A vast country park experience can be enjoyed at Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest. These woodlands have an outstanding collection of conifers waiting to be explored. A mere 20 minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells, Bedgebury is the perfect place to walk and cycle while enjoying the beautiful valleys of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). It is also a great place for the little ones, as is full of play parks and holiday activities for children, not to mention a café with lakeside views! Parking charges range from £3.50-£14 and go towards conservation of the forest and further research. If you opt for annual membership your parking is included for the whole year.

Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest
Hever Castle & Gardens

Hever Castle & Gardens is the perfect day out for families. This mottled castle was once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and is now full of beautiful paintings and antiques. Take a stroll around the award-winning gardens and get lost in one of the mazes. Children can enjoy the playground such as the Tudor Towers Adventure Playground. Hever Castle & Gardens have some great events lined-up this Half Term during their Emerging Nature Week. Take the kids on a free scavenger hunt to discover all the different animals that hibernate. They are also offering a free pebble painting workshop for little ones. Or you can feed the birds and the fish for just 50p a bag. With over 100,000 bulbs planted in recent years there will also be a spectacular Snowdrop Walk to enjoy as you take in all the blossoms on display in the extensive gardens and grounds.

For budding train drivers, let off steam at the Spa Valley Railway.  Take an exciting ride back through the valley and bring big smiles to little faces! Buggies, prams, bicycles and dogs are all welcome. Kids travel for only £1!

Spa Valley Railway at Groombridge Station - photo by David Hodgkinson
Penshurst Place in mist - courtesy of Penshurst Place

Penshurst Place & Gardens offers exciting adventure based on the history of the grand house and estate, including the Enchanted Garden Trail and the Woodland Trail. The Penshurst Place manor house appeared in the acclaimed dramatic TV series, Wolf Hall. Come and see what the drama is about in real life!