Things to do with children in Kent this weekend including Dartford Festival

One of Kent's biggest free family festivals, a medieval fete, jousting and the arrival of the circus and the fun fair!

There's lots happening in Kent this weekend for families on the lookout for something to do.

Here's our pick of the best weekend events.

Pub In The Park, Tunbridge Wells

Friday, July 12 until Sunday, July 14

Brilliant food, live music and Michelin-starred chefs are set to be served up within the gorgeous surroundings of Dunorlan Park this weekend. The three-day event promises to create the 'ultimate pub garden unlike any other'. But alongside live acts including Basement Jaxx, KT Tunstall and Rick Astley will be a raft of children's activities each afternoon to allow families with yongsters to attend. To learn more click here.

Fun Fair, Star Hill, Rochester

Until Sunday, July 14

All the fun of the fair can be found on Jackson Recreation Ground this weekend. All rides are just £1 (excluding dodgems and activities) and Saturday is also 'children's tv character day'. The fairground opens at 6pm on weekdays but will be open from 2pm over the weekend.

Medieval Fete, Sittingbourne

Saturday, July 13

Birds of Prey, archery and a hog roast will be amongst the attractions at a Medieval fete taking place in Tunstall this weekend. There will also be maypole dancing, hobby horse racing, craft stalls, games and entertainment, a bar and tea room. The event runs from noon until 3pm and children go free, adult admission is just £1. The event is being held in the grounds of Tunstall School.

Dartford Festival, Central Park

Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14

Dartford's fantastic free family festival is this weekend! With a main stage of popular bands, a community stage of local acts alongside stalls, games, a fun fair, food and refreshments there is lots to keep the family busy. Hundreds are expected to attend this exceptionally popular event. To learn more click here.

Jousting at Hever Castle

Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14

The annual summer jousting tournaments begin at Hever Castle this weekend. Look out for Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn and the regal Knights of Royal England. Families can bring a blanket or watch the joust in medieval spectator stands for a small additional charge. The annual competition will take place throughout the summer holidays on select weekends and jousting is included in the price of admission tickets. To learn more click here.

Santus Circus, Ashford

Until Monday, July 15

Great Chart Recreation Ground is hosting the circus this weekend! The circus troupe will be performing shows on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

Promising great fun for all the family, you can get your tickets to a number of performances via the website here.

Chantry Model Boat Club open day, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe

Sunday, July 14

Tugs, sailing boats, warships and submarines will all be on display with the model boat club holds its annual open day on Sunday. The club meets at Bluewater on water near The Village entrance.

Sailing will take place throughout the day from 9am until 4pm for anyone keen to take their kids along to watch the model boats on the water. To learn more about the club visit its website.

Maidstone Mela

Sunday, July 14

Food, music and dance from around the world will be showcased at this free event. Whatman Park in Maidstone is hosting the Maidstone Community Mela.

Among the performers will be a steel band, the Chinese Lions and Kent's Four by Four Bhangra group alongside creative workshops, information and food and drink stalls. You can find out more at www.maidstonemela.com