Discover one of Kent's best kept secrets
Kent’s coast, countryside and characterful towns are set to shine in 2026, with fresh experiences, landmark anniversaries and vibrant cultural highlights unfolding across the Garden of England. From big moments in art and history to family‑friendly adventures, the year promises memorable days out in every corner of the county.
In Margate, Turner Contemporary marks its 15th anniversary, hosting a major new David Hockney installation that transforms the Sunley Window from 1st April – 1st November 2026. Along the coast in Folkestone, visitors can discover the UK’s largest urban contemporary art exhibition, free and accessible, this outdoor collection features works by 46 leading artists, including Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley and Yoko Ono, placed in scenic and surprising locations across the town. It even answers the question many visitors ask — why is there a little house in the middle of the harbour? The family-friendly coastal seaside resorts such as Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate have events calendars geared for keeping kids entertained whether it's during the holidays or for a weekend break. Historic Dover, medieval Sandwich and traditional Deal provide destinations ideal for a seaside getaway, a walking holiday or a cultural break by the sea.
At Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, families can step into a storybook world with the brand‑new Room on the Broom adventure trail, complete with themed challenges, forest facts and a £4 activity pack to help young explorers follow Witch’s quest. Spring brings colour in abundance as Leeds Castle bursts into bloom, with a new self-guided daffodil walk from mid‑March to late April. In Sandwich, the 2nd May marks the 800‑year anniversary of the town’s mayors, celebrated with a historic procession, school‑created artworks, reenactments and exhibitions across this remarkable medieval Cinque Port. Whilst Maidstone, the event's capital of Kent, makes for an ideal base for festival goers, adventure weekenders or for exploring this beautiful county.
Kent is the perfect place for a short break or longer escape - start planning your 2026 adventure today, your Kent experience is waiting.
To find out what's on in Kent today or this weekend, use the search box above to narrow down your required date. Kent is a popular destination for day trips from London and for European travellers arriving in the UK by sea so events celebrating culture, food, and music are never far away.
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Take a look at our snapshot of events in Kent below, or head on down to the bottom of the page to see more...
If you're travelling from outside the area for an event in Kent, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs.
>>> Search & Book Kent Accommodation
The guide below shows our calendar of events in Kent. Whether you're local or visiting the area, find what's happening near you by clicking the Map View button or by scrolling through the events listing.
Number of results: 85
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Sporting Events
Ashford
This remarkable race sees runners take to the tarmac around the pretty country lanes surrounding Westwell and it's easy to see why this extraordinary 10k has captured the hearts of so many runners. From humble beginnings, the Pacific Ashford 10k has…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Sevenoaks
Dive into some spectacular science this spring and learn about 'symbiosis': the ways that different species work together to survive.
From Saturday 7th March, join us at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve for some spectacular science. Explore the beautiful…
Walking
Sevenoaks
Weekends are for fresh air and exploring! Come for a guided walk for families and see what seasonal wildlife we can spot around the lakes.
Gather the family and head down to Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve to explore with a helping hand from Kent…
Sporting Events
Ashford
A Friday evening race event with a heartwarming community vibe that all the family can enjoy. This race takes advantage of the lighter summer evenings and provides a spellbinding route through the pretty Kent village of Charing, exploring country…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Ashford
Engage with the natural world in a mindful way at Hothfield Heathlands as you take a wellness walk with elements of forest bathing.
Soothe your body and mind on a guided, meditative walk through the woods, inspired by the Japanese practice of…
Heritage & History
Ramsgate
Your chance to climb aboard and into the cockpit of one of the museums planes and helicopter to experience what it would have been like piloting them
If that is not enough, find out what it is like to ride in a Fire Engine or Tank
Other
Faversham
Join us for a relaxed and inspiring workshop to design a lampshade to match your upholstery, curtains, wallpaper or any room theme.
Using a professional kit, you will make a 30cm Drum Lampshade from the covering of your choice, which can be used as…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Sandling, Sturry
Forest Bathing in the Blean: Finding Healing in Nature for Grief Support offers a gentle, grounding space for anyone navigating loss. This event is offered on a donation basis, as we understand that accessing support during times of grief can feel…
Other
Faversham
You'll begin the workshop in The Orangery, where your tutor, Rachel, will introduce you to the linocut process with a demonstration. Our Head Gardener will then talk through the foliage and flora she's carefully selected for the workshop.
Guiding…
Childrens Events
Edenbridge
Enjoy a magical Easter at Hever Castle with The Great Dragon Egg Hunt, a family friendly adventure set within the historic Castle grounds. Children and their families are invited to take part in a daring quest to find dragon eggs hidden across the…
Childrens Events
Chatham
This Easter, families are invited to take part in The Great Ocean Egg-sploration at The Historic Dockyard Chatham.
A powerful current has swept through the Dockyard, scattering precious ocean eggs belonging to sea creatures featured in the Ocean…
Other
Faversham
Join us for a unique and creative workshop that blends traditional Japanese craftsmanship with iconic Scottish textiles.
In this hands-on session, you will learn the art of Kanzashi, the delicate technique of folding fabric to create decorative…
Childrens Events
Faversham
Join us for a fun, hands-on children's bath bomb workshop led by local Medical Herbalist Mandy Rickard.
In this exciting workshop, children will create their very own fizzy, colourful and beautifully scented bath bombs from scratch. They will…
Gardens
Faversham
Join local herbalist Mandy Rickard for a relaxing walk, where you'll discover various herbs historically used to treat illness and promote health.
This is a wonderful opportunity to see, smell, and taste these plants in a beautiful garden setting,…
Childrens Events
Ashford
Hop on over to the Farm this Easter, from Friday 3rd April to Sunday 19th April, for fun filled activities the whole family will enjoy!
What's on Friday 3rd to Monday 6th April:
- Meet Noreen Carrots, Lavendar Lamb and Farrington T Fox
- See them…
Sporting Events
Sittingbourne
The Oliver Fisher 10k & 5k returns to our racing calendars on Sunday 10 May 2026 to help raise valuable funds for this wonderful charity. After a brand new course last year, the race continues to boast a delightful off-road route with wonderful…
Childrens Events
Ashford
Make this Mother's Day truly special with a memorable visit to the Rare Breeds Centre. On Sunday, 15th March 2026, we're delighted to offer one complimentary parent or carer day ticket for every group booking with at least one paid adult or child…
Childrens Events
Sevenoaks
Come and have a go at pond dipping at Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve.
Kent Wildlife Trust's Education team will show you the best techniques for dipping, making sure we don't disturb any of the pond's residents, before you have a go yourself. What will…
Gardens
Sevenoaks
Get started creating a garden with nature at its heart in this spring gardening workshop in Sevenoaks.
New to gardening or keen to refresh or build on your skills? This workshop introduces how to create a garden that is both beautiful and provides…
Sporting Events
Lydd
This long-established and highly coveted event takes place on a pancake flat course, using the wide, quiet country lanes surrounding the marsh town of Lydd in Kent. It is the perfect opportunity to test your pace, hydration, and nutrition for…
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