Family days out in Kent this weekend

by My Kent Family reporter

Need somewhere to take the kids this weekend?

Don't worry, we've got your back with these seven fun-filled events taking place across Kent.

Sheppey Pirates Weekend - Barton’s Point Coastal Park, near Sheerness

Friday, August 4 to Sunday, August 6

Don’t head to Sheppey this weekend without some dry clothes as it's the world’s biggest water fight. The event is part of an action-packed three days organised by the Sheppey Pirates. The fun kicks off at dusk on Friday with a free open-air screening of Muppet Treasure Island. On Saturday it's the pirates’ landing at noon along with what is said to be the world’s biggest water fight. There will also be loads of games for the kids plus live music. On Sunday there's rowing races on the boating lake. Admission is free across the weekend but there will be collections for the RNLI.

More details on the Sheppey Pirates Facebook page

Record crowds at the Sheppey Pirates Festival last year
Record crowds at the Sheppey Pirates Festival last year

Pond Dipping - George’s Barn, Elham Valley Line Trust Railway Museum & Countryside & Craft Centre, Peene

Saturday, August 5

Catch watery beasts in the pond and stream at George's Barn, near Folkestone. Children will also get to learn about the life cycles of some of the animals that they catch. The activity runs for two hours. The event is free although donations are appreciated. The fun starts at 10.30am.

Moe detail from Explore Kent

You will be amazed at the different wildlife you can find pond dipping
You will be amazed at the different wildlife you can find pond dipping

Weald of Kent Steam Rally - Woodchurch, near Ashford

Saturday, August 5 and Sunday, August 6

A massive line-up of heavy metal will be steaming into the county this weekend. As well as the main collection of around 40 steam engines there will be arena events, a ride-on railways plus air displays, helicopter rides and falconry displays. A Victorian fair will top off the two days of traditional entertainment at Little Engeham Farm. Don't fancy driving? Then look out for a vintage bus from Ashford taking people to the show in style. Entry is £8 for adults and £2 for children. The rally is open from 10am to 6pm.

For details go to wealdofkentsteamrally.co.uk

Twins Lucy and Chloe Marsh with their 6-inch scale Wallis traction engine at last year's event Picture: Chris Davey
Twins Lucy and Chloe Marsh with their 6-inch scale Wallis traction engine at last year's event Picture: Chris Davey

Summer Fete and Health Fair - Margate

Saturday, August 5

QEQM Hospital League of Friends stages this family-friendly event in the maternity car park at the hospital in St Peter’s Road, Margate. There's books, bric-a-brac, plants, refreshments, tombola, a raffle and a Punch and Judy show. There will also be a fun dog show with 12 classes. Funds go to league of friends for the hospital.

For details call 01843 234507 or search QEQM League of Friends on Facebook.

Punch and Judy will entertain the kids
Punch and Judy will entertain the kids

The Play That Goes Wrong - Marlowe Theate, Canterbury

Running until Saturday, August 5

The Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society are staging a 1920s murder mystery – but it’s not their night. There’s a clue in the name of their play – The Play That Goes Wrong - a physical comedy with plenty of farce and slapstick, with ambitious and daring design.

The production runs until Saturday, August 5. Tickets, recommended for ages eight and over, from £19 are available on 01227 787787 or by visiting marlowetheatre.com

The Play That Goes Wrong is running at the Marlowe Theatre
The Play That Goes Wrong is running at the Marlowe Theatre

Wind Festival - Betteshanger Park, Deal

Sunday, August 6

A free event celebrating one of the country park’s defining features – the wind! Visitors can explore wind-powered energy with colourful kite flying demonstrations and join in family activities and interactive workshops. You can also make your own kite under expert tuition from Kent Kite Flyers for £3 or take part in a how to fly free session. There will also be kiteboarding demonstrations on the cycle track.

For more details go to betteshanger-park.co.uk

The first ever Wind Festival takes place this Sunday
The first ever Wind Festival takes place this Sunday

Maize Maze - Penshurst Place

This year the annual maze at the historic house between Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells is in the shape of the Sidney Oak, which stood on the estate for some 1,000 years. Open for families to explore until Sunday, September 3, plus an additional weekend of Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10, the maze has two routes, one for children and a more challenging one. Don’t forget to pick up a flag to wave in case you need rescuing!

For details go to penshurstplace.com

The Maize Maze at Penshurst Place
The Maize Maze at Penshurst Place

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