Seven things to do with the kids in Kent

by Angela Cole

Down in the post-Christmas doldrums? There's still plenty to do out and about in Kent.

Here's seven events to take you places across Kent this week:

1. Wind in the Willows

Saturday, January 13

Enjoy the peaceful pleasures of Ratty’s beloved riverbank in a stage adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s much-loved classic by Box Tale Soup theatre company. The show features handmade puppets for a puppetry adventure and an original score and runs from 6pm at Godmersham and Crundale Village Hall. For tickets call 07964 735878 or visit applause.org.uk

2. Marvellous Margate

Saturday, January 13

Take a morning coastal stroll – and take the dog if your family has one – by walking along the coast to Palm Bay or Westgate with two alternative inland routes, if the wind is blowing off the sea. There will be a stop for refreshments on the way. Meet at Yamis Thai Cafe at 11.15am. For details call 0300 1231220 or go to walkingforhealth.org.uk

Head out on a family walk
Head out on a family walk

3. Kent Life, Maidstone

Saturday, January 13 and Sunday, January 14

It may be January, but the park is still open at weekends throughout this month, with plenty of fun activities for the family, including running wild in the outdoor play area, and heading for the indoor play area and its three floors of fun. Young visitors can also get to know the smaller farmyard friends in cuddle corner and meet the meerkats. Admission is between 10am and 2pm, with the parkng open until 3pm. For details go to kentlife.org.uk

Shilo the Meerkat
Shilo the Meerkat

4. Amazing Wild Weather, Samphire Hoe

All week

Open daily until Wednesday, February 28, Amazing Wild Weather is a celebration of the beauty and power of the elements, as Samphire Hoe takes a battering from the weather regularly. Storms, sunshine and clouds all affect the way we feel about the landscape and they can also be visually appealing. The exhibition is in the education shelter and Samphire Hoe is signposted off the A20 at Dover. For more information call 01304 225649.

5. Paddington 2

All weekend

There's not much time left to catch the lovable bear from darkest Peru on his encounters in the cinema, as it was released back in November. His Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday is coming up, and he’s trying to find the perfect present for her in this eagerly-awaited sequel. Check out the showings in your local cinema.

Paddington 2
Paddington 2

6. The Octopus's Garden at Dreamland, Margate

All weekend

The park itself may not be open but youngsters under eight can still enjoy the Octopus's Garden, with its circus tent, beach hits and climbing frames. You may also get a chance to meet Ozzy the Octopus. Open between 9am and 6pm. Details at dreamland.co.uk

7. Storytelling at the Rare Breeds Centre, Ashford

Wednesdays through to March

Share stories, fairytales and magical journeys in the Discovery Zone at the Rare Breeds Centre every Wednesday in the winter at 11.30am and 1pm. There could also be a bit of singing and dancing for little ones. Details at rarebreeds.org.uk

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