The top cities between Deal and Dartford are Canterbury, Hastings, Southend-on-Sea, Maidstone, Dover, Rye, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Folkestone, Chelmsford, and Margate. Canterbury is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Deal and less than an hour from Dartford.
Dover, a coastal town in Kent, England, is a significant port for ferries to Calais, France. The medieval Dover Castle overlooks the town and contains the extensive Secret Wartime Tunnels. Symbolizing Britain's proximity to continental Europe, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover stand as historic safeguards. Despite being a bustling port town with occasional transit-related issues making headlines, it offers a stretch of beach on the Esplanade and invigorating seafront walks.
80% as popular as Canterbury
3 minutes off the main route, 16% of way to Dartford
Folkestone, a charming port town in Kent, England, is nestled between two cliffs on the southern edge of the North Downs. Once a bustling harbour and fashionable coastal resort, it boasts a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The town offers various attractions such as the Leas Lift, an iconic funicular railway that provides scenic views from the seafront to the promenade atop Leas cliff.
43% as popular as Canterbury
4 minutes off the main route, 28% of way to Dartford
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Isle Of Thanet
40% as popular as Canterbury
13 minutes off the main route, 30% of way to Dartford
Canterbury, a city located in southeastern England, is renowned for its significance as a pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages. The medieval center of the city is surrounded by ancient walls that were initially built by the Romans and consist of cobbled streets and timber-framed houses. One of the most notable attractions in Canterbury is its beautiful cathedral, founded in 597 A.D., which serves as the headquarters for both the Church of England and Anglican Communion.
Most popular city on this route
4 minutes off the main route, 37% of way to Dartford
Rye is a town situated in East Sussex, England, close to the coast. The area boasts an old-world charm with cobbled streets like Mermaid Street featuring medieval structures made from half-timbered materials. Lamb House, constructed of red brick, was once owned by renowned writer Henry James. Norman St. Mary's Church dominates the town and dates back to the 11th century.
34% as popular as Canterbury
26 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to Dartford
I'll never travel to Dartford without this trip planner again
Hastings is a coastal town in southeastern England that gained fame for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, fought on a nearby field where the now-standing Battle Abbey is located. Tourists can visit the ruins of Hastings Castle, which was once occupied by William the Conqueror and overlooks the English Channel. The maritime history of the area is documented at both Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and Shipwreck Museum, located along Stade beach's shingle seafront.
67% as popular as Canterbury
39 minutes off the main route, 53% of way to Dartford
Maidstone, the largest town in Kent, England, is steeped in historical significance and located just 32 miles east-south-east of London. The charming town is situated along the River Medway, connecting it with Rochester and the Thames Estuary. Visitors can explore the local market buildings which are filled with unique crafts and independent shops, exuding a quaint old-town atmosphere.
52% as popular as Canterbury
6 minutes off the main route, 65% of way to Dartford
Southend-on-Sea is a borough in southeastern Essex, England that doubles as a resort town located on the Thames Estuary. It boasts of several attractions such as Adventure Island, an amusement park with thrilling fairground rides and water slides for visitors. The area's coastline offers breathtaking views best seen through the century-old funicular Cliff Lift or by taking a leisurely stroll along the long Southend Pier where visitors can explore its museum at the shore end.
65% as popular as Canterbury
42 minutes off the main route, 70% of way to Dartford
Royal Tunbridge Wells, located in Kent, England, is a charming town just 30 miles southeast of central London. Situated near the border with East Sussex on the northern edge of the High Weald, it boasts unique sandstone formations such as the impressive High Rocks. The area offers a delightful market experience on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month at Pantiles, featuring locally made goods and seasonal produce.
33% as popular as Canterbury
23 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to Dartford
Chelmsford, a city in Essex, England, is located northeast of London and offers a mix of history and modern attractions. Visitors can explore the restored interiors and expansive parkland of Hylands House, built in 1730, or admire the stained glass and colorful ceiling at Chelmsford Cathedral. The Essex Regiment Museum showcases military artifacts such as weaponry and uniforms. For nature enthusiasts, RHS Garden Hyde Hall provides hilltop views along with rose gardens and woodland areas.
21% as popular as Canterbury
32 minutes off the main route, 73% of way to Dartford
Best stops along Deal to Dartford drive
The top stops along the way from Deal to Dartford (with short detours) are Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, and Adventure Island. Other popular stops include Hastings Old Town, LeShuttle Freight, and Turner Contemporary.
Ramsgate Tunnels is a historical tourist attraction that offers guided tours of its subterranean tunnel system used as a shelter for 60,000 people during WWII air raids. The friendly staff and knowledgeable guides provide an interesting and accessible experience without dumbing down the information. Visitors can learn about local history, including the role of Ramsgate Tunnel during the war.
This was a very pleasant surprise. Very friendly staff to greet you and the guide was great speaker. He made everything interesting and accessible without dumbing down. We had a guide at the back for safety and he too was knowledgeable and really friendly. I would highly recommend this.
Alison Roberts — Google review
An absolutely hidden gem! I never even knew these tunnels existed let alone the history of them. The guided tour was fascinating and the guide very passionate and knowledgeable. I would definitely recommend!!
Andrew Clough — Google review
Absolutely astonishing place. Had amazing guide, so informative and knowledgeable. I found this place absolutely breath taking with all the stories and information. Very worthy to visit. Highly recommended
And very nice cafe with beautiful coffee and carrot cake
Mia Stephens — Google review
Extremely worthwhile experience. Fascinating 1.5hour tour of the tunnels. Our guide, Paul, was informative and engaging. Went with a 74 year old, 10 year old and 8 year old and all enjoyed it! The very reasonably priced ticket is worth every penny. Would recommend to any visitors to Ramsgate!
T D — Google review
Fabulous local history. All staff were so nice. Delicious cake from cafe. Our guide Colin was very informative. Highly recommended. Wear sensible shoes!
Sophie C-L — Google review
Good experience and very informative. Lived in Kent all my life and only heard about the tunnels last year. Hard hats to be warned as a health and safety precaution. Our tour guide was quiet fast paced with approx 25 ppl on the tour but a lot of ground was covered. 6 children were on the tour and appeared engaged. Worth a visit. Family ticket is cheaper than 2 adults and 1 child making it affordable. There is a small museum worth visiting whilst waiting for tour but equally accessible after tour if you don't have time. There is a small cafe serving drinks and cakes, although we didn't stay for this. Looks nice.
Alyson French — Google review
Absolutely brilliant place to visit👍the museum part, free, is excellent...but the tour, well worth the £8, is unbelievable...the story's bring everything to life and highlight the struggles our parents/grandparents went through....highly recommend...don't miss it👍👍👍
Lee Mallard-Mchugh — Google review
If your in Ramsgate, then one of your must see experiences is to take a guided tour of the Ramsgate wartime Tunnels. Our two hour tour took us deep into the tunnels. Our volunteer guide told us the story of why the tunnels were built and used during the war period. For all ages even my grandsons loved it as well.
Steve Marsh — Google review
Steeped in history and I loved all the reconstructions of the little lodges in the main tunnel. Lovely staff too. I would say though that the initial talk and presentation by the guide was far too long and went into the kind of minutiae that most people will find a bit tedious, never mind smaller children for whom 30 minutes standing still will be too much to ask of them.
Elizabeth Wells — Google review
Its been a good experience, especially learning about the history of the Ramsgate Tunnel. Tour guides were very informative and helpful. Recommended to family and friends! I got more photos inside the tunnel but its up for you to see and experience as well!
John Michael De Vera — Google review
We visited Ramsgate Tunnels for the evening 'Railway Tour' in August 2022. The evening started with a quick H&S brief and then an information film in an underground hut. The tour was guided through the old Victorian railway tunnel. The tour guides (three) were all friendly and knowledgeable in terms of the tunnel system and local history. One tour guide assistant, Georgie, was excellent. Deep into the tour, some visitors were spooked and wanted to get out of there, so Georgie guided them all the way back to the entrance and out to the esplanade, then she came all the way back alone through the dark tunnel system. Very impressive!
Overall, it was a very enjoyable and informative evening. I would recommend it to everyone, but probably not for children under ten years old because it's dark in the tunnels and the terrain is quite uneven.
Albena Smith — Google review
When we went we weren't able to go inside the tunnel. It was blocked due to some beer festivals. However it's a must visit tunnel. Next to the tunnel there is a stairs where you can climb up and see the amazing view of the sea from the top. It looks beautiful.
Pavan Kumar KP — Google review
If you only do one thing in Ramsgate, then do this guided Tunnels tour. What a truly wonderful visitor experience it is too and well worth the poultry admission charge.
The whole experience was made extra special by our Guide, local historian Bruce and his wife Lois, it's very clear how passionate Bruce is about this network of tunnels. His passion is real and captivating as he unfolds the history and human stories behind this fascinating labyrinth of tunnels that literally saved the lives of thousands of Ramsgate residents that horrific day in 1940.
The 1hr30min tour was the highlight of our three day stay in Ramsgate.
For all you who don't find history interesting I challenge you to take this tour with Bruce... I guarantee that you will find it utterly engaging.
Mark Bray — Google review
An amazing attraction hidden in Ramsgate near the beach. Fascinating 1.5 hour tour taken by a very knowledgeable guide learning about its history. I would certainly recommend this unique attraction.
Daren Kenward — Google review
Excellent tour! Very informative and interesting to learn about the important role the tunnels played during WW2. Just make sure you have appropriate footwear as the ground is uneven. Well worth a visit!
Jessica Ives — Google review
excellent guided tour of a unique feature of a town that the Germans in both WWs dumped their bombs as for many it was the first and last place they flew over in England. Thanks to a visionary mayor (they did once exist) these tunnels were dug under the main streets to enable quick refuge by the townsfolk during raids.
Marcus Swalwell — Google review
What a great way to spend a wet and windy day, inside the tunnels keeping dry .
.Very informative and interesting facts given. Interesting for both adults and children, I'd recommend this experience to all and especially home ed kids.
I took my teenage son to learn more about the war times. An outside class room experience to really get an understanding of some of our English history
Elle Aerts — Google review
Very informative and sobering experience. Thought provocative. Excellent tour guide Mick. Knowledgeable and passionate about the subject. Also very funny and charismatic. 😊
Ione Sa — Google review
I highly recommend this trip. It's a fascinating look into the history of wartime Britain.
The guides are super helpful and explain everything. It is 2 hours well worth spending and worth a trip. Of course, once you finish the guided tour, there are plenty of things to do in Ramsgate.
You get to experience the tunnel system and how it helped save lives during the bombings. The tunnels run deep and cold. Be prepared to walk a fair bit.
I got to experience total darkness as the guide Steve demonstrated to us how the people in the tunnel must have felt when the lights went out.
Highly recommended.
Cajetan Barretto — Google review
Great tour with lots of information and even stories from former people “living” down there. Fully recommend to everybody!
Thorsten Fischer — Google review
We had a really pleasant time visiting the free museum and following the guided tour. Mick is an excellent storyteller and managed to keep a large and very age-diverse group entertained throughout.
Amazing work by the volunteers here! Thank you 👏🏼
Diego Magrini — Google review
Went last year, great tour, alot of interesting history around the tunnels. Would come again! Thank you to tour guide Steve
Benjamin Murtagh (Benjamin Murtagh) — Google review
Excellent tour with Mick - a really engaging and informative talk. You can tell he's super passionate about preserving the heritage and memory of the tunnels. A fascinating and moving walk through history!
Tom C — Google review
Great little tour was about a hour and 30 minutes guides very knowledgeable and friendly well worth the very small entrance fee nice cup of tea and cake before the tour
Peter Bridge — Google review
4.6
(2239)
•
5.0
(1918)
Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate, CT11 8FH, United Kingdom
The Shell Grotto is a fascinating underground attraction in Margate, England. It consists of tunnels filled with mosaics made out of shells. The most interesting part is that nobody knows the history of this site, which only became known by someone digging for a well in 1835.
Beautiful place with amazing shell 🐚 crafts on cave walls. Mysterious and mesmerising. Must visit once. Shop is having good collections of shell items.
Sangita Sharma — Google review
This is a visit I have been wanting to do all my life and today was the day. This was definitely worth going to see and is definitely a Jewell near Margate town centre. A little tricky to find as you don't expect to find it where you do. You must be able to go under ground. Literally thousands of shells in beautiful patterns are fixed to walls of the tunnels. Lovely Museum and she'll shop to buy souvenirs
philip bunch — Google review
Very cute little underground cave, fun way to spend a few minutes if your in the area, it's not very big, but is very interesting and there's a nice little shell shop on the ground level.
No disabled access down, so had to carry the baby and leave the pram.
Angelina Wilkinson — Google review
What an amazing site and sight! If you read the information on the displays you will be thinking, how did any one live long enough to complete such a marvel!
It doesn't take me long to complete the tour but it's gotta be a bucket list item.👍
simon hayday — Google review
Very interesting place to visit. It's on a residential street and doesn't look much from outside but once you walk inside you are straight into the shop then towards the back of the shop is the grotto entrance. Entering the grotto is down a few stairs into a little area giving a bit of info about the grotto, then down another, slightly steeper set of stairs. It's narrow in the grotto but still possible to pass other visitors. It really is a stunning place and you do walk round wandering why and how someone would make such a place.
Mandy — Google review
I took the kids out for a random exploring day, not knowing where we would end up or what we would end up doing.
We came across the shell grotto and thought we would have a look.
It was a really good price to get in and the shop wasn't too dear either.
We didn't need to wait to get in and it wasn't busy.
I have to say it is absolutely amazing! Even the kids said how much they loved the place. Would definitely recommend taking a look.
Moondust & Sparkles — Google review
Friendly and welcoming staff. Grotto is easy to enter and you are free to walk around and take photos on your own. Lots of pretty features, would have looked stunning years ago being bright and shiny. Large gift shop selling shells of all different sizes, colours and shapes plus other gifts. The loop bus stops at the top of the road.
Jo — Google review
This place is INCREDIBLE!!!! One of the most interesting and inspiring places I’ve been to in years. As an artist, the patterns and intricate designs were thrilling. And the gift shop is adorable with really reasonable prices!!!
Mandi Blackford — Google review
Interesting and ancient place. It has very pretty patterns and designs. I recommend coming here.👍
HERO LONDON — Google review
Really impressive shell grotto. It’s quite a bit from the seafront so there aren’t too many people there. There’s a small exhibition explaining all the information about it before you go down and you’re free to spend as much time there as you like. We were there about 30 mins in total. The shop is really good too.
Ella Hillyard — Google review
The Shell Grotto was a very interesting place to visit.
It's stunning to see such a unique work of art and its even more amazing to learn about the mysteries that surround it.
It's definitely instagrammable. Note though that it's a bit dark inside (perhaps cozy is the right word). So be sure to keep still when taking photos. The dimness though adds a bit of mood to the photos so it's still okay.
The place itself is a bit small. If you walk around without paying any much attention to the art, you might finish in less than 5 minutes. But that's not really the point.
I think to fully enjoy this place, you actually have to stop and observe the walls, the way each segment is different from the next.
I mean the level of patience it took to create this place is just incredible. Imagine making the wall designs out of more than 4 million sea shells! And it's amazing that today, it is still preserved.
Side note if you collect postcards: Just outside is a souvenir shop which sells the best postcards we've seen in Margate.
For the 4.50 entrance fee, its not a bad place to visit if you have time to spare when visiting Margate.
Nina Dela Cruz — Google review
Absolutely Amazing! We saw this on Google and HAD to come!
The whole place is a cave system covered in many types of shells from a looong time ago. It was really cool learning the history of why it is there and what is was used for.
The gift shop has many different items to choose from including shells, gems, toys and more!
I would definitely recommend you make time to come see the Shell Grotto!
Lori Maier — Google review
This is a different place to visit and our first and probably our last. You can see all of the this attraction in around 10 minutes to be honest and that includes looking around the gift shop. It's about 15 minutes to walk here from Margate Town centre. Like I said, been here once wouldn't go again.
David Atkins — Google review
Beautiful place, so interesting, it's very small and bit very big so not somewhere to spend more than 30 mins. Great gift shopm
kimberley shipley — Google review
Had a fun and interesting time here. Really mysterious place that no-one really knows it's origins. Definitely worth a visit if you fancy something quirky. Not a huge place but well worth the small admission fee. The staff were friendly and helpful. A nice gift shop by the entrance.
Michael C — Google review
Very interesting and mysterious place! Definitely worth going to have a look! Would love to know who the artist was and why they did it!!
Darcy — Google review
Charming experience to be had, has a small but very informative area before entering the grotto. Once inside it is wonderful and really gets the mind churning on how and why it was constructed.
Staff are wonderfully friendly and polite, great gift shop too.
Highly recommended
Dan P3123 — Google review
Lovely hidden gem in Margate. Well worth the visit and entrance fee. The grotto is small but such an intriguing and unique place, it really is a must see! The shop is lovely too, lots of lovely quirky things.
Amy Ellis — Google review
Absolutely lovely place to visit : the shell designs are really impressive. A little narrow in places, but you can still move without issue. I definitely recommend a visit. The shop and staff are lovely too.
Camilla Steel — Google review
4.5
(2053)
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4.5
(1334)
33 Grotto Hill, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 2BU, United Kingdom
The Turner Contemporary is an impressive art gallery in Kent that showcases works by renowned artists such as JMW Turner and contemporary creators. Its modern architecture provides a versatile backdrop for weddings, with breathtaking views of the sea adding to its appeal. The venue features two rooms, the Foyle Rooms and Clore Studio, which can be customized to suit individual tastes and styles for a dream wedding in Margate, Kent.
I'm not a very big gallery visitor but would highly recommend this one! A lot of the gallery explores race very uniquely and accessibly, also includes a history of video games with the chance to play all consoles, a great shop full of great souvenirs and also a contemporary section too. Free entry also!
Sagar Haria — Google review
The building itself is great; the exhibition's can be mixed. Seems to be focusing on social engineering at the moment: when an artist spends more time explaining his art than on making it got have got to worry.
James Stephen Medes — Google review
Fantastic gallery in a marvellous location looking over Margate beach. Great exhibition on when we visited. Nice shop too with postcards and art books👍No need to book as FREE entry😀
Pandora Martin — Google review
Beautifully designed contemporary art gallery. There is permanent collection, which we’d seen before but is worth a second visit.
The shop is interesting and eclectic. The cafe is good quality, although a little pricey.
The real star here though is the beautiful building overlooking the harbour. Even though it’s very different to the Georgian town it fits beautifully. We’ll worth a visit.
Peter Hall — Google review
It’s a nice place to visit in Margate and it’s a really interesting building. I wasn’t too impressed by what was in there though - the building itself is huge but the exhibitions are quite small. They had a selection of works by local artists which I enjoyed even though you have to search for online information/ a booklet to find any information (even the artists name)
Ella Hillyard — Google review
Unfortunately the gallery was between exhibitions so we didn't see much art but the staff were friendly and though the attached shop was small it was open plan and easy to access even in my wheelchair. Outside there is easy access with a ramp to the big entrance doors. There is an outside installation by Anthony gormley called another time but if the tide is in be aware its submerged.
Joy Gartside — Google review
Fantastic art gallery for all age group. One of Michael Craig Martin's work is installed in the shop. Tracy Emin's print is available to buy. Definitely worth visiting.
PA Jos — Google review
The place to go to for art lovers, last chance to see Beatriz Milhazes exhibition which ends on the 10 of September 2023. It is a squeaky clean venue, well organised, cheerful and cultural. Make sure to have a word with the available staff, they have a wealth of information on everything arty. Only reason for the 4 not 5 stars is the limited amount of exhibits. Suggestion, give a permanent space for local artists, you won’t regret it.
Khalid Abdalla — Google review
Wonderful space! The exhibit changes every season, and the one I got to see was of 50 women artists through the last 60 decades. Some of the abstract pieces were remarkable.
Personally abstract art isn't for me, so this was a miss, but if you love sculptures, installations and abstract art - this is a definite must see!
Lovely cafe right at the entrance. Turner Contemporary does not have a permanent exhibit so check their website to see what's on!
Mash Mala — Google review
A fantastic art gallery and wonderful resource for the town. It's free to enter, which makes it very accessible and allows for long or short visits, as you feel. The exhibitions are innovative and provocative. Although the exhibition space isn't as big as the galleries in London (for instance), it punches well above its weight. A must visit if you're in Margate.
Shadow Cast — Google review
It's a beautiful building and the cafe and shop are both fab but I'll admit I was pretty underwhelmed by the collection. I'm not sure if we visited on a bad day but the whole gallery seem to be given over to one exhibit (Brazilian contemporary artist Beatriz Milhazes). Whilst this was a good exhibition, I was left a bit disappointed there was no permanent collection of local art 😕
Lizzie Chapman — Google review
I've been to the Turner Contemporary many times, often with my daughter. It's always been a wonderful artistic experience. The penultimate visit included a crazy animated silver alien that seemed to track you as you walked around the room with its neck and eyes.
This time a brilliant show of the work of Beatriz Milhazes, a Brazilian artist. The works take over five galleries, and given space, they shine.
I'm never disappointed when I visit. Free, but worth donating, or buying from the shop. Great rebooted cafe as well.
Patrick McDougall — Google review
Interesting pieces of art! Love that the gallery faces the ocean as well—upper floor is great for taking pictures. Best of all is that it’s free.
Leung — Google review
While the gallery is not huge, it has a well presented and accessible exhibition. I found it quite pleasant to wander around and take in the art. The internal 1st floor balcony offers a nice view onto the sea.
Parking is available right next to it.
Mark P — Google review
As a local wedding photographer and videographer team we know that the Turner Contemporary is absolutely the BEST wedding venue in Margate.
We love shooting here and we can't wait to be back!
This Modern Revelry — Google review
On the positive it's a lovely location as the photos show, right in the heart of Margate's harbour area. There are now loads of bars and restaurants around the area and places to sit. Entry is free but you can make donations, the staff were clearly interested and friendly. It's a bright, clean and welcoming building so very pleased we visited. I'll be honest I didn't understand the art in the slightest, neither the artist blurbs or pieces but it was open, welcoming and with the visit. Others visiting were clearly engaged with the art so it must be good if you understand it.
wobbly woz — Google review
The current exhibition features an enormous breadth of work by history’s best female abstract artists. Complementing last year’s joyous Beatriz Milhazes exhibition.
The galleries are spacious, the staff super friendly and it’s free. Ignore the negative reviews and immerse yourself.
Alison Medd — Google review
Lovely gallery and my 6 year old loved the sensory bags which each room has, kept her really engaged!
Helen Mesher — Google review
Excellent free gallery with interesting exhibitions, a pleasant cafe with view of the sea, and shop selling cards and gift items. I visit regularly.
The Folkestone Harbour Arm is a beautiful and relaxed day out in the sun with plenty of food options, as well as live music stages and seasonal events. The view of the far stretched blue waters of the English Channel is simply stunning and is open every day.
Clearly money and time are being spent on renovating the old platforms, and the surrounding goods yards, to make it a food, and a art hub.
It is easy to see the history of both the station and harbour.
A visit in season and on a fine day would show of the work and allow you to enjoy food and drink whilst watching the sea or looking at the exhibits rather than a cold wet day in March!
Barry Benton — Google review
A stunning area to do some recreational fishing. Plenty of nice eateries and places to get drinks. Easy to park, a real good day out!
Oliver Blake — Google review
We were very lucky that the weather was good. Good parking. Everywhere was lovely and clean. Lot's of options for food. There was a live band which added a great atmosphere.
Sonia Williams-Riley — Google review
Beautiful stress free day in the sun nit very crowded, had some fresh food on the harbour and a long walk, recommended to everyone that wants to escape the concrete jungle
Mr.coffeeuk — Google review
A very unique centre which offers the perfect viewing platform for the White cliffs of Dover, boasts a number of culinary options including a pub based in a light house, various vendors including the big Greek Bus, it also provided a great solution to re-using an old train station and turning it into an arts and culture centre as well as a gateway / entrance to the harbour arm.
Definitely worth a visit.
Lord Brett McLean — Google review
Beautiful place to spend on a sunny day. Great views of the channel, and a lovely stretch of shingle beach. Water was clear, warm and inviting.
Andrew Callaghan — Google review
A super place to visit if you're in town any time of the year.
The restored train station and railway lines add a certain charm to the place, and the old wagons and units have been integrated imaginatively as bars, bistros and cafés.
There's plenty to enjoy for everyone, from putting mini golf to a weekend food court come market.
Michael Lees — Google review
So lovely to see care and money being spent on Folkestone! Lovely walk along the harbour arm with some quirky pop up eateries dotted around.
Charlotte Willcox — Google review
Great place for a stroll lots of food choices, little shops and entertainment. A really smart conversion from a dilapidated ferry terminal and train sidings to a vibrant full of life vistor attraction! Just watch toddlers as the fencing into the harbour is not kid proof!
mike grainge — Google review
Really enjoyed our (very windy) walk along the harbour arm. The eateries weren't open, but can imagine it gets busy on a weekend. The views and scenery were lovely. Really liked that the old train station has been kept and maintained.
Jemma Curran — Google review
I really enjoyed the visit to Folkstone .Great use of the old train station and platform. Eclectic mix of food and drink stalls. Live music.Huge screen showing the football. Amazing views across Folkestone. Look forward to our next visit.
Rita Driver — Google review
Get place to meet friends. Loads of different vendors for food and drink. Little putting green to play on. Big car park, but when we arrived it was full and took ages to find parking elsewhere. Great afternoon out if the weather's good.
Paul Knight — Google review
Lovely walk down the harbour arm. Great pub right at the end in the old light house. Lovely place to take dogs as in winter they can go on the beach too. My dog loves the sea, no matter how cold it might be. 🤦♂️
Darren Smith — Google review
I love to visit this place.
Highly recommended.
I feel relax whenever I go to Folkestone, Harbour and beach.
Especially on sunny day. Fun, music, food etc.
You can also enjoy live ferries leaving Dover for Calais.
Umar Pirzada — Google review
Excellent stalls in the marketplace. Which is open weekends and some stalls on Fridays too. Stalls open also during school holidays. Excellent range of food available enough the goods yard along with huge screen for sporting events.
Live music, details of which can be found on the harbour arm website. Some excellent artists are performing free in a great setting. Carparking available, although an easy walk across the harbour from the town and old high street. Well worth a visit.
Fergus Presswell — Google review
Bright and breezy (very breezy!) Sunday afternoon to visit to the Harbour Arm, luckily the autumnal rain kept at bay. Shared a fab K-Chicken Bao Bun from Baoboba whilst my daughter enjoyed her Apple and Cherry Bob's Tea. Wanted to grab a drink but my daughter (her again!) insisted on going to DessertFolks for S'Mores Cookie and Mint Ice-cream; the cookie was huge and very, very good!
Sean Moran — Google review
Great place for sea side walks with lots of food and drink vendors and a small market.
Beautiful views of the cliffs and surrounding areas and lot of boats to watch.
Lee — Google review
4.6
(3276)
•
4.0
(1432)
Harbour Approach Rd, Folkestone, CT20 1QH, United Kingdom
WELL DONE Eurotunnel. I was booked on the 13:54 today. We had a quite long time in the car park BUT we didn't get blown up. Thank you to whoever kept us safe.
Mike Gibbs — Google review
The money being generated by this monstrosity of a company, you'd of thought that by now they would have brought new train carriages for drivers with fully working air conditioning a refreshments bar to get a drink or 2, but no this is euro tunnels cattle mover for freight drivers, though cattle get much better conditions in transit, mooo moo ⛔️❗️❗️❗️❗️
Rich Goode — Google review
every year it gets worse and worse.
the amount of time you have to spend on check-ins, etc., keeps getting longer
being already in the queue and waiting to board the train, it turns out that we will be going much later than according to the schedule in the application.
Many times there are long queues and the train is only or maybe half full.
the toilets smelly and very dirty. no water is standard.
Pawel STE — Google review
Great logistics on moving the volume of freight, reduce the train availability per hour from 4 down to 2 ! Now that should clear the queues !
Great planning 😡😡😡😡😡😡
George adair — Google review
2 hour delay on euro tunnel was not impressed other than that great journey as usual
Del Smith — Google review
Effortless, quick and reliable transfer. Friendly staff
Alex Alex — Google review
Nice facilities but their time tracking is not accurate. There was hardly anyone in today, we followed the indications to the letter. What happened? Slow passport control and pointless security control, and we missed our train. If this was an airport, the airlines would go out of business.
Albert — Google review
We were travelling to Belguim. The booking was simple and the arrival procedures were effortless. We visited the duty free and food hall. We were given uptodate advise on our duty free entitlement. The WC was visited which was clean and well maintained. The trips were effortless.
John Davis — Google review
Sometimes it’s brilliant, sometimes it’s not. Completely random. I gave four stars because it has got better I think.
Jonathan G — Google review
Delays possible (imminent 2hrs ) but thanks for being there, thanks for talking to us and letting us know! Thanks to all the staff border force Douanne, Control Frontaliers terminal staff for keeping it together in the horrible weather and making it possible to travel
Bonne fêtes de fin d'année - Happy New year!
Mark Osborne — Google review
Merry Christmas!
Samuel Stoica — Google review
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3.5
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Eurotunnel, Ashford Rd, Folkestone, CT18 8XX, United Kingdom
One of the oldest and most important churches in England, Canterbury Cathedral is visited by millions of people each year. With rich history dating back more than 1,400 years, the cathedral contains some beautiful historical collections and is home to the Church of England. The main attraction is the crypt which was about to hold a wedding when it was visited.
Amazing experience. So much history and experienced guides who delight in imparting this history. We took a break after an hour or so and went for refreshments. Came back and spent another couple of hours there, a good way to see the Cathedral if you have time. Ticket allows you to return again during the year of issue, excellent value.
Florence Wise — Google review
Sadly on this visit could not go inside the main cathedral because of a private event we could only go to the crypt and the gardens but for a mere £5 it was worth it. You still get to see the stunning architecture of the cathedral from the outside and the crypt has lots of great things to see with such a stunning herb garden. I would recommend that you always check for events before you have you heart set on seeing the cathedral just in case but this was still a lovely option!
D A — Google review
Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute marvel of architecture and history, and I cannot recommend it highly enough. From the moment you set foot on the grounds, you are transported to another time and place, surrounded by stunning Gothic architecture and steeped in the rich cultural and religious history of England.
Every detail of the cathedral is breathtaking, from the intricate carvings and stained glass windows to the soaring vaulted ceilings and meticulously maintained gardens. The sense of peace and serenity that permeates the cathedral is truly awe-inspiring, and I found myself completely absorbed in the beauty and history of the place.
The knowledgeable and friendly staff are a testament to the cathedral's commitment to hospitality, and their willingness to share their expertise and passion for the cathedral's history and significance only adds to the overall experience. Whether you are a history buff, a religious pilgrim, or simply a lover of architecture and beauty, Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must-see destination. I cannot imagine a more perfect way to spend a day than exploring this magnificent cathedral and all that it has to offer.
Piotr Czajka — Google review
Beautiful and ancient cathedral. Stunning stained glass windows.. the cathedral is easily accessible from London and a high speed train takes you to Canterbury in about an hour. The cathedral is easy walking distance from the train station and an easy day trip to cover most of the town. Right now there is a quaint little Christmas market in the city Centre that’s fun to visit.
divya tiwari — Google review
We were a bit unsure about buying tickets to enter, but trust me, it's totally worth it! 😊 It's not just the church you get to see; it's the entire surrounding area, including beautiful gardens. Inside, you'll find unique pieces of history displayed in the crypt and picturesque ruins of the former monastery. It took us about an hour and a half to explore everything fully. Plus, it's a UNESCO World Heritage site! 🌟🏛️
María De Abreu — Google review
Lucky to have visited during a concert rehearsal and viewed the Cathedral with an epic orchestra & choir backing. Such a treat! Absolutely massive Cathedral full of history even for a non religious person as myself the architecture & stained glass are particular highlights. Tickets with gift aid donations are valid for a year of return visits.
James Ponter — Google review
Enjoyed the day roaming around Canterbury city center and Canterbury Cathedral. Although we had visited before, this time we went for our 1st boat trip around the canals. Really enjoyed the canal trip. Also enjoyed walking through the Free Libary and Art Gallery in the Oldest building. Enjoyed the Pubs and had a fab meal. Most people & staff were very friendly.
Malcolm Chinoy — Google review
I beautiful old cathedral built in the Romanesque style. It is 1000 years old and absolutely amazing. The acoustics are incredible. A choir was singing and we could hear the songs even in the crypt. The don’t build them like this any more.
The cathedral has great history (even a grisly murder) and famous people buried within.
You approach the castle through the town of Canterbury, which has lots of shopping and food options. The town and cathedral draw a lot of traffic, so be prepared to wait in the weekends. We rented a car and made the drive ourselves and it wasn’t bad but if the thought of driving on the wrong side of the road isn’t appealing, there are many tour groups who go to Canterbury.
The trip was fun and I would recommend a visit.
Shane Giddings — Google review
A very grand cathedral and easy access for anyone, dog friendly and you pay once and can go free for an entire year. You can buy tickets on entry. Under 18s are free to enter. There's grounds around the cathedral which are nice to have a walk around with it usually being fairly quiet. The streets around the cathedral are slightly busier but filled with cute shops and independent restaurants.
Olivia Hibbert — Google review
Canterbury Cathedral is an awe-inspiring historic masterpiece that truly takes your breath away with its remarkable architecture and profound sense of history. Stepping inside its ancient walls is an experience that transcends time, leaving you with an overwhelming sense of wonder.
The cathedral's architecture is nothing short of amazing. Its soaring spires, intricate stained glass windows, and meticulously carved stone details are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the builders who created this sacred marvel. Every corner of the cathedral holds a piece of history, and the Gothic and Romanesque elements blend seamlessly to create a visually stunning masterpiece.
Walking through the cathedral's hallowed halls and cloisters is an experience that words can hardly describe. The weight of centuries of history presses down on you, and you can't help but be moved by the sense of reverence and spirituality that permeates the air. It's a place where time seems to stand still, and you can't help but feel a profound connection to the past.
I wholeheartedly recommend visiting Canterbury Cathedral to anyone who has the opportunity. It's not just a place of worship; it's a living testament to human achievement and spiritual devotion. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, Canterbury Cathedral is an absolute must-see. The feeling you experience when you walk through its old walls is truly unbelievable, and it's an experience that will stay with you long after you've left.
Ivan Bilic — Google review
An absolutely beautiful cathedral riddled in such significant history! The staffers at the visitor center are so helpful and kind. Purchase a ticket there (you have to top up £5 for an audio guide) before you head in to the cathedral.
The cathedral itself has plentiful stain glass windows and a direct link to how the England church was born.
Do note that while strollers/buggies are allowed inside, there are still quite a number of stairs around which require you to carry your stroller/buggy up/down.
The crypt was closed in the morning so we went for lunch nearby and came back just in time for it to be open. Photography isn’t allowed in the crypt.
Beverly - — Google review
Visited Canterbury Cathedral on a sunny day, January 16, 2024. Paid £17 for an adult ticket, opted for the full experience. Noticed ongoing restoration work, a testament to preservation efforts. The cathedral boasts extensive history; dedicated a few hours to explore, amidst the grey surroundings. The sound of someone playing the organs added a sublime touch, enhancing the overall experience.
aleksander linkowski — Google review
Beautiful cathedral. It’s undergoing a lot of renovation work currently and there are some interesting updates on this around the building. It’s not a very serene space as there are lots of tourists around and about but it is still a vast and impressive space. Be warned lots of steps, it’s quite cold even in the summer and it is very expensive to get in
Jo Simpson — Google review
It was chilly but sunny weather. Beautiful cathedral, incredibly built and decorated. We had a great historical time and enjoyed. If you do gift aid when you buy the ticket, you can have 1year anytime visiting ticket. Inside out side it took around 2hours for us. It’s worth to pay and visit. Great 👍
J ANNA — Google review
Entry fee is £14 for an adult. Absolutely stunning Cathedral. You can almost feel the history! You can have a guided tour or an audio/ media tour. The guides really know their stuff! Or you can just wander on your own. Thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon here. Would highly recommend a visit.
Emma Chase — Google review
Beautiful Cathedral! I was here for a ceremony so didn't get a chance to explore the building but the main sanctuary is beautiful. Quick note, there are no toilets in the Cathedral but they have a very clean washroom in separate building just 3 minutes from the entrance.
Lucy Todd — Google review
Such a stunning Cathedral. We spent around 3 hours inside, there is so much to see and admire. In the Crypt no photos or videos are allowed, and it's a silent prayerful space. One can take photos in the rest of the massive cathedral.
There is only a small kiosk for coffee and tea on the property, but so many restaurants and Coffee shops are very close.
The Cathedral is undergoing constant restoration and maintenance, parts of it outside were covered by scaffolding. There are some beautifully restored, clean walls where the workmen have already done their magic. The cathedral requires £18,000 per DAY to run, so donations are welcome.
Liesel Teversham — Google review
The cathedral is nice looking and the grounds are well maintained. Inside the cathedral the guides are not proactive and don't share information on the site unless prompted (a lot). The day of our visit we saw students graduating, surrounded by their very proud parents. The atmosphere was a little chaotic and but I am sure that this is not usually the case. Whilst viewing an exhibit, there was a fire alarm, I asked the guide if we should leave and where the muster point was. She didn't have an answer. I made the call to evacuate. The fire alarm stopped sounding, so we went back to touring the cathedral. About five minutes later, the alarm sounded again. At this point another of the cathedral's guides came running in and shouting "get out, get out!". The tourists began running. My children were very scared. We CALMLY walked out and when we (again) asked where the muster point was, was told to follow the crowd (!) Unbelievable. We waited until the alarm went off and then when the crowds started piling back in, we asked a guide if we could return. She looked around and said: "I guess so". Upon entering the cathedral, we saw the guide who incited the panic and reminded him that panic causes more accidents. He informed us that the way he behaved this was company protocol!
The rest of the visit was spent viewing the cathedral and using Google as my guide. Definitely not worth the money. Particularly, as the staff are not trained in what to do and how to behave in emergencies.
Carissa Tolmie — Google review
Canterbury is a place where history and modern life coexist harmoniously. It’s a journey through time and a delightful destination for anyone seeking a taste of old-world charm in the UK.
Beyond the cathedral, the city’s cobbled streets and medieval buildings create an enchanting atmosphere. The Canterbury Tales attraction brings Chaucer’s tales to life, and you can explore the medieval architecture of Westgate Towers.
Finally, Canterbury’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both history and contemporary experiences. Whether you’re wandering its ancient streets or enjoying a meal in one of its charming restaurants, Canterbury invites you to savor the best of the past and present.
Punting tours in Canterbury often take you past several iconic landmarks, including the stunning Canterbury Cathedral, historic buildings, and beautiful gardens.
Highly recommended place to visit!
Pooja Prasad — Google review
Unmissable experience for first time visitors, it's no coincidence that this has been a site of pilgrimage for over a millennium.
The cathedral with it's iconic mixture of centuries of building styles is worth the price of admission on its own, and the daily services, performances and special events make return trips well worth it.
Note that an admission ticket is good for a full year.
Martin Hansen — Google review
Amazing Cathedral; spare minimum 2 hours to enjoy . It’s the second time We visited; both times We were accompanied by our dog. Yes; this is a Dog Friendly attraction just for that 5 Stars . We wanted to take the tours they have available but unfortunately they don’t allow dogs on the guided tours . We payed for the audio tour and it was really good and easy to navigate ; they have it available in few languages ( No Spanish ) .
All in all very happy with the service and be able to visit an architectural wonder; while visiting Canterbury.
HL JV — Google review
So much to see!
The precincts and gardens should not be missed either.
So much history to catch up with around the cathedral.
Pride of place the story of Thomas Beckett. Also a must see is the Anthony Gormley in the crypt.
Melvyn Ede — Google review
Really nice day out in Canterbury. The cathedral is not the most beautiful in the UK but very impressive with its Romanesque architecture. Plenty to see - took 1.5 hours without audio guide. £17 to get in and that’s an annual ticket which is good value. Kitch will worth a visit too for something for eat.
Carl Argent — Google review
Amazing Cathedral; spare minimum 2 hours to enjoy and see the entire cathedral
England’s first Cathedral and one of the most visited historic sites.
Paid £17 for an adult ticket. Beautiful and ancient cathedral
You must see when you coming in Canterbury
Catalinka — Google review
Our visit to Canterbury Cathedral was nothing short of glorious; every step within its hallowed halls felt like a blessing. As we marveled at the intricate craftsmanship of its Gothic architecture and the ethereal glow of its stained glass windows, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of reverence for the centuries of history and faith that permeated the space. It was a pilgrimage of the soul, filled with moments of quiet contemplation and overwhelming gratitude for the opportunity to witness such magnificence.
From the tranquil cloisters to the resplendent choir, every corner of Canterbury Cathedral seemed to radiate with a divine presence, enveloping us in a sense of peace and joy that lingered long after our visit had ended. It was truly one of the best experiences of our lives, leaving us feeling both humbled and uplifted by the sheer majesty of this sacred place. Canterbury Cathedral is indeed a must-visit destination—a glorious testament to the enduring power of faith and the beauty of human creativity.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Canterbury Cathedral’s significance transcends national boundaries, embodying universal values of cultural and historical importance.
Canterbury Cathedral holds a special place in the cultural heritage of England. It has inspired countless works of literature, including Geoffrey Chaucer’s iconic Canterbury Tales, which immortalizes the journey of pilgrims to this sacred site. Today, visitors from around the world flock to Canterbury Cathedral to marvel at its architectural splendor, explore its rich history, and experience a sense of awe and wonder in its hallowed halls. A visit to this monumental landmark is not just an encounter with the past but a journey into the very heart of England’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Nibu George Thomas — Google review
Canterbury Cathedral is not just a building; it's a living testament to over 1,400 years of history, faith, and artistry. Stepping through its grand entrance is akin to stepping into a time machine, transporting you from the modern world to a realm steeped in medieval grandeur and spiritual significance.
The sheer scale and intricate details of the cathedral are awe-inspiring. From the soaring Gothic arches and stained glass windows that shimmer with vibrant colors to the Romanesque crypt with its echoing silence, every corner whispers stories of the past. Wandering through the cloisters, with their tranquil gardens and peaceful atmosphere, provides a moment of respite and reflection.
Canterbury Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a unique and uplifting experience. It's a place that resonates with the soul, leaving you with a sense of awe and wonder long after you leave its hallowed halls.
Kwok Lau — Google review
Canterbury Cathedral is a magnificent example of medieval architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors are consistently impressed by its grandeur, intricate details, and spiritual ambiance. The cathedral's historical significance as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury and its connection to the Canterbury Tales add depth to the visitor experience. Whether you're interested in religious history, architecture, or simply appreciating awe-inspiring beauty, Canterbury Cathedral is a must-visit destination.
Annu Singh — Google review
Historical cathedral with some good activities inside. Once you get inside you can see the herb garden, dark room, tombs of ancient people and so on. You also have a prayer room inside. You can spend some time peacefully.
Ajay Aravindakshan — Google review
An amazing piece of history and well worth a visit. It costs £17 to get in but this is valid for a whole year. I paid £5 to go on a guided tour which was 1.5 hours. Worth every penny. Our guide was Kirsten, a very knowledgeable and good humoured lady. I felt very engaged and learned a great deal.
The cathedral is enormous and I could easily of spent the whole day there as there is so much to see.
Thomas Becket,The Black Prince and the influence of William of Normandy and many others give this cathedral a long and very rich history.
It is a working cathedral and its open for various services and also for private reflection and prayers.
W W Howe — Google review
Fabulous historic cathedral (see Thomas Becket) plus plenty of interesting memorials to curious people. Monument to Becket is striking. Stained glass and cloisters beautiful. Tea shop was closed by 4pm (so no comment and no comment-err? Such a British tradition to close doors to cafés when visitors are in greatest need) but the visitors’ shop was open and had good stuff.
Catherine Rudd — Google review
I think the entrance fee can be off-putting to a few people. However, you can go back as many times as you like for a year, so it evens out. We live near Canterbury, so now have the year's pass.
How many times do you want to visit the same place? I thought that, but each time we go, you see something different. Also, there are a number of very knowledgeable guides there. One of these, Michael, gave us a real insight of a specific time/part of the Cathedral. Very interesting.
Michael J “Bulldog” Ranger — Google review
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4.5
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Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH, United Kingdom
The Canterbury Tales pub is a welcoming and relaxing place with an open log fire, serving traditional English ales and cocktails. The attraction features animatronic tableaux that bring the sights, smells and sounds of 14th century Kent and Canterbury to life. It's an excellent way to learn more about one of the world's most famous collections of stories.
Got to experience folk music at its finest. Quaint bar worth a visit
Steve Da Cunha — Google review
Wondered into the Canterbury tales pub as just a stones throw from the marlowe theatre. Several pumps had run out so not much choice of beers. Pub was completely dead. Looked like the gents toilets was out of order so a bit of paper on the womens said unisex toilets. Was really cold inside the pub and smelt of dogs.
Samantha Gibbons — Google review
Convenient to The Marlowe Theatre. Pricey and the staff depending which one you get depends on the level of service you receive
Jacqueline Wilton — Google review
Ridiculous pub. Barmaid smashing bottles for fun at 6.30pm!
Gavin Kibble — Google review
Great place. I go from time to time and am never disappointed. This time I arrived in Ceilidh night. Which was completely awesome.
John Crook — Google review
It’s not sure if it’s a pub or a disco/nightclub. No ales available. £6.40 a pint! You’re having a laugh! We’re in Canterbury, not London. One mouthful of substandard ipa and left. Please let someone who actually cares about their clientele take over.
Thomas Rye — Google review
Excellent service, pretty good selection, open late. Nice simple traditional pub as they should be.
george kelly-rosser — Google review
Really interesting, the guides add humour and makes it an enjoyable experience...
Vincent Douglas — Google review
Great location and simple in design and offerings. Definitely more of a "student vibe" but have to say they try their best to accommodate all.
Stick to what's on tap and don't deviate to cocktails and you'll be fine!
Del Salhi — Google review
Absolutely dead. The barman was lovely but the drinks all round were awful! I'd go again on a busier night maybe but not my first choice.
Kallie Dunham — Google review
Fantastic opportunity to see how normal people lived between 11-12 century. Thanks a lot for all history!
Just one think if is possible for the future to add more language translators include Bulgarian or Russian language. I am lucky, because my wife translate all.
Danail Marinov — Google review
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4.0
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12 The Friars, Canterbury, CT1 2AS, United Kingdom
The Marlowe Theatre is an amazing performing arts venue with a wide range of shows to choose from all year round. The building is originally from the early days of cinema and has been completely redeveloped over the past decade, making it one of the most beautiful places to watch a show in Canterbury.
I love the Marlow Theatre- I've been to two musical shows and the annual panto in the last six months. I completely recommend seating near the stage, as you can really engage and soak up the atmosphere. I have another musical booked for March and, of course, the next panto... I can't wait!!
Andrea SCOTT — Google review
Nice venue, not so large that you can't see what's happening on stage. But do choose your seats carefully, as the side ones probably don't get a great view and you would have to twist to see the stage.
Emma Turner — Google review
Hadn't been to the Marlowe since its new look and I have to say I was very impressed! Not only was the building really smart but the show was amazing! We went to watch the lion, the witch and the wardrobe... you wouldn't believe you weren't watching a West end show, simply amazing!
Moondust & Sparkles — Google review
It was amazing to be there.
We saw " the King and I".
You have a little paise to go to the toilet or buy something to drink or an ice-cream. You can pay in cash or with cards.
Very comfortable chair,nice hearing and the most important thing for foreign people, there is an screen for transcripts what they are singing or talking. VERY HELPFUL.
THANKS
Mar?a Virginia Carrasco Fern?ndez — Google review
We mixed up our dates, but the box office got us in tonight, on what appeared to be a full house. The pantomime was absolutely brilliant! Duncan was unfortunately ill, but his stand in Chris, did a sublime job! Well done. We both left thoroughly impressed! Superb!
Jonathan Sleep — Google review
The Panto at the Marlowe is awesome. Love Ben Roddy (pantomime dame). The production is first class, entertainment value second to none. If you go yo the Marlowe just once, make it the Panto. We have booked for next year already.
Nicola — Google review
Watch Les Miserables which was absolutely incredible! Fantastic show. Love the layout of the theatre, comfy seats and friendly staff. Just for me the foyer always feels quite cramped and traffic of visitors doesn't flow very well, especially with the queue for the ladies.
Tarnya H — Google review
Had a Amazing evening there 2 course meal was yummy we did enjoy it and the ELVIS Show was just Amazing thoroughly enjoy it ELVIS was was just great x 👏👏
Jackie Smith — Google review
Came to Canterbury from Portsmouth to meet my friend who is a local. The show was really good. Theatre was spot on. Clean and easily found our seats. Would definitely recommend your theatre 🫶🏼
Emma Newnham — Google review
Lovely theatre and lovely location. I come here often as this is my local theatre. Had to queue for merchandise but it didn't bother me. Staff are always friendly and welcoming! Can't wait to return soon.
World Traveller — Google review
Nice theatre. The bar at the interval is insane how busy it gets with 2 members of staff on you are standing there for a while! We were in the circle for Micky Flanagan and had a really good view. The second floor bar don’t have much choice but you can go downstairs for a bigger bar. Clean toilets and polite staff.
The Port Lympne Reserve in Lympne near Hythe is a wildlife park home to some fantastic animals from tigers and elephants to gorillas and big cats. You can stay overnight in one of the safari-themed hotel suites, cabins or treehouses on site. The reserve is also linked to Howletts Wildlife Park through the Aspinall Foundation and offers 20% online ticket discount.
Absolutely brilliant day out. No queues anywhere, lots of well kept animals, really lovely setting and a great safari ride. The walking route was quite long which was fab. We were there for 5 1/2 hours and still didn’t quite make it around everything. Highly recommend.
Alexandra Julian — Google review
We weren’t sure what to expect before arriving there as it was our first time. But we had a great time there. The one hour truck ride was fun and different as no other places that we’ve been to do this. We managed to see many animals on the tour. We also walked around the park to see the animals up close and we weren’t disappointed as you can see from the photos. The park is very well kept and clean too. Staff are friendly. Highly recommended for families with young or old children or even adults.
Weemee Liew — Google review
We have just got home from a day at a safari. Park and grounds are beautiful and well kept. Animals seem happy and well looked after.
We booked the Safari and have been on a few safari type experiences in the UK. This by far, was the most boring. We barely see any animals and when we did most were at a great distance except for the giraffes. It was a glorified taxi service around the grounds.
If you are a wheelchair user or buggy user then forget it! It’s all uphill and lots of stairs to climb. I can imagine children getting very tired.
The food and drinks were ok and overpriced.
All in all, we had a good day. But there are far more interactive experiences with animals around the UK at a similar price. I feel even some zoo’s you get a closer look at the animals. We won’t be returning.
Ky88 — Google review
Though it has wheelchair access and parking, not all of the areas are wheelchair friendly. We had to ask for the mini bus to pick us up and take us to places. There are buggies, but they were fully booked. It was a hot day, so some animals were keeping inside to stay cool.
There are a few places to eat and get ice cream or drinks. It also has a play area for children.
Sandra Lawrence — Google review
Spent a day here and had a private party with a safari and afternoon tea for a friends 60th birthday. What a fabulous day we all had. We were greeted with tea and shortbread in our private function room which was beautifully decorated. Then we moved on to our safari and we had Charlie as our ranger, who I must say was superb. His knowledge about that animals was amazing and very interesting. Our whole journey was presented with passion for the animals. Charlie made the experience wonderful. Then we went back to our private room and had a very delicious afternoon tea. The service was also fantastic for this part of our experience. Would highly recommend this place and would return in a heartbeat.
Joanne — Google review
Stayed in the Pinewood pods for a night. Facilities were great, immaculately clean, and well heated. Food is not cheap, but very nice.
A great zoo if you enjoy looking at big cats and gorillas. Only downfall was that some of the zoo is off-limits to pedestrians, and some enclosures can only be seen on the safari. Additionally, we could not view the leopard enclosure as it was gated off for leopard creek guests and animal encounter guests only, which was slightly disappointing.
However, the zoo is clearly well maintained, and the animals well looked after. I’d definitely stay here again.
Chloe Bassett — Google review
Stayed at Lion Lodge overnight and wow, what an experience.....
The lodge was pure luxury and being able to sit next to the lions was amazing.
All the staff were so helpful and friendly and made this a truly memorable time.
Also booked a AAA Safari - this is highly recommended. Will, our ranger, was so knowledgeable, funny and friendly. The real highlight for me was hand feeding the black rhino and stroking the white rhino.
A most enjoyable 2.5 hours roaming the reserve.
Karl Davies — Google review
The Safari was such an enjoyable experience for all of us, suitable for all age. Some of the animals have a spacious natural ground to explore around, I suppose similar to their natural habitat. So don’t think of this park like an ordinary zoo please.
The restaurant’s interior was most fond by me, 30-40 for two adult plus a child which is acceptable. Applause for the chefs here, the beef burger and lamb kofta were absolutely amazing!
Great (free) parking space, though the extended grass parking could be very muddy and splashy around the wheels after the rain.
The staff were lovely and polite, attentive and happy to offer info to new visitors. A good selection of souvenirs.
Louis S — Google review
We didn't stay here as we live fairly near by. We had the most incredible day. The dinosaur forest is incredible and the best thing ever for any Dino loving life ones. The safari is great, bumpy but, very informative and it's lovely to hear about the reintroduction of animals into the wild. If you do go on the safari, try to sit on the left!
Maxine Morgan — Google review
Amazing wildlife park, so professional and well kept, animals have vast well thought out enclosures. They breed and return animals to the wild to their natural habitat to repopulate endangered animal communities. Recommend paying extra for the close encounters. We fed the gorillas and it was magical. The park is set in beautiful countryside, with views to the sea
Josh L — Google review
Wow!!! Port Lympne Safari Park is amazing!! We had the best day here. So much to see and the safari is so good. We got very close to the giraffes and our guide was very knowledgeable. What I will say is the safari park is built on a hill so make sure you wear comfy footwear. The grounds are beautiful. With the gardens and the orangery you will have plenty of photo ops. The accommodation looks amazing and we are absolutely going back to stay!
Becky Price — Google review
Wonderful day out with my fiancé here! The AAA safari was incredible with our guide Casey bringing the whole tour to life with his extensive knowledge of all things animal related.
We were able to feed the Rhinos and Giraffe and could not have been happier with the overall experience. Before hand, we were able to walk the ground a little ourselves and see some of the animals who all looked in great condition and well fed! This place truly loves their animals and keeps them in great health and perfect living conditions.
Can't wait to go back.
Jakeus 25 — Google review
Had a stay at Port Lympne for my husbands birthday and they have been nothing but exceptional the whole time. They allowed me to drop my husbands present down a week early with some decorations and a cake to decorated our wigwam helped advice us on the best animal experience and time to take the safari and alway on hand to answer questions on the animals. Food in the garden restaurant was amazing! Big shout out to Amy down at the gorilla for spending 30minuets with us answering questions and telling us about all the girls in the cage! Thank you to Candy for the best experience with the white rhinos! The team from start to finish went above and beyond! Will recommend to anyone who will listen! Will definitely be back!
Katiejane Quinn — Google review
Had an absolutely fab weekend away to celebrate some birthdays. The service is fantastic, the staff was so friendly and made us feel so welcome and special each step of the way. The accomodation is great value, we stayed at the Bear Lodge and it was lovely. The safaris were so educational and you get one for each night of your stay so we made the most out of it! I could honestly have spent a whole week here exploring and trying out the different activities! We'll definitely be back and I've recommended it to everyone!
Catarina Fattori — Google review
This is a review of the Reserve . No one likes to see animals in captivity but at least here you know that the philosophy behind the Reserve is all good . The Aspinall Foundation does great work in conservation and getting animals back in the wild . This it was doing long before it was trendy to care about wildlife .
It's great to know that the admission fee helps support the good works of the Foundation.
As a destination it's a lovely place for a day out . Set in a great location with wonderful views .
The ' big house ' and gardens would be a nice destination even without the associated animal reserve.
There seems to be plenty of facilities to eat and drink , or picnic if you bring your own food .
All in all a great day out .
Michael Dillon — Google review
We stayed here overnight in a small hut 🛖 in the pinewood area. The hut had two normal beds and a fold out futon, adequate lighting and a few sockets one of which powered a small oil filled heater. We really loved our accommodation.
Some people commented that they couldn't sleep because of the loins roaring, but when the door is shut you can't really hear them.
The park itself is fantastic. All of the animals came out to see us, so there was no lack of things to see. We also did a safari trip on one of the troop carriers they have and that was brilliant too.
The whole site is built onto the side of a hill, so if you go around and see everything, be prepared to do a lot of climbing to get back to the top.
There are two restaurants on site which you will have to book early for but the food is lovely (if not rather expensive).
Overall we really enjoyed our visit and would definitely go back here again!
Matthew Chard — Google review
Just back from a lovely day out . The car park was smaller than we thought and the staff explained that in the winter months no one parks on the grass , but in the summer months many more spaces are available. This place was amazing, right at the start was greeting by a friendly boy in the gift shop who helped as with all of our questions.
We had booked the safari which was very interesting and great as you got up close to most of the animals. Well worth the £6 per person for the hour on safari. So much to see and do in this reserve , will definitely be coming back again .
Julie craker — Google review
Fantastic day at Port Lympne. I was amazed how knowledgeable the lady that took us on the safari was.
I would 100 per cent recommend. The safari took about an hour. Driving round at about 5mph. Information on all animals and the zoo. The ride was very comfortable and the animals are clearly seen. Some animals standing around in front the truck very funny.
Rosanna — Google review
More than expected. From the start the staff were friendly and helpful. The park was muddy and a lot of walking was involved, but we don't have mobility issues so this was fine.
1st class service. Beautiful park with well cared for animals. Good project to support. It was the little details that made it perfect. Would recommend to anyone that can walk well.
Anita Beukes — Google review
Absolutely enjoyed my time here. It was a lovely experience to see the animals, especially the tour which they provide taking you closer to the giraffes. someone from our group touched the giraffe which made one of a staff a bit sentimental. she kept bringing the topic out during rest of the safari to make her point.
Driving the gold cart was fun. the restaurant near the entrance was absolutely fantastic. overall, if you love animals than i would definitely recommend to go there. Best to take your kids and not at summer time. there were no air cons at the outdoor cabin which can make kids a bit hot tempered.
i will visit again under pleasant circumstances.
Delta Young — Google review
My grandsons, 7 n 13 , me n my friend , had an amazing day at the port Lympne safari Park today! Saw lots of animals close up on the safari.such wonderful, friendly, informative staff ...relaxing atmosphere . We all said great value for money.well worth a visit. Highly recommend doing the safari , Mel was brill ! Well done staff ....perfect day out !
Jayne Brookssherman — Google review
Myself and my partner went here for a day out and had the most amazing time. The safari is a must, for no extra cost, it was great to see so many different animals in such a massive amount of space. It lasted around an hour and we got to get some nice close ups of some of the animals. The zoo itself is very big and there's lots to see although it was tiring with all the hills. The gardens were also very beautiful and great to have picnics or to take a break.
Sometimes it was a little confusing knowing where we could walk, as you would have the buggy only pathways and the map didn't have the full list of animals on there, which would have been nice. The location was not very tourist friendly if you're not driving in, we are from Birmingham so found it hard to get there by bus from our hotel and did have to walk quite a distance to get to the park.
Overall, the zoo is definitely one to go and see and we had a wonderful day.
Kristal Ramdeen — Google review
Stayed for 2 nights at the Tiger Lodge all the family were super excited to see the Tiger.
We stayed here as part of a special holiday after a bereavement of a parent
Port lymph contacted us the day before we left to inform us that the safari experience that we had booked would be cancelled on the Thursday due to bad weather conditions and made arrangements to move the experience to half an hour after we checked in on the day of arrival this was all super efficient and a great experience
However what they failed to say was that the tiger would be locked away due to the bad weather for our whole visit apart from the last 4 hours before we left!!!
The staff on reception were very informative and helpful but nothing seemed to follow through with bookings we had made
There was just a lack of ‘finishing touches’ which would have made the holiday
I don’t think I would recommend
higgy — Google review
My son and I have returned from a night and two days at Port Lympne. We stayed in Leopard Creek in one of the huts (most beautiful hut I have ever seen!). We have had a fantastic time. The animals are fascinating and have so much space and care - they seem so happy and content - and the devotion to the animals from all the team is clear. And that’s what put shine on the trip - every single person working at the Park was so kind, helpful and knowledgeable. Had an amazing time.
Chloe Bradley — Google review
Very cold wet and windy day to be visiting. Lunch at the Garden Room was one of the best roasts we have had. Highly recommend the beef followed by apple crumble. Well priced and a lovely setting. Service was good, a little slow at times but a busy Sunday lunch so to be expected. Kindly accommodated us earlier than scheduled. Thank you, will be back to explore in the warmer months. Great day out for both couples and families. The guide on our safari was very knowledgeable and friendly.
Hannah Smith — Google review
I visited here for as was staying nearby for my birthday and loved it. Great zoo, we did the safari truck tour and the two staff members were great so glad we did it as saw more animals. The reserve itself is massive and loads options if you wanted to stay! Great for walking lovers. Reasonably priced and could have stayed even longer. Recommend to all visiting. Thank you.
Amber Wrentmore — Google review
We didn't stay at port lympne, we went on a day trip as we were staying in Rye and it's only half an hour away. It was a fantastic day, we took my 2 year old son he absolutely loved it, the enclosures are very large and the variety of animals on show is great. I'd definitely recommend doing the safari tour as well, it's a little extra when buying the ticket, it's well worth it, we had a lovely and informative host this took in total about an hour. I would say food even though it was very nice in the park, is very expensive. Also if you have a young child bring a buggy due to the sheer size of the park, if you have any mobility issues walking the park could be a problem, but you can rent a buggy for the day which id recommend. Overall a great day and for me the best zoo/safari park in the UK and we've been to many of them.
Matt D — Google review
We had an absolute memory of a lifetime experience staying in lion Lodge. it was absolutely incredible the Lions were right up to our window face to face Close, remarkable. the actual Lodge accommodation was truly five star and we were treated in such an amazing way as if we were really special it's a memory that will stay with me for a lifetime. the actual Safari Park is really good it's large and the work they're doing is excellent we did the safari on the trucks sadly it was raining but we still saw lots and lots of animals. the only thing I would say is we had pizza delivered to the room which was extraordinarily expensive but that would be my only gripe. I highly recommend it if you ever get the chance to stay at Lion Lodge it really really is worth the investment.
sandra philip — Google review
i treated my husband for his birthday to the safari ride and also the gorilla encounter, both were good , the gorilla encounter was phenomenal to be as close as we could be , the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. the park itself is very good all the staff you meet very friendly, this park is definitely worth a visit lots of walking which is very steep in some places , we visited in the week which was quiet but nice as you got to see all the animals really enjoyable experience 😀
Paula Drew — Google review
Absolutely fantastic day out from start to finish. We went on Safari with our Ranger (Will) who was brilliant and we saw some incredible animals, we were very lucky as there was only 2 other people in the vehicle so it really felt like a personal experience. Will's knowledge of all the animals and their personalities was second to none he gave an excellent experience and was an absolute star not to mention had a great sense of humour too. Every member of staff was extremely helpful and friendly, all the places to eat were great and the food was extremely tasty and restaurants were kept very clean and tidy even though is was very busy. Would definitely recommend! 5*
Rob — Google review
Truly amazing experience, Just out of this world. If I could live here I would.
Staff are great, polite, friendly and happy to help,Full of information.
Accommodation is breath taking along with the views of the park. All combined just makes for a beautiful trip away. This was our second time there, first in the tree tops and this one in the lion room and hope to return again. It's great for not just the children but adults as well. Thank you for bringing us the magical adventure
Chris — Google review
We had an enjoyable 2 night stay here to celebrate our 40th anniversary. We stayed in a shepherds hut which was very comfortable and cosy. We had the opportunity of a log burner inside or an outdoor chimnea, neither of which we took advantage of (but a lovely added touch).
Our cabin was a fair distance from the restaurants and other places but the addition of a golf cart made it an even more enjoyable stay. The golf cart was big enough to carry all our luggage and the 2 of us (they also had larger ones for larger parties).
The safari was OK but personally I enjoyed the ranger tour a lot more. The Safari allowed us to see many animals but felt very much like they had to be back in time to do the next trip. The Ranger tour was a lot more relaxed with the opportunity to ask questions and take many more photos. (It probably helped that there were only 4 of us on this tour).
All in all a very enjoyable stay with the added bonus of knowing the animals, both on site and in their natural environment, are being cared for and protected for future generations.
diana roach — Google review
Spent a lovely day here at the Reserve. We started with a safari drive around an off limits part of this 600 acre park. After a sandwich and coffee at Base Camp we continued on the walking part of the park taking in a Gorilla scatter feed and talk. An excellent day out but beware there is a LOT of walking with some steep inclines.
Robin Sparks — Google review
Amazing. My partner and I had a great day out. The glory of the park has no comparison. Zoos don't come close to this for animal welfare, habitat and experience. Can't recommend highly enough.
Jack Collins — Google review
Port Lympne is amazing with beautiful grounds. The stay is great however very expensive for what you get included. You are unable to get into your accommodation until 3 then have to leave by 11 which seems so little time in the accommodation as you are exploring the park and eating dinner.
You do get a golf buggy but it is not allowed around the whole park which is a shame and there is a few animals that you are unable to see unless you stay in that part of the park totally unfair for all paying guests.
It's so expensive and doesn't include breakfast which is £18 per person and small portions.
Overall great place however over priced for what you get.
Jessica Kinsalla — Google review
If you book a safari and are late by two minutes you miss your jeep. We had arrived about ten minutes before our slot but the queue to get in took too long. Total disappointment. Drove all the way from London. They send hundreds of marketing emails but nothing to highlight you need to be early for the safari. Waste of time and money. won't be back. The walk about part is really nothing special. Other places do that much better. Walked around in about an hour and a half. No real wow moments. No giraffes on foot trail.
Stephen Leonard — Google review
Had such an amazing experience.
Our 3 year old loved seeing the animals, experiencing the camp fire, and hearing the lions roar through the night.
The pool table in the common area does need to be updated as not many people carry money anymore, but apart from that great!
Kelly Medlicott — Google review
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Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR, United Kingdom
We had a very enjoyable VIP half day experience at The Hawking Centre. Reece was a fantastic host. We learnt a lot about raptors, the birds were really great and easy to handle and it was a very different experience on any thing we done before. We would highly recommend the experience. Rachel and Ricard
Ricard Simo — Google review
Great place for a falconry experience. The half day experience lasts around 3 hours and you get to fly various birds of prey including falcons, owls, vultures and eagles. The staff are helpful and genuinely enthusiastic about their birds. This is probably the only type of experience where you can get this close to these amazing birds.
Michael Sheridan — Google review
One of the best experiences we ever did. We did the full day which is quite long but well worth it. Reece was great, really knowledgable. The birds are amazing, they have so much character. Highly recommend!
Nam Son Trinh — Google review
Suprised the Mrs with a full day VIP falconry experience. She thoroughly enjoyed it, she flew a good number of different birds, owls, eagles, a Hawk & a Vulture. She arrived terrified of Vultures, and by the time she left, Maggie (the Vulture) was her favourite. You can see all the birds have very different personalities but are all equally well cared for & our host Reece was friendly & extremely knowledgeable. Lunch in the bar was of a decent size/standard & gives you a chance to relax for an hour before continuing with the flying. We are now looking at taking our son to Talons & Targets in the future. Would definitely return in the future.
Liam Tillotson — Google review
We had a fantastic time at The Hawking Centre, it exceeded all our expectations! We did the VIP half day falconry experience. Reece was great, he was very knowledgeable about all of the birds. He gave us a great insight into their personalities as well as facts about each different species. The close contact with the birds was amazing, we couldn’t decide on who our favourite was although after much debate Gigi the Great Grey Owl might have topped it. The focus of the afternoon was definitely on getting the best experience for us in the time allowed. I could not recommend this more!
Natalie Armstrong — Google review
My husband and I have the most amazing VIP day at the Hawking Centre. We flew Owls, Hawks, Eagles, Vultures and Falcons. Reece was extremely knowledgeable about each and every bird, giving us an insight to each bird and their own personalities. It is something we have never done before but would definitely recommend it.
Thank you for a wonderful day !
Lisa Brockwell — Google review
What can I say? Driving up the long drive way you're welcomed by the beautiful Eastwell Manor. We were greeted by our head Falconer Ryan who then took us through the gardens to The Hawking Centre. Ryan was welcoming, knowledgeable and took his time with two very nervous teenagers! He introduced us to every single one if the birds, his little insights to their personalities made it very clear that this was a man who knew his stuff, loved what he does and this is more than a job. His passion radiated. We were In a small group of 6 and we each took it in turns to fly 6 different birds of prey throughout the day. Every single bird had their own personality and my youngest fell in love with Arthur!
At lunch we were taken up to the Manor where we enjoyed Wagyu burgers and fries, delicious!
We have not stopped smiling since! This is one of the best days out I've ever had and looking forward to returning!
Thank you Ryan from you fellow South East londoners, The Doyle's!
Carly Doyle — Google review
My son Joseph and I just had the most brilliant day at the Hawking Centre. Reece was an extremely knowledgable guide to these wonderful, beautiful birds. We both got to fly five different, fascinating species in our half day, with Reece giving us loads of info about each. The location is stunning too. Highly recommend with family or friends if in the area. A real treat
James Donkin — Google review
Ryan and the rest of the team are fantastic!
We attended the Hawking Centre for a birds of prey experience a couple of years ago, and because we had such a brilliant day, we booked them for our wedding.
Ryan greeted our guests with an eagle after the ceremony, and during the arrival drinks he entertained everyone with a "meet and greet" and flying display. Our guests were able to hold the eagle as well as 3 other birds. We received such positive feedback from everyone.
Nothing was too much of an issue. They were so accommodating, friendly and passionate. We cannot recommend them enough!
Elliot Crampton-Bisset — Google review
Just amazing! 6 hours of sheer pleasure. Katie and Paige, our Falconers were expert handlers and did their job extremely well. We were two groups of four. Lots of opportunity to fly a large range of birds in a beautiful setting - formal gardens, parkland and Sharsted Woods. Fantastic lunch and ample refreshments too. We would thoroughly recommend it as extremely good value for money.
Jill — Google review
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Eastwell Manor Hotel, Ashford, TN25 4HR, United Kingdom
This beach, located in Sussex, is perfect for relaxing and spending time with family. The sand is golden and the water is blue, making it a popular spot for swimming. The beach also has lifeguards and parking nearby.
beautiful wide beach off Rye (took a short bus ride). fine soft sand and lovely walk - definitely walk along the higher sand dunes if you get the chance - better views especially at sunset! would definitely come back in summer to enjoy the water!!
Carolyn Cheng — Google review
Spent a lovely morning/afternoon there, even though it is winter and windy and places were closed it was still a lovely walk along the beach and we still had a bite to eat at the little café on the beach. Will definitely be back
Wendy Truebody — Google review
Beautiful, sandy beach, not too far from London. The tide can get very low, but listen to lifeguards calls regarding the tide changes. There are also a few beach bars where you can grab some food and refreshments.
ioli katsani — Google review
Parking is not cheap at £20 per day at the Western Car Park. There is a very steep dune to get over to reach the beach. It is not suitable for buggies or anything wheeled unless you’re superman. The beach itself is beautiful and there’s plenty of room.
Martin Jones — Google review
This beach is an exception in this part of England (South coast of Kent) as it is a sandy beach not pebbles. Furthermore, it's a large expanse of beach stretching for a number of miles. It's a lovely place to relax and enjoy the sun (when it shows itself). Furthermore there are at least a couple of car parks close to the beach, along with some amenities to buy food and drink.
George Williams — Google review
Stunning beach and massive massive dunes. Lots of parking but super expensive during peak hours. £16 for 4 hours!?! A few places to eat and drink. Highly recommended for everyone. Well worth a visit
Matt Wallace — Google review
Lovely sandy beach that the dogs adore. Dunes in and out a bit of a challenge for folk with walking difficulties but it is what it is
Neil Moulding — Google review
Beautiful shoreline with plenty of beach for you to catch some sun and enjoy a swim. Even though it gets busy on warmer summer days, the beach itself doesn't feel too crowded. There is a bit of a walk over the dunes to get from the car park to the beach which can be a challenge for some.
Nethin Maharaj — Google review
Camber Sands is a stunning beach destination that offers miles of golden sandy shores and mesmerizing coastal beauty. The vast expanse of the beach provides ample space for sunbathing, sandcastle building, and leisurely walks. The dunes and natural landscapes surrounding the beach add to its charm and create a sense of tranquility. The clear waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for swimming and water sports activities. The beach's picturesque setting and breathtaking sunsets make it a photographer's dream. Camber Sands is a must-visit for beach lovers seeking a serene and picturesque coastal retreat.
Dante Freeman — Google review
I’ve been visiting Camber Sands beach for over 30 years and this is the first at sunrise. Wrap up warm and be delighted by the vastness of the landscape. It is my favourite beach in the world even beating Varadero in Cuba!
JulieAnn — Google review
Awsome day with my kids and family... The landscape was unbelievable the kids loved exploring the dunes and running into the sea.. all in all a perfect day out.. memories made ❤️
Rajesh Ahir — Google review
Camber is a great beach to go to, also, you don't need to pay the high fees of parking. Further along the beach, there is a huge free car park. You'll know you're in the right place as there is The Kitesuef Centre. A fifteen minute walk will take you to the more popular part of the beach where it is really sandy, however, the whole beach is really nice.
Sam Swindells — Google review
Beautiful big sandy beach. Kids love it all the time. I prefer going there slightly later so able to catch the sunset too.
Ahnaful A — Google review
For me this is the best sandy beach in uk! We enjoyed so much, the water was so nice on a hot summer day! 😎
Nicely equipped with parking, we went to Rye a town nearby to get fish and chips because it was highly rated on google.
Naba Omer — Google review
Lovely beach. Loved the dunes. Such a nice walk down the beach with the tide so low.
Clara Fernandez — Google review
“A sandy (barefoot-safe) beach”
This is currently the best sandy beach i’ve visited so far because I find it hard to walk in pebbly beach as my feet gets hurt and is very uncomfortable.
Very convenient parking (Apart from the parking charges) as restrooms are close by and easy to see. I find it handy as i don’t need to look around to find a toilet.
The cafe has a friendly staff and environment. Also check out the bar as they have a variety of drinks to choose.
I highly recommend the place especially if you are looking for place to chill with a beach vibe.
k0rb3e — Google review
Stunning beach. Lovely early morning stroll stroll along the beach and dunes.
Kerry Bradburn — Google review
It's such a cool beach and only two hours from London! Quite busy but entirely bareable, especially when compared to other Sussex beaches like Brighton.
Try finding an empty spot on one of the sand dunes for pure relaxation 😌
Yosef Citron — Google review
Parking: The western car park is a much better option than the central car park, as it is much cheaper (£4 per hour) and it is not as crowded. However, you do have to walk over a steep dune to get to the beach from the western car park.
Beach: The beach is absolutely stunning. It is very expansive, with soft golden sand that stretches for miles. The lifeguards were on duty, and there were beach huts where you could purchase things. The beach was very flat, so it was easy to walk around. When the tide was out, you could walk far out into the sea.
Overall: Camber Sands beach is a great place to spend a day. It is beautiful, it is family-friendly, and it is not too crowded. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a great beach day.
The Chapel Down Winery, located near Tenterden, is renowned for its award-winning English wines, including sparkling and still varieties. In addition to wine production, the winery also produces gin, vodka and cider. Visitors can enjoy daily guided tours from April to October where they will discover the different grape varieties used in production as well as explore the vineyards and herb gardens. The estate also boasts a restaurant and shop selling English food and drink.
A fantastic vineyard tour followed by a wine tasting - our guide was brilliant and the wine is phenomenal. I'd highly recommend booking the wine tasting experience here!
Hana Chivers — Google review
I took my partner here for her birthday, we did a tour and it was excellent! The vineyard is in a beautiful setting. Our tour guide (Tom I believe) was great, very knowledgeable and enthusiastic. We sampled over six different wines, all of which were very pleasant. It’s so pleasing to see the development of English wine. I would highly recommend.
Matthew Slater — Google review
Had a tour today with my husband. Martin the tour guide knew his stuff and kept us engaged. The wine tasting was fun! Would recommend
Fleur de Leigh — Google review
Love, love, love! So insightful. Our tour guide, Russell, was brilliant. A wonderful day touring the vines and enjoying a taste of their wines.
Made by the Chef — Google review
A really enjoyable guided tour of the vineyards at Small Hythe and of their wine making facilities. Obviously followed by the tasting of 6 of their wines. Martin, our guide, pitched it just right and was approachable and informative. It took just over 2 hours and in my opinion was really good value for £25, considering the quality of wines tasted. A beautiful setting too.
Austen Marsh — Google review
Had a wonderful vineyard tour here and wine tasting. Tour guide was lovely and even came out buying 2 wines! Would definitely recommend for a day trip during lovely weather. Has a lovely garden area to sit and have some wine and relax in the sun!! Will definitely come back
Mollie Smith — Google review
Did the luxury dining experience with my wife on Saturday night and had an amazing time! We first had a group tour with Tom who was one of the best guides I’ve ever come across. Super engaging and informative. This was followed by a wine tasting spanning 7 wines and then a 3 course meal with wine pairings. We were also gifted a bottle each to take with us. Besides it being excellent value, the wines taste great as does the food at The Swan. It’s a beautiful venue and we left very much looking forward to our next glass of Chapel Down wines!
Abhinav Gandhi — Google review
We had an excellent experience at Chapel Down winery. Our host Andrew took us on a tour of the vineyard and we enjoyed some delicious wines in the tasting room. It was a nice group size - not too big so that you could still hear everything the host was saying. We’d love to return in the summer!
Joanne Garner — Google review
We really enjoyed our wine tasting and vineyard tour at Chapel Down winery. Our guide, Tom, was very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to. The selection of 6 wines we got to sample were very good, so much so that we bought plenty to take home! The shop offered a selection of goodies - including ciders, beers, fresh cheeses, nibbles alongside the Chapel Down wines, gins and vodka. Would definitely recommend a visit.
Sandra Ward — Google review
We enjoyed this winery very much. We were on an excursion with Viking Cruise. We landed in Dover and enjoyed the bus trip thru the beautiful countryside of Kent. Upon arrival we met our tour guide who took our group thru the vineyard & winery. We learned how the soil & climate enables the production of aromatic white, red, sparkling wines. We had a tasting at the end of the tour and I literally just did a taste. It was noon and too early for me to be drinking full samples of 9 wines. It was very informative and fun. And the bubbles were my favorite! They also are the winery supplier to many British Icons including Gordon Ramsay.
Afterwards, we had a two-course lunch at the Michelin star restaurant, Swan with produce and meats sourced from the region's finest farms. Our meal was delicious. We were served a plate with delicious prime rib and a gorgeous big popover. Then we received bowls of beets, green beans and creamy cauliflower. Naturally wine was served. For second course, we enjoyed a delicious dessert of chocolate and cherry yumminess.
There was time for us to explore the beautiful grounds and get a little shopping done in the gift shop. We really enjoyed the experience and highly recommend a visit to the Chapel Down.
**I'm only giving this a 4 star since everything was delightful in spite of a rude hostess in the Swan restaurant. She was adamant about where we sat and there were many tables empty and available in our group area. It was the only unfortunate part of the experience.
Kathryn Jost — Google review
Excellent tour of winery given by Andrew, who made it humorous and fun. Beautiful setting with Tenterden Town only couple miles away. Not a keen white wine drinker, but learned a lot about wine-making in general and tasting wines. We were lucky to have sunny weather and sit outside after tour and sample some additional wines. Great day out
Harminder Manak — Google review
Had a great time here. Great collection and lovely souvenirs! Staff was super friendly! We found it tough to get on a public transport so had to book an expensive cab from the town. I would suggest you either drive yourself or book a cab in advance.
Hassaan Tahmeed — Google review
First time visiting Chapel Down and will definitely be back.
We had an amazing 3 course lunch and looked after very well by Kate & the front of house staff.
Afterwards, we had a tour with Russel who was very informative and made the experience well worth it.
Finally, we were greeted by Freddie at the shop who helped us with more tastings and a friendly chat.
Great venue, food, wine and staff! 😁
Caitlyn Carson — Google review
Had a wine tour at 10.30am. Russell was an amazing tour guide. Very informative and so much fun. Great wine tasting and guide. Really enjoyable.
Stuart Wigley — Google review
An absolute wonderful day out for the wife and I. We went for the wine tasting for 2 and tour of the grounds. Weather held out for us, which was a bonus. Was a very informative tour, really impressive lands and the best bit, the wine tasting! Had really good fun, mingled with others, and everyone became much chattier after a glass or 2! 😆 James was a great guide and the shop is amazing! Not just the wine but local foods are fantastic too. Wonderful range.
Rifat PickleRif Rifatto Hasan — Google review
Wine tasting with cheese pairing was thoroughly enjoyable. Freddie who took the tour was a great mix of knowledgeable, approachable and dry sense of humour. The vineyard and production tour was very interesting, and the wine tasting with accompanying cheese didn’t disappoint. We stayed at the nearby Print House in Tenterden (who even drove and collected us!) making it all the more enjoyable. Book a tasting, you will not regret it!
Jon Kidner — Google review
Excellent winery tour. Had the 'de luxe' which includes a gourmet lunch.
Phil Ayles — Google review
We all really enjoyed our winery tour by the wonderful, funny and very informative Andrew... who knew that it takes 6 turns to remove the protective bottle wire 😊 All the wines that we tasted were fabulous. We also ate in the restaurant which was also ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! We would definitely recommend a visit to Capel Down.
Sue Bowler — Google review
I really enjoyed a wonderful tour of the Chapel Down Vineyard and winery on a Sunday morning in early
March, despite my reservations! Our guide was the excellent Martin, who was knowledgeable, approachable and light hearted. He walked and talked us through the whole vitrification process in a thoroughly entertaining way, and was very open to questions. Martin also led us through a tutored wine tasting in a similar humorous vein in the impressive Tasting Room. Then we moved on to fine dining paired with wine in the Swan restaurant, another fabulous experience! I thoroughly recommend this high end tour.
pam jackson — Google review
We did the vineyard tour in June 2023 our guide Andrew was absolutely excellent, making it informative entertaining and professional. We had a great time and I would thoroughly recommend it. We were there most of the day as we took the opportunity to have lunch there afterwards in the restaurant which is absolutely superb. It’s not a cheap restaurant but it’s fine dining and the food and service I can thoroughly recommend. We were staying locally and found it hard to get taxis as the location is rather between towns so it’s worth pre-booking taxis if you need them. An altogether great day out. 5 Star.
Martyn
Martyn — Google review
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Chapel Down Vineyard, Small Hythe Rd, Tenterden TN30 7NG, United Kingdom
The heritage railway in Tenterden offers journeys on vintage steam and diesel trains, some with dining service. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, book a seat on the Wealdon Pullman between April and October. Your meal is served in the perfectly preserved Pullman cars by Pullman attendants in authentic attire.
We went on a 70 minute steam train ride on 18th December, Santa came along with his elves to talk to the children and give them a wrapped gift with their names on it which they loved. One of the elves pulled his mask down and poked his tongue out at my daughter and that was the highlight of her day!!
The magician that visited our first class carriage was also brilliant!
The station staff were all friendly, there was a lovely carousel ride, family photo was taken in front of a lovely fireplace and there was mulled wine on offer, all included in the price!
The model railway on the way put was also lovely and just after that the kid's could write their letter to Santa and put it in the post box. Overall a lovely way of taking the kids to see Santa, different from the usual grotto!
Josiie Hall — Google review
So much fun! Riding the stream train was awesome. Staff are friendly and really nice. The food was great and the picnic plough.ans was delicious as was the cream tea box. Also tiny bottles of processo and cans of gin and tonic were very cheap indeed.
The views from the train were stunning and each station was as cute as the next.
On the table top of our train seats was a "what animals you might see" during your train ride, pri Ted on to the table top and we were luckily surprised that we did see many of those animals, exactly where the map said, including deer!!
We went to Bodiam and alighted. Walked for 3 mins and we were at a lovely pub for a quick bevvie and some slap up yummy grub! We had soft pulled chicken tacos, deep fried hallumi bites and some cheesy chips for the kids.
Then we crossed over the road to go to Bodiam Castle which was a nice quick walk around, climb to the top, looked at the kou and ducks in the pond and headed back to the pub.
The price of the entrance to the g
Castle wasn't cheap for what it was but it didn't break the bank either.
After a swift drink in the pub we walked back to catch the last train back to Tenterden.
The weather was beautiful, so were the people and the surroundings! All in all a brilliant day!
Tickets for the steam train were decently priced but not what I would call a very cheap day out. I got the tickets as a fathers day gift from our boys, as he loves steam trains. He was overjoyed and so excited. He said the pullman carriage was his favourite.
Jodi Roscow — Google review
Went here just before Christmas for the Santa train ride experience with the kids. An excellent afternoon, a great day for the kids to meet Santa on a real fully working operational steam train! The whole journey lasts about 90mins with Santa giving presents to the children, and a magician on board for the return journey. There's a carousel ride for all and stalls selling hot/cold food and drink.
You can easily spend around 3/4hrs here, including the train ride!
The staff were also excellent and make the whole experience magical for all.
Highly recommended and will definitely be back again!
Sam Charlesworth — Google review
We visited the Kent & East Sussex Railway as part of our honeymoon, as my wife loves trains. We booked Freedom passes, and spent a whole day riding the railway, and visiting the nearby museum.
The engine and carriages seem really well cared for, and we had a lovely day out.
The really special part for us was the staff, who were absolutely lovely, with one of the engineers in particular taking some time out of his day (I fear I interrupted his break) to make this truly special, and he absolutely made my wife's day.
A truly wonderful experience.
Magnus Druitt — Google review
Had a really nice family afternoon on the railway. Scenery was fantastic and all the staff were helpful. Has been the best steam train visit we have done. Can recommend highly enough!
Graeme S — Google review
This was my very first heritage line visit in all my life, and being born and bread Londoner, I've never had a chance to venture out of my comfort zone until now.
As a train spotter inside me comes out, it was a surprise how the level of detail this place is. It was like you've been transported back in time. The sights and smell of the engines were awesome & as for the views, a long the line it was scenic, like you see in a post card.
If I had time spare time, I'd surely come back again. I recommend this place place highly and it was worth the 2 hour drive.
Melvin Bartolome — Google review
We had an amazing afternoon here at Kent & Sussex railway. We took the train from Tenterden to Bodiam and return. It felt very good traveling in these heritage trains, all well preserved.
It was very delightful to see how passionate all employees/ volunteers seemed to be about their job, always smiling.
The views from the train are also amazing, although we had a very rainy afternoon, we still enjoyed it.
This is a must to do in Kent/ East Sussex.
Highly recommended.
Sónia Martins — Google review
We just love the KESR. We’ve been twice just this year- once in April for the Pullman dining experience and today for the Santa Special. I can’t explain it but it’s something really heartwarming- yes it is expensive but the value is there- they go above and beyond to make it a magical experience. We had a first class compartment and they had laid out a little bag with treats in for the ride, and came to check we had everything we needed. We have been before and had a table in a regular compartment and had an equally lovely time, but the private compartment really was that little bit extra special. We had free hot drinks, unlimited rides on the carousel and a photograph included- honestly it’s really good value when you break it all down, and the train ride alone is an hour long. They’re just great people and we can’t recommend them enough.
Sophie De-Roe — Google review
OMG, what can i not say about this treat. Highly recommend to do this fabulous treat. As a gift we had the evening dinner experience. Everyone at Tenterden Station, on the train, on the lines, museums and platform our volunteers. Absolutely amazing, well done each and everyone who has put so much time, love and restoration into this little world of joy.
We are very much into 1940s/50s so we went dressed for the fun and splendour. The service: Polite and couldn't do more for you to enjoy the experience. Food: All cooked and prepared on board, just fabulous.
Do book somewhere to stay overnight as you get back late. Plus the Village is lovely to visit to.
This is a must do. Great for a gift.
Julie Pilcher — Google review
A beautifully kept station full of pride at Tenterden and Bodiam where we got off for a trip to a favourite pub of ours.You can feel the love that the volunteers and their knowledge. We were lucky to have 1 very clued up older Scottish gent looking very dapper give us a talk on the surrounding countryside on our return from Bodiam. A real history lesson! The staff work hard and are eager to make your experience a happy one. We enjoyed it very much as first timers though we've lived locally for years. Definitely worth a day out.
Sheryl — Google review
An amazing place for lovers of trains, steam trains, history, science, museums, nature, heritage, old times. Visited with my parents (who are in their late 60s now) during 1940s weekend where customs of era were so well presented and performed - my parents, my toddler (3yo) and I, loved every minute. Everything was at our fingertips to explore, staff very friendly, informative and entertaining. Good facilities, good and affordable prices when you want to ride a train, free museum, extra attractions in a nearby town and surroundings. Marvellous trip by steam train from Tenderdem to Bodiam through fields of outstanding beauty. My parents got very emotional as the day brought them back to times when they were under 10 and travelled themselves this way.
We also visited a nearby castle in Bodiam, a cherry on top as the surrounds were fabulous.
A sunny and warm spring day with blue skies made a fabulous day out to remember and made new memories. Thank you K&ESR team. You are a gem of Kent!
Dorota Trapl — Google review
Very pleasant steam train ride from Tenterden to Bodiam and back. Wonderful views from the carriage windows. Saw whole host of butterflies at one stop. A herd of Fallow deer and a Little Egret were also spotted. A luxury was a drinks and snack trolley wheeled through carriages. Loved it. As we caught the last train of the day there wasn't time to get off and explore the stations along the way. We are going again and give ourselves plenty more time explore.
AS — Google review
What an amazing day. First time on a steam train and absolutely loved it.
Also what made the day special was all the staff were very friendly and a good laugh. Highly recommend visiting this place. We did the train from Tenterden to Bodiam and it was such a lovely ride even though it was super hot 🥵 haha. Great day! A must go! ❤️
Kimberley A — Google review
We had a fantastic day out and would highly recommend a day out at K&ESR. The whole team there from the lovely lady at the ticket office, the train driver - who invited our little boy into the train cab - the platform staff, the conductors on the train and the lovely lady in the gift shop are really nice and very helpful with their customer service just as good. We will definitely be going back again. Thank you for a fantastic day.
CJ “Space Runner” Paine — Google review
A wonderful place to experience the days of steam, with services running from here to Bodiam in just under an hour (where you will find a country pub and castle to explore).
The station is full of character, including a model railway and lots of enthusiastic staff who do their best to ensure everyone enjoys their experience.
Tenderden station opened in the spring of 1900, finally closing just 61 years later. Thankfully a little over a decade later it reopened with the service through to Bodiam running since 2000.
Although you can buy full fare tickets immediately before boarding it is well worth booking discounted “Freedom Tickets” up until midnight the day before travel, allowing you to board any train you wish both there and back.
The specific timetable depends upon the day and season (check the website), but typically if the railway is open there are five services in each direction with the first around 10:20am and the final return around 4:45pm.
If you found my review or photos helpful please leave a quick thumbs up 👍 Thank you!
Sam Saltwell — Google review
A worthwhile visit. Families and train lovers. Good prices for everyone. Park at Bodham castle and a short walk to the railway. Or Tenderden Town at the other. They ran 2 steam locomotives on Saturday. 50min one way. All ages
sarah lawrence — Google review
Had a fantastic ride ,thoroughly enjoyed it. Great idea with the trolley ladies. All very friendly and accommodating. Had a lovely informative conversation with one of the staff.
Can highly recommend this trip.
Helvy — Google review
We had a brilliant time with the Pullman dinner for two evening trip. Everyone was great, the food was lovely and the carriage was brilliant. It was like going back 100 years.
William Bungay — Google review
If you love trains, you will love this railway. The line takes five stops, around 50 minutes in one way. With a freedom ticket, you can change at any reason any time.
For us, it was a really good day.
Attila Farago — Google review
Brilliant visit to the diesel gala. Did the drive a diesel for 10 minutes in a tiny shunter and didn't crash or derail. Love older diesel locos, they have their own character.
Graham Thorne — Google review
A beautiful trip in best weather for us and our little daughter. She was fascinated and having fun. We are delighted that such a nice little piece of transport history is being preserved for people to experience. It was just a pity that the museum closed very quickly after the last train. I will definitely look at it again with more time when we come back to the area.
Steffen Fritsch — Google review
A great morning out on the extinct express. My kids really enjoyed it and loved meeting the baby dinosaurs. The only criticism I have is, can they make it longer and possibly put some dinosaurs along the track for little ones to spot? My 2 boys loved being in their own carriage and their new books. It was run very efficiently, and the dinosaurs bought to life wonderfully for my kids. We all really enjoyed it. Also, we visited the cafe before getting on the train, and the prices and quality of food and service were some of the best I've experienced in a long while. We are looking to book onto one of their other events later in the year!
Robert Hewitt — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(1220)
Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden TN30 6HE, United Kingdom
Nestled between two cliffs and accessible via funicular railways, Hastings Old Town is a delightful blend of traditional seaside charm and Tudor architecture. Visitors can explore the vibrant arts scene, browse quaint shops on George Street, and enjoy lively pubs on High Street. A shingle beach dotted with wooden fishermen's huts offers a picturesque backdrop for tourists who come to admire the Bluereef Aquarium or take in the sights at the Hastings Fishermen's Museum.
Sea Life Adventure aquarium in Southend-on-Sea is one of the most popular attractions in southeastern England, and features a wide range of fish, including sharks, rays, turtles and insects. Visitors can get up close to these fascinating creatures in a walk-through tunnel tank. There are also displays featuring clownfish, rays, sharks, starfish, sea snakes, otters, penguins, dwarf caiman and giant snails.
Very friendly and helpful staff. I purchased annual tickets, which wasn't much extra for a one off visit. You also receive 20% discount on food and the gift shop with it too.
Amazing selection of fish and various animals. I think it's a great place to visit and excellent value for money.
Elizabeth Hayes — Google review
It is a great place to take your toddler to learn about sea life. Right next to the Southend beach, it gives you an opportunity to walk around and experience the other activities happening there.
Priyanku Nandi — Google review
This is one of our favourite places to visit. The annual pass gives good value for money and as an added bonus discounts at other places on the seafront too. There are some interesting and varied animals: we love the otters and penguins! The staff are always wonderful here too, so friendly
Donna King — Google review
There is much more to see than we thought.
Takes around 1 hour or so to get all the way round. Recommend that you go around twice, and you'll see things that you may have missed previously.
Rescued monkeys are sweet.
Pangea area is small, but very good.
Definitely worth visiting, book in advance and save a couple of pounds per person.
Steve Waite — Google review
Excellent value for the money! We got an annual pass which cost us £15 per person and since my little one is obsessed with the place, we have gone there 3 times in 3 weeks. She starts asking for the aquarium from wednesday.
It is not very crowded especially if you go early enough. There are not many species but I think it is fine because it is better for a place like this not to take your whole day.
The aquariums look a bit ran down. Now they seem to be doing big maintenance so hopefully it will be better.
Staff are very nice.
I think having a wristband is annoying because there is an entrance and exit. I don't get what wristband does as compared to a simple ticket.
I feel like the biggest problem is lack of information. There are some interesting fishes but you can't see anywhere what they are called. Also I would be interested to know the type of reef we are seeing but that info is not there either. These are easily fixable things so I hope they do fix it.
Sevin? Bayram — Google review
Incredible place. There are so many kinds of fishes and other marine life as well as some land life, many of which I have only seen on TV before, I was surprised that the equipments inside can simulate the habitat environment of all kinds of animals so well, it is really not easy. Recommended annual pass for repeated visiting 😊
Albert Wang — Google review
My 13 and 14 year old boys loved it, didn't think they would but we spent 2 hours there. The butterfly enclosure was amazing too
Kerry Gable — Google review
Came down with family for a fun activity to do on a Saturday. It was superhero week, so all the staff were dressed up, and there was a man dressed as Spider-Man greeting all of the kids and making them smile which was lovely.
The sealife was well kept and there were lots of lovely fish and aquatic animals to see. The butterfly house was one of my fave parts, with so many colourful butterflies to see. The monkeys and penguins were fab for the children too, and really interactive. A lovely day out, and we would return soon! Love that you can return within the year and only pay £4 for entry to upgrade to an annual pass!
Emily Kapllani — Google review
Great place to take the kids. So much to do. Entry fee is £12 or £16 for a year pass so great price for locals. So many exhibits which are kept clean and well maintained. Lots of interactive parts for little ones. Near to the beach so great on a nice day. Would definitely recommend!
Caryn — Google review
Staff were lovely! Great value for money especially if we manage to make it back with the Annual Passes we purchased today.
Kids and grown ups in the group both enjoyed themselves!
Bearing in mind it was half term week the one way system and queuing weren't too bad at all!
Moo Bru — Google review
Lovely place to take the children, staff are friendly and helpful. Cute gift shop and if you have a annual pass for Advent Island you get money off your visit. After we visited here we spent some time on the beach and had some chips. Looking far to visiting again soon.
REBECCA Gordejeva — Google review
A nice morning out for little ones . My grandson age 2 was mostly excited for the dinosaurs. I would like to see it expand and include for fish etc.
Cathy Cutting — Google review
Great little place for smaller children, not only does it have an Aquarium but also a great dinosaur, butterfly and zoo section. 🦕 🦋 🙊 We loved being able to see the penguins! It's not massive, so you'll probably only be there for a couple of hours. But there's a lot of stuff to do nearby. We thought it was reasonably priced compared to other aquariums, but thought the cafe menu could be improved. Parking nearby is about £7.50 for a few hours.
Hannah T — Google review
Throughly enjoyed our visit to Sealife Adventure this morning - the air conditioning provided a welcome relief from the high temperatures. Admission price is very reasonable, especially if you choose to pay a little bit more for an annual pass as we did. Lots to see and could easily spend 1-2 hours here going around the various exhibits. The highlight had to be the stingray pool because they seem such inquisitive animals. A few places to purchase food and drinks and the obligatory small gift shop. Looking forward to our next visit.
Mark Howell — Google review
I would like to thank nick for making our experience better as we experienced poor customer service from Shanon.
Ensure you don’t have any luggage as there is no place to keep it whilst viewing the aquarium.
It’sworthornot — Google review
Great place to visit with kids. Lots to look at including meerkats,mongoose,dinosaurs. If you get an annual pass you get discounts on toys and food so worth it. Don't get caught out on the ridiculous car park charges though which are about £3 an hour,rather park elsewhere and walk
James Robinson — Google review
Lovely place we all loved it. It's better to get a yearly pass then you get children's meals free in a chip restaurant over the road and you get 20% off in adventure island and various places in Southend.
Oliver Wright — Google review
We have the annual pass as its brilliant value, we all love attending, my son takes to different parts every time we go, food always seems fresh and tasty too! Theres a really knowledgeable guy in th butterfly are ready at hand and has talked lots of interesting things about the turrantulas and lizzards, very interesting. A really good mix of things to see, we of course love the tunnel to walk under too. Great fun time out for all weathers and is just the right size.
Belinda Feltham — Google review
We took my niece here for her seventh birthday. We had a lovely time. She really enjoyed the shark tunnel, the butterfly room and the penguins. It's quite small and not somewhere you could spend the whole day, but we went to the arcades and had a great time anyway. The gift shop is a bit pants – needs to invest in higher quality goods.
Emily — Google review
I recommend it to everyone who needs some relaxing time.To go there and book a hotel opposite the sea side.Could get unforgettable memories.
Simon Edit — Google review
Having been coming here fairly regularly since my daughter was born, and she's nearly nine now. Have watched it change and expand over the years and have always loved coming, even when it was just fish. On a quiet day you can do a lap in an hour or so, depending on how engaged your child is or not! On the plus side, your entrance fee lasts all day, so as long as you keep your wristband on, you can come in again that same day. Also, if you see it being something you'll visit regularly, highly recommend getting the annual pass - as of writing, paying an additional £2 on the entrance fee gives you unlimited access for the year.
Dan English — Google review
4.3
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4.0
(1241)
Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2ER, United Kingdom
Adventure Island is a free-admission fun park with more than 40 rides and attractions from rollercoasters to ghost trains. It’s centrally located in the Southend experience for families and adults who are young at heart, with 32 rides in all. Blue rides include Big Adventure rides, Junior Rides are green rides and Mini Ride are red rides.
We had such a brilliant day here today. So much fun we ended up upgrading to an annual pass! Kids loved it. Such a great variety of rides for all ages, sizes and fears! The staff were all really energetic and helpful and the park was spotlessly clean. Can't wait to come back.
Kerry Santucci — Google review
I came twice. First I bought the tickets and it is one per ride any ride so no complications. Second I got a band as it means all twice completely paid for. The staff were enthusiastic the whole time and had good banter for the day and kept the joy of the day going with not one going to a phone each keeping engaged with what's going on.
Would recommend for the day as it is a mix of big rides and children's thst adults can still go on so great for a family
Ali R — Google review
We had a great day out at Adventure Island. Entry is free. However, it is recommended to buy the day wristband if possible online as it's much cheaper (yesterday it was 28 in the ticket office but 20 online). Single ticket rides are £3.5. Lots of rides to go on, kids get measured in the entrance and if they are over 120cm they can ride on their own. Under 120cm they will need an adult but the adult will go in the rides for free. Lots of food places inside too.
Isabel Escano — Google review
Kids loved it every moment, they had an incredible time at Adventure Island! From thrilling rides to delicious food, it exceeded my expectations. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the park was clean and well-maintained, with no more than 10 minutes waiting time for the rides.I can't wait to visit again! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mehul Maru — Google review
Had a wonderful time with our little one there. we went there over the weekend so the place was a bit crowded, however that was to be expected when the weather was nice and sunny. Some rides had a bit of a queue ( around 10-20 minutes wait), but it was worth it for our little one.
Plenty of food to grab and i would say more than ok seating areas to sit and relax over a cup of coffee/tea.
No parking available there, so you would need to find either road parking or look for pay and display parking spots around.
It was great to see that they also have an indoor play area (soft play) and some arcade games in case the weather is not playing nice.
Overall great day out and we had loads of fun.
Roxana P — Google review
Great fun for all the family. Lots of rides for big and little kids. Big wheel, roller coaster etc. Lots of staff/security around too if you need them. Plenty of food options. A good place to visit even on a grey day.
Louise — Google review
I took my young baby there to the soft play play stack area and she loved it. She enjoyed going through the obstacles, the slides and really loved the ball pit that she didn't want to leave!!!
There's a cafe, arcade stuff for the adults which all the adults enjoyed doing whilst i was inside with my baby.
Definitely a must for any parents
We went at new years so there was lots of Christmas decorations which were all beautiful and my baby enjoyed looking at them!!
Aisha Ahmed — Google review
Was a great day out that we all loved and would love to do again. Atmosphere was great and lots of different rides for adults and kids, even some calmer rides for smaller kids. Some nice places to get food & drink also. Not too long waiting in queues apart from a couple of popular rides.
A thoroughly great day
Mike S — Google review
It's nice to enter and walk around without having to pay an entry fee. We walked around on a Thursday and it wasn't too busy but got there too late to purchase tickets to get our money's worth. However on the Friday , a public holiday, we decided we will do the half price from 5pm and we had til 10 pm closing time. The park was very busy throughout the day with queues. By the time we got our tickets, the rides were getting less busy which was great. We got to ride each roller coaster at least twice. Rage is the most adult one and though I don't like a full drop, I went on it twice, cause why not. The queues were short. By 9pm we were cold and had enough. But it was time well spent and so much fun.
L Jo — Google review
Not necessarily a place for adults, but children go crazy when here. I took my students on a school trip to Adventure Island, and they had a blast. They ran, they rode, they sang, and they enjoyed every second of the trip.
The place has some fast-food options to eat and many sweets available.
A big shout out to the call centre team that made the booking system very easy, and they supported me all the way. Thank you!
I think AI is a great place for any school trip.
cristi cristian — Google review
Great small park that appeals to both older thrill seekers and younger families. Could definitely do with a few more thrilling attractions. I would love to see a new rollercoaster but it's great as it is.
Be aware some rides advertised on the website are removed or not open (including their biggest ride time machine), plus it's unclear on how to buy tickets online.
TCE — Google review
Wish I could give six stars to bring their rating up. Let's start with the good the park is well set out with loads to do for the kids and grown ups alike. Paid for wristbands in advance to save a few quid but even at the gate price they are fantastic value. All the food outlets we tried were great well priced and well staffed. The park was clean and tidy. Now let's move onto the bad.... There was non just even better I have always said the right staff can make a good place great and the excellent staff here make this already great place absolutely fantastic. Every member of staff where working a stall, food outlet, ride or even just walking around all had a smile on their faces on both of our visits. Interacting with the kids when on rides often dancing at the side honestly if you have any bad staff they were hidden on both these days. My at the end of the 1st visit my son came to me and said "we are definitely going here again the staff are lovely" now on our 2nd visit my mam has just said "the staff on this site are unbelievable so happy and helpful". Keep doing what you are doing.
M B — Google review
Superb way to spend a whole day with a little one. Plenty of rides and stuff to do throughout the park for an entire day out. Plenty of places to buy food from and somewhat ok seating areas. The place does get quite crowded during busy times and some ride queues have waits of upwards of 10-20 minutes for only like 3 minutes rides. Superb atmosphere and i like that the place also has an "indoor" area where there's soft play and some arcade games in case the weather is not suitable. Parking is a different story as they don't have dedicated parking places so you will have to either find a car park or street parking. Nearby theres loads of them but during busy times it gets quite crowded.
Adrian Stefan Iancu — Google review
1. Good value for children and families
2. Can spend the whole day
3. Indoor ride is good for younger children and have soft play
4. Annual pass is a must
Tracy But — Google review
Oooh Wow it was a beautiful experience, an amusement park with lots of amazing rides, scary and mild ones, we had so much fun and a lot to eat to, and just by sea, you can have picnics at the sea shore, as at evening the tide had gone down and the water at the banks had gone back to the sea, we could even walk on the sea beds and pick shells. I will sure visit again in the future, it was fun with the children and adults alike.
Egy Daniels — Google review
We weren't too sure what to expect from here (picture thoughts of typical seaside amusement parks) but we were pleasantly surprised.
The entry was quite expensive (£22.50) but the super saver wrist band worked out good value if you try enough of the rides. Take your child's Blue Peter badge if they have one for 2-4-1 entry.
Unlike normal theme parks, it's very easy to come and go as you please so easy to pop out for food (plenty of options within 2 minute's walk). The facilities inside the park didn't get great reviews.
We visited on Halloween weekend and the staff were really getting into the spirit!
Plenty of places to park nearby, but the Royal's shopping centre seemed particularly good value.
Rides are good for all ages. Lots of amusements, facilities and also a mini golf course (though this costs extra).
All in all, a good fun day out.
Adam Sewell — Google review
I have really enjoyed my time over there . It's a small heaven for kids .. all the fun games and rides seem really enjoyable..I had a fun time just watching all those kids enjoying themselves. It felt like it was reducing my by with their joyfulness. And the nearby Pier gave me a peaceful walking experience. I will definitely go there in Summer In sha Allah .
abul basher — Google review
Great local fun park. A few good teen/young adult rides. More aimed at primary school age. I observed that security and other staff were friendly & professional. Lots of fun to be had, especially with a day wristband pass. The bonus was the good weather. 22°C.
I'd advise taking a packed lunch. Hour long queue for food. The queue was chaos. It started out as three single orderly lines to each order point but slowly became a morrass of bodies pushing in, that melded into a formless crowd clamouring for overpriced hotdogs, burgers (3 mm thick), chicken nuggets or vegetable wedges. The servers were working so hard but the quality of what they're working with is IMHO substandard. The price doesn't bear any relation to what you receive. I had two bites of the hotdog with onion, mild mustard & ketchup but could eat no more. I reminded me of the 1970s. The kids were disappointed too. They're not snobs but can detect a rip off very well. If you have a severe food allergy, have coeliac disease or are a vegan, be very cautious. Call them up when planning to visit.
Having said all that, I still recommend the park for a few hours. Queues for rides varied between a few minutes to a ½ an hour, so not too bad.
The park is split in two by the pier. A passage takes you under the pier, past an amusement arcade and into the part with the more adventurous rides.
Have fun!
The Williams — Google review
Great place to take the kids. Adults go on free with any kids under 110cm which meant it was a cheap day out with a wristband
Kids had a particularly great time as we timed our visit to a superhero day and the staff engaged our children with genuine enthusiasm.
Only let down was the food situation, tasteless but at a reasonable price compared to many places along the seafront.
Buy tickets in advance (save £8 per daily wristband if bought online in advance... )
Jonathon Lawrence — Google review
Went on public holiday, the wrist band is worth it as you can go on all the rides and depending on how busy it gets you can go on some rides more then once. You can purchase online and save or you can purchase wrist band on the day. If the adventure land is open until 10:30 you can get the wrist band half price after 5pm. You can purchase individual tickets which works out £3.50 for a ride if you know your little on or your self is just going on one or two rides. It’s a great idea to measure your little one hight so you know exactly how much rides they can go on.
They have wheelchair friendly rides.
Staff are amazing and full of energy which is always a great bonus.
They have drinks and snack which you can purchase.
Toilet are available, you may need to wait in a queue depending on how busy it gets.
They have arcade play, you do need to pay separate for that.
Car parking available near the resort how ever it can get really busy, after 6pm parking is free.
This is over all a good place for family and children to enjoy.
In holidays it can get busy but I think they manage it well. The wait time for rides wasn’t bad at all, the longest I had to wait for a ride was 20 min. Which is reasonable considering it was packed.
Nazma Patel — Google review
Variety of rides available with comparatively low waiting period. Totally worth it with full day pass. Park staff is also nice, they interact with kids on ride and keep them engaged.
Yogesh Pardeshi — Google review
Wonderful fun for all ages and weather. A day pass is £28 (or £14 after 5pm), but if you book online it's only £20! 😃 A year's pass is great value at £56 if you'll visit more than twice. Lots of fun rides to keep the kids amused, plenty of places to sit, eat and drink, and toilets around the area
Sarah Littleboy — Google review
If you’re going for the whole day, get tickets online. It’s cheaper. However if going after 5 get on the till. Entry is free. But u need either wrist bands or individual ride tickets to go in the rides. The opening and closing hours are updated daily so make sure to check the website. The website is quite informative and easy to navigate. We had a lot of fun in all the rides and there are some good spots to eat in and around the adventure island.
Izza — Google review
This place offers fantastic fun for both kids and adults. Normally, I tend to avoid such places due to long queues, but when we arrived around 11:30 on a Sunday morning, there were no queues at all. The staff is exceptionally helpful and friendly, and there's a wide variety of enjoyable rides to keep you entertained all day.
What's even more impressive is that it's very budget-friendly.
Ahsan Jalil — Google review
Good selection of rides and activities, lots of fun for all the family.
Sol Nawaz — Google review
Extremely good place suitable for any age and for rainy weather there is an Indoor place with a play area a swinging boat and more you can get an annual pass for 60 pounds and all you have to do is show them and you go in for free there are a lot of places to get food and drink And a day pass is 20 pounds hope this helps
Layla Atherton — Google review
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Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EE, United Kingdom
The pier is a well-known landmark in Southend-on-Sea and is home to a museum with displays of historic railway cars, slot machines and costumes from the early 19th century to the early 20th. The pier also has an electric train that takes you all the way to the end, where you can find a lifeboat centre, cafe and shop.
A great historical landmark and the longest pier in the world! The heritage train ride on the Thames Estuary is amazing and a great view on a sunny day. Worth the price and the queue.
You can also walk if you want to.
You have a lot of options for food and drinks in the middle of the river.
The train and the railway was maintained properly, staff professional as usual.
You must head to the pier if you are around
Joydeep Pal — Google review
Visited 21/04/22 bought tickets to walk down the pier and get the train back. It was a lovely sunny day but rather windy. Got to the end of the pier had a wander round only the Costa cafe was open this was previously Jamie and Jimmy's cafe. Out of the wind it was really nice and warm sitting on seats at the pier head. Got the new electric train back. These are a lot better than the old trains one.of which had been converted into shelters on the platform and other locations nearby.
Matt Cook — Google review
A really interesting place to visit from how long the pier is and that it has a railway along it I would have loved to get the chance to travel on the new trains they have but they weren't running and only had the old train running.
I did find there wasn't really much at the end of the pier but it's perfect for those who want to go to the end and just sit and relax watching the ships passing.
It's definitely a place to visit at least once to say you have been.
Katie Thayer — Google review
Pretty impressive pier considering the age and length! Nice stroll and reasonably priced. Only downfall was very limited shops open at the end of pier. Would have been good to have been informed before setting off, otherwise pretty cool for a afternoon trip!!! Would advise going in high tide, didn’t consider that! You can travel one way and walk back or just buy the return for a bit more on the ticket. The views are pretty impressive on a clear day.
James Shipman — Google review
I was here with my wife on Saturday, 06/04/24. It was a very windy and cloudy day but not so cold. Best to go on a hot day. The train departs towards the sea every 30 minutes at 00 and 30 minutes past the hour. Return train departs every 30 minutes at 15 and 45 minutes past the hour. The return ticket costs £7.50. The pier is just over a mile long and the train journey saves you the long walk in the wind. There is a Life Boats building at the end of the pier with a higher level offering beautiful views. The gift shop has many beautiful items on sale. There's also many food and drinks outlets at the end of the pier. The sea is very dirty and the end of the pier would look much better by removing some junk to create more space.
Abdullah Yildirim — Google review
A fantastic experience - took the train out and walked back - 1.33 miles long. Train is so modern and an unusual brilliant thing on a pier. The pier has the RNLI shop and view at the very end - worth a visit and a donation for the great things they do. Also a fantastic little cafe there that does amazing cake and yummy coffee. A pity its costs to go on the pier but suppose it takes a lot to maintain such a long pier.
Mark Broadbent — Google review
It’s not just a walk. It’s meditation, contentment. Made my day.
Bonus point for the humble professionals on the ticket counter. Thanks a lot to James for his kindness.
Do lock your cycle away as cycles are not allowed. James offered to hold my foldable in the office.
Praveen Pandey — Google review
This was our first visit to Southend, and we loved it. The seafront is a traditional British resort but is well cared for and clean.
The pier was the highlight of our visit. Access is through a modern glass frontage with very helpful staff. You can either walk both ways, take the little light train both ways or what we did, walk out, and train back. All prices were reasonable.
The actual pier is wooden and arout a mile and a third long. It is a delightful walk with plenty or areas to sit if you need to.
We were there as the tide began to come in, and it was great watching the shoals of fish (whitening) following the incoming water.
At the end of the pier, there is the cafe used in the Jamie Oliver TV programme. It's much smaller than you would think
There are also two cafes that share a modern building with outside and inside seating.
The pier invested in modern electric trains, but they broke down after days, so they still use the old engines. To my mind, they are better than the new electric stock.
A great way to spend a morning!
martin cox — Google review
Brilliant and unique railway on one of the longest pier's in the UK. A gentle and scenic journey to the end of the pier and back. One can travel one way and walk back or just buy the return for a bit more on the ticket. At the end of the pier, there is a cafe, shops and entertainment things. The views are amazing.
Richard Allen — Google review
My visit to Southend-on-Sea was nothing short of magical, and the highlight of my trip was undoubtedly the iconic pier train ride. As the longest pleasure pier in the world, Southend-on-Sea offers breathtaking views of the estuary, and the train ride allows you to experience these scenic vistas in a unique and relaxing way. The gentle journey along the pier was a serene experience, providing a perfect blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this attraction is a must-visit for anyone looking to create lasting memories.
But the wonders of Southend-on-Sea don't stop at the pier! The surrounding area is rich with attractions, beautiful beaches, and delicious dining options that cater to every taste. To capture the essence of our adventure and to share more about what Southend-on-Sea has to offer, we've put together a detailed YouTube video. From the tranquil shores to the lively town center, join us as we explore the many facets of this enchanting seaside town.
For a closer look at our journey and to discover more hidden gems in Southend-on-Sea, make sure to watch our YouTube video. We dive deeper into our experiences, offering tips and insights that could help plan your perfect visit. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more travel content!
Sanjee With Randi — Google review
Worth the long walk to the Pier itself and especially on an overcast day as the colour of the sea really stands out during this time. You can get the train across but really, there is a serene pleasure to walking across and hearing the calm of the ocean around you. Will come back in the Summer to capture the Pier glazed under peachy evening skies.
Sadek Miah — Google review
Loved the views from the pier and the history behind it. The railway track running in parallel to the walkway adds on to the beauty. We bought the walkway return ticket and it costed us each £2.50. They are concessions for some group of people.
The only suggestion is to have some more varieties of food at the end of the pier( has awesome ice cream collections though!). Definitely one of the must visit spots when you are in Southend !
Mithra Radhakrishnan — Google review
This is an awesome pier! The deck is beautifully maintained with new boards as necessary. It's a lovely walk to the far end. But sadly, there is very little to do once you're there. We had tea and cake in the café where "Jamie & Jimmy's Friday Night Feast" is filmed. The cakes were commercial - nothing special. There are toilets are the 'land' end. Two temporary toilets - with a queue and the hand-drier not working. A lovely heritage pier - and the best is not being made of it. Needs more amenities and things to occupy you at the far end.
MartinR — Google review
Fantastic view from the tram overlooking the open sea, and the cost is likely under 20 pounds for two adults and a child. Highly recommended for a summer visit to enjoy the beach.
Jain — Google review
Great little trains to take you to the end of the pier and back. You can walk if you prefer or train one way walk the other £7.50 for a return journey. They go back and forth fairly regularly. We didn't wait either journey but that could've been luck. Plenty of space on board for wheel chair users too.
Louise — Google review
Home to the longest railway pier in the world! Southend pier is a must visit in Southend! Trains do leave every 30 minutes. The pier itself has a cool view of Southend from afar! They also have my favorite fish and chip shop at Southend! Its extremely windy at the end of the pier! There's also a gift shop and a cafe at the end! Highly recommend!
Leo Papadopoulos — Google review
Enjoyed a nice walk along the pier on a sunny summer day and a relaxing train ride back. The pier is in great condition and the entrance fee is completely reasonable. Not particularly busy but a short queue for the train that appears to run a little infrequently.
Recommend for a visit when in the area!
Tom Daff — Google review
Southend pier has changed so much over the last 10 years. I visited at the weekend and took the train to the end. Wow completely different to 10 years ago. A flash new train. £6 per adult return on the train. New restaurant at the bottom and a lovely little cafe at the end. Beautiful coloured beach huts at the end and amazing views. Very cold at the end on an overcast late October day.
Kristel Goldsmith — Google review
Love Southend-on-Sea, the pier is beautiful and even on a rainy day, is a fun walk. Also found some of the most incredible wall art I've seen in a while. Great coastal town to visit on the weekend.
Vanessa Warren — Google review
Had a wonderful experience here. They offer a wheelchair for a £50 cash deposit, which they return when you have finished with the chair, and we were able to take it everywhere off the pier also. The train ride was bumpy and noisy as expected and the chips at the end of the journey from the hut at the end were lovey and hot, just what was needed, but mind the gulls, who did mostly stay away.
The pavilion was handy for drinks and toilets. Then the pier was lovely to sit and enjoy watching the sky and water change. I couldn't access the lifeboat section as it was all stairs.
Mat — Google review
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Western Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EE, United Kingdom
Leeds Castle is a beautiful Norman stronghold situated on an island in the River Len. It has been home to six medieval queens and features influences from Medieval and Tudor times, as well as an exhibition of original artefacts, illustrations and film. The grounds include multiple things to do, including golfing and zip slides.
We visited Leeds castle during the week, in February, Wednesday to Friday and stayed at the Stable Courtyard Bed& Breakfast. Perfect time as there weren't many people around and we could explore everywhere - the gardens, the castle, the Falconry, The Dog Collar collection.
There are plenty places to have a meal around as well - coffee shop near the mini golf course, the Castle view restaurant, bar/coffee shop next to it and a lunch place that is also next to the restaurant.
There are two playgrounds for small and older kids and a mini golf.
I recommend to visit the Falconry - the guys there are amazing and they can tell you all about the birds of prey. They take some of them out around 11ish so you can have a closer look 🦅🦉
The castle itself was very nice to explore too. Part of it was under renovation that should be finished by April 2022. So we could not see the library. It is a beautiful place with a rich history and it is amazing that some of the rooms are used even today.
I recommend to everyone to visit. We are def going back Spring/Summer time when it is greener ❤️☀️🏰
Miroslava Todorova — Google review
The grounds are stunning, loved walking around the gardens and ponds. Don't take the train up or you'll miss it! The castle itself is a sight to behold. It's probably one of the better castles to visit in England. The property is huge, plan to spend a few hours. There's the grounds, the gardens, the lakes, the castle, the courtyard, the maze, the boat ride ... Etc. Should definitely be on your bucket list.
Miki Nyckel — Google review
Leeds Castle is a captivating destination that offers a perfect day out for families. As annual pass holders, we have come to adore this picturesque gem, where each visit feels like a new adventure. Here's why Leeds Castle has become our go-to place for an unforgettable experience.
The grounds are stunning, providing a breathtaking backdrop for picnics. The presence of ducks, geese, and swans adds to the charm. The playground is a paradise for kids, with a variety of engaging activities. The mini-golf course offers friendly competition for all skill levels.
The falconry displays are awe-inspiring, showcasing the incredible skills of these magnificent birds. The maze adds adventure and excitement to the visit, while the castle itself is a splendid example of historic architecture.
Leeds Castle also prioritizes accessibility, with pathways and facilities designed to accommodate varying mobility needs. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing assistance when needed.
Food options are delightful, including a wide variety of ice cream flavors. Additional attractions such as the ferry and land train add a touch of whimsy.
With numerous events throughout the year, Leeds Castle ensures there's always something exciting happening. Whether it's a jousting tournament or other special occasions, visitors are in for a treat.
Leeds Castle offers an exceptional day out for families, with its beautiful grounds, engaging activities, accessibility, and exciting events. It's a place where memories are made, and annual passes are truly worth it.
Emily Stawell — Google review
Well worth the ticket cost. The house tour is surprisingly interactive with seats, games and displays. Grounds full of flowers and things to see. Easy to spend a whole day there, and standard tickets allow for free re-entry for the year.
Shan Song — Google review
We visited for the Christmas lights festival. We usually go to Bedgebury, but this was closer to us and more convenient.
We all felt it was easily on par with the latter, and we had a great time walking around the grounds exploring all the sites.
Movement throughout the grounds was smooth and painless. Staff worked well to ensure this was successful. Parking was also very easy and quick.
We'd definitely visit again next year.
Sean Mayes — Google review
Leeds Castle offers an exceptional day out for families and history enthusiasts alike. With its rich historical significance, it provides a captivating educational experience for visitors of all ages. The expansive grounds offer a plethora of activities for kids, including a fantastic play area and a mesmerizing maze that guarantees hours of fun.
The castle itself, set against the backdrop of the serene lake, is a picturesque sight, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. You'll find numerous coffee and snack bars scattered throughout the estate, ensuring that you stay energized during your exploration.
One of the most notable aspects is the incredibly friendly and helpful staff. Their enthusiasm and knowledge enhance the overall experience, making you feel welcome and valued.
And let's not overlook the captivating birds of prey demonstrations. These majestic creatures add a unique touch to your visit, leaving you with lasting memories.
In summary, Leeds Castle is a treasure trove of history, adventure, and natural beauty. It's the perfect destination for a family outing, offering a harmonious blend of education and recreation in a breathtaking setting.
Alexander Hatzidakis — Google review
Absolutely beautiful and breathtaking castle. Entrance tickets are expensive, but this place is worth every penny. The castle, gardens, the lake , the maze, and a massive playground for kids. Most of the views are scenic. There is a wonderful restaurant with a big terrace. The view of the castle is stunning.
Joanna Lackorzynska — Google review
Lovely day at Leeds Castle today it is beautiful. Went arround the Castle and outside, watched a bird of prey display. The grounds are vast with beautiful lakes there is crazy golf a large play area for children and a large maze.
Didn't get to go in the maze as time ran out so much to do for the whole family. Will definitely visit again and again as now I paid entry the ticket last for a yr. Well worth the ticket price.
A lovely start to the new year
Carol Larner — Google review
I've been here many times. Every time I went the castle looks different.
Handicap services are excellent. A bus will bring you up to the castle if you're not able to walk long distances. Unfortunately my mum couldn't get to the top floor in the castle due to her handicap. They offer a video about the castle as an alternative. My mum was very pleased with that.
There are so many things to do. Well worth the money.
Make sure you register you're ticket when you buy it. It will give you a chance to come back for free for a whole year.
Anneke Adema — Google review
Superb castle & beautiful gardens situated in a majestic location- surrounded by a scenic moat. But...Outrageous entry fee (£35) at times of economic crises ! Visitors showed their approval...with their feet- not many there- in July- peak times ! TIP: if you travel by train- look online for '2for1' entry. Sooo glad we did...& didn't get our pockets burned...
David Lally — Google review
Beautiful castle to visit! Get your walking shoes on because it’s quite a walk from the parking area to the castle. It’s a lovely walk though through the gardens. Just beautiful. They do have a mobility bus for those that need it. There is a well laid out, self guided tour. Enjoy!
Jason T — Google review
What a lovely picturesque castle. Great stories from the past and staff are very friendly. The massive garden is amazing and you can explore for a whole day. It’s great if you have kids as they will run endlessly in the garden.
We were told that it’s not a dog friendly and only guild dog allowed as we were thinking of bringing our dog. But when you get inside the grounds you will see a lot of people have their dogs in. Don’t understand.
Emmanuel Siojo — Google review
Fabulous! Very well thought through and kids friendly. In fact kids centred. Dog bone hunt in the castle. Amazing play area. Oh, and the castle and grounds are beautiful, chocolate box ++. Definitely worth the entry fee.
Gareth — Google review
A wonderful attraction for all ages. There are acres of wonderfully manicured lawns. Get the children, or adults, to feed the ducks on the way to the castle. It has interactive exhibits & free audio tours. Then, walk to see the Falconry area, play on the artificial beach. Loose yourself in the maze, then grab a bite to eat.
Your ticket gives you year-long access, so you can go again to see the bits you couldn't see the first time! Good value.
Andrew Booth — Google review
OK, firstly I thought the tickets were expensive at £35 for an adult. However, if you buy them online, it's £31.50 AND it's an annual ticket ( go as often as you like!)
Staff are friendly and helpful.
LOTS of parking (free of charge)
Not just a castle, there's tons for all ages. Playgrounds, mini golf, segways, boat on lake, little train rides, sand "beach" play area, beautiful gardens, a maze, birds of prey, falconry show (2pm today, it was brilliant!), there was children's entertainment and an Easter trail today, and of course the castle.
Get the audio guide (multiple language options) it's free.
Cafe, restaurant, ice cream parlour... or bring a picnic to have next to the lake (it did cost £4 for a box of fries, although they were delicious and a decent size portion!)
Lots of seating. Multiple toilets that were really clean.
Quite a lot of walking, so wear comfy shoes!
Wheelchair accessible.
Would highly recommend.
Rebecca Lee — Google review
Absolutely beautiful grounds with lots of birds and water to see. The castle is magnificent and a must see. Your ticket, once purchased, is valid for a year. You can return as often as you like within that year.
Steven Walker — Google review
One of my favourite places to visit. Great that one ticket gets you a year round visit.
Stunning views and great weather we had. Love the gardens and the views fr afar of the castle. Pick a sunny day and you won't be disappointed.
Great to see that the castle has switched it up a little and is moving with the times. They have a wonderful feature of all the women that have reigned at the castle and it was fantastic to see and read about it all.
If you're looking for something to do for firework night too. I would highly recommend here as it's spectacular and this would be our 5th visit for fireworks. It doesn't get old.
L MM — Google review
Really nice place to visit and such a variety of things to do and see. The reason I dropped it stars is we live a fair distance away and whilst if you can visit a few times in a year it offers value for money £95 for two adults and a child is a bit much. Loved the house/castle, maze and birds of prey displays. Well worth a visit if you can make it there a few times in a year.
Nick Gaunt — Google review
Beautiful and well-preserved castle. Stunning interior. Alarms everywhere. It's definitely worth a visit. The premises are gorgeous too. Beautiful and well maintained gardens. After closing hours, when staying at the courtyard, you're allowed to wander around. Great. No people cluttering your photos. The best spot for sunset pictures is the golf court. But golfers will not be pleased if you wander there.
Jorita Schosswald — Google review
We came by coach and were looking forward to coffee and cake but they had run out of milk and cakes. Had a lovely day looking at Narnia Christmas in the castle. We thought we would look at the maze and have a game of crazy golf, unfortunately these finished at 2.30 and 3pm so we were told to go back and had to stand in the cold till the light trail started at 4.30. Although we had a lovely day, the castle could do with better time and supplies management. Perhaps a cafe at the entrance where you could wait in the warm and dry.
Karen Pattrick — Google review
Visited the house for the Narnia experience. Castle and grounds stunning. Lots of water fowl and landscaped gardens. Castle was great - if a bit crowded due to the kids holidays. We stayed at the castle for our Wedding anniversary and got entry free - but a great venue.
Jeremy “Jem” Gilbert — Google review
I’ve been to Leeds Castle a few times, incredible history behind this castle!
Fireworks is fantastic event, however it’s usually sells out fast.
Christmas lights event is lovely, especially on a dry evening. The walk around the grounds is pleasant, well kept and maintained.
Hopeful to stay in the castle itself one day, as heard this is a great experience.
Daniel Richards — Google review
Beautiful 12th century castle and gardens. Lots of history and places to visit for the kids. It deserves a 5 star rating for the wow factor but sadly it’s let down by the prices, lack of attention to detail for customer service and general poor quality food and refreshments plus the almost negligent attitude towards making the venue accessible and inclusive for people with limited mobility or disabilities. A visit is recommended but I wouldn’t rush back as the venue is very expensive (£100 entry for a family of 4), poor signage, no discounts for senior citizens and no help for people who have limited mobility.
Matt Wallace — Google review
Amazing day out, would thoroughly recommend to anyone, especially families. The gardens are beautiful, you can feed the ducks, the audio as you're going round the castle is engaging even for kids, good restaurant, ferry, land train, maze and grotto, fantastic adventure playground, falconry, giant sandpit, kids' obstacle course, adventure golf... we all had an absolutely brilliant time! I wish we lived nearer so we could return sooner! I'd recommend going for 4-5 hours, for all ages.
Lucy Oliver — Google review
Good value. Now that the tickets are valid for a whole year. The grounds are vast and gardens are pretty. The maze is challenging and the audio tour for the castle is also interesting.
Malcolm YM Lau — Google review
Leeds Castle stands as a testament to history, beauty, and tranquility, offering visitors a truly remarkable experience. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this enchanting castle exudes charm from every corner. The meticulously landscaped gardens, adorned with vibrant flowers and lush greenery, provide a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls or peaceful picnics. The shimmering lake adds to the picturesque setting, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.
Stepping inside the castle is like stepping back in time. Each room tells a story, showcasing centuries of history through exquisite furnishings, intricate decor, and fascinating artifacts. From the opulent state rooms to the cozy chambers, every corner of the castle exudes elegance and grandeur.
But Leeds Castle is more than just a historic monument—it's a place of exploration and discovery. Visitors can delve into the castle's past through engaging exhibits and informative displays, learning about its royal inhabitants and illustrious history. Additionally, the castle hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to themed exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to experience.
Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Leeds Castle offers something for everyone. With its captivating beauty, rich history, and tranquil ambiance, it's no wonder that Leeds Castle continues to enchant visitors from around the world.
Ivaylo Kolev — Google review
Had an overnight stay with dinner & breakfast for my birthday treat. Fell in love with the place and it trumps my previous favourite Royal retreat Hampton Court. We uograded to stay in the Maiden's Tower and were given the bridal suite. The room and views were gorgeous!! Dinner was great as was breakfast the next morning. The staff were warm and welcoming and made us feel really special during our stay. Will definitely be going back (fancy staying at one of the lodges overlooking one of the lakes) and would highly recommend staying here for a memorable experience!
Karen Knight — Google review
A must visit Castle, perfect for the whole family! When we went, it was overcast and windy, and it had rained the night before, so some outdoor areas were muddy in parts, but despite this, we had such fun. The only thing that was hugely disappointing was the food in the Castle Restaurant, terrible food at expensive prices, avoid and bring your own packed lunch. So much to see and do, castle grounds are beautiful, a really fun hedge maze with a very cool grotto in the centre, historic castle, playgrounds, boat trip, little train ride, a mini beach, birds of prey, Easter trail activity and mini golf. In the summer it would be perfect and as our tickets last a year, we will definitely be back.
Moushumi Banerjee — Google review
Leeds Castle is a great place to visit. Especially for families. It has something for everyone. History and education for the adults and a phenomenal playground and activities for the kids. Just a beautiful place all around. The restaurant is really good as well.
Melinda Freeze — Google review
Leeds Castle is a stunning historical landmark with picturesque gardens and a rich history. Visitors often praise its well-preserved architecture, beautiful grounds, and engaging exhibitions. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a peaceful day out, Leeds Castle offers something for everyone.
Annu Singh — Google review
I love visiting Leeds Castle and its stunning grounds. A beautiful Old English Castle and the tress are truly epic.
Buying one ticket and having access all year is also a huge bonus, with the groundskeepers always up for a laugh.
Would recommend to anyone who enjoys nature and the outdoors.
Tim Betts (spirittraveladventures) — Google review
We went on an overcast Wednesday, it was lovely to have a good walk around with not too many people around. The castle is well set out. We had fun trying to find the centre of the maze.
We then went to look at the various owls, eagles and hawks, which are all named after cars.
Then off for a quick game of mini golf at £3.50 per adult, it was very reasonable and fun.
All In all an excellent day.
Promenade Park is a historic Victorian riverside park that offers an impressive ornamental lake, forested paths for strolling and various play areas for children. The park is particularly popular with families during the summer months due to its large splash pad and other fun activities. It features mature tree-lined avenues, a pirate ship-style playground, duck feeding spots, mini-golf course and even a petting zoo. The area also boasts food outlets that serve fish and chips, bacon sandwiches and more.
Love Maldon. It's fairly dog friendly and we love the walk across the river and a lunch in our favourite pub. Lunch first, then walk, then ice cream. Then pop up to the Maldon Coffee Company for a variety of blends, ground your way, or a takeaway coffee.
Clare Anthony — Google review
Love it there. It's good for the kids. Have a massive playpark and splashpark when the weather is better. Lovely day out for the whole family. Have got quite a few places to eat if you want to grab some food. Or there are a few places to sit in and eat. Also, a lovely walk along the water and loads of boats to spot. Do go there often, especially when the weather is nice. Kids love it. They also have a little zoo and a mini golf if you fancy something extra. But overall, it is a lovely day out load of parking space.
Reka Hotoran — Google review
A lovely place to walk and see the boats, and things to keep the kids entertained as well: an impressive pirate ship-style play area, a splash park that's open in the summer, ducks to feed, a petting zoo, mini golf...the list goes on! There's car parking on-site but we parked in Maldon and walked along the water to get there. A few little food places on-site too, selling fish and chips, bacon sandwiches, sausage rolls and the like.
Emily Henley — Google review
A fantastic place to go for a family day out, a dog walk, or birdwatching at low tide. Huge grassy open spaces for picnics, ball games - we have seen the space used for large family celebration gatherings.
Wonder towards the promenade (affectionately know locally as ‘The Prom’ and there’s a large fenced in play area (note that no dogs are allowed inside the park). Here there is the popular pirate ship - a huge climbing and play ship, a zip wire, beach hits for hire, a shaded picnic area and the splash park.
See the website for details of splash park ticketing. It gets very popular in the summer so it’s a good idea to book up and pay in advance.
The latest developments include mini golf and a petting zoo.
There is also a well used skate park and ample parking. A small amount of parking is available in a small car park at the bottom end of the car park (easy reach to the fish and chip shop although Maldon has plenty). Follow the signs to a huge field car park. All day for £6 - bargain for what could be a free day out.
You can walk along the prom to the statue of a Britnoth who commemorates the Anglo Saxons who warded off the first Viking invasion.
Views across the estuary are beautiful whatever the time of year; the area is frequented by water birds at low tide. You can walk along the promenade into town; Maldon is full of independent shops, especially coffee shops although there are plenty of snack shacks open along the prom itself selling everything from cold drinks and coffee to ice creams and fish and chips.
Helen Waring — Google review
Lovely walk for a whole family. Great views over the river Chelmer. You can watch some amazing boats leaving the small port.
For shipwrecks turn right by the Maldon yacht club and follow the pathway to a viewing point. Watch the nettles.
Monika Pick — Google review
Really great place to have a walk or let the kids burn off some energy. There is a carpark that you have to pay for (Ringo app) but it's not too badly priced. For children there is a play park a load of ramps and BMX track.
Peter Ryan — Google review
Amazing day out for those with little ones.
The splash park was shut which was expected due to it being spring but amazing value for money, the small businesses are amazing value compared to other seaside resorts and the play area was perfect for my two young child.
Good day out and would recommend
Cdot. — Google review
Upon entry to the large carpark area and purchased your ticket you can head off to several directions depending on how your day is planned. PLEASE NOTE DISABLED BADGE HOLDERS PARK FOR FREE!! Just display your badge clearly.
You can head straight yo the several play areas, kick a ball on the grass, wander along the estuary edge towards yo pub or lake to grab a bite or drink from the many very cheap vendors or head the other way for a spot of crabbing.
It really is much bigger than it seems here with ample parking and toilets too. There is a mini petting zoo but that's pay entry which when it 1st started years ago was a fiver a family now its more than that each person. Shame really. You can but a ice cream for undef £1.50 or cheap chips coffee etc too. There is usually an ice cream van near the play area mugging poor parents off with over inflated prices so try to use one of the permanent buildings for your drinks and snacks but personally I'd just bring a picnic.
As mentioned within this sub review that this place used to be atot better but it seems Maldon council seem a bit begrudge to spend any money on it. Speculate to accumulate guys. It's tired and needs more than a dab of paint it needs investment desperately
Robs Reviews — Google review
Smoke and Fire Festival 2023 was a fantastic day out, despite a little deluge of rain the sun shine came out and a brilliant day was enjoyed by all. Followed by a walk on the promenade. Interesting historic boards to read along the way. We will be back . Beautiful town.
Sarah Cunningham — Google review
Lovely place to visit. You can take a lovely walk along the sea wall. There's toilets and places to eat. Children love the pirate ship and sand pit. There's a splash park and small petting zoo and crazy golf but we didn't visit them.
Av Hope — Google review
Lovely walk around the park and along the promenade. Lovely weather helped and great to see so many families out enjoying themselves.
A few places around to eat as well, which helps.
Parking a little expensive, but worth it to be near the park 😀😀😀
Neil Lowe — Google review
We enjoyed a lovely family day out here. It was our first time here, but it her family members have been many times. Booked an early slot in the splash park, which the children really enjoyed. We also booked 2 huts to cover our family. This was a fab base for our day. Storing the buggies and excess luggage. While in the huts, we texted through an order to the cafe, which was quick and easy to do, and will def be doing again.
Zoe Taylor — Google review
A lovely place for a walk along the waterfront. There are a few cafes spread along the path where you can grab a hot chocolate or coffee and walk along. In Autumn the trees are gorgeous, and there's a beautiful view back onto the town. Definitely worth a visit!
Julia Damtoft — Google review
Beautiful and lots to do.
Maybe because I am lucky enough to live close by, but I love this place and should come here more often.
Something here for everyone - the sun is a welcome addition.
Soultasia music festival is just one of the many events that take place throughout the year.
All the ducks and birds trying to make sense of the partially frozen lake - beautiful.
Iconic Modernist building from 1935, offering contemporary art exhibitions, eatery, bar and shop.
Wonderful place to visit, rain or shine. There’s always something more than expected here. Autumn events are looking good too.
Victor — Google review
A surprisingly good venue to see a band. Doesn't look much from the outside but has everything you need including sea views. There is a car park right outside. Go for GA as it is quite an intimate venue and the upstairs seating is quite a way back from the stage.
David Niner — Google review
An interesting art deco building with gallery, restaurant and gift shop within, stocking a nice selection of art related items. Unfortunately, the gallery was closed due to a new installation/exhibition going in at the time of my visit. It is possible to eat outside on the restaurant veranda and you can also visit the roof or top deck. If you are interested glass art ware, I would thoroughly recommend "Rachel's glass store on the colonnade Close by. A superb range of coloured glass works by Rachel Hoath, a local artist. Several restaurants are present in the high street.
Ian Dowsett — Google review
Great Art Deco building , well maintained . We had lunch in the restaurant which had a wonderful view of course, the food was delicious high end and at a realistic and affordable price. The staff were very attentive and a pleasure. All in all a great experience which I could repeat regularly. There's free parking around a mile away along the beach which makes for a nice walk or cycle .
David Chessell — Google review
A lovely art deco music venue built in 1935. One of the very best concert venues on the south coast with a very reasonably priced restaurant and bar.
Martin Percival — Google review
Wonderful example of an art deco building with a great vantage poont of a roof terrace and a very photogenic swt of stairs would be a great to double as a portrait location. Varied book shop and the exhibitions we visited were very good if a little small.
Scott Wright Imagery — Google review
Lovely building, Great views, even better if it wasn't raining. Had a lovely lunch in the upstairs cafe.
Annette Marshall — Google review
Saw the band everything everything here. Fantastic venue overlooking the water. Super friendly staff and people were lovely too. Hope to go back there one day for another concert. A cracking night - recommended.
Alan Pitchforth — Google review
Being somewhat of a true Art philistine, De L Warr doesn’t do much for me in that way. If you are into art, probably going to be your destination place. What it does have, is plenty of live bands and other entertainment throughout the year. Showing my age here, but saw Level 42 there, a few months back. This venue also has a great location. On the second floor, there is a Cafe, with doors to an outside balcony, that over looks the sea. On a sunny day, just sit there and watch the world go by….
Mark Lanario — Google review
This was a great place to visit during our day in Bexhill on Sea. All the staff were very nice and helpful. The coffee shop was clean and coffee fresh and tasty, a good selection of cakes and other foods to choose from. Some beautiful artwork was available to view on our visit and the shop had a good selection of books and gifts to choose from. This is a place you can pop in for a short visit and grab a coffee or spend a few hours looking at the art and culture both local and further afield.
Ray — Google review
Lovely building, and the events they put on are brilliant, well done and well priced.
Sharon Anderson — Google review
Captivating modernist building. There is a great stage with lots of big names visiting, a beautiful bar and kitchen with great views of the beach and channel and plenty of exhibition rooms. The building’s history is very interesting and there is a great book about it for £5 in the Pavilion’s shop.
Jack Bennett — Google review
It’s gorgeous and stunning but I still can’t forgive one of the worse experiences in my life. I watched Tangerine Dreams, they are a rave like dancing legendary music band and the policy was to watch it sitting still. That was not Rachmaninov, it was one of the best uplifting moving music ever. Even the band member were dancing. I was highly perturbed by the experience. Just use common sense please.
Nabila Harrold — Google review
Absolutely love this venue, such a great building and they seem to be attracting bigger artists year on year. Have lost count of the gigs I've been to at the DLWP but I'm never disappointed.
The sound and lighting is absolutely fantastic in there.
David Cleworth — Google review
Went to see a comedian, last minute booking.
Very pleased with service and staff kind and helpful.
The actual theatre let's the building down tremendously.
Worn seats and a totally different feel to the rest of the beautiful building.
It definately needs a refurb.
Like an old village hall to be honest but, I must say the seats were very comfortable.
Let's hope they get some funding to update that area of the building.
Staff, excellent.
MA — Google review
We visited the Sussex Guild craft fair here yesterday on a lovely sunny day. There was also an art exhibition on. We went to the cafe upstairs for a cuppa and a piece of cake, which was tasty. Lovely view too! Thought the shop also sold some interesting items made locally.
Alison Morris — Google review
Really good venue. Saw Feeder concert, small enough to feel part of it, but enough people to have the concert experience. Arrived a couple of hours before and got space in venue car park, no hassle at all. Brilliant!
Stuart Vincent — Google review
Cool venue for gigs, saw Everything Everything here and really enjoyed it. Easy to park close and great staff got us in and out quick!
Gavin Dodd — Google review
Never been before Great views out to sea, good coffee shop upstairs. Pavilion free to enter and to see any exhibitions. I lay in a hammock in one exhibition watching and listening to the sounds of jimi hendrix where the walls and ceiling project images of the man. Just a shame you can't view the auditorium unless you are ticketed to see a performance of some sort
Battle Abbey is a historical landmark that features medieval ruins and a battlefield site. It offers an interactive exhibition, a film about 1066, and a cafe. The place is significant for its role in the history of England as it was where the famous Battle of Hastings took place. Despite being wet and cold on some days, visitors find it fascinating to see the actual location where those historical events happened. The staff are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the history behind the abbey.
A wet and cold day in March, so there were not too many people around, which helped to get around and see things. Fascinating to finally see the actual place that those history lessons taught us about. I wouldn't have fancied running up that hill into a hail of arrows, so if I were Duke William, England would still be Anglo-Saxon! Very interesting. Recommended.
Paul Schwer — Google review
Large places to explore including walls around the Battle site and around the buildings and remains. Quite good explanations on the boards and the free audio tour. Loads of stairs and hills to navigate. Even then remains can be a challenge to get around although there is a wheelchair track around the site. Well worth a visit. We were there for 4 hours but did not finish it. There is a visitor centre which is particularly good for children. The cage head a variety of food including vegan and gluten free. We were lucky to see inside battle school since it is school holidays.
Denis Parker — Google review
Pricey to get in, unless you're a member. Luckily my mum is a member, so my children and I got in with her. We were lucky with the weather. Spent a few hours here. Walked all around, read a few bits. Kids enjoyed it. Nice play park for the kids to enjoy at the end.
Natalie Arnold — Google review
Great day out with the kids! Amazing place and history lesson! Staff are friendly, helpful and knowledgeable about the history behind the Abbey. Walked around the battlefield, climbed up the tower and looked over the whole town. A must see for the family!
DragonBear — Google review
A memorable and educational day out. The atmospheric abbey ruins are brought to life by an informative handheld audio guide. A well presented exhibition includes interactive displays and a short film.
The ruins have been well preserved, while still granting access to most areas. The grounds also include a quaint dairy, walled garden and memorial. Climbing the spiral staircase to the top of the gatehouse tower affords excellent views over Battle and the surrounding countryside.
Excellent facilities, with a large café, gift shop, play area, toilets and on-site parking (paid, but free for English Heritage members). The whole site is dog friendly, including indoor areas.
The battlefield was closed at the time of my visit due to recent heavy rain - worth checking the website in advance if you want to be sure this is open.
Fairly quiet on an overcast Saturday in winter, but being one of the best English Heritage properties in the area, it's a good idea to arrive early in peak season.
Andrew Thomas — Google review
Historic and well maintained. Plenty of parking space outside the property a short walk away from main entrance that is free for EH members. Great kids play area and nice trail to walk through the battlefield. The tower climbs are a little steep but offers great views.
Pramod Nair — Google review
This was a fascinating place, so full of history, well worth the visit. The shop wasn't astronomical in price either. Not cheap, obviously, but not silly money for a lot of the stuff. They are very welcoming and encourage guests to explore. The whole experience was far better than I ever imagined.
K — Google review
Had a great day at Battel Abbey walking around taking in all the historical sights & information. Everything is well laid out. The staff at the Information point were very helpful and convinced us to become members as we are interested in going to other Heritage sites. The whole area is kept clean. The restaurant area was clean and there was a range of food available. The staff there were friendly & helpful. Had a great time walking around and spent a few hours enjoying the sights. The staff at the shop were really friendly & helpfull aswell. Allround a day well spent.👍👌😁
PS : Although there is a good large Carpark there, it does not showup on Google Maps 🤔
Malcolm Chinoy — Google review
We are English Heritage members so got free entry but would've paid full price as it was great! Super dog friendly - we assumed she'd only be allowed in the grounds but was told she could go everywhere including the inside rooms and towers! The audio guide (free!) was very informative and the entire place was excellently looked after. Dropped a star because the woodland park walk was closed so we couldn't walk around the battlefield which would've been nice. Despite not being able to access a large area of the site, we still spent a couple of hours there and had a great time!
Frances Davies-Walsh — Google review
Visited as a English Heritage member.
This is also a private school so you will see uniformed students
Free audio machines to use, restaurant and toilets on site.
Great look into the history of Hastings
Robin Vass — Google review
Exactly as you remember it from your childhood school trips! But dare I say more fun as an adult! Great place to spend an afternoon, short or long walking tours with the shorter tour wheelchair accessible. The staff put on a great little show which explains the story of the battle of Hastings, it's aimed at kids but I loved it. The very best thing about this heritage site is that they are more than happy for you to bring your dogs along, they can even go all the way upto the rooftop view point! Splendid way to spend a day out with furry friends.
Leanne Smith — Google review
Great day out. They had themed events going on and the actors were fab. The walk around was interesting. Kids are 5 and 9 and they seemed to enjoy it. Definitely recommend a visit. The volunteers and staff were very attentive. We took a picnic but there is a cafe and food was reasonably priced and popular.
E “Laineyblue” C — Google review
We really liked it here. We had a guided tour by Robert, a very enthusiastic volunteer, who was knowledgeable and entertaining. The castle is very charming and we felt the history brought alive by his commentary. Looking across the battle field was quite poignant and much of the castle was accessible. The cafe was very nice. The view from the tower was extensive and the little town of Battle pleasant. Loved the little knitted bollard covers.
Judith Hope — Google review
Fantastic example of architecture at its best.
A truly remarkable and very well preserved castle emanating historic significance. Extremely well kept.
Welcoming staff are pleasant, helpful, friendly and professional.
A great place to visit if you want to learn about the great Battle of 1066.
Well worth a visit, following the castle there is a wonderful quaint characteristic high street to visit with a great array of shops and eateries.
Lord Brett McLean — Google review
Fabulous place to visit, even my kids found it interesting! Make sure you use the audio guides! Only down side was the cafe was a little on the expensive side, £3.50 for a rice crispy cake!
phillip gibb — Google review
One of the most important sites in British history and it doesn't dissapoint. From the information films, animations, archaeology, the buildings ruins and battlefield . EH has done brilliantly, information is to the point and not too much, you can use headsets if this is easier. A trip to the top of the gatehouse tower offers panoramic views over the town and wider countryside. Its just dripping in history and is a must visit. Please note on wet days the battlefield walk may be closed due to dangerous conditions underfoot
kevin mills — Google review
Wow. Always wanted to go here. Mum is English Heritage member so was lovely to visit with her. Booked online for me as slightly cheaper. No queue and parked in the car park right next to the entrance. Enjoyed a coffee before the Battlefield walk. Not cheap but was good coffee. Be warned!! Only one toilet right at start so make sure you go! The long walk is worth it and grab your audio guide at the start for the immersive experience! Had a fantastic 4 hours exploring. Well worth the money.
Vikki Strachan — Google review
Great walk around, alot of interesting history information. Good for all ages. Especially like the walk around the battlefield.
Benjamin Murtagh (Benjamin Murtagh) — Google review
Absolutely amazing place to visit. Even if you don't like history it's worth a visit..but if your into history etc you will be amazed..they have audio if you want to follow it on...they have a disabled access around the grounds if you need to use wheelchair or walking aids you are given a map..gift shop,seating all around the area..walks you can go on..actors doing displays not allowed to take photos of them doing it..put you can take them around the rest of the abbey..staff are very knowable and very helpful and friendly..gift shops..
dawn dinsley — Google review
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Butter Cross, High St, Battle TN33 0AE, United Kingdom
Rochester Castle is an 11th century Norman castle with a spacious keep that offers stunning views of the River Medway. Visitors can take tours and enjoy picnics on the grounds, which offer plenty of green space for children to play on or tarmac for biking and scooting. The steep climb up to the top of the castle is worth it for breathtaking views of the cathedral and river.
Absolutely beautiful.
Lovely outing with children. Good picnic spot. Lots of green space for little kids to play or tarmac for scooting and biking
Beautiful view of the cathedral and Medway river.
The castle is a must to visit. It's a steep climb but with a lot of rest stops. I did it with my 6 month old in a baby carrier. The views at the top of the castle are breathtaking.
Castle grounds have a cafe selling yummy ice cream, hot drinks snacks and burgers.
Odette Van Tonder — Google review
A great castle, ruin only. Nice location next to the cathedral. Great views from the top of the keep, obviously many stairs involved. Little shop at the entrance and a little cafe/ ice cream shop in the castle grounds. Castle itself has a fee the grounds are free. Parking available chargeable.
Steven Moseley — Google review
Plenty of parking. No ques, not busy. Lovely friendly, helpful staff. Amazing historical castle to visit, the views from the castle were breath taking!
Helen Webb — Google review
Was at Christmas Market and quickly visited for the great views at the top of Castle.
Not a place you would travel to visit specifically, but would recommend as part of a visit to Rochester, particularly if you're a heritage member (didn't check individual admission prices).
Lloyd Smissen — Google review
One of two castles in this area, the other being Upnor castle. This one is by far more impressive. You can enter the tower and climb to the top for a fee (British Heritage members enter for free).
Mark Sidloi — Google review
Very beautiful view from top. Also the folks at the gate are very informative. Please be aware before you go, it's plain climbing of stairs. Obviously 1000 year old stairs
Abay Wicks — Google review
A great way to pass an hour or so. There are a lot of steps and although there is a side access to the castle grounds there is no disabled access to the castle itself.
Still worth a visit if you can manage the stairs and very reasonable entry fee
lee graham (Gompz70) — Google review
Wonderful castle to visit with over 200 steps to clamber around. If you don't like heights, you might not be keen on this! It's all safe though, and there's several benches to sit down and catch your breath on! Reasonably priced, probably takes about 45 minutes to go round and read about from the info boards. Dramatic views from the top across Rochester and beyond.
Steve McDonough-Cooper — Google review
This was a fascinating place to visit.
Entry prices aren’t excessive and I had a concession price too.
The actual rooms of the castle have gone, but there are panels to show what was there when the castle was in use.
The path through the castle goes via some steep and uneven spiral staircases, so some care is needed, especially when people are going the other way. There’s a warning at the entry, it says there are 200 steps.
There are some very nice views of the cathedral.
Peter Meade — Google review
No trip is complete to Rochester without visiting the castle. Was given an audio tour to learn more about the history, which I highly recommend. NB, there are a lot of steps to climb but a great view from the top 👌
John Gregory — Google review
Went for the Xmas market/fayre. Didnt pay to go into the tower, entry into the grounds was free. Nice castle still in good condition. Recommend going at Xmas when there is a huge number of stalls. There is a great Xmas feel to the fayre, even snow machines blowing snow around.
steve&alfie — Google review
Great castle and grounds. I would recommend going, however, be prepared to take a while to park if you are travelling by car. There is no car park so all the parking around is either, packed, very tight for big cars or out the way. Bearing in mind the castle is in the middle of town.
David Burgess — Google review
A small but interesting castle (keep?) with simple but well presented information and, most importantly, fantastic views when you make it to the top. 200ish steps but not difficult and plenty of places to rest on the way up if you need them.
Jon Roberts — Google review
A lovely place to visit with great views from the top. A great castle to walk around, lots of stairs and lots to see around it. Small gift shop at the entrance. Really enjoyed it here and will definitely come again.
Caroline B — Google review
A great castle ruin to attend for an hour or so.
There is a small gift shop, as well as multiple information boards throughout the castle to read all about the history and the different types of rooms that used to be there.
As others note, there are a lot of staircases, some of which are very tight, so please keep that in mind!
It’s very near to Rochester High Street as well as the Cathedral, which is free to enter.
Would recommend!
Jon — Google review
I love visiting Rochester Castle, it's a beautiful and historic place with stunning views of the river and the town. The castle grounds are well maintained and perfect for a picnic or a stroll. Me and my fiancée have spent many romantic evenings there, watching the sunset and the lights of the bridge. The castle itself is impressive and worth exploring, especially the keep with its medieval features. The staff are friendly and informative, and the admission fee for the castle is reasonable. I would highly recommend Rochester Castle to anyone who loves history, nature, or romance.
shibin kurian — Google review
The is an open castle part of the English Heritage. A good walk going the up stairs and seeing pictures of how each floor used to look many years. You can see the square holes in the walls of where the wooden structure use to sit. The top of castle gives you the best 360 views of Rochester especially when it's sunny. It was a bit windy when we went, best to try and go on a hot day with no breeze. Still an enjoyable visit, there a live concert and funfair event on the castle grounds. Recommend!
Pravin Mistry — Google review
Great family day out grounds are level for pushchairs and wheelchairs but the castle itself is up steps and then over 100 steps to the top of the castle. Inside castle is not suitable for pushchairs wheelchairs or people with mobility issues.
One great feature in this castle was there were a number of boxes that you sniff to experience the smells of the castle when it was a working castle back in time. Grounds are great for kids to run around and have a picnic.
Gillian Selby — Google review
What an amazing castle! It lets you experience a great view of the river Medway and Rochester Cathedral! It’s a beautiful place itself with a good history and wasn’t busy at all on the day I went.
Owen Bowen — Google review
I've been here for the second time today, first seen 2 years ago, worth the visit. 👍♥️
A lot of history behind, it is not massive but still one of the impressive places u can visit in Kent.
♥️♥️♥️
Rochester Castle stands on the east bank of the River Medway in Rochester, Kent, South East England. The 12th-century keep or stone tower, which is the castle's most prominent feature, is one of the best preserved in England or France
pomana smaranda nicoleta — Google review
Good day out. Castle isn't very big, but well preserved. There's the Cathedral next to it, which is worth visiting. Also the museum at the top of the high street. Come and visit.
Saimonas Gailiunas — Google review
The castle is close to the back of the cathedral. There an ice cream kiosk in the entrance. There is a small car park.You need to climb stairs to get in the main Norman keep doorway to pay. Owned by English Heritage. It is a tall keep, on many floors. You can get to top and the views are great.
Gill P — Google review
The day I visited the castle, it was on the same day as the Dickensian Festival and Christmas Market and it was very busy. I have been to many English Heritage sites, but there is something about this castle that makes me very anxious... probably the height of the place as you make your way up.
I didn't stay for very long as there were many people around, but I hope to visit again around May/ June in 2024 when it is also a lot warmer. I will also see if I am brave enough to go all the way to the top then too.
Sean Meston — Google review
An English Heritage run attraction. There is a charge to enter but you get an audio guide. There are also useful displays around the castle to help explain what you’re seeing and the history. Lots of signs regarding dead pigeons though we never saw any. There are lots of steps so one to avoid if you have mobility issues. The steps can be steep but ok for most, including kids. Can go on the roof and look down on the Cathedral. Learned a lot about the history of the castle. There’s a shop to peruse too but souvenirs were on the expensive end.
Scotney Castle, a National Trust property, boasts both castle ruins and a Victorian mansion set in vast woodland and parkland. The house appears grand from the outside but is furnished comfortably as a country home inside. The gardens are well-tended with beautiful floral arrangements on display during the flower festival. A ruined castle and moat provide scenic views at the valley bottom, while lambs add to the charm of this picturesque location.
Lovely gardens with the ruined castle in the valley bottom. The house looks very grand, but inside it's furnished as a comfy country house. The flower festival was on when we visited. The rooms were decorated with beautiful floral arrangements. The grounds are extensive, with plenty of hard paths so very wheelchair/mobility scooter friendly.
Sandie Packman — Google review
Excellent in all respects. The house is fully furnished and was lived in until 2006. You get to see more than 50% of it. The grounds are generally wheelchair accessible although there are some large slopes. They have a modern toilet block with disabled and baby changing facilities. They have a cafe although the choice is fairly restricted. If you are holidaying in the Sussex / Kent area I would strongly recommend you buy an annual National Trust subscription we have already got back our Couple subscription (£106.00) by visiting just 4 National Trust sites and still have 11 months remaining.
Bob Austin — Google review
Lovely day out, grounds are absolutely stunning, so peaceful too! Free entry for National Trust members! Staff all over the site and at the cafe are really friendly and clearly love what they do. Would definitely recommend a visit! :)
Ky ?Kye? Boot — Google review
A site that could easily be overlooked but is well worth a visit.
The castle ruins are still beautiful, the setting is almost fairytale in appearance. The main building is now home to an emotion stirring art exhibition.
The gardens, which incorporate the quarry used to excavate stone for the main house, are very pleasant with walks around the estate.
The house itself is very interesting, contrasting rooms some a little dour, others bathed in light and airy.
The most notable feature, in my opinion, is the wonderful collection of paintings from several periods that literally cover every wall space.
A delightful discovery.
Michael Lees — Google review
DOG FRIENDLY!!! (Not the house)
We love a good national trust walk especially now we are members!! Great price for viewing some amazing places!! And scotney castle is like a fairytale absolutely stunning!!! 😍😍
The gardens are incredible!! Beautiful flowers to view. The wildlife and babies we saw today so cute!!!
kalie funnell — Google review
We finally got round to using our National trust memberships...
A 45 minute journey brought us to a beautiful site. We were guided in from the initial parking attendants were we were given a map to show us what was to offer.
Our daughter took charge in guiding us!
We decided to do a walk around the fields of the castle which took us roughly 45 minutes ( not forgetting that we left our wellies in the car...🫣)
When we got back to the main facilities, we sat outside and enjoyed a Red pepper soup and cheesy wedges from the coach House cafe. Which, was very tasty.
As we initially took the long route around we missed the castle. So, this time we walked through past the secondhand bookshop and through the tranquil gardens. We finally got to walk through and around the castle which looked stunning in its setting.
As a family, we had a fantastic time and made a whole day of it.
Thanks for having us 😁👍
Jamie Mongardi — Google review
What a beautiful castle! This has definitely been one of my favourites. The castle and the surroundings are breathtaking. There is a small playground and many spots to sit or for a picnic. Staff are friendly and enhance the whole experience. Definitely recommend a visit!
Sami P — Google review
Beautiful place to visit, staff were very welcome and knowledgeable and the food was very yummy! Great for children and grown ups of any age. A place we will visit over and over again. If you are a national trust member you can book a space for the car park in advance, if you turn up on the day there is additional parking with a beautiful 8-10 minute walk through woodland.
Jennie Everett — Google review
Dog friendly, pick up a Pooch Passport to see more dog friendly national trust locations. All staff met were lovely. Beautiful buildings (couldn't go inside with the dogs but outside is stunning)
Maxine Collins — Google review
I loved visiting Scotney Castle during recent holiday in Kent. We went on a whim and luckily there was space in the car park as it was a weekday. Man recommended booking in advance next time.
House was wonderful and the tour was very well organised. The wider grounds are beautiful with signed walking routes so you don't get lost. The old house was open so we were able to go in too. I think the hours are limited and dependent on volunteers being available.
Highly recommended
Hannah Rapley — Google review
An excellent day out, a smallish house (for this type of venue at least, or at least the public areas were) which the children took us through quickly. Fantastic gardens, well kept, the ruined castle and moat at the bottom of the grounds was very scenic, there were lambs, and the rustic children's play area was a hit with our 5 and 8 year olds. Recommended.
Paul Curtis — Google review
Great castle to visit with two separate parts - old castle and new house. It has a long and rich history and beautiful trails.
It's easy accessible with parking and overflow parking, big tearoom with outside space, and fantastic National Trust staff members. It's worth visiting for sure!
Robert Birkholz — Google review
Fantastic grounds. Unfortunately the castle itself wasn't open on the day we visited as it was closed for its winter clean. But the grounds were lovely to walk around, especially with the autumn colours. Though not massive, but big enough for a wander around for an hour or so.
Paul Knight — Google review
Scotney Castle is a wonderful place to spend time with your family. Impressive house, ruins and beautiful gardens. There is a small playground for kids and many spots to sit and enjoy the nature. Free entry for National Trust members. Would definitely recommend a visit
Piotr Kwiecien — Google review
Lovely spot for a visit. Plenty of walks & lovely sights to see.
Definitely a must to book parking in advance though.
The cafe has plenty of seating but gets extremely busy at peak times, with very long queues as a result.
Lots of people parked on the entry & exit roads (as presumably they didn't pre-book), which is more than a little annoying when trying to enter or leave the site.
James Hinnells — Google review
We just visited Scotney castle and grounds for their Halloween trail, it was beautiful with the autumn colours popping out everywhere.
The food at the cafe was delicious, the staff was super friendly and informative - we’ll be back!
I would advise to book your car parking in advance on their website to avoid disappointment on the day.
David Aobadia — Google review
Lovely place in the countryside of Kent. Is a medium size castle the old castle is inhabited, is part destroyed. I was in love with the architecture the water around the castle. A new Manor House was built few yards away from the old castle. That house is warm and cosy. The library is just stunning with books dated 1500s people working in there are nice and polite. You have yo book or pay for a car park extra £4.50 adults entrance £17.00… they have a nice coffee shop and souvenirs store. The gardens need some more work.
Ljubica Banic — Google review
A really worthwhile visit. Not only is there the castle itself which is really interesting to look around, there is also the very impressive main house. This is decorated in the style of different eras depending on when you visit. At the time of out visit it was decorated as it would have been in the 60s which was actually a very interesting insight compared to some other period properties. There were very knowledgeable staff throughout the house. The tea room was excellent.
Rowan Hunter — Google review
Visited for Christmas season, beautifully decorated in 1960s style. Warm and welcoming. Mild day so enjoyed a walk to the old castle. Lunch in cafe, plenty of outside seating.
Remember to book parking before visit!
Sally C — Google review
Beautiful grounds, the gardens were so well looked after. Purchase parking before arriving. All staff and volunteers were friendly and so helpful. Had a lovely day out with the family here.
Jade — Google review
Scotney is a long standing favourite of ours. Set in a beautiful location. A picture postcard castle overlooking wonderful grounds. A good walk ( lots of slopes)..Good shop and cafe with decent food.
Accessible to all if needed. Compared to some other National trust properties its well worth a visit.
Especially at Christmas 🎄
Braintree Village is a shopping center with outlet stores offering popular fashion, perfume, and home & kitchen brands. It's a hotspot for serious shoppers seeking international brand deals. The district also offers family-friendly activities like catching a film, bowling, and trying the climbing wall at Namco. Visitors praise the good selection of shops with great bargains and many dining options. The village is easy to navigate and not overly crowded, making it an enjoyable experience for shoppers.
A nice outlet - not too big but a great range of shops, from high street (M&S) to higher end (Ralph Lauren/Hugo Boss). Has plenty of places for a coffee pit-stop and also has cinema/restaurants across from it if you wanted to make a full day of your trip (that's if you don't spend the whole day shopping!!)
Lauren Robinson — Google review
Nice spacious outlet! There’s plenty of places for you to park and we had a great time as it wasn’t crowded or that busy for a Sunday afternoon.
It’s great for walking around due to there being zebra crossings in the right areas. Braintree is so well managed, with plenty of stores. Stores you didn’t even think you’d like to see like Haribo.
It’s a good change from Bicester Village if you’re looking for an outlet that isn’t focused on luxury goods.
Helen Bui — Google review
Good outlet.
Around 1 hour and half driving from central of london.
Also, in the back of the outlet there is many big stores like Next, T.k.max, sport direct and more.
There also cinema and namco entertainment.
Ahmed — Google review
Nicely laid out outlet mall. Not massive and not that many shops. Typical stores you would expect to find in a UK outlet mall.
Prices are nothing special but again not too different from what you get at any outlet mall in UK.
If you are used to shopping at outlet malls in the UK then you will be very pleased visiting. If you are used to shopping in the US then you will be quite disappointed with the prices and number of shops.
Tuoyo-E — Google review
Great place for all your shopping needs especially clothing, footwear etc. Good range of designer outlets, with great deals.
As all the shops are on ground level hence no problems for wheel chair users.
There are a few car parks which are free to park for six hours. Food outlets are close to carpark.
Overall a good place to spend a day shopping and finding some great deals.
Faheem Shah — Google review
Nice selection of small stores. Christmas decorations were very nice. Not entirely outlet prices tbh. You can find same deals cheaper online. But the beauty store was the bomb !
MARIE ?NLondonPT? WILSON — Google review
Decent shopping mall with good brands to choose from. The free parking for 6 hours is a bonus. The customer service team prompt in answering queries. The food options weren’t particularly bad, but tolerable brands. Overall the staff in most of the shop were relaxed and friendly.
Emily Robinson — Google review
Really enjoyed my trip, great selection of shops 👌 easily found my way around. I found it more realistic than other outlet centres as it offers more retailers at a sensible price level rather than just the top notch designers taking the majority of the units.
Paul Barrett — Google review
Nice little day out. Different from usual. Had a lot of good deals. I've got myself a pair of shoes from nike. But needs a more variety of shops with lower price ranges but this place is more of outlets so always find something
David Y — Google review
An excellent place to visit. England is not London only. There are these places to visit too. Lovely places with coffee shops, stores, monuments, you name it. It was a pleasure and lots of fresh air to breathe. Come and visit.
Carlos Reis — Google review
Good selection of shops with good bargains , many nice places to eat. It’s not big so easy to navigate, you can’t miss any stores. The staff were very polite and friendly in every shop. We spent about 4 hours there on Saturday, it wasn’t crowded at all. I didn’t have a car as it was serviced in the nearby garage so I particularly liked “drop it” facility offered in Guest Services unit. We were able to leave our shopping bags there and continue shopping without extra “baggage “. The young man in Guest Services was extremely helpful and polite. I will definitely return.
Kasia T. — Google review
Excellent comfortable shopping experience at Freeport, quality branded clothing - and if judicious - you may get a good deal.
Take care with timing your visit, Friday's and weekends are going to be extra busy leading up to Xmas.
Oh and there's an Ice rink!
Free parking for 6 hours.
Graham Arthur — Google review
A very good shopping outlet in Braintree. Around 75 shops with many designer shops here including Hackett, Tommy Hilfiger, Hollister, Adidas and Boss. There is an M&S clothing store as well as a food store. Also many places to eat and drink. There is plenty of parking. Opening hours are 10am-6pm Monday - Friday 10am-5pm on Sunday and 9am-7pm on Saturday.
Eddie Rogers — Google review
I wouldn't go back. First impressions were positive...easy to get to by car and good parking. But walking into the 'village', you're hit by the fact it feels soulless...like on the verge of closing down. Admittedly I went on a day when the weather wasn't great in Oct...but still.
Prices are generally not good value such that you'd prob be better shopping on the high street. The stock definitely feels like it was outlet stock. If you're after a specific item you need like a coat you'd be OK, but anything else just isn't attractive enough to catch your eye if you're browsing for a bargain. Some shops hit and miss...like they can't be bothered welcoming you...guess they don't mind going bankrupt then.
So in summary...not worth making a special trip to unless you lived in Braintree! 💯
J — Google review
Been there for the first time on boxing day,place was packed.Got nice bargains from Ralph lauren outlet, Tommy hilfiger, adidas and couple more outlets.More food shops and toilets would be great as I felt there isn't enough.
Neeraja Abhilash — Google review
I like the place, great shops , a real big free parking and it worth driving 40 mins to get there
I love NIKE, Tommy, Calvin Klein, VANS, M&S and many others , prices are really affordable
Every time we buy delicious churros there
Highly recommended!
Barleylands Farm Park, situated in Barleylands farm and craft village in Essex, is a family-friendly destination offering various activities. Visitors can engage with farm animals like goats and sheep by feeding them, explore rides, play areas, attend craft workshops and enjoy indoor sports facilities. The tour guides are friendly and encourage children to interact with the animals. The attraction caters to both outdoor and indoor experiences making it perfect for all seasons.
Had an amazing day with the whole family. The kids loved it. Got to see a lamb being born and the chicks and ducks were so cute. And then all the attractions for the kids was amazing. The bouncy pillow zip wire and indoor soft play and slides were a big hit with the kids. Can't wait to come back
Emma Sanders — Google review
Really nice selection of businesses, cafe, local produce, farm , shops. Parking is free and ample. Access is easy for everyone. Outdoor seating or a/c indoors with an area for kids to play. Small arts and craft stores and local food and drink. It's a nice place to grab some lunch or just a coffee and easy to access. I would recommend.
Mark Connolly — Google review
Had a wonderful time at Barleylands today with my three children under 5! We had so many opportunities to feed goats and sheep. Lucy was phenomenal with my two eldest boys while feeding the pigs and even let one of them feed the Guinea pigs! She shared so much information and was so lovely in the way she spoke to the boys. All other staff were friendly too and we really enjoyed having a picnic at the benches whilst the boys could let off energy at various spaces around the farm. We were still admiring Lollipop and her many crowns of hair on the journey home. We will be returning soon!
Mrs S — Google review
We had a lovely time during our visit at Barleylands!
Definitely buy your tickets online as they are just a bit cheaper.
No waiting times for us on easter Sunday.
Feeding the animals was such a fun experience!
Chrysanthos George Makariou (Chris) — Google review
We had attended a birthday here, it's such a lovely place to visit with the kids, lots of different animals to see definitely worth it. There is also a soft play area for the kids to use up all of there energy ☺️
DJ Desi Nitro — Google review
Goat Yoga!!! This was such a fantastic event, and such a unique idea. Nicola was brilliant and we felt so relaxed being outside for the session. The goats were so cute and friendly! I highly recommend goat yoga and will book again in the future.
Hayley Fenton — Google review
Absolutely loved it. Little one had so much fun. The foam party was brilliant. There is so much to do. Tractor ride driver was so friendly and kind. We enjoyed the ride too. Ample parking. We love feeding and petting the animals. Staff was friendly. Definitely recommend it.
Ms Chhetri — Google review
Brilliant day. Kids loved it.
Lots to look at. Animals, little musuem and things for everyone to do. Live shows with animals. Shops and craft places.
Even in the rain you can lots of fun.
jessica gosling — Google review
Kids loved the experience here. Got the chance to feed some animals (goats and sheeps) and also had fun in the indoor sports facility.
Tour guides were friendly and encouraged the kids to feed the animals. Luckily the British weather "behaved itself", so enjoyed both the outdoor and indoor experiences. Place comes recommended if in the area.
Kwex Nw — Google review
Loved it ! So lovely here. There’s a bouncy bit for the kids, a playground, ride on tractors dotted around the place and auto car ride which you pay £2 for separately. The farm sell animal feed as well which the kids love. Complete with ice cream truck and baby duck and bunny holding/petting. Kids loved it !
Elisaveta Kraft — Google review
With so much to see and do, keeping little people happy here is not a problem.
Feeding farm animals, cute pets, nocturnal creatures in a dedicated area, raptor shows, an aviary and meerkats. Add to that a soft-play area, coin-in-the-slot electric cars, bouncy pillow, zip wire and several activity areas. Everything a little person could want. Oh, and live shows too...
John Witchell — Google review
The whole family really enjoyed it. They particularly loved the glow in the dark section which was a nice surprise. The kids had lots of fun ferrying themselves across the water to get around the course. Brillian Noah's Ark themed crazy golf. I would highly recommend.
Kayleigh Bailey — Google review
We had so much fun at the summer event yesterday! All the usual close ups with the animals including the new baby piglets and baby calf! As well as the amazing foam party and entertainment from Skittleman! Finished off with a bit of soft play! Really recommend checking it out before the end of the summer holidays!
Sarah Baker — Google review
Visited with two of my children during School half term. Saw the bottle feeding of the lambs which was very busy at the 1pm session so we decided to go back at 3:30pm, which was much quieter.
There are a variety of animals here including cows (highland and friesian), pigs, goats, sheep, wallabies, chickens plus a reptile house with snakes, spiders and a range of birds / owls. They also offer tractor rides and there is an air pillow in the play area for kids to bounce on and ride on tractors.
There is a Tiptree cafe on site or you can leave and re-enter to visit the other Tiptree tea room/cafe amongst the Barleylands units.
Mark Freeman — Google review
Excellent place for toddlers. Has a bit of everything. Petting/grooming/play areas/ birds of prey you name it. Do carry coins with you for some rides. Places to eat are limited.
Akshdeep Bawa — Google review
We went to the enlightened light trail this evening which was another great event! Barleylands do events really well! The trail is a good length with children and spaced out nicely. There’s a great mix of visually pleasing displays and interactive ones. A few food and drink vans, we had a mulled wine which was very nice! The children loved the giant lasers they could control! If you want to you can still feed the goats and the animal barn is open. The softplay is also available! A great winter event!
Sarah Baker — Google review
I visited Barleylands yesterday with my 4 year old daughter. We really did have the best afternoon, the staff were so kind, welcoming, passionate and knowledgeable about their animals and all seem to genuinely care about their work and the visitors. I highly recommend visiting here x
Mary Wallington — Google review
Went with the school kids and had a fantastic day!
The staff were amazing with the kids, and we all had a great day.
Went on a tractor ride, met some animals, fed them, and more!
Definitely recommend 😊
Karen McGavigan — Google review
Had a lovely time enjoy their winter light display. Kids had a fab time, venue well run & organised and tickets were reasonable.
Kristjan Byfield — Google review
Staff were great, we visited with a vulnerable adult and the staff have been great each time.
The birds of prey show was wonderful, the birds literally fly over your head,my client loved it.
The sheep recently had lambs and so did the pigs have piglets, very cute indeed and very popular.
We visit on a weekly basis and will continue to do so.
justin dew — Google review
4.4
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4.0
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Barleylands Farm Office, Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD, United Kingdom
The Imperial Birds of Prey Academy offers a unique and memorable experience for weddings and family visits. One couple had the privilege of having Milo the bird as their ring bearer on New Year's Eve, followed by a handling session with guests provided by the lovely staff. The guests, especially the children, thoroughly enjoyed this special addition to the wedding and captured some fantastic photos. This academy is highly recommended for weddings looking for a distinct touch.
Me and my husband had Milo the bird as our ring bearer at our wedding on new years eve and then the lovely staff of imperial birds came to our venue to do a handling session with our guests. We cannot thank them enough our guests and children at the wedding loved it and we have got some fantastic photos. Would 100% recommend them at a wedding for a different touch.
Bethany Townsend — Google review
I bought my fiance a 1 hour experience for his birthday, it was absolutely fantastic. We got to see 3 types of birds and fly a fourth. We were inside due to the weather but to be honest this didn't affect the experience. The staff were brilliant and very knowledgeable. The little owl called Chaos was our favourite! Very disability friendly too.
Highly recommend this place for a different sort of day out!
Emma Alice — Google review
Had a fantastic day, spent so much time with the animals, went with my two nieces who enjoyed their experience day, Lilly was very knowledgeable & made us feel very welcome, highly recommended, we'll definitely be back
Claire Wade — Google review
Fantastic place! Took my husband on the 3 hour experience of meeting and flying birds. Tyler our guide was very hospitable, had extensive knowledge and really made the experience for everyone the best it could be. Gonzo won the day for me!!!
Highly recommended.
joanne Gosling — Google review
Had the 1 hour experience as a birthday present and it was fantastic. Meeting some of the birds up close and personal was brilliant, to have a Kestrel and Harris Hawk sitting on your hand was amazing. Then the outside flying with a Barn Owl was amazing, the staff were so friendly and knowledgeable and passed on a lot of interesting information about the birds.
Highly recommended.
Andy Thacker — Google review
Attended the falconry half day experience.
It is really good fun and i learned a lot. The instructor really knew his stuff and took us through our day with a lot of humour.
Highly recommended. You need to book
Robert Darling — Google review
Incredible day with the Birds of Prey and reptiles. My daughter absolutely loved the experience of holding and stroking some of the animals-so wonderful to be able to get up close! Fantastic place, would highly recommend any of the experiences.
Michelle Williamson — Google review
Booked this for my dad for he’s birthday and he absolutely loved it! Faith really made the experience with her enthusiasm and love for the birds. Would highly recommend this to anyone.
Colin Ettridge — Google review
Purchased the experience for my dad as a present and it didn't disappoint. I went as an additional person and was able to enjoy the experience just as much as my dad except the handling which is what you pay extra for. Full experience for 3 hours which I believe is the half a day experience and it was well worth the money. The handler had a good wealth of knowledge as well and clearly a bird lover and enthusias which always helps. Brilliant experience.
Louise Turner — Google review
Had a meet the meerkat experience and loved every minute! Also enjoyed seeing the beautiful birds of prey and all the reptiles.
Cathryn Bower — Google review
Had a great day out with my partner with the meerkat experience. Staff were very friendly and greeting, well knowledged on the animals and helpful throughout the park. Would highly recommend. Thank you Lily (member of staff) for a memorable day out
Kieran Mann — Google review
Fantastic experience led by Annie who was fun, informative and really took time to listen and pay attention to my two young daughters. Needless to say, they were both enthralled by the experience. The flying experience in the arena was a particular highlight. Thank you for looking after us.
Jane-May Cross — Google review
booked in with faith and mystic as a special surprise for groom on wedding day to honour his late grandmother, I told groom just befor a first flight lessons at the farm it all went great we also got a bonus as faith let us have a look around barleylands never been befor would recommend a vist im one happy girl getting to stroke a baby cow (my dream come true) on the day mystic broke the ice and made everyone smile we can't thank faith and mystic enough for helping deliver our rings safely to us in such a magical way , mystic is an amazingly friendly owl with a sad back story it's hard not to fall in love with her.
we are yet to have our professional photos back but a guest snapped one
💯% recommended
Mr & Mrs b x
Megan brown — Google review
Excellent Junior Keeper Experience for our 2 grandchildren. Would certainly recommend, the girls were able to get close to the animals, help to feed, clean, and prepare their food. Being in with the bats, meerkats and skunk, were the highlight of the Experience.
Christine Gordon — Google review
Took my Dad for a Christmas Present for a 1hour Bird of Prey Experience. It was incredible value for money. We were shown 3 beautiful birds of Prey and then Dad flew a Barn Owl. The staff are all friendly and knowledgable and went out of their way to make this a very special day for the whole family. Many photo opportunities and memories made. Thank you, we will be back again soon.
Hannah Randell — Google review
4.9
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5.0
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Barleylands Farm park, Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD, United Kingdom
The Ightham Mote castle, a remarkable historical house that dates back to the 13th century, is an exquisite gem. Its Tudor facade and Jacobean staircase are indicators of its stunning beauty. Managed by the National Trust, the castle underwent a restoration of 10m nearly two decades ago. The extensive gardens include a picnic area with deck chairs for visitors' convenience. If planning on visiting more than three National Trust properties in one year, becoming a member is recommended.
Now this is a real gem. The building dates back to the 13th century. It had £10m restoration nearly 20 years ago and the place is a stunning historical house.
The gardens are extensive. There is a picnic area and deck chairs are provided
It’s a National Trust property so if you are going to visit more than 3 NT properties in a year it’s worth becoming a member.
Parking can be tricky on a real nice day. We noticed that the car park had more spaces post 2.30pm
Patrick Bastow — Google review
A beautiful and historically interesting house. The guides are very informative and bring the history of the property to life. The conservation efforts of the National Trust have been truly magnificent. It is well worth a visit.
The grounds are well managed and are lovely to walk around. There is a picnic area with seats and deck chairs for the use of visitors. For those with young children there's a very good play area which is a reasonable walk from The house.
Barbara Jacobs — Google review
You feel one with nature here! A fabulous and interesting house with some lovely gardens to walk around as well as a nice but a bit basic natural playground for kids. Although it's right next to a stream the kids can play in which is nice. The cafe is what you expect for a National Trust. But a lovely day out with the family.
Francis Pindar — Google review
We visited with our 5 and 3 year old. Stopped into the cafe first, which you can visit without having to pay admission. There was a small selection of well prepared hot and cold lunch items available. I enjoyed my sausage bap, the spicy cauliflower pastry also looked good. The kids enjoyed the kids lunch boxes.
The grounds and house are fantastic, the gardens are gorgeous and the house very interesting to look around. There were Tudor style games to play in the gardens. There's a "natural" play area at the very back of the grounds. Bring wellies as there's a shallow stream to splash around in. We really enjoyed our afternoon here and look forward to returning.
David Wilcock — Google review
Beautiful gardens with a big lawn where you can have a picnic. The house was interesting to look around and there is a good stroll round the gardens with water features. There is also a charming used book shop on site.
James Hall — Google review
Visited Ightham Mote over the Early May bank holiday weekend and it’s really nice. The closed Mote part has plenty to explore with the gardens and castle itself that has some historic features. Around you also have a couple of walks with varying level of difficulty. And there is plenty of parking too!
But… please explain why we can’t take dogs in the Mote part or at least outdoors? This doesn’t make sense to me as it meant splitting our group in two and not enjoying it to the max whilst if you are careful nothing would happen to the gardens.
David Aobadia — Google review
What a beautiful location steeped in History and made for the king that never visited. The grounds are well kept with green lawns and bursting with nature. Visit the mill pond and relax in the peace and tranquility. One of my favourite trust properties.
Christopher mckillop — Google review
Lovely setting . House is immaculate and beautiful. Gardens are nice , but probably need a bit of work. Used bookshop charming. Plants for sale. Restaurant nice, seating inside and out. Not enough information on display as you go around, so research before you go.
Adult entry £16.00 with gift aid- ouch , should revise that, join up instead. I loved it , so peaceful and beautiful.
Lisa Thomas-Pam — Google review
Fantastic medieval house with a moat . Lovely gardens and 3 fantastic estate walks . I did the green walk which was the longest and hardest . Probably only for the fit as quite steep in places but beautiful views at the top. All the staff were friendly and helpful. Will definitely go back .
Sharon Buchan — Google review
Ightam Mote is a fantastic medieval house with a great location. The picturesque gardens offer a delightful variety of plants, making it a visually pleasing experience. What sets it apart is the intriguing mix of historical eras showcased within the house, providing a comprehensive journey through British history. The informative volunteers add depth to the visit, enriching the experience.
On the day of our visit, we were fortunate to witness an impressive falconry display, highlighting the array of events they host. However, the cafe’s offerings were somewhat ordinary, lacking any standout features. Nevertheless, Ightam Mote is definitely worth a visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking a charming, historic setting.
Mike Howland — Google review
Situated in the heart of Kent, Ightham Mote presents a picturesque charm that's perfect for family outings. As one of the many exquisite National Trust buildings, its beauty is undeniable. While it may not possess the profound historical depth or emblematic prominence of other Trust sites, it ensures a serene and delightful visit for all.
I spent a lovely day out with the kids.
João Filipe Pereira — Google review
Beautiful property, some great countryside walks with superb views on the NT land and surrounding area, with a small cafe that’s to the usual NT high standard. Great way to spend a few hours for sure.
Jock McJock — Google review
Popular with families. Large carpark. Cafe with inside and outside seating. Beautiful gardens and superb countryside surrounding the mote so great for a walk/hike
Anne-Marie KW — Google review
Enjoyable visit over the Easter weekend with lovely weather. 2 good activities to do for the kids one that was in the grounds with a prize at the end and very good eye spy around the house as used images of items there so engaged the kids in looking at the history contained within it.
Robin Underhill — Google review
Wonderful place to visit. Guides in the various rooms were informative and gave a great insight into the history of the building which has been changed over the years. The grounds were peaceful and I am sure change with the seasons - it was bright and sunny and very pleasant to walk around.
The cafe served the best scones I had in a long time!
Heather Williamson — Google review
So glad we came after seeing Ightham on the 'Treasures of the National Trust' BBC series. The staff here are keen, knowledgeable, and very friendly, a real asset - they can't wait to share the secrets of this wonderful and unique estate.
It was busy on our weekend visit, even though we arrived before opening time and so we just had a brief peek inside the house before walking around the grounds instead. We'll have a proper look round the rooms another time, but what we did see promised lots more.
The gardens have lots of seats dotted around and about, and in summer, the Trust scatters deckchairs around the grassy areas in shady spots, which is a nice touch.
This is a compact site that does feel more like a home than typical NT mansions and, because it was lived in up until the 20th Century, it's a real marriage of an old structure and relatively modern home comforts.
So, Ightham Mote is definitely worth visiting, but do go mid-week and outside of school holidays if you don't like crowds - Oh, and there is much more parking than there seems to be when you first arrive - carry on through the boundary wall and you can park very close to the main entrance and café.
Pete Clayton — Google review
My sister has talked about this NT property for years and finally got the opportunity to see it in person. What a quandary with virtually every room you walk into being from a different time period. I really enjoyed the water features throughout with water oozing from various places. Also simple waterfalls and ponds in the gardens that add to the romantic setting. This place cannot be forgotten.
Derrick Kreider — Google review
Tudor styled home nestled in beautiful gardens and surrounded by some really nice walking trails. The staff are knowledgeable and happy to share info on its history. We went in summer and there were themed activities happening on the grounds. There is a kids playground and many picnic spots. The cafe caters for most diets and is similar to what you see at most National Trusts.
Nethin Maharaj — Google review
I’ve been to Ightham Mote on a few occasions and it’s always been a lovely peaceful experience. The house is stunning with an amazing back story. It’s also a great starting point for some good walks.
I sadly hit it today at the wrong time with car parks full and queues to get in and worse queues for food and drink. But if you avoid the sunny Saturday afternoon chaos it’s a lovely day out.
Alison Medd — Google review
John who delivered a talk on the history of the history of the house was very engaging. He had facts and interjected some humour which kept the interest of the group. Then Peter who took us on a wonderful garden tour was so friendly, funny, professional and knowledgeable. We learned some very interesting facts and some fabulous history. Both of these volunteers are great ambassadors for Ightham Mote and the National Trust.
Dawn E Garton — Google review
This medieval manor house was one of our favourites during a June visit to Southern England. It is tucked away in a wooded area and has kept most of the original medieval features. The dark wood and stonework interior, numerous rooms to peruse (different styles and eras), unique tree trunk carved chairs, enclosed courtyard, chapel with medieval ceiling paintings (revealing allegiances apparently), and of course the moat provide interesting sights at every turn. Can’t even begin to describe the rich history of this place!
Also a pleasant trail on the property with children’s playground at far end. Indoor/outdoor café next to the National Trust entrance building. The gardens were OK, but not wow (even though visited in June).
Strongly recommend listening to staff give an intro description of the estate’s history before venturing inside the home. It made the visit even more delightfully memorable.
NOTE: Visited in June 2023
Steve M — Google review
Had a lovely visit. Friendly staff/volunteers with interesting insights and information. Very picturesque grounds and gardens.
Natalie Jane Martinez — Google review
Great visit here great talk to begin with outling the history of this beautiful Tudor property. Knowledgeable staff in each room. Well worth a visit.
Walter Bird — Google review
The house is lovely, the surrounding countryside is great (Look for White Rocks Farm for a well priced farm shop out on the footpaths). The place is situated in a sunken valley. Please note the circular walk is fairly challenging and hilly. Download a full map with the NT directions, otherwise you'll probably make a wrong turn.
Now for the quibbles. The inside of the house completely lacked information about the history of the place - the Tudor history info was nowhere to be seen.
This seriously reduces the quality of the experience. Because there's no mobile signal there you can't just open Wikipedia to educate yourself as you walk around - the fact I felt I had to use Wikipedia shows how informationally light it is.
Strangely, John Singer Sargent (the painter) had loads of information about him and his connection to the place but very little else. Fans of art history might enjoy that but it's a very partial and limited representation.
I left the place knowing next to nothing about the history of the estate. So here's some information about it:
The architectural writer John Newman describes it as "the most complete small medieval manor house in the county".
The origins of the house date from circa 1340–1360. The earliest recorded owner is Sir Thomas Cawne, who fought in France with Edward the Black Prince and who acquired the Mote in the 1360s. He died in 1374 and there is a memorial to him in St Peter’s Church. In 1399 on the death of his son Robert the house passed by the marriage of Robert’s daughter Alice to Nicholas Haute and their descendants, their grandson Richard Haute being Sheriff of Kent in the late 15th century. It was then purchased in 1521 by the courtier Sir Richard Clement (d.1538). In 1591, Sir William Selby bought the estate.
(There's a starter for the earlier history of the estate).
The grounds themselves are nice but nothing astonishing. The trees feel a bit hodgepodge and the garden isn't very curated.
Tom Bombadil — Google review
We loved our visit to Ightam Mote, the whole pace is lovely, even the kids were curious and explored the rooms and the gardens.
We would recommend for a half day out, however it is very popular so quite busy at weekends.
CAMELIA L — Google review
Ightham Mote is currently undergoing a refurbishment to the visiter centre. New and extra car parks has been built providing better access. The excellent cafe is still open as is the house and the grounds.
John Smith — Google review
A Wonderful NT property. There are few external works currently going on till mid 2024 which will provide a new visitor centre but this currently doesn't affect viewing the property. The house is surrounded by water and oozes history. It's a fascinating place with extremely knowledgeable volunteers. The cafe is currently quite small but again this wills ee changes later in the year. Definitely one of NT better properties
kevin mills — Google review
We only had time for a quick visit to this site, so unfortunately we didn't get to go inside the building or the courtyard. That said, the site is charming and we'd like to come back for a more extensive visit.
Benjamin Moye — Google review
Ightham Mote is is an incredible place, a real hidden gem. There's so much to see and do here. There's all the usual facilities you get at a national trust place like the cafe, shop, bookshop etc. But the grounds and house are amazing, in the summer you can chill on a deck chair on the lawn next to the stream and enjoy the view down to the house. There's a natural kids play area for them to enjoy. The house is absolutely stunning, so rich in history and so much to see, they do trails for the kids where they have to find objects hidden around the place, my daughter absolutely loves it. I'd also highly recommend a walk around the pond, and the two walks around the grounds, they're some of the most beautiful walks I've ever been on! This place is absolutely fantastic all year round, and for all the family, highly recommended!
Ian — Google review
4.7
(4169)
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4.5
(1375)
Mote Rd, Ivy Hatch, Sevenoaks TN15 0NT, United Kingdom
Bluewater Shopping Centre, located in Greenhithe, Kent, is a popular destination for avid shoppers. The mall features department stores and fashion shops where visitors can indulge in retail therapy. Additionally, the centre boasts lakeside dining options and a cinema for entertainment purposes. In addition to traditional shopping activities, Bluewater offers other activities such as an artificial beach with amusement rides and a hangloose zip wire experience. Friendly staff are on hand to assist visitors at both the mall and beach area.
Bluewater has so many stores and
restaurants to shop. Very interesting
sculptures inside the mall too.
I really love this mall so much stuff to do here.
I took my girls and niece to the Dinotropolis play area to play while my wife oldest daughter and my wife’s sister and older niece went to do a 3 hour shopping spree together. It was a lot of fun for everyone! This was an excellent place to visit for our vacation!
james cree — Google review
We went on a really good day, there was an Easter bunny hunt around the centre so that made it fun for the kids. Lush and Lego store was awesome!!!!
It's very clean, staff are always seen if hello is needed and the shops are varied......great day out of shopping
Kayleigh Burdett — Google review
A stunning place to be.
The Bluewater shopping centre is more than just another shopping centre. Besides the regular shops, restaurants and coffee shops that adorns it, the centre also has cinema theatres, parks and gardens. The free car parking areas are so extensive such that you don't have to worry about getting a parking space when visiting. The centre is a beehive of activities with lots of tourists in attendance.
There is a man made pond called the "The Pond of Reflection", this pond is graced with loving looking geese.
michael ihimekpen — Google review
Bluewater is a large, modern shopping centre located in Kent, England. It is home to over 300 stores, including high street favourites like Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, and H&M, as well as more exclusive brands like Louis Vuitton and Gucci. There is also a wide variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to spend a day shopping and eating.
I recently visited Bluewater and was pleasantly surprised by how pleasant the shopping experience was. The centre was busy, but not too crowded, and it was easy to get around. The stores were well-organized and easy to find, and there were plenty of helpful staff members on hand to offer assistance.
I also appreciated the fact that Bluewater has a lot of free parking. This is a major plus, as parking can be expensive in London. Overall, I had a very positive experience at Bluewater and would definitely recommend it to others.
Here are some of the pros and cons of Bluewater shopping centre:
Pros:
Large selection of stores
Variety of restaurants and cafes
Easy to get around
Free parking
Clean and well-maintained
Cons:
Can be crowded at peak times
Some stores are quite expensive
Not as much character as some other shopping centres
Overall, I would give Bluewater shopping centre a rating of 4 out of 5 stars. It is a great place to shop, eat, and spend a day out. However, if you are looking for a more unique or characterful shopping experience, you may want to try somewhere else.
CGe0 — Google review
Huge shopping centre with so many things to do . You not only have all the shops but you also have a cinema and extra indoor and outdoor activities with tons of different eating facilities . Very clean and easy to reach by car , bus or even taxi . The location is very special as well . You can definitely be busy for a whole day if you go there
MarieLaure Alicia — Google review
Unbelievably busy today… definitely need to arrive before 12, that was our first mistake, couldn’t find anywhere to park (took at least 10 mins driving round), tried to get something to eat, never seen a busier food court, zero tables, queues for every eatery. Then to top it off, the popular shops were so busy you had to squeeze past people left right and centre, not particularly enjoyable… On a positive note, the choice of shops and restaurants was impressive. In particular loved the Amazon shop, staff were brilliant and the experience in there was great.
Matthew Barrett — Google review
One of the nicest , cleanest shopping centers in the UK , It is so great , it has a multiple brands of almost every shop you can expect, it is so practical and well connected to main roots , car parking is available and free , the restaurant choices are very good and the place is so well maintained, I never came to this place and left disappointed with anything, the restrooms are so clean , the air conditioning is so efficient, and over all it deserves a visit .
I will always come back and will strongly recommend it to visitors.
M. Ahmed — Google review
A busy centre with lots of high street shops and a good selection of restaurants. Spread across 2 floors the shopping centre is large with lots of space to move around in.
Has large free car park with access to various parts of the centre.
If travelling from the north of the river and using the Dartford crossing make sure you remember to pay for the crossing!
N Ahmad — Google review
Fantastic shopping trip. Lots of shops to look around. Staff in all shops all very friendly. You feel safe shopping there. Lots of good food places to have lunch there is a large variety to choose from. Toilets are lovely and clean . I will certainly be coming back again to have a other shopping spre.
Susan Westwood — Google review
This shopping centre is very big and has a good layout but it is crowded time to time. There are shops like Apple, Primark, Vans, Lego etc. It has a food court which is very big… it has a nice outdoor area and there is a little castle where you can play some games and ride on a boat. Parking is free all day which is very good!
SaiMiz9 — Google review
Lovely shopping centre with lot’s of different variety of shops, eateries and activities. It’s much more than just a usual shopping centre. The artificial beach side area with amusement rides was really nice and loved the experience on hangloose zip wire. The staff of the mall and beach area and zipwire are extremely friendly and helpful.
Yasmin L — Google review
Presumably one of the best shopping centres near you if you are from the South east of England.
It’s got something for every age group.
It’ll take more than a day to explore the whole place .
Lots of fun activities.
Food selection is good as well. Couple of halal options as well.
Sheril Lathief — Google review
We popped in here not knowing what to expect - but all in all it was a pleasant shopping experience. Large amounts of shops, busy but didn't feel too busy, lots of free parking and easy to get around. Also lots of toilets & baby changing places for kids emergencies - would recommend
Ben Slater — Google review
Been there for the first time and i loved it. It’s huge and thousands of shops in there. All the designer shops and everything you need in one place!
Such a massive space. Bunch of benches and sits to take rest. There’s a prayer room as well. Very clean and enough space to walk in.
Will be returning soon.
Ahmed atiqujjaman — Google review
Nice and reasonably empty, good triangular lay out so you know you have covered both floors. Possibly too many places to eat and not enough shops.
Good size parking spaces which was great however I had no difficulty finding a space.
And look out for the gin shop !
Paul Hansell — Google review
Massive place with lots of shops and parking, which is free. You have John Lewis at one end and House of Fraser at the other, with lots of different stores in between. The only place for TVs is John Lewis, so there is a gap here.
Very well decorated, well lit, several toilets, the NC disability and family ones.
Desperate to leave by the end of it. Make sure your phone is charged and your credit card is locked away before entering though.
Chris Who — Google review
Bluewater is a decent shopping centre. It’s a medium sized one, so it’s pretty big, but not too big. I’d prefer it over Westfield, as it doesn’t get too busy.
It has a wide range of shops, like north face, Zara and pretty much anything you can ask for.
It is also jam packed with restaurants and fast food chains to eat at.
My favourite part, it has a trampoline park, where you can go there and enjoy.
Overall a 5 star shopping centre.
Mubarak Aminu — Google review
Great shopping centre, massive food you can even bring your own. Close to lots of cities & very big with lots of options for shops. Best place to shop in London, family friendly & overall my favourite place to go for shopping.
francesca murray — Google review
Lovely place. Lots of parking and a huge variety of shops.
Imran Haq — Google review
4.5
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4.0
(1385)
Bluewater Pkwy, Dartford, Greenhithe DA9 9ST, United Kingdom
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation, located in Kents Bird of Prey Centre, offers a diverse range of bird species including eagles, falcons, owls, and an Andean condor. Visitors can enjoy informative flying demonstrations and explore both indoor and outdoor aviaries. In addition to the spectacular bird displays, the center also features a reptile house with various reptile species, as well as meerkats, camels, arctic foxes, and coati mundi.
Had an amazing time visiting this wildlife centre the animals looked well cared for and happy.
We were privileged to do a husky walk experience that we shared with two additional couples separate to our booking we walked Chester and he was a pleasure to walk with. Well behaved and attentive. I really loved being able to stoke him as well.
My partner and I thoroughly enjoyed talking with our guide who was knowledgeable and friendly.
The views on the walk were incredible and serene and it would be amazing to re visit.
I’d also like to compliment the staff who did the eagle flying talk at 12 they were very entertaining and again highly knowledgeable they made sure to enable everyone to see the birds equally and also spoke to children in the audience in a very respectful and educational manner.
I really cannot wait to come. The only thing I would want to do differently is if there was the chance to spend more time to stroke and fuss on the dogs because they are so wonderful. Thank you for having us eagle heights
Danielle Payne — Google review
We've been a couple of times now; once for the husky experience and a stay over night (although the second part is no longer available) and today for the VIP experience with our nieces. We all absolutely loved it and would be happy to recommend.
We got a personal tour (in a group) with M who worked there and was so lovely and passionate about all of the animals at the Foundation. Meeting the huskies was amazing (and lucked out that there were puppies). Then there are 2 bird shows (12 and 3pm) which were fab; informative but also brilliant to see the birds in flight. Then we got a special opportunity to meet Winston, a tiny adorable owl.
We also got to enjoy the lovely grounds, kids play area for our nieces and the cafe too. Others were on experiences like meet the meerkats, walk alpacas or huskies and it all looked great. Very happy to recommend this great place and wonderful, passionate and extremely knowledgeable team. Thanks so much!
Lucy Newark — Google review
We've just got back from a day out at Eagle Heights, it's our first time and it was really enjoyable. A beautiful spot filled with magnificent birds of prey. The displays that Paul and the team put on are fantastic. So informative and they keep you engaged and interested,all while making you feel safe around the animals who themselves seemed well looked after and happy to par take. Would definitely recommend.
Kirsty Lewis — Google review
Absolutely fabulous. We've been to many bird of prey centres but this ine is just wonderful. We'd booked afternoon tea and enjoyed the morning and afternoon flying displays included in that price, so great value for money. It was a really lovely 'tea', great staff, good facilities, and Paul who did the displays was just so entertaining and knowledgeable.
We shall definitely go back, and will recommend this place to all our friends.
Jackie Skinner — Google review
We spend a wonderful time here!
We enjoyed our Alpaca Walk very much!
We were met by the alpaca owner/the guide, he told us the main information about the experience, and we started our walk with one alpaca each. It was unforgettable!
Thank you very much!
There are also so many animals to see! And other experiences to do. We recommend you to come here and spend some nice quality time! :)
Bearito Bunnito — Google review
A fantastic experience with these magnificent eagles, each one had a completely different personality! Emma and Chloe were lovely, friendly and so knowledgeable, putting us at ease as we were both feeling a bit nervous at first. The centre is run by passionate and caring people, it really deserves a visit and support. Thank you for an unforgettable afternoon, we loved it and look forward to another visit for the owl experience.
EN Clubb — Google review
What an incredible stay at Eagle Heights. Can't reccommend this place enough. Beautiful scenery, amazing accommodation, lovely and well cared for animals, staff that care so much...the list goes on. Fabulous for couples and families. We will be back, meeting the husky and learning about the magnificent animals was a highlight. Thank you so much to our guide and all the staff.
Lucy Holder — Google review
Nice little place with great staff who puts the animals first.
We had booked a husky hike experience for May half term, but were unable to attend due to train strikes. The staff were very helpful and responded quickly with possibility of rebooking on alternative date.
Upon arriving on the new date, we were informed that the weather was unsafe for the dogs to hike (too warm). Instead of the hike they have offered a kennel tour. They have also offered an alternative arrangement, if we were not interested in the alternative experience.
We were interested and we were able to meet most of the rescued huskies and spend over an hour with them, meeting and cuddling each and every one of them. Our guide was very knowledgeable and made sure everyone had the best experience and both us and the huskies were safe.
We had the best time and very likely be back soon.
Tomas Chytil — Google review
Great centre! We did a wonderful walk with alpacas. Our guide was very good, knowledgeable, caring of his animals and good humoured and fun. We stayed on to watch the bird displays (awesome). Lovely venue for children and adults alike. Highly recommend
Frankie Williams — Google review
Fantastic experience here! Definitely a must do if you're in the area. Lots of different species of birds to see and other animals. The display is a must too. Emily was brilliant and we learnt a lot of facts! A wonderful day out
Despina — Google review
Gifted a VIP experience day at Christmas. Highly knowledgeable, passionate staff. Great guide, M! Experience day included guided tour, front row seats of flying display, meeting with some of the huskies.
Marie Sachdeva — Google review
Very enjoyable and educational experience. It's worth planning your visit around one of the daily displays. You will learn lots about birds, their personalities, and training efforts. Wear some boots or footwear you don't mind getting muddy and wrap up warm for the outside display. There is also a cafe, toilets and gift shop.
Russell Carr — Google review
I bought an owl experience for my husband and we finally got around to doing it yesterday. We had a wonderful time. The handler Chloe was extremely knowledgeable and was so friendly. We felt at ease the whole time. The birds are sooo lovely too.
Georgia Taban — Google review
My experience was amazing, meeting the animals and getting the opportunity to hold little Winston was amazing lovely little day out and very accommodating for everyone, people are lovely and friendly.
Hannah Beckett — Google review
Had a wonderful time at Eagle Heights, came to walk some huskies, got to walk Deedee and Panda, who were both lovely, and it was a nice walk through the nearby forest and farms. They know where they want to go, so definitely recommend some strong legs and you'll be walking at a quick pace to keep up, but the weather was great, and it was a fun time.
After we got to see the meerkats and wonderful selection of bird in their twice daily bird show. It was a hot day, so the birds got tired fast, but it was amazing to see them in action.
Will definitely be returning. May try and do the husky kennel tour in order to spend a bit more time with the lovely dogs, we also paid to adopt Deedee after our walk with her as she was a sweetie.
Rob Raven — Google review
4.7
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4.5
(1517)
Lullingstone Ln, Eynsford, Dartford DA4 0JB, United Kingdom
Ashdown Forest, located in East Sussex, is a vast natural area known as the fictional home of Winnie the Pooh. Originally a deer hunting forest, it has now become one of the largest free public access spaces in the South East. With over 40 car parks and no shortage of breathtaking views, it's an ideal spot for walking and enjoying nature. The A.A Milne & E.H.Shephard Memorial at Gills Lap offers a particularly fantastic view.
Really nice walks from Warren and Twyford car parks. Far less known parts of the Forest with Gorse , Scott's Pine. When head South from Twyford Car Park there are great views all way to South Downs.
Alan Mayes — Google review
Magical forest. Full of nooks, crannies and paths to get lost in, on foot or by bike. Lost a star for the militant rangers who lack manners. This is not a free space, but a protected and controlled forest now with hidden corners. Great for a day trip. Stunning for nature connection. Not good for hospitality. Advice would be to stay close so you have 3 days to explore. Do not attempt to be completely free here. Fox hunters allowed but not human interaction with nature past 5pm. Big shame, however, a bucket list area.
Total Scoop — Google review
Amazing natural heathland steeped in history and culture. The A.A.Milne memorial is a must see if in the Hundred Acre Wood.
Dan Poppy — Google review
Stunning views can be seen from here. Benches situated in small secluded areas.
Nikki Palethorpe — Google review
Had a gorgeous afternoon walk in Ashdon forest with the family. Found a nice opening near a stream to sit down with a picnic and explored the forest with the kids. Would definitely recommend a visit if you're passing
Adam Gallard — Google review
Took my puppy to Ashdown forest for the first time today. Beautiful day with amazing views across East Sussex..bliss!
Alison Saunders — Google review
Great place to lost in if you don't follow the paths,not advice able as lots of marsh.but great views and a lovely walk once back on path which is easy to find.
Have fun,parking payment is by mobile.
Hazel Nolan — Google review
Great place to just get back to simple nature, walk and relax.
mike Payne — Google review
A place of outstanding natural beauty all year round. Some of the carparks are seasonal but there is adequate parking year round although you now have to pay using an app on your mobile phone.
Paul Turner — Google review
Beautiful. Magical. A lot larger than I thought. Make sure you plan ahead routes and best parking. There is alot of parking areas and what I love is we parked in the wrong area, paid then realised after walking 20 mins on wrong route. Changed parking but same code which I thought was fab and great if you can’t walk long distance and can drive to different areas
Emmy Johnson — Google review
As wild as you can get whilst staying 15 minutes from creature comforts. No toilets, no cafes just free parking and access to some of the best views planet earth has to offer. Amazing for dates, dog walks, family picnics and whatever else you could think of that requires tranquil beauty.
Oh and did I mention the free parking!
Jai Gooding — Google review
A beautiful place. Can spend hours here relaxing.
Daniel Burn — Google review
Brilliant for long walks in the woods and open landscape. 😇
We have spotted herd of deers 🦌🦌🦌. Lots of parking spaces dotted around the forest. Did not find cycle path through the woods but lovely to cycle around. Some parking lot has a mobile café where you can get that much deserved hot drink specially this winter.