If you're looking for ideas to help maximise your visit, take a look at our two day itinerary with families in mind.

Do part, or all - whatever you choose it's bound to give the little ones (and the big ones too!) a great experience to remember.

Two Day Itinerary

Day One

 After a leisurely breakfast head south east of Ashford towards the Romney Marsh, sometimes known as The Fifth Continent and known for its natural beauty, the diversity of its habitats, rich history, extensive coastline and its sheep.  It is also home to the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway. Take a trip on the world-famous miniature steam railway and amble along the 13½ miles of track that stretches across the picturesque Romney Marsh from the Cinque Port town of Hythe to Dungeness; one of the largest expanses of shingle in the world & designated as a National Nature Reserve.

Lunch

Stop for a light lunch en route at the The 'Light Railway Café' at Dungeness.  Famous for its locally sourced fish, the cafe serves a full menu along with snacks, confectionery and beverages. Snacks and refreshments are also available at New Romney and Hythe stations.  Or indulge in fish and chips and take a stroll along the Victorian seafront promenade at nearby Hythe.

Afternoon

Head back towards Ashford on the A20 and after four miles follow the signs to discover the amazing Port Lympne Reserve, home to over 700 rare and endangered animals. Go on safari and see Kent's only giraffe, spectacled bears and the UK's largest dinosaur collection. 

Home to the UK's original and authentic safari experiences, Port Lympne Reserve offers a unique family adventure like no other zoo!  Set in over 600 acres, you will be transported to the plains of Africa and Asia to see animals roaming freely, then explore on foot to see big cats, small cats, primates, gorillas and many more animals before discovering life sized pre historic creatures in, Dinosaur Forest - all included in the price of your entry ticket!

Day 2

After a good night's rest it's time to discover a few more fun things to do.  Children of all ages will love the exhilaration on offer at Flip Out, Ashford's new trampoline park. Or take a dip at the Stour Centre, Ashford with its two flumes and raging river.

Lunch

A trip into the town centre offers a great choice of eateries and after lunch, pop into the Ashford Borough Museum. Housed in a Grade II listed building in the heart of the town, this museum features exhibits outlining Ashford's history.

Afternoon

Take the short 15 minute drive from Junction 10 of the M20  to the pretty village of Woodchurch and here you will find the Rare Breeds Centre, situated  between Hamstreet and Woodchurch village on the B2067.  Children will love the petting barn where there are lots of animals to meet and pet.  There's also lots of fun things to do for children including two play parks, a tube maze and indoor soft play barn. Falconry displays, pig racing and many special events are held throughout the year.

The charming country town of Tenterden, known as the 'Jewel of the Weald' is close by, and home to the Kent & East Sussex Railway, a full-size working steam railway.  Take a nostalgic trip through the Rother Valley to Bodiam  where kids will delight in exploring Bodiam Castle, an archetypal 14th century moated castle with ruined interior giving a glimpse of medieval splendour.

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