Father and his three sons playing chase in the garden at Chartwell. — Family playing in the garden at Chartwell, Kent | © National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

Family-friendly places in Kent

Let little explorers loose in the outdoors. They'll love squelching in mud kitchens, scrambling across natural play areas and running free across open meadows, whatever the weather. When it's time to refuel, grab a coffee and kids lunchbox from the café or pitch up with a picnic blanket on the lawn. There's no need to book in advance for most of our places, and with wide parking spaces, baby changing facilities, picnic benches and buggy-friendly paths we are ready to welcome you.

It's toddler time and where better to ignite your little ones' sense of wonder and adventure than in Kent. From vibrant natural play areas with swings and see-saws to gentle woodland trails designed for budding explorers, our places offer safe and exciting spaces for unforgettable family moments. Uncover toddler-friendly fun with spotter sheets, enchanting garden trails, and a range of activities throughout the year, all complemented by nearby cafés serving up delightful snacks and treats for everyone to enjoy.

Find family-friendly events near you

Illustration of a rabbit in a light blue jacket surrounded by flowers and leaves

The World of Peter Rabbit™ Storytime Trail at Knole

22 May to 25 August, 10am-5pm In celebration of the much-loved classic, The World of Peter Rabbit™ Storytime Trail is a fun, family-friendly, walkthrough experience, and it’s hopping along to Knole.

Visitors in the Music Room inside the Gatehouse Tower at Knole, Kent

Toddler Mondays at Knole

Monday mornings during term time, 10am-12pm Perfect for under 5's join us for babyccino coffee mornings and storytime at Knole, meet other parents and carers and play with toys and games with your little one. Free with normal admission, pre-booking essential.

An illustration of a Pete the badger from the book Tidy by Emily Gravett

Emily Gravett’s Tidy Trail at Bateman’s

24 June to 31 August, 10am-4:30pm Step right into Pete’s story as he cleans and tidies up the forest — maybe a bit too much! Help Pete and his woodland friends bring the beauty of nature back to life. This family trail is packed with activities and games for the whole family including, wheelbarrow racing, and more! Tidy, written and illustrated by award-winning author and illustrator Emily Gravett is loved by many. Whether you are familiar with the book or new to the story, this trail is perfect for children and adults alike to have fun and learn about looking after nature.

The floating pontoon on Middle Lake surrounded by waterlilies at Sheffield Park and Garden

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Lakes & Lilies Festival | On now and throughout the summer

Sheffield Park and Garden’s picturesque lakes burst with colour during the summer months. From jewel-like waterlilies to meandering swathes of wildflowers or dramatic explosions of rhododendrons. The summer long Lakes & Lilies Festival is a celebration of this, with sights and activities for all-ages.

National Trust places in Kent and nearby East Sussex offer fantastic fun and learning opportunities for children of all ages, making them ideal for home-schooling expeditions, crowd-beating school visits and early morning weekend family adventures that inspire imaginations and link into the curriculum too. For example visit Chartwell for insights into Winston Churchill’s leadership, Knole to learn about Tudor history, Fan Bay Deep Shelter to experience how soldiers lived and worked during World War Two or Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Emmetts Garden to discover seasonal wildlife and nature near you. With storytelling sessions, archaeology experiences, and hands-on fun, our places provide engaging ways to learn while avoiding the busiest times during school holidays.

A male Long-Tailed Blue butterfly on a pink flower

Learn about nature

Summer is the perfect time to connect with nature. Join free ranger walks at Scotney Castle, guided walks and moth nights at White Cliffs or explore Sheffield Park’s Lakes and Lilies Festival throughout the summer or Bioblitz on 5 July. Discover beehives at Chartwell, watch butterflies and dragonflies zip across the lakes and moats at Ightham Mote, listen to the glorious birdsong. Did you know that you can pick up a wildlife spotter sheet at many of our places as you wander the gardens and parkland?

Learn about archaeology

The Festival of Archaeology runs from 19 July to 3 August 2025 but you'll find items and information about previous digs all year round. This year you can meet archaeologists at Smallhythe Place from 22 June, learn about Sheffield Park's cricket past on 22 July, join a dig tour at Bodiam Castle from 7 August and enjoy an archaeology kids explorer day at Knole on 28 July.

Learn about history

Whatever your children are learning, our places bring lessons to life. Experience hands-on medieval armour or watch a re-enactment group at Bodiam Castle, enjoy Georgian treats from 23 August at Quebec House, or join guided tours at Fan Bay Deep Shelter Friday to Monday until 26 October and until 29 August Chartwell.

A woman and child sit outdoors on a grassy field with trees behind them, painting a colourful picture

Learn about art

Inspire creativity through hands-on experiences. Join outdoor painting events at Chartwell in preparation for the 'Inspired by Chartwell' painting competition from July. Explore the 'Islandness' photography exhibition at Scotney Castle until 17 October or enjoy outdoor theatre performances at Emmetts Garden, Knole, Scotney Castle and Chartwell from July.

Relax with storytime

After a busy day exploring enjoy some quiet time as you and your little ones sit down, relax and listen. Discover book corners devoted to imagination or join our dedicated storytime events at Bateman's from 16 July, Knole until 25 August and Bodiam Castle from 22 June.

Make this summer one to remember with family adventures at National Trust places across Kent and East Sussex. From wild play areas and nature trails to creative crafts and historic castles with plenty of activities and events for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're exploring blooming gardens, learning historic secrets, joining in themed activities, or simply picnicking in the sunshine, these special places are perfect for fun-filled days out together. This summer is going to be bigger and better than ever.

Summer family fun

A family photo being taken in the garden at Scotney Castle, Kent with the ruined castle in the background

Summer of Play at Scotney Castle

This summer make some memories with family and friends on a day filled with play and creativity. A meadow of free family fun awaits at Scotney Castle's biggest ever Summer of Play. Play giant boardgames, dress up and perform for your friends or get creative with crafts, plus lots more. Summer of Play is supported by Starling Bank.

Family visitors flying kites by the South Foreland Lighthouse, Kent, on a sunny day in August

Summer of Play at South Foreland Lighthouse

This summer, join us at the Lighthouse for South Foreland's Family Festival. We've sports day games, nature activities; you can 'chill out' with some mindful activities, or book a lighthouse tour and enjoy extra comfort in our 'exclusive zone'. Summer of Play is supported by Starling Bank.

A family group are exploring the gardens in March at Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Kent. Behind them the exterior of Sissinghurst Castle can be seen.

Summer of Play at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Join us for a fairy-tale adventure this summer at Sissinghurst Castle Garden! From 19 July to 31 August, families can enjoy magical activities inspired by classic tales—dress up as knights and royalty, try swordplay, and race through a hobby horse obstacle course. Summer of Play is proudly supported by Starling Bank.

Little People, BIG DREAMS exhibition and trail at Osterley Park & House | © 2024 Vegara, Noh, Degnan, Noh, licensed by Quarto

Summer at Chartwell with Little People, BIG DREAMS®

Little People, BIG DREAMS® trail at Chartwell encourages kids to be bold, be brave and dream big this summer. Join us in celebrating some of the world’s most outstanding people, using artworks from the bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS® picture-book series. The fascinating trail invites you into the stories of little artists, activists, writers, and scientists from all over the world. Ages 4-7+, normal admission applies.

Children playing lawn games in the garden at East Riddlesden Hall

Summer of Play at Emmetts Garden

Get active, creative, and musical this summer at Emmetts Garden. Enjoy classic games, musical installations, and wild play adventures for the whole family—plus a relaxing cuppa at the Old Stables Tearoom. Summer of Play is supported by Starling Bank.

Children playing games in the garden at Quebec House.

Summer of Play at Quebec House

Enjoy a summer of traditional fun at Quebec House. From quoits and hobby horses to giant Jenga and archery sessions every Wednesday in August, there’s something for everyone in the garden. Don’t miss free children’s yoga classes on 1, 8, and 15 August—booking essential. Summer of Play is proudly supported by Starling Bank.

A family playing outdoor games in the Cedar Garden at Tredegar House, Newport, Wales

Summer of Play at Smallhythe Place

Uncover adventure this summer at Smallhythe Place. Channel your inner archaeologist with hands-on digging stations, become a medieval shipbuilder, and enjoy classic lawn games like skittles and croquet. Summer of Play is proudly supported by Starling Bank.

Outdoor Theatre

Experience the magic of live theatre in the great outdoors at at Emmetts Garden, Scotney Castle, Chartwell, Knole & Sissinghurst Castle Garden this summer. From Shakespearean classics to historical comedies, enjoy performances in stunning settings like Sissinghurst Castle Garden for the classic Midsummer Night’s Dream, Knole who will be bringing The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck on stage or enjoy Alice Through The Looking Glass at Scotney Castle. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and settle in for an unforgettable evening of storytelling under the stars.

Did you know that many of our Kent places are within 30 minutes of each other? That means you can visit multiple places in one weekend or even in one day! We've put together some handy itineraries to help you explore more wonderful places near you. Remember our places can get especially busy during school holidays so check our website pages before you set off.

Walks in Kent

Children playing in the garden and jumping off a tree stump at Chartwell, Kent

Heroes and Heroine’s Adventure: Chartwell, Emmetts and Knole

1) Start your weekend at Chartwell in Westerham where you can climb the treehouse, swing high in the Old Quarry and let your imagination go wild in the Canadian camp and bomb shelter. 2) It's just 10 minutes to Emmetts Garden in Sevenoaks where energetic adventurers can let off steam in the wild play area, have a go at giant Jenga in the meadow and enjoy woodland walks. 3) Then pre-book and travel 15 minutes to Knole in Sevenoaks for a parkland adventure, join in with family activities and watch our conservation team in action.

Garden Explorers' Quest: Sissinghurst, Scotney and Bateman's

1) Begin your adventure at Sissinghurst Castle Garden in Cranbrook, pick up your spotter sheet from visitor reception then explore the famous gardens, climb the tower, and visit the library. 2) Next, travel 20 minutes to Scotney Castle in Tunbridge Wells, discover the castle ruins and gardens full of family trails and play activities. 3) Drive 25 minutes to Bateman's in Burwash, East Sussex, for family-friendly events all year round and enjoy the natural play area with swings, see-saw and climbing frames before learning more about the family home of Rudyard Kipling.

Two adults and two children walk along a path through the parkland at Shugborough Estate, Staffordshire

Wild Wander: Ightham, Knole and Emmetts

1) Start your tour at Ightham Mote, exploring the 14th-century moated manor house and gardens complete with natural play area. 2) It's just a 15 minute (6 miles) drive to Knole to explore the historic house and deer park to let off steam. 3) Finally, drive for 20 minutes (8 miles) to Emmetts Garden to enjoy the beautiful gardens and wild play area before refuelling in the cafe. Enjoy a mix of historical exploration, scenic walks, and family-friendly activities!

A group of people in winter clothes walking towards a white-painted lighthouse

Coastal Hike & Learn: White Cliffs, South Foreland and Fan Bay

1) Arrive at the White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre, enjoy the stunning views, coastal walks and watch the boats and ferries. 2) Walk for about an hour (3.3 miles) to South Foreland Lighthouse for a tour and a well deserved lunch at Mrs. Knott's tearoom. 3) Buy your tickets and walk for 20 minutes (1 mile) along the coastal path to Fan Bay Deep Shelter to discover the wartime tunnels with a guided tours before heading back to White Cliffs for an ice cream .

A family walking through the garden at Sheffield Park and Garden, East Sussex

Sussexsplorer's route: Sheffield Park, Bateman's and Bodiam

1) Arrive bright and early at Sheffield Park and Garden to discover, fun ways to get active in the great outdoors from woodland walks to cricket matches. 2) Then, travel 42 minutes (21 miles) to Bateman’s to uncover the inspiration for some of Rudyard Kipling's famous stories, clamber on the play area or create a den from fallen branches. 3) Finally, drive for 21 minutes (12 miles) to Bodiam Castle where a whole range of activities await from have-a-go archery, battle re-enactments to family games, trails and activities.

Family events near me

Family sitting in the garden at Chartwell in Winter

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Family-friendly things to do at Chartwell

Meet the royal residents of Chickenham Palace, or pop into the enchanting ‘Marycot’, a little brick house built by Sir Winston Churchill for his daughter Mary. Climb the two-storey treehouse and reach the sky on the swings in the Old Quarry. Chartwell is a great place to play and let imaginations and little legs run wild.

A family of four poses for a photograph dressed in Tudor outfits in the Orangery at Knole, Kent

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Family-friendly visits to Knole

Book into the Knole Fawns toddler group on Friday mornings. There's babyccino coffee mornings and stories on Mondays too. Discover the royal treasures in the showrooms using the new children's spotter trail. Go deer spotting on a stroll around the parkland.

Garden, Kent, Scotney Castle, Family Day out, photo opp

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Family days out at Scotney Castle

Swing, climb and squelch in the Badger & Pepper play area. Peer into the moat to spot the swish of a fishy tail. Can you find the dinosaur footprint in the rocks of the Old Quarry, a relic from when iguanodons roamed?

Woman and young boy look at gunnera plant in Ightham Mote gardens, Kent

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Visiting Ightham Mote with the family

Celebrate the seasons with nature eye spy. Race through the living willow tunnel, practice your balancing skills and make mud pies in the new and improved natural play area complete with it's very own wooden piggies. Change of clothing advised!

A family exploring the grounds of Hatchlands Park, Surrey. Three children are carrying sticks, and the parents are carrying balls.

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Family days out at Emmetts Garden

Guard the fort and hop into the enchanted fairy ring in the new natural play area, located just past the Old Stables Tearoom. Can you walk across the balance beams without falling off? Why not challenge each other to see who can build the biggest den? Play the giant wind chimes and clamber to the top of the climbing frame – the fun is never ending.

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Family activities at Sissinghurst Castle Garden

Head to the natural play area down by the lakes for den building. Meet the resident dragon and find the fairy door hidden in the trees. Pick up a free seasonal spotter sheet from visitor reception.

Family playing on thrones in the courtyard at Bodiam Castle, East Sussex

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Family-friendly things to do at Bodiam Castle

Experience the feeling of walking over the bridge, through the gatehouse and stepping back into Medieval times. Spy the original portcullis, ancient stone unicorn, murder holes, gun loops and medieval bread oven. Pick up a new illustrated autumn spotter sheet or try the castle trail with Nosy Crow.

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Family-friendly things to do at Bateman's

Drop in for story time in the garden, with short sessions perfect for little imaginations. Run free in the natural play area with swings, see-saw and climbing frames. Look out for the wise old owl perched atop the carved oak tree. Inside, meet the 120-year-old doll 'Crocus', who was given to Rudyard Kipling’s little girl, Elsie. She was so well loved; her nose has rubbed off with kisses.