Top Attractions in Kent – The Ultimate Guide To Days Out

Discover the Best of the Garden of England

Kent offers a diverse landscape of experiences, from the battlements of historic castles to the vibrant energy of its quirky seaside towns. Planning a family day out, a romantic weekend getaway, or exploring the county to move here? Our guide showcases the locations that truly define the region.

We’ve curated a selection of the most visited spots, including world-class heritage sites and stunning coastal escapes. Plus, top attractions that our Kent-based writers suggest as a must-see. Each featured attraction links to a dedicated listing, with practical details and insights to plan your perfect visit.

Click on any image or listing link below to explore the ultimate guide from See Kent.

Last updated 12th June 2026

Top 5 Most-Visited Attractions in Kent

Leeds Castle – Historic Castle and Gardens in Kent

Often called the ‘loveliest castle’ in the world, Leeds Castle features stunning interiors, a historic maze, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Families and history enthusiasts can enjoy seasonal events, falconry displays, and scenic walks at this famous castle in Maidstone.
Top Tip: Tickets are valid for one year from the date of issue 
🐶 Dog Details: Assistance dogs only allowed.
Details
One of the must-see top attractions in Kent, discover visitor information and current events with our Leeds Castle listing. Explore other iconic castles in our Castles in Kent guide.
Don’t miss our Maidstone Area Guide for more local attractions in this part of Kent and things to do locally.

Canterbury Cathedral – Kent Iconic Medieval Landmark

This is one of the top attractions in Kent, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of England’s most iconic religious landmarks, boasting awe-inspiring medieval architecture and famous stained glass windows. It is one of three UNESCO sites in the city – the other two are St Augustine’s Abbey and St Martin’s Church. Visitors to  Canterbury Cathedral can join mint talks and tours, activity trails, and more. Can also book tours and lots more events. See our main listing for current activities and find what’s on.
Top Tip: Up to 2 children go free with a fee-paying adult, and tickets are valid for 365 days from booking.
🐶 Dog Details: Dogs are allowed in the Cathedral building and grounds. Must be kept on a short lead. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the cafe, at services, talks, tours and special events (unless otherwise stated).
Details
See our Canterbury Cathedral listing for tickets and tour details, or explore more with our top things to do in Canterbury article.
🐶 Dog Details: Dogs are allowed in the Cathedral building and grounds. Must be kept on a short lead. Only assistance dogs are permitted in the cafe, at services, talks, tours and special events (unless otherwise stated).
See the Canterbury Area Guide for more family attractions, historic sites and hidden gems.

Dover Castle & White Cliffs of Dover – Historic Fortress & Scenic Coastal Walks

Known as the Key to England, at Dover Castle visitors can explore medieval battlements, a Great Tower, wartime tunnels and enjoy a variety of seasonal activities and events. For those looking for top attractions in Kent, this is a must-see. As a bonus, discover the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover nearby. Enjoy panoramic views of the English Channel and scenic coastal walks. Together, they make a perfect day trip in Kent for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Details
Visit our Dover Castle listing and our White Cliffs of Dover guide for full visitor details to these Kent attractions. See our guide to Kent castles for more iconic sites in the Garden of England.
🐶 Dog Details: Grounds only, on lead. Assistance dogs are welcome elsewhere.
Discover more attractions in Dover and nearby highlights with our Deal & Dover Area Guide.

Hever Castle & Gardens – Tudor History and Award-Winning Gardens

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle, Edenbridge in Sevenoaks, combines Tudor history with award-winning gardens. The castle’s historic interiors feature beautifully preserved period rooms and notable collections. Outside, 125 acres of grounds offer something for everyone, including a maze, military museum, children’s playground, miniature model village, and a boating lake. Throughout the year, the castle hosts a varied programme of events including jousting displays, garden events, a theatre festival, and school holiday trails and treats. There is also an enchanting annual Christmas experience. For visitor details and current events, see the Hever Castle listing. Discover similar historic attractions in the Garden of England with our guide to beautiful Kent castles.
Find more attractions in Sevenoaks and nearby highlights with our Sevenoaks Area Guide.

Historic Dockyard Chatham – Maritime Museum and Family-Friendly Exhibit

Step back in time at one of the world’s best-preserved maritime dockyards at the Historic Dockyard in Kent. Explore historic warships, interactive galleries, and hands-on exhibits, ideal for family adventures or educational day trips in Kent. This top attraction in Kent offers a range of children’s trails and seasonal events.
Visit the Historic Dockyard Chatham listing or explore our guide to museums in Kent.
For more attractions in Chatham and nearby highlights, see the Medway Area Guide – covering Chatham, Gillingham and Rochester.

Must-Visit Attractions in Kent

Dreamland Margate – Retro Seaside Amusement Park

Dreamland Margate is a retro seaside amusement park featuring classic rides, including the Rock ‘n’ Roller (pictured above), waltzers, a ghost train, a wild river ride, and more. That’s not all – there’s roller discos, live music and seasonal festivals. The Kent attraction is ideal for family day trips, teen outings, and couples seeking entertainment. Dreamland combines vintage charm with a modern seaside atmosphere. See the Dreamland Margate main listing to plan your visit.
Explore more ideas and activities in our Margate Area Guide.

Mote Park, Maidstone – Family Days Out in Kent’s Largest Public Park

Mote Park is Kent’s largest public park, spanning over 450 acres of woodland, lakes, and adventure play areas. Ideal for picnics, walks, and a leisurely family day out. Check the Mote Park listing for full visitor information, including outdoor adventures, watersports, leisure facilities, and much more.
Explore our Maidstone Area Guide for local attractions, and see our Parks & Gardens category for more outdoor spaces in Kent.

Ramsgate Tunnels – WWII History and Guided Tours

At Ramsgate Tunnels, step into history with a guided tour of this network of tunnels. These were home to a significant number of families and people during WWII, as the town was heavily bombed. They are the UK’s largest network of civilian wartime tunnels. Perfect for curious explorers and history buffs, the tunnels reveal hidden stories of Kent’s past.
Visit our Ramsgate Tunnels listing, or explore more in Thanet with our Ramsgate Area Guide.

Howletts Wild Animal Park – Wildlife and Conservation Experiences

Howletts Wild Animal Park near Canterbury is home to gorillas, elephants, and endangered big cats, and this Kent attraction focuses on conservation and education. Visitors can enjoy up-close wildlife encounters and explore beautifully landscaped grounds, experience feeding sessions and animal encounters. S, see the Howletts Wild Animal Park listing for more details. It’s also the sister site to the Port Lympne Reserve, which offers more animal adventures in Hythe, in Kent

For similar attractions, explore our guide to animal experiences in Kent.
For local attractions and things to do near both animal attractions, don’t miss our Canterbury Area Guide and our Hythe Area Guide.

Turner Contemporary, Margate – Art with Coastal Views

The Turner Contemporary is a free-entry gallery featuring world-class contemporary art, and a Turner, with breathtaking sea views. A must-see for art lovers and culture seekers, especially when paired with a stroll along Margate’s coastline. Check the Turner Contemporary listing or explore more of the trendy location with our Margate Area Guide.

Sissinghurst Castle Garden – Famous Gardens and Tranquil Walks

Sissinghurst Castle Garden, Cranbrook, Ashford, is another vital must-see top attraction in Kent. This is one of England’s most famous gardens. Created by Vita Sackville-West, visitors can wander colourful, themed gardens and enjoy tranquil walks amid Kent’s lush countryside. Explore the listing for Sissinghurst Castle Garden for full details and to find current events. For similar attractions in Kent, browse other parks and gardens in Kent. For ideas and inspiration on other local attractions and must-visit see our Ashford Area Guide.

 Rochester Cathedral – Historic Norman Cathedral in Kent

Step inside Rochester Cathedral, England’s second-oldest cathedral, founded in AD 604. Marvel at its Norman architecture, colourful stained glass, and peaceful cloisters, or join a guided tour to uncover centuries of fascinating history. Perfect for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and day-trippers exploring Kent’s Medway area. See the listing for Rochester Cathedral for visitor information and current events. Explore our history & heritage category for similar attractions in Kent.
Find further attractions and things to do locally with our Medway Area Guide – covering Chatham, Gillingham and Rochester.

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway –  Steam Railway Adventures

This miniature steam railway runs through marshland and coastline, offering a charming journey for families and train enthusiasts alike. Check the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway listing or explore other family attractions in Kent.
Don’t miss our Folkestone & Hythe Area Guide for more things to do and see.

Viking Bay, Broadstairs – Sandy Beach and Classic Seaside Fun

Viking Bay is a classic sandy beach with a promenade, tidal pool, and colourful beach huts. Its traditional seaside charm makes it ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy Kent’s coastline. See the Viking Bay listing for visitor details, or explore other beaches in Kent.
Explore our Thanet Area Guide for local attractions in Kent – covering Broadstairs, Ramsgate & Margate.

Picture Credits: © Main image of the White Cliffs of Dover by Heather Wang at unsplash.com, Mote Park from visitmaidstone.com, Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens – National Trust Images, and James Dobson and Viking Bay by See Kent. All other images are from the respective venues.

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