Best Attractions in Kent - Spring/Summer 16

Spring/Summer 2016 Edition

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rom cathedrals to castles, theme parks to tigers, and beaches to beautiful gardens, there really is no place quite like Kent.

But don’t take our word for it. Just last year, the acclaimed travel guide Lonely Planet named the county as the best family holiday destination in Europe – beating areas of France, Ireland and Germany to the crown.

And now we are proud to present your essential guide to exploring the plethora of attractions that can enrich your time here; whether you’re just visiting or live here.

Inside, you’ll find an enormous variety of days out and things to do.

From the likes of Dover Castle, Leeds Castle and the Historic Dockyard Chatham, history buffs will be able to chart the heritage of this great nation of ours and the role the county has played.

For those seeking more thrills there’s everything from Margate’s reimagined Dreamland to Diggerland – or perhaps take a ride down the River Medway on a jet boat, all providing you with days to remember.

There’s culture at our range of theatres, wildlife parks, classic car shows, glamping and even helicopter rides and so much more besides.

We believe that we are the only publication which provides you with a one-stop shop to the attractions that put the fun into this great county and a smile on your face. We even feature some of the great venues just over the East Sussex border – all within a short drive.

In fact, there’s so much inside we defy you to find a better guide!

So why not start your exploring right now by turning inside and find out why the Garden of England is winning plaudits around the world for its remarkable, diverse, tourism industry?

We’d like to extend a very special thank you to the companies who have supported us with this guide – without whom this would not be possible – and all our staff who have worked so tirelessly to provide you with the best possible publication.

And if you like what you read inside, you can get a monthly helping of the very best of what the county has to offer in mmm magazine – publisher also of the acclaimed Best Places to Dine.

Enjoy this guide and when you visit the attractions mentioned, be sure to tell them who sent you!

Issue 49, February 2016 Complimentary

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Published by mmm Media Ltd GHL House, First Floor, 12-14 Albion Place, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 5DZ www.facebook.com/ mmm.magazine.kent @MediaMmm

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in KENT 6 BEST Attractions

The Historic Dockyard Chatham A visit to The Historic Dockyard Chatham is quite an adventure… it’s the BIG day out that lasts all year!

Steeped in history, this award winning maritime heritage attraction is the world’s most complete dockyard from the age of sail and is home to a remarkable range of museum galleries, iconic buildings and historic warships; together with an excellent programme of family activities, outstanding exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Opening Times

Open 7 days a week 13th February until 27th November 2016

Command of the Oceans new in May 2016

What to do Relive and rediscover

Imagine what life was like as a Victorian rope maker; and make your own piece of rope on the authentic Victorian Ropery Tour. In the exciting ‘Hearts of Oak’ digital theatre, join retired Master Shipwright John North as he revisits the Dockyard of his youth and encourages his young grandson to follow in his footsteps. You will be gripped by stories of life aboard the Three Historic Warships: Step aboard Victorian Sloop HMS Gannet (1878); swing through the hatches of Cold War HM Submarine Ocelot (1962); and sit in the Captain’s chair of Royal Navy Second World War Destroyer HMS Cavalier (1944).

Superb interactive galleries take you on a voyage back to the ‘age of sail’ - a time when the people of Chatham Dockyard built ships like HMS Victory for the Royal Navy, helping to establish worldwide command of the oceans. Using the latest exhibition design and technology, powerful stories are unearthed, revealing the incredibly important role Chatham Dockyard, its defences and its people played during this important period of British Maritime History. Two internationally significant maritime archaeological discoveries: The timbers of Namur (1756) intriguingly laid to rest ‘beneath the floor’ of the Wheelwrights’ shop and the Invincible (1758) collection of objects recovered from the sea bed, will be central to the Dockyard’s previously untold astonishing story.

Become inspired by the innovation of those who worked at Chatham Dockyard during the 19th and 20th centuries in the powerful Steam Steel and Submarines gallery.

A collection of really BIG ‘things’ in 3 Slip The BIG Space is unearthed and you will marvel at the incredible wooden roof structure.

Heroic stories are told in the RNLI Historic Lifeboat Collection, and for those who would like a little peace and quiet, a visit to the tranquil Commissioner’s garden is a must!

The children can let off steam in the Railway Workshop Refuel and Play indoor soft play or the outdoor adventure play areas.

Take a journey

A visit would not be complete without a journey through No. 1 Smithery - an all-round treasure house for the whole family. It has brilliant galleries displaying world class maritime treasures from both the National Maritime Museum and Imperial War Museums. www.facebook.com/ historic.chatham @DockyardChatham

01634 823800 info@chdt.org.uk www.thedockyard.co.uk

in KENT 8 BEST Attractions

Polar Helicopters See the stunning Kent countryside and coast from the air Located in beautiful East Kent, Polar Helicopters operates from Manston, near Ramsgate.

The magic of flight

Opening Times Monday to Sunday 9am - 5pm

They offer helicopter flights to view Kent from the air.

Select where you want to go - why not get a birds eye view of Canterbury Cathedral or fly along the White Cliffs of Dover and take in the breathtaking views of the Kent countryside and coastline. Each flight is tailored individually - there are so many spectacular places to see in Kent - why not take in the best views and fly wherever you wish.

For the more adventurous there will be the option to take the controls of the helicopter and have a go at flying whilst enjoying the views.

Polar Helicopters operate a fleet of helicopters including two, four and five seat options. Open seven days a week, 52 weeks a year, operating from a purpose built hangar offering ample parking, teas and coffees as well as inside and outside seating areas. Friends and family are more than welcome.

And if you want more….

Polar Helicopters offer helicopter flight training from single flights to Private and Commercial licences.

With prices starting from £139 for 20 minutes, a flight will be the perfect highlight of your visit. www.facebook.com/ polarhelicopter @Polarhelicopter

01843 823067 info@polarhelicopters.co.uk www.polarhelicopters.co.uk

in KENT 9 BEST Attractions

Jetstream Tours

Medway’s leading jetboat operator Sun Pier is located in the heart of Chatham near to the town centre, it has become the home of Medway’s latest successful attraction.

There are various trips to suit all ages, the most popular however is known as the Medway Raid tour which has been awarded a 5 star trip advisor rating.

Seeing the sights Housing the only Jet boat in Kent, it further boasts a sound system like no other and engines that can achieve 30MPH... on water! What better way to see Medway’s sights than from the river?

You are looked after by an experienced, enthusiastic team during your experience with Jetstream, the skippers work regularly in estuaries including the Medway and the Thames on many different types of vessels. Being passionate to share their enthusiasm for the area and the treasures that the Medway holds.

As passenger numbers are limited to a maximum of ten passengers per tour, this enables you to interact with the knowledgeable crew and thereby maximise your tour experience.

Medway Raid

The tour lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes, and takes you as far as the WW2 forts on Hoo Island and Darnet Ness.

Alternatively you can hire a complete boat for up to ten people and have a sedate cruise on the Medway taking in more of the upriver sights as well! www.facebook.com/ Jetstreamtours @Jetstreamtours

01634 525202 bookings@jetstreamtours.com www.jetstreamtours.com

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in KENT 10 BEST Attractions

The Beaney The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

The Beaney is an art gallery, museum and library situated in the heart of the historic city of Canterbury. This stunning Victorian building features state of the art exhibition galleries, over 1000 permanent collection items and a varied programme of events for all ages. Themed galleries provide a stunning visual experience, with displays ranging from Explorers and Collector’s treasures to Old Master paintings and local portraits. Temporary exhibitions are a highlight alongside a variety of workshops and activities. The Beaney is also home to Canterbury’s Visitor Information Centre and a Café.

Opening Times

Monday - Wednesday 9am to 5pm Thursday 9am to 7pm Friday - Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 10am to 5pm

www.facebook.com/ TheBeaney @The_Beaney

01227 862162 beaney@canterbury.gov.uk www.thebeaney.co.uk

Canterbury Roman Museum

Opening Times

Monday to Sunday 10am to 5pm

Situated an hour from London, Canterbury Roman Museum provides a family-friendly insight into life in Roman Britain. Famed for its exquisite mosaics and underfloor heating, the museum is built around the remains of an original Roman town house. Visitors can explore Canterbury’s history, wander the marketplace and discover hidden treasure. www.facebook.com/CanterburyMuseumsandGalleries @CMuseums

01227 785575 museums@canterbury.gov.uk www.canterbury-museums.co.uk

Opening Times

Seasonal opening, see website for full details

Canterbury Heritage Museum This remarkable building, housing the museum’s vast collection, has lived through six centuries of the city’s history. Rebuilt in its current form in 1373, it stands today as one of Canterbury’s finest surviving medieval buildings. On arrival, visitors are taken on a journey through time from the days when mammoths walked our coastlines to the Second World War bombings in Canterbury. This double-story museum and its collections capture the eclectic character of Canterbury and the wonderful things that make it the historical and cultural centre it is today. www.facebook.com/CanterburyMuseumsandGalleries @CMuseums

01227 475202 museums@canterbury.gov.uk www.canterbury-museums.co.uk

in KENT 12 BEST Attractions

White Rock Theatre Presents live music and family entertainment

Opening Times Monday to Saturday 10am - 4pm

Situated in a commanding position on the Hastings shoreline the White Rock Theatre is the perfect concert and theatre venue, with a recently-refurbished, sea-view café bar. The theatre’s programme is varied and includes one night concerts, musicals, drama and an annual pantomime.

The ideal venue for meetings, rehearsals, workshops, conferences, parties, celebrations and more, the White Rock Theatre offers a range of spaces that can be adapted to suit your requirements, from one-to-one meetings to large seminars and birthday celebrations to community events.

The café

Choose from a delicious range of traditional British classics, with a seasonal seaside flavour. The perfect combination as you relax before the show and enjoy the wonderful sea views from the White Rock Café.

With a wide range of dishes available, this exciting menu is the perfect start for your trip to the theatre.

If you would prefer a lighter pre-show snack, why not enjoy a freshly-made cappuccino accompanied by a tempting cake. The café is open 1 hour 30 minutes before the start of every show.

The bar staff will happily take your order before the performance and your drinks will be ready and waiting at the interval. www.facebook.com/ WhiteRockTheatre @The_White_Rock

01424 462 280 enquiries@whiterocktheatre.org.uk www.whiterocktheatre.org.uk

i n K E N T 13 BEST Attractions

Diggerland “The Ultimate Adventure Theme Park Experience” Diggerland is The Ultimate Adventure Theme Park Experience where children and adults alike can ride, drive and operate REAL diggers, dumpers and other full- size construction machinery.

Fun for all ages from 4 to 40-plus (height restrictions apply) Diggerland with its 18 different rides and drives and an array of additional activities is the ideal theme park for small to large groups looking for something exciting and truly unique. Get to grips with real JCBs and 180/360 excavators, take a head-reeling turn or two on the Spindizzy, rise to lofty heights and enjoy the views on the Skyshuttle, experience a bone-rattling off-road ride on the Groundshuttle, or have a go on the Dodgems and GoKarts! There are indoor and outdoor play areas, sandpits, coin operated rides and much more where younger visitors can let off steam while their parents can just sit back, relax and watch the fun… or join in!

Diggerland Special Offer - Save 15% Diggerland have provided MMM readers with a unique 15% discount. Simply enter the link below into your browser to find your unique discount voucher.

Terms and conditions apply, see voucher for details. www.diggerland.com/mmm www.facebook.com/ Diggerland @Diggerland_UK

0871 22 77 007 marketing@diggerland.com www.diggerland.com

15% OFF

Diggerland mmm Best Attractions DISCOUNT

in KENT 14 BEST Attractions

Fort Amherst

Europe’s largest Napoleonic Fort About Fort Amherst

What’s on

For more information on events, visit the website for the prices and how to book

Fort Amherst, based in Chatham is Britain’s largest Napoleonic Fortress. Having been originally constructed in preparation for a Napoleonic invasion, and then used as a Civil Defence centre in World War II, it boasts a unique and unusual history. The vast site features a fascinating network of underground tunnels, 20 acres of beautiful parkland open to the public free of charge all year round, and stunning views of the river from one of Medway’s highest points.

What can I do?

Discover how the tunnels were used during Napoleonic times, as well as the strategic role they played during World War II as a base of operations. Tunnel tours run most days, but before visiting please check the website where you will also find details of re-enactments, fairs, paranormal investigations, owl encounters, archery sessions, wine tasting events, ghost tours and volunteer recruitment days!

With so much to see and learn, visitors are often glad to take a break in the traditional on-site Café, which also displays various interesting artefacts.

Is your venue available for hire?

Fort Amherst is an ancient historic monument with a range of spectacular and unique sites both inside and outside that are available for private hire. From corporate functions to music events and celebrations, Fort Amherst offers you a wide range of unique venues and is a truly spectacular location for your wedding as you can choose from the atmospheric candle lit tunnels, deep within the Fort complex or the recently restored Grand Magazine building with stunning views over Medway. www.facebook.com/ FortAmherst @FortAmherst

01634 847747 admin@fortamherst.com www.fortamherst.com

i n K E N T 15 BEST Attractions

Escape Plan LIVE “Can you escape these exciting movie-like scenarios in under an hour?”

About Escape Plan LIVE

It’s only a game... but that’s easy to forget at Escape Plan LIVE, where thinking your way out of our exciting movie-like scenarios in under an hour is proving hugely popular with families, friends, couples and companies.

It’s a chance to test your nerves at this popular attraction where you and your group can frantically search for clues to solve the mystery and overcome the challenges that stand in the way of you escaping the situation in which you’re trapped! Think fast, the clock is ticking...

Who’s it for, and which game to play?

Our exciting and immersive games were created with everyone in mind and are ideal for both the public and corporate team building days - whether you’re looking for a hidden cure to a deadly virus, navigating creepy corridors to rescue a hostage, uncovering a conspiracy, breaking into a bank vault, or discovering a gruesome murder before the killer returns - you have only one hour to do so, and the question always remains the same… can you escape in time?

Where can I play?

Escape Plan LIVE now takes place in two venues - each with its own unique character. The historic Gate House at Fort Amherst is centuries old and was originally built to defend against Napoleonic invasion.

Now said to be haunted, its long and fascinating history serves to add realism and atmosphere to games designed with the building’s genuine and imagined history in mind. The escape games at the Riverside One location are permanent however, and so are ambitious in their design featuring truly immersive environments which may feature secret rooms! www.facebook.com/ EscapePlanLive @EscapePlanLIVE

(+44) 0333 666 3366 Enquiries@EscapePlanLive.com www.escapeplanlive.com

What’s on

For more information on events, visit the website for the prices and how to book

in KENT 16 BEST Attractions

WHF, The Big Cat Sanctuary Protection is our passion

About the cause

The Big Cat Sanctuary is a charity, set in the village of Smarden. It is a 32 acre site hidden in the heart of the Kent countryside, and home to over 50 cats, from the biggest to the smallest in the World.

Their primary objective is the breeding of endangered species, as well as offering sanctuary for older cats who need to retire to the peace and quiet of the countryside after living a life either in a zoo or circus environment.

Get with the programme The breeding centre is proud to be part of the EEP (European Endangered Species Breeding Programme), which is a body that regulates the breeding of endangered cats in order to maintain a healthy captive population, which can ultimately be reintroduced to the wild. They have contributed twice to the Amur Leopard programme which is the World’s most endangered big cat, with less than 45 remaining in the wild globally, also to the Sumatran tigers, Amur tigers and Pallas cats.

It is hoped that more cubs will be born in the future including North Chinese leopards and Snow leopards.

What to do WHF Big Cat Sanctuary operates by way of personal big cat experiences including big cat tours, individual and group photography days, overnight African Safari nights and adoptions. All of which need to be prebooked in advance of a visit, either using the website whf.org.uk or by calling on 01233 771915. The centre takes pride in delivering fully immersive, personal and amazing experiences that will leave any big cat lover with memories to treasure forever.

There is also a new corporate building, overlooking a tiger enclosure, the building can seat up to 100 delegates, has wifi, plenty of parking, and is just 15 minutes from M20 junction 8 for the conference with a difference. A big cat tour can be included along with catering facilities.

Open days The annual open days this year are 21st to 24th July.

These are family fun days incorporating big cat health checks and enrichment, falconry displays, face painting, archery, bouncy castles, stalls, art and craft as well as a BBQ , bar and ice cream. Something for everyone, tickets are available via the website. www.facebook.com/Wildlife-Heritage-Foundation-UK @BigCatWHF

01233 771915 enquiries@whf.org.uk www.whf.org.uk

in KENT 18 BEST Attractions

Kentish Lady Hire Cruisers River Medway boat trips

The Timetable

Trips/Cruises re-commencing from Easter 2016 Please see website for details

Take in the sights and splendour of the Maidstone stretch of the River Medway from the comfort of your own seat aboard the Kentish Lady River Boat. Cruising between Allington and Teston the Kentish Lady with its fully licensed bar is also a unique venue for a wedding reception or private party.

One hour trips

The Kentish Lady runs one-hour return trips at weekends and school holidays (one way available) from Maidstone Town Centre to Allington Lock between Easter and October. Maidstone is perfect for an afternoon shopping trip at The Mall or Fremlin Walk or just meeting friends. Whilst at Allington Lock, you can stop for lunch at the Malta Inn restaurant or spend time at the Kent Life Attraction.

Along the route, you can also request to stop at Whatman Park.

The informative commentary tells you all about the sights on route including Corpus Christi Hall and Maidstone’s oldest pub dating back to 1636. You will also pass Allington Castle where Henry the Eighth used to meet Anne Boleyn.

Three hour cruises

Three-hour weekday cruises (Tuesday – Friday) to Teston via Farleigh Lock include picnic box or fish and chips, plus fresh fruit, tea, coffee or water, all at only £23 per person.

Private hire

The Kentish Lady is available for private functions including: wedding receptions, birthdays or social gatherings with a champagne reception.

A licensed bar, DJ and buffet are available at an additional cost. www.facebook.com/ Kentish-Lady-Hire-CruisersLtd-16557883188

@nsk3nn3dy

01622 753740 boattrips@kentishlady.co.uk www.kentishlady.co.uk

i n K E N T 19 BEST Attractions

Leeds Castle

“The Loveliest Castle in the World” Visitors never forget their first breathtaking vision of Leeds Castle in Kent, rising majestically from the moat as it has done for over 900 years.

With 500 acres of beautiful parkland and formal gardens, daily activities, free flying falconry displays, special events and year round attractions, Leeds Castle is one of the best days out in Kent, you will want to come back time and again!

Summertime at Leeds Castle

This summer, experience a showcase of the arts at Leeds Castle with open-air film and theatre, live music and activities for the whole family.

Relax in the sunshine and enjoy classical favourites from a brass band on the Pavilion Lawn each Sunday in August.

Opera in the Castle ‘The Barber of Seville’: 20th July

Experience an intimate evening of rousing opera, performed in the Castle’s magnificent Henry VIII Banqueting Hall.

The pop-up Opera company will bring one of the world’s most popular comic operas to “the loveliest Castle in the world” this summer - Rossini’s ‘The Barber of Seville’. A bar will be available before the performance and during the interval for drinks in the opulent 1930s Drawing Rooms. Price £25 adults, £22 concessions.

Open Air Children’s Theatre: ‘The Wizard of Oz’: 5th & 6th August

Click your heels, journey over the rainbow and ease on down the yellow brick road and enjoy an open air performance of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ at Leeds Castle. Immersion Theatre proudly present this magical family show guaranteed to have you in stitches from beginning to end! With lashings of audience participation, dazzling costumes and plenty of laughter, this hilarious and faithful brand new musical adaptation of the iconic story promises to have you shouting, clapping and joining in with a host of toe-tapping original songs! Price £15 adults, £12 concessions and children, under 3s free. www.facebook.com/ leedscastle @leedscastleuk

01622 765400 enquiries@leeds-castle.co.uk www.leeds-castle.com

in KENT 20 BEST Attractions

Wrotham Classic Car and Steam Rally Hundreds of classic vehicles and steam engines

Prices of entry

Adult £7, Concession £5 Child £2

Special offer

through Groupon, with large reductions but this is a limited offer

Background

Wrotham Classic Car and Steam Rally has existed for more than 30 years.

As has been the case for the whole time of the Rally, it is run by enthusiastic volunteers who give their time completely free of charge.

Successfully running now for over 30 years, Wrotham Classic Car and Steam Rally rolls round again this June, with the volunteer-led event helping to raise funds for a host of local causes.

Aiming to create a friendly atmosphere, the event gives exhibitors a chance to show off over 800 classic vehicles and steam engines over two days while discussing them with newcomers and old faces alike.

Vehicle showcase Pre- and post-1945 cars sit alongside classic motorcycles and campers, as well as military vehicles, steam engines, stationary engines, tractors and commercial vehicles.

A kids zone and auto jumble are also on-hand, along with food, drink and craft stalls, while the afternoons feature a little music as the main ring hosts a collection of vehicle showcases and stunts. www.facebook.com pages/ Wrotham-ClassiSteam-AndTransport-Raly/199806286732251

07909 042488 enquiries@wrotham.org www.wrotham.org

in KENT 22 BEST Attractions

The Hop Farm Family Park Big on fun for families Opening Times

Open everyday from 10am See website for more details

The Hop Farm Family Park in Paddock Wood is one of Kent’s major, historic, visitor attractions. Open every day and costing only £1 per person to enter the park, it features children’s rides, animal farm, indoor entertainment shows, 4D cinema showing “Poseidon”, bouncy castles, slides and more. The £1 entry fee also includes all day access to the popular indoor soft play area, outdoor adventure play, crazy golf and free parking representing amazing value for money.

What to look out for

Look out for the range of events taking place most weekends in the Spring and Summer, from music festivals to vintage car shows. The Hop Farm is also a beautiful wedding venue and there are many places to eat and drink on site, including the retro-1950s Hopper’s Cream & Ice Bar. A true gem in the heart of Kent.

www.facebook.com/ TheHopFarm @Hopfarm

01622 872068 info@thehopfarm.co.uk www.hopfarm.co.uk

i n K E N T 23 BEST Attractions

Arethusa Venture Centre

Over 35 years experience of providing high quality outdoor education The Arethusa has over 35 years experience of providing high quality outdoor education to over 6,000 visitors each year. With three accommodation blocks housing just over 100 students and up to 18 staff. Open all year round with activities to suit all weathers, their aim is to develop life skills through the adventure learning programmes, encouraging visitors to reach their full potential in a safe and caring environment, not forgetting the importance of having fun and adventure. The activities are delivered by fully trained staff to instruct and lead you and your group through exciting challenges.

About them

They are a British Canoe Union Approved Centre and RYA Training Centre, licensed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority, which all adds up to the very best in safe supervision and training and plenty of fun for everyone involved.

Activities include

Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, powerboating, climbing, high ropes, initiative games, team building, raft building, beach walks, archery, and swimming.

With the highly experienced instructors and extensive equipment absolutely no experience is necessary for any of these activities. Schools, youth groups and the disabled are all welcome to take part in the activities and receive expert instruction, whether it’s just for fun or to work towards RYA or BCU qualifications. www.facebook.com/ Arethusa-Venture-Centre -266392613524005

@ArethusaVC

01634 719933 info@arethusa.org.uk www.arethusa.org.uk

Opening Times

Monday to Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 4pm

in KENT 24 BEST Attractions

Hovercraft Adventures

Perfect for any occasion About Hovercraft Adventures

With over ten years experience in the motorised experience industry, Hovercraft Adventures is an independent business providing Hovercraft and Quad Bike Experiences in the picturesque heart of Kent’s beautiful countryside.

The Quad bike experiences are designed to cater for families, larger groups can also be catered for. For health and safety reasons, only four quad bikes are permitted on track at any one time.

Five Mile Experience H.A. Quads offers a five mile quad bike experience.

You can expect to be at the venue for up to an hour.

Starting with a safety briefing, you are then led off by one of the fully trained instructors to start your five mile experience. The course starts on flat ground before you are then taken onto a purpose built woodland course.

There is no speed involved in your experience, it’s more about skill and ability to negotiate the twists and turns, with a few obstacles to watch out for. For safety and enjoyment, there are only four customer quads on track at any one time which are lead by instructors.

PLEASE NOTE. In winter months due to track and weather conditions this maybe scaled down to two per instructor as per terms and conditions.

Pay and Play The Pay and Play Hovercraft sessions offer everyone the chance to shine in a non-competitive flying experience.

These sessions include training and then 5, 10 or 15 exhilarating laps over land and water track! Each session can last up to a maximum of 90 minutes and can accommodate up to 8 people (5 Laps), 6 people (10 Laps) and 4 people (15 Laps) aged 12 and up.

Competitive experience This is the ultimate hovercrafting experience! In these sessions, a group of up to 12 people will compete to find out who is the fastest pilot in a combination of pursuits and relays.

The fastest pilot from each session will be invited back in the spring for a Top Gun event to find the fastest pilot of the year.

Each session lasts up to 2 hours and can accommodate up to 12 people aged 12 and up. www.facebook.com/ HovercraftAdventures1 @HovercraftAdven

0844 358 4505 info@hovercraftadventures.co.uk www.hovercraftadventures.co.uk

in KENT 26 BEST Attractions

Kits Coty Glamping Glamorous camping for everyone FREE Night Offer

Arrive on either a Monday or a Tuesday and stay 3, 4 or 5 nights in the 2016 season and get the last night free.

Kits Coty Glamping is a small multi award winning family run site on the outskirts of Aylesford nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The Vintage Shepherds Hut, African and Moroccan themed bell tents and Festival Tent are perfect for short family breaks, romantic getaways, or longer holidays in the Kent countryside. So, whether you are an experienced camper or have never camped before, come and experience all the fun of camping and the outdoors while enjoying luxury creature comforts and outstanding customer service.

Glamping

Glamping (or glamourous camping) has become very popular in recent years with participants escaping towns and cities to enjoy the countryside in high end camping type accommodation but with all their home comforts included. Whether you stay in the quirky themed Shepherd’s Hut or decide to get closer to nature in the tented facilities, you will be assured of a warm welcome, a cosy bed and experience a truly unforgettable and extremely special night under the stars.

If you have ever dreamed of waking up in a Shepherds Hut or Bell Tent in an area of outstanding natural beauty, tucked away in the Kent Countryside with woodland around you and just birdsong and the rustling of leaves to listen to, then this place is for you. www.facebook.com/ kitscotyglampingaylesford @kitscotyglamp

01634 685862 info@kitscotyglamping.co.uk wwwkitscotyglamping.co.uk

i n K E N T 27 BEST Attractions

Dreamland Margate Fun for all the family!

The UK’s original Pleasure Park, Dreamland Margate, is once again ready to welcome guests to an old-fashioned yet oh-so-fashionable world of fun, thrills and good times!

Glorious rides

With beautiful vintage rides that span across the decades, guests will enjoy the Great British Seaside Amusement experience first-hand! However, Dreamland is much more than the glorious rides that it has to offer. Why not step back in time, strap on your skates in our retro Roller Room and skate until your heart’s content?

Just for the children

If the little ones are looking for something fun to do, come and explore the Octopus’s Garden, it isn’t your average indoor children’s play zone! Just like the rest of the park, it’s a completely unique, fun-filled world that will inspire creativity.

It boasts a circus tent, beach huts, a potting shed for arts and crafts, sand pits and soft play – plus guests can refuel at the restaurant with a superb selection of cakes, sandwiches, drinks and lunch boxes.

Unmissable events

Also lined up is a whole host of unmissable events, celebrating the best of British culture, each with that unmistakable Dreamland vibe. All part of the great big day and night out that is Dreamland! Make sure you visit the website for the various events that are available.

For full details on opening times and prices please visit the website www.dreamland.co.uk www.facebook.com/ dreamlandmargate @DreamlandMarg

01843 295887 office@dreamland.co.uk www.dreamland.co.uk

Dreamland membership

www.dreamland.co.uk/ membership Become a member of our exclusive club and benefit from all of the extras!

in KENT 28 BEST Attractions

Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar The ultimate experience

The Hangar also conducts tours and sit in a Spitfire days.

Call for more details

The Heritage Hangar

The Hangar houses an amazing collection of airworthy Spitfires, probably the greatest concentration of Spitfire activity in the world, plus several others undergoing restoration by the Spitfire Company (Biggin Hill) Ltd. In addition the collection also includes an airworthy Hawker Hurricane Mk I, Europe’s oldest flying Harvard and a 1944 ex-USAAF Piper L4 Grasshopper.

The SpitďŹ re Company (Biggin Hill) Since its creation, The Spitfire Company has restored Spitfire Mark I X4650, Mark XVI RW382, MKIX TD314 with MKIX LZ842, MKIX BR601 and MK V EE602 currently undergoing restoration. Airframe Assemblies supply the rebuilt fuselages complete with tailplane and wings. With any restoration of a previously scrapped or crashed Spitfire, as much material as possible from the original airframe is incorporated in the rebuild thus making the aircraft as authentic as it can be. Having possibly the world’s largest collection of original Spitfire parts, some of which are still in their unopened original boxes, helps greatly. Project Manager Paul Ager is justly proud of the work carried out on the restorations by his team of engineers.

The Heritage Hangar also offer the chance to fly in a two seat Spitfire. This is the ultimate thrill to experience flying this iconic aircraft.

www.facebook.com/ BigginHillHeritageHangar

01959 576767 www.bigginhillheritagehangar.co.uk www.flyaspitfire.co.uk

in KENT 30 BEST Attractions

The Hawking Centre A majestic adventure Falconry experience day Spend an unforgettable day in the stunning Kent countryside flying a range of birds of prey

The Hawking Centre is the ultimate specialist provider of falconry and bird of prey experiences for London, Kent and the South East. With two locations to choose from nestled in the heart of Kent and East Sussex on secluded private estates, our falconry experiences take place within the formal gardens, woodland and parkland, offering clients an exclusive falconry experience with a stunning range of birds of prey.

Falconry adventure

All experiences are inclusive of refreshments. Lunch is included on the full day falconry experience and five day courses in the tea room or library overlooking formal lawns.

All falconry experiences are run seven days a week for all ages, year round and are a perfect gift. Gift vouchers are valid for 12 months and experiences are run in small groups of four participants.

www.facebook.com/ The-Hawking-Centre @hawkingcentre

01795 473680 info@thehawkingcentre.co.uk www.thehawkingcentre.co.uk

SUMMER SCHOOL 2016 presented by Woodville Theatre for Youth Five days of creative fun exploring a variety of skills for all budding performers!

A Night of Dirty Dancing 15th June 7.30pm £21 and £19

‘No film has captured the hearts of a generation like Dirty Dancing. Relive the passion, indulge the romance and celebrate the greatest movie sound track of all time.’

Learn about Character Development, Improvisation, Physical Theatre and even Stage Combat! For ages 7 – 18 years

25th – 29th July

9am – 3pm with a showcase performance on the last day to show off your new skills! £60 per child (£10 saving if two siblings book).

Dinosaur Park

12th May 7.30pm £12 and £10

‘this award winning laugh out loud spin on Spielbergs classic is a theatrical celebration of cinematic nostalgia and a powerful reminder of the ones we love!’

OPEN DAYS

THURS 21ST - SUN 24TH JULY 2016

A fun day out for all the family. Come and visit our big cats including tigers, lions, leopards and cheetahs.

Enjoy face painting, BBQ, falconry display, bouncy castle, arts & crafts and stalls.

11:00am - 5:00pm (Last entry 4:00pm) Weekdays £12.50 | Weekends £15.00

Advanced booking only - book your place today by visiting our website

www.whf.org.uk

The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn Road, Smarden, Kent TN27 8PJ | 01233 771915

Charity Reg No. 1104420