisure Centre, Fitness Fields, Whitecliffs Business Park, Whitfield, Dover, CT16 3FZ.
Dover Leisure Centre Holiday Camp