What’s on

What’s on highlightsAutumn

Your guide to family events in East Kent this autumn. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, please check with the venue or their website before you set off to an event incase things have changed since we went to print.

Autumn at Hever Castle

HERITAGE OPEN DAYS

Running from 11 - 20 September, this is the largest volunteer led festival in the UK. We’ve found some great events that would be ideal for families who are looking to save money but still have a great time with their kids. Entry is free to all events.

The theme this year is Hidden Nature, and it’s an opportunity to explore nature and embrace the benefits of being outdoors. For the first time, there are digital events, so audiences can tune into fascinating talks, tours and exhibitions from all over the country. See www. heritageopendays.org.uk for full details.

Local Heritage Open Days

11, 13, 17 & 18 September Margate Caves

Margate Caves, Margate, CT9 1FG 10am – 4pm Explore underground and discover over 200 years of history in Margate. Pre-booking required.

11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19 & 20 September Sandwich Medieval Centre

The Quay, Sandwich, CT13 9EN 10am – 4pm Come to experience our reenactors demonstrating a range of medieval crafts and trades. No booking required.

12 & 13, 19 & 20 September Stories of Dover

Dover, CT16 1LA The seafront of Dover is one of the most historic places in England. No booking required. Dover Greeters - local volunteers - will be in the middle of the prom, by the Swimmers statues to tell stories, have a little walk and point out interesting places to visit.

13 September The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge Highlights Tour

Canterbury, CT1 2RA 11am I Pre-book Discover highlights from the Beaney’s collection, including our very own mummified cat, as well as stories about key artworks, artefacts and colourful characters. Email learning@canterbury.gov.uk

19 & 20 September Shorncliff e Garrison - 200 years history

Shorncliff e Redoubt, Shorncliff e, Folkestone Saturday 11am & 2pm, Sun 11am Visitors can view the military landscape, and how military needs have changed over the years, and how some of the site has been reclaimed by nature. Booking is essential.

Ha ow n

half term fun at Hever Castle

24 October – 1 November www.hevercastle.co.uk

20 September Canterbury Roman Museum Highlight Tour

The Roman Museum, Canterbury, CT1 2JR 11am I Pre-book Step back in time and venture beneath the streets of the modern city to discover evidence of a bustling Roman town with a guided tour. Email learning@canterbury.gov.uk

DIARY DATES

Throughout September & October Orienteering

Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF 9.30am - 3pm Embark on an adventure through the park as you walk or run one four orienteering courses. Orienteering is an exciting outdoor sport that provides a mental and physical challenge.

Spooky Halloween fun is ensured at Hever Castle this Autumn Half Term.

Don your best creepy costume for a pumpkin trail in the grounds (try and spot the unusual varieties) or keep your eye out for pumpkin masterpieces on display from Hever Castle staff . Visitors have a chance to vote for their favourite with the winner of the most popular pumpkin announced at the end of Halloween at Hever.

Join in by sending in pictures of your pumpkin masterpieces with the chance to receive a treat (or a trick?!) on social media, using #HalloweenatHever by Friday 30th October.

5 September Learn to Ride

Betteshanger Park Deal, CT14 0BF 10-11am I £17.50 Aimed at children aged 5 -12 years, ‘Learn to Ride’ sessions are perfect for those who have never ridden a bike before and those who are ready to move on from stabilisers.

1-25 October Autumn in Colour

Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, TN8 7NG As the gardens turn vibrant shades of red, pink and gold and the leaves tumble from the trees, it’s the perfect time to enjoy autumn colour at Hever Castle & Gardens.

24 Oct-1 Nov Halloween Half Term Fun

Hever Castle & Gardens Edenbridge, TN8 7NG Treat the children to a spine-tingling programme of entertainment over the Halloween half term break with creepy craft workshops, awesome activities and a spooky trail to follow in the grounds.

24 October – 1 November Spooky Dover Castle

Dover, CT16 1HU 10am – 5pm Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Dover Castle this half term. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues and gather round to listen to spooky stories. There’s a frighteningly fun fancy dress competition every day – just come in your scariest outfits to be in with a chance of winning.

26 October - 1 November Halloween Half Term at Leeds Castle

Maidstone, ME17 1PL There will be lots of ghoulish games and frightening fun to be had at Leeds Castle this October half term. Pre-book your tickets online. Event included in the price of your ticket.