Fun things to do in your local area
Make the Most of the Months Ahead
Summer may be almost over, but there’s still plenty to see and do across the local area. From family days out and seasonal events to community activities, exhibitions and opportunities to get outdoors, we’ve rounded up some ideas for the coming months.
Take a look below and see what’s happening near you.
Hops ‘n’ Harvest Family Festival – Kent Life
A great autumn day out. The Hops ‘n’ Harvest Family Festival at Kent Life offers something for different ages and interests. Taking place on 12–13 September, the weekend includes live music, fairground rides, bouncy castles, children’s entertainment, food stalls and traditional hop-picking. Visitors can also enjoy Kent Life’s usual attractions, including animal encounters and outdoor play areas, making it a lovely opportunity for families, friends and different generations to spend time together and enjoy a taste of Kentish heritage.
The Collis Millennium Green Summer Fete in Maidstone is on Saturday 12 Sept 2026 from 12.00 to 5.00pm. A chance to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with the local community. With family-friendly activities, stalls and entertainment in the green surroundings of Collis Millennium Green, it’s a great option for residents looking for an enjoyable and relaxed event.
Children’s Book Festival – Dartford
Dartford’s Children’s Book Festival takes place at The Orchards Shopping Centre on 19 September 2026. Aimed at children aged 2–11, the event celebrates classic and new children’s books with storytelling, arts and crafts, interactive characters, roaming dinosaurs, magicians and more.
Tickets cost £2 per child, with activities running throughout the day from 9am–5pm.
Miniature Steam Train Rides – Halloween Run
Enjoy a Halloween-themed miniature steam train ride at the Gravesend Model Marine & Engineering Society. Taking place on 31 October 2026, the special Halloween Run offers train rides throughout the afternoon and into the evening, making it a fun and affordable local activity for families during half term.
The Orchard Theatre Community Fair – Dartford
Head along to Dartford’s Community Fair on 3 October 2026 for a chance to discover more about local groups, organisations and activities in the area. The event is a great opportunity to meet people from across the community, find out what’s available locally and learn about different ways to get involved.
Hollywood Rome – Maidstone Museum
Discover Ancient Rome through the big screen at Maidstone Museum’s Hollywood Rome exhibition, running until 31 October 2026. See screen-used costumes, armour and props from films and TV including Gladiator, Ben-Hur and Spartacus, displayed alongside the real history and archaeology that inspired them. The exhibition also includes interactive elements, original cinema posters and displays exploring classic Roman epics.
Admission starts from £2.25 for children, with under 5s free.
What’s On at Fort Amherst
There’s plenty happening at Fort Amherst in Chatham, with a programme of events and activities taking place throughout the year. Visitors can explore the historic fort and its tunnels, take part in guided tours and look out for special seasonal events, including family activities and Halloween experiences.
Check the Fort Amherst website to see what’s coming up and plan your visit.
Health Walks – Dartford
Dartford Borough Council runs a programme of free weekly Walk & Talk groups across Dartford and the surrounding area. The short, accessible walks typically last between 30 and 90 minutes and are led by trained Health Walk Leaders. There are several locations and days to choose from, including Dartford Heath, Central Park, Greenhithe and Swanscombe.
Walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome. Find out more here!