Family friendly attractions in Folkestone, Hythe, Romney Marsh and the Kent Downs

Miles of beaches, adventure playgrounds, steam trains and wild animals make Folkestone and Hythe the perfect place to make lasting memories for the whole family.

Miles of beaches, adventure playgrounds, steam trains and wild animals make Folkestone and Hythe the perfect place to make lasting memories for the whole family. From building sandcastles on Sunny Sands beach in Folkestone or scaling the heights of the adventure playground in the Lower Leas Coastal Park, to enjoying the amusements in Dymchurch or a boat ride on Hythe's Royal Military Canal, there are activities for everyone, whatever your age.

Folkestone Museum offers a friendly, engaging space for all the family to learn about the heritage of Folkestone from its origins as a bustling fishing harbour to its heyday as a fashionable seaside resort. Interactive exhibitions guide visitors through the eras and inspire every generation.

For awe-inspiring wildlife, safari adventures and a unique adventure look no further than Port Lympne Reserve. You can see more than 700 rare and endangered animals in more than 600 acres, go on safari, see Kent’s only giraffe, spectacled bears, the UK’s largest dinosaur collection and much, much more.

If you are seeking some creativity try visiting the numerous art galleries in Folkestone's Creative Quarter, attend a free family workshop at Block 67 on Tontine Street or visit Mudpie to create a unique pottery piece to treasure forever.

Don’t forget to check out the Quarterhouse programme for the latest family theatre show or event. There are numerous family-friendly festivals and events held throughout the year offering music, theatre, comedy and entertainment no matter your age.

For more active families, the area offers surfing, dry slope skiing, boat trips, canoeing, cycling and so much more. You can take a trip on the Royal Military Canal on an electric cruiser, or hire a rowing boat and explore under your own steam. And if it's steam you're after, don't miss the opportunity to ride the one-third size trains of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway.

Adrenaline junkies can get their fix at Dymchurch Amusement Park, just a stone's throw from the beach and at the end of the High Street. With rides and amusements including a ferris wheel, ghost train, log flume and dodgems there's plenty to keep everyone busy.