Grab your coat, lace up your shoes and head out with us to explore the very best delights that Kent has to offer in this, the most mellow of seasons – from deer-watching to swinging through the trees, leaf-peeping as you go…
ANIMAL ADVENTURES
Kent Wildlife Trust
As the county’s leading conservation charity, protecting over 3,000 acres of land across more than 90 different sites and nature reserves, the Kent Wildlife Trust tops our list of where you can dive into the season. Beautiful bison in Canterbury, lounging livestock in Dover, wonderful woodland in Sevenoaks, and plenty, plenty more are waiting to be discovered. And with the recent launch of their book, “The Bison and the Butterfly”, both you and the younger members of the group can be inspired and discover how you can keep the landscapes of Kent happy and healthy.
kentwildlifetrust.org.uk/
Wildwood Kent
Step back to a time to when wild beasts roamed England's woodland...the 40-acre wildlife park and conservation charity at Wildwood Trust is sure to capture your heart, as you spy 200 British animals in semi-natural enclosures in ancient woodland. With a playpark and café, this is the place to go on those family days out with the little ones, providing fun and memories that will last.
kent.wildwoodtrust.org
Go Ape
Get into full swing of the season with a swing through the treetops! At Go Ape on the site of Leeds Castle, endless fun is on the cards, with plenty of options for the whole group to choose from, little ones included. The adrenaline will be pumping as you venture up high and tackle one of their courses, immersing yourself in the stunning colours of the autumn leaves. Their treetop adventures have made their way onto this season’s bucket list, so join us and head along this year.
goape.co.uk/locations/leeds-castle
Canoe Wild
A paddle down the river is already our idea of a perfect day out and now, thanks to Canoe Wild, you can turn your aqua adventure into an unforgettable autumn experience. Spend your day bobbing down the River Stour, watching the landscape pass you by as the riverbank’s plants frame your journey beautifully. And now you can even enjoy a Beaver Tour and Talk, making your journey extra special as you learn about the native wildlife of the area.
canoewild.co.uk/
Canterbury Historic River Tours
For more than 80 years, Canterbury Historic River Tours have been guiding us through the iconic city, giving both locals and visitors alike a look at Canterbury from the unique perspective of the Stour. Now, as the cosy season rolls in, we think that a tour is one of the best ways to enjoy the changes that autumn brings. See flora and fauna surrounded by historic architecture as you sit back and relax, your tour guide pulling you into the stories of the people and places that make the city so special.
canterburyrivertours.co.uk
Scotney Castle
A whole world of seasonal excitement is coming to Scotney Castle this month, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Head along to their Heritage & Harvest Autumn Fair, running on the 14-15 September, to take in the delights of autumn at this idyllic National Trust site. Enjoy an array of craft stalls, meet the heavy horses, watch demonstrations of heritage skills such as falconry, blacksmithing, stonemasonry, basket weaving and woodturning, and take part in traditional games and activities. We’ll see you there!
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/scotney-castle/events
Smallhythe Place
Fancy getting a taste of Kent’s produce? Well, Smallhythe Place has got all you could ask for and more. Over 30 varieties of apples grow in the beautiful orchard here, as well as pears, crab apples and plums. The land is managed traditionally, avoiding chemicals, and cutting the meadows beneath the trees just once a year – so your visit is great for the planet as well as your belly. In September, the trees and hedgerows come into fruition, so plan your day out and mark the season with some of that famous Kentish fruit.
nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/smallhythe-place/events
Gusbourne
Postcard scenes laid out before us, drink in hand, a stroll to get the legs moving and put the mind at rest. All of this can be found at Gusbourne, where Kent’s local produce is making huge strides and showing the best that it has to offer. The shifting landscapes can be seen on the estate at Gusbourne as you take a guided tour, followed by one of their wonderful tasting flights to give you a flavour of the season.
gusbourne.com
Bedgebury National Pinetum
With a world-leading collection of conifers, Bedgebury Pinetum is most definitely one to add to the list whilst in Tunbridge Wells. This West Kent seasonal haven has on show stunning colours throughout the land, with towering trees and a magnificent lake ensuring your trip here is unforgettable. Miles of walking, cycling, and running trails are sure to give you some inspiration on how to enjoy the area while visiting, with their cosy café the cherry (or should we say crab apple) on top of your day’s exploration.
forestryengland.uk/bedgebury
Belmont House and Gardens
A favourite hidden gem of Kent's locals, Belmont House comes alive during the autumn, the grounds contrasting perfectly with the 18th century stone house sat at its heart. With the estate's trees and plants going a golden colour, this is one of our favourite places to bring the family year-round, the visuals providing an idyllic backdrop to your afternoon strolls. And with another 3,000 acres, containing orchards and beautiful hues aplenty, we've got to recommend a few visits to see the changing spectrum!
belmont-house.org/
Hever Castle
As the evening sunlight starts to fade and the mist makes an appearance in the mornings, it’s time to head outside and discover all the ways autumn is decorating your favourite attractions. From the Boston ivy around the front of Hever Castle turning vivid shades of red, to the beautiful Italian garden filled with crunching leaves, we can't wait to take a tour around Hever Castle for our autumnal fix!
hevercastle.co.uk/
UK Electric Bike Centre
Looking for a new way to explore the local area? Look no further, as the UK Electric Bike Centre has a fantastic array of cycle routes for you, family and friends to take this autumn. As you drift through country lanes, allow yourself to relax to the max, soaking up the sights, sounds and smells that come with the natural landscape. Plus, with brewery and vineyard routes available, a cycle ride through the county has never looked better.
ukelectricbike.co.uk/
