The place is impressive, and worth visiting. Adding the planetarium is a must, especially if you are visiting woth kids. I missed more information about the site itself, the visit felt more like an overview of WWII. The website is also pretty outdated and hard to navigate. Tip: bring a jacket, it is very cold inside the tunnel!!!

I didn’t know what to expect when visiting this museum — I went in completely blind, having done no prior research and only using ChatGPT to help plan my holiday itinerary. I was genuinely in awe when the huge concrete megastructure suddenly came into view as I drove into the car park. It was completely unexpected and an impressive sight to behold. The exhibits, supported by clear and informative supplementary information, made the visit both engaging and enjoyable. That said, a few areas felt a little empty, and additional displays could have further enriched what was otherwise a very well-presented museum. One highlight was the interactive tablet and headset experience, which elevated the visit and made the museum even more immersive. The on-site café was also a pleasant surprise, serving tasty food and drinks at very reasonable prices.

Took my Band of Gamers tour group here on October 2, 2023. The site was absolutely amazing. In addition to the history of the V2 program, the site also presented information on the slave labour the Nazis used to work on this complex - very sobering. In 2019 my group visited the V3 site Mymoceques but we didn't have time to come here. I'm glad we took the time to see it this time. Highly recommend.

If your near by and even have the remotest interest in history, or humanity, go. But bewarned it hits hard. Think about if taking small children is a good idea or not, there are some articles which will need to be explained, but then should be. Will never forget it.

One of the best museums I've visited. As well as the sheer scale of the WW2 remains, it also tells you why, and how, and the human toll it took to build it. The audio-visio guides are superb and show you graphically how and why it was built. A superb museum, superb and friendly staff and a museum that leaves you astounded by the sheer scale. Superb.

Its a beautiful and well preserved memory of the great and indeed insane ambitions of the Third Reich. Combine this visit with a visit to the Blockhaus or the V3 weapon and you'll see what optimism and a lot of money can do. Even though it's unfinished, you'll have a great impression of this site. The interactive tablets do a good job. Some expositions are sadly only in French and the lack of internet under earth invalidate on the fly translation apps. Pre-downloading translations helps. I'll still give it 5 stars. It will take you from 1914 well into the American space program, with a focus on WW2 in Northern France, the resistance and the eventual liberation.

I highly recomend the visit, very well organized museum with a lot of history.

It felt terrifying, cold inside the tunnels, built for one purpose and one purpose alone. The exhibition was very informative and kept children occupied along the way. Staff were vertical helpful when we arrived, car park could have been bigger but that can't be helped. Arrive in the morning to get a space near the front if travelling with children.

I didn’t know what to expect when visiting this museum — I went in completely blind, having done no prior research and only using ChatGPT to help plan my holiday itinerary. While the entrance itself is fairly unassuming, I was genuinely in awe when the huge concrete megastructure suddenly came into view from behind the trees. It was completely unexpected and an impressive sight to behold. The additional exhibits, along with the clear and informative supplementary information, made the visit both engaging and enjoyable. It not only held my attention throughout but also deepened my knowledge in a subject area I find especially fascinating.

Very impressive. You walk through some wooded trails then turn a corner and you get to see the blockhaus. Its brutal architecture is quite daunting. And if you take the time to read or listen to the exhibits there are some incredible facts and figures. We needed more than the 30 minutes we had spare on our way home. Will ve coming again to see it all properly. Best of all is the dedicated parking for motorbikes.

The Eperlecques site is of great historical significance in the context of WW2. The imposing Nazi bunker, intended to serve as launchpad of V2 rockets against the Allies, was fortunately bombed and destroyed in time, preventing its deployment. Today, the site is remarkably well-preserved and maintained. It serves as a testament to the bravery and resilience of those who fought against tyranny and a reminder of the suffering Europe and beyond had endured . Maybe if we could embrace our unique qualities (whether in terms of color, orientation, religion, or background) and respect each other's space, maybe we can make this a better world.

A hidden gem so close to the ferry ports. Very different experience as you walk around the complex not sure what to expect to begin with. It soon comes together and it's really facenating. Keep in mind that most is outside so dress accordingly. Inside of the bunker it's really cold. Very recommended 👍

Wasn't sure what to expect here, but photos really don't do the sheer size of the place. Really impressed with the info and the layout, very impressive and informative.

Just wow! The museum initially looks very unassuming, although interesting. On arrival you enter through a small shop and follow the story whilst looking at a fantastic collection of vehicles, and equipment before turning the corner, then, well, it hits you! The enormous structure appears from almost nowhere. Hidden within the trees, the Eperlecques Blockhaus looks fierce and truly menacing. This is an absolute must see. A well laid out attraction with tonnes of information and displays.

I’ve always been loyal to Le Shuttle for my cross‑Channel dashes, but on this trip, the P&O Calais to Dover ferry was a quarter of the price. Curiosity (and thrift) got the better of me, and I booked my first ever ferry crossing. Well colour me converted. From the moment I rolled aboard, it felt like stepping into a floating First Class lounge. The ship was electric, literally and so smooth I half expected the Captain to pop up and say, “Cabin crew, prepare for arrival,” before I’d realised we’d left port. No clunking, no swaying if only every flight I’d worked was this serene. The seating was clean and comfortable, with plenty of space to stretch out. The food and drink on offer were excellent far cry from the sad sandwich you sometimes get mid‑travel. And the duty‑free? Enormous. Rows of spirits, wine, chocolates and perfume at genuinely tempting prices like being told the galley service was complimentary and never ending. I’ll be honest I don’t think I’ll set foot (car) in the tunnel again. P&O has won me over completely. This was service with sea views and I’m ready to book my return.

We had been using P&O for many years now and I can say for the fact, that they are one of the best around. Very good service provided from dales to boarding. Definitely the best Club Lounge where you will be spoiled for choice. I would say it's better then some airport lounges for sure and highly advisable. Good quality food for the Lounge. It comes with lovely private terrace where you can enjoy the views on sunny days.

Worst organisation ever, dangerous. Surely something can be done to make the check-in/customs procedure more fluid and mostly less dangerous. Cars going and coming from all directions, signage on lanes being changed, buses trying to drive across massive lines of cars (Litterally going in the opposite direction to the cars), causing lots of agressive behaviours and near misses with other vehicles. Disappointing but will make us always choose the euro shuttle in the future, have never had such a chaotic experience with the shuttle, and this is not our first time having a stressful moment when travelling with P&O. Maybe bollards or even marquage on the ground could help? We feel anything at this point would be better than it is now.

Have to be honest here, I was one of those that avoided P&O for a number of years due to bad press they had brought onto themselves. Well it is said that time heels all wounds & P&O may prove the truth of that saying. As I needed to take a short trip over to France, I felt it was time to try P&O again. When you look at the cost across the board with all the ferry companies & Eurotunnel there are no outstanding savings to be made they are all Expensive. P&O ferries however have gone all out to try & give you some value for your money that's way beyond what their competitors offer. P&O have two new Hybrid ferries & I was lucky enough to get onboard the Pioneer for both legs of my journey. I've been using ferries since the early 1970's & I noticed that the Pioneer is something different entirely. My first clue was that we had left the Port of Dover before I had realised that we were moving, that had never happened before normally you can feel the tremendous throbbing of the engines through your feet & a little of the wave action. I know all the ferries going between the UK & France have Stabilisers to improve the comfort of the journey. Well on my journeys to & from France I didn't feel anything greater than a gentle sway, not a single rock of the boat at no time did I need to hold a hand rail even going up or down the stairs. I have a fully electric VW iD.Buzz & while I didn't need to charge as my car had 79% when I boarded in France but there was a CCS charge point just where I parked on the loading deck. I don't know how much P&O charge per KWh but just having the facility on board is a game changer. I will definitely plug in the next time I have the chance. There is one area that P&O does provide very good value for money & I can recommend spending that little extra. The Club Lounge is really worthwhile spending time in, the food on offer on the buffet GREAT a real meal. I was a little cheeky with my choice for the mains but to be fair I didn't have any pudding though they did look wonderful. Going to France I had a Steak & Ale pie on a bed bed of lamb curry with rice, all really good but the Steak & Ale pie 🥧 was outstanding. On the way back to England I had the Steak & Ale pie again (every bit as good as the first) on a bed of chicken curry. Both trips I had numerous cups of very good coffee. All the staff I met while on bored both coming and going were extremely good and very very polite. A mention has to be made to the two girls working in the Club Lounge who were both very happy to help. A special mention must go to Laura in the Club Lounge who has only recently started working on board, she went out of her way to help trying to answer my questions about the P&O Pioneer. For someone who had just started she knew a good deal about the ship but my questions verged on the technical & Laura suggested a book "The Ship of The Future" that was available for £15.00, I now have the book thanks to Laura. So overall would I recommend P&O Ferries? YES I would 👍👍👍. 🥧. 👍👍👍

I usually take P&O when I travel from Dover to Calais, since they seem to have the most reasonable price and the better boats. The Liberté and Pioneer boats are very nice spacious boats.

Inside the ferry is nice and luxury the staff really friendly you can find everything from food,drinks, entertainment and duty free from now on I’ll only travel with p&O

Calais to Dover Honestly, this is a mixed bag for me. As a cyclist who has never been on a ferry of this size before, I did not know what to expect. But I certainly did not expect this: I was told wait with all the other trucks and cars on the lot, awaiting for the ferry. When the ferry arrives, you are being ushered on board with all the other vehicles. The ramp leading up to the ship was kind of terrifying as there were winds of up to 90km/h blowing. The actual passage was chill. Departure was a little bit better since they told me to depart last. Which I was totally OK with.

Great to dive in for a few bottles before the tunnel but a bit massive and overwhelming. No doubt though to shopping enthusiasts it is heaven! Plenty of parking and the dodgy wandering pairs of would be migrants common a couple of years ago seem to have been discouraged.

Plenty of shops and eateries. Good bargains but you do tend to spend more overall. 20% tax refund on certain items if you're returning to UK within 30 days (I think). Shop staff should be able to tell you.

A fantastic huge shopping mall, filled with lots of interesting shops, and free parking, shopping trolleys are available in the carpark just like in the supermarket at home, but don't indicate what coin is required, however a 2 euro coin worked well enough though.

To be honest, for me it's one of the nicest and cleanest mall in France. It's a large one with a wide variety of shops to have a great shopping experience 🛍️ ☺️. I would say the most common international brands have a store in this Mall. From Zara to Primark. I really enjoyed my experience there with so many choices. The parking is easy to access and park. it's a nice place to have dinner or lunch 🍽️ with different type of restaurants. Nice job!! U would highly recommend this mall.

I will not be going back to Flunch! Other shops are nice, mostly the same chains as everywhere else in France, except for the Artisan shop, an unexpected gem in the middle of the dross: real unique handcrafted pieces by local artists, some truly brilliant, such as the stunning chess set made of recycled industrial and mechanical parts. But we made the mistake of trying lunch at Flunch, for a French experience, and that was a bit of a culture shock: the service was mostly poor (not enough staff), the starters included watermelon served with cheese (yuk), and the water looked dirty. However, the steak was actually good quality and tasty, to be fair.

Large shopping spaces and seating areas, toilets are clean and tastefully designed with lots of space. Great food court and lots of variety. And the kids can stay all day, entertainment are endless and fun. Ample parking two levels for you to choose, great mall...

We thought it was an excellent shopping centre. Looked smart, easy to navigate through, good varieties of shops available, massive car park, and the design of the outside of the shopping centre looks apart too. Be aware to take the correct exit on the motorway otherwise you risk to end up in the lorry bit for boarding euro tunnel like we did but if you do don't panic there is a roundabout just before customs :)

Beautiful long beach with lots of activities for children. Very surprised to see the majority of attractions were closed even the beach side eateries and bars. We had to walk inland to get something. Plenty of parking. Dog friendly beach is restricted to the high point of the dunes.

The day we were there was wonderful. People were flying kits, sunbathing and playing games on the beach. The sand was fine and soft, had to take off my shoes and walked on it. Compared to beaches in English, this beaches is fantastic. 🏊‍♀️

Beautiful beach! Especially the side with the dunes and the park/ forest. Town center is very cute. The only downside is finding a table in a restaurant. Make sure you make a reservation before heading to town. They have very specific times for the kitchen.

Beautiful soft and deep sand that went on for miles and miles. Very spacious. We were there early morning and basically had the beach to ourselves. We found some free parking on the residential streets a few roads down from the pay and display streets and only walked about 10 mins from car to beach. Lovely quaint restaurant/cafes and shops. And also a market selling clothes, crystals bags and food etc. Was a lovely day trip. Would recommend.

Great golf courses and the town is fantastic for great food and a beer. The Westminster hotel was great too!

Unique premise and atmosphere here. Very grand buildings on outskirts and in surrounding forests, becoming more modern towards the seafront. Beautifully manicured areas outside of impressive hotels and apartment blocks. Rue Saint Jean is main pedestrian thoroughfare to the beach area with designer shops inland, giving way to bars and boutiques towards the seafront. Different every time we come, but always fantastic. The beach is very large and clean, with sunbeds and parasols available in season, with an adventure complex and various eateries and bars.

Nice golden sand , stretches for miles, warm sea.

Such a beautiful place. We had the opportunity to see it just before closing and it was worth it for a few minutes. Definitely will definitely be coming back soon.

The crypt was interesting and very large. The combination ticket giving entry to it and 2 other museums is great value at 11 euros.

Stunning!! So peaceful and well maintained. Could do with the information desk/shop to be at the entrance instead of the exit! No toilet facilities I have seen neither which always helps. It is lovely to visit a church that is open to the public. Something that you rarely see in England unless it is a big city.

The Cathedral Notre-Dame is absolutely worth a visit. The church itself is grand and impressive, with a unique and restored dome that really sets it apart from other cathedrals I've seen. What truly stood out, though, were the crypts underneath—also recently restored and incredibly atmospheric. The scale and detail of the underground chambers are breathtaking and give a real sense of the history and depth of the place. A must-see if you're in the area!

What a stunning place 😍 We visited the crypt and the church. The crypt cost 6€ for adults and free for kids under 18. I can really recommend paying for the crypt, soo special🤩 The church have the most beautiful tower, worth to see 😍

Free access, the dome shall be the priority to visit an after catacombs- which are unique and well organized and maintained- extraordinary place with atmosphere and history which you can see and feel.

Stunning architecture! Free to enter and the perfect peaceful pause for a day out in the city.

We visited D on a weekday during the holidays, and it was an awesome experience! The aquarium offers a wonderful opportunity to view and learn about a wide variety of sea creatures. It's both fun and educational, especially for kids. They will definitely enjoy the interactive exhibits and get a chance to gain knowledge about marine life. The display of different types of sea fishes—from colorful reef species to large predators—is truly fascinating. The environment is well-maintained and family-friendly, making it a perfect holiday outing. Highly recommended for families looking for an engaging and informative day out! Recommended to visit in the morning session to avoid the crowds.

This should definitely be on any to do list if in or around the Boulogne area. Worth the money and time we'll spent. Would recommend leaving at least 4 hours as there is plenty to see and the large tank is truly amazing. Was shocked when seeing the large manta ray emerge from the darkness for the first time. It's also very educational so would highly recommend. Will go again next time I'm in the area

The most amazing experience! 3 main exhibits, the first of which I spent more then two hours in, gazing at the largest aquarium in Europe was comfortable, spacious and signs were easily translated. Many of the staff were bilingual and so helpful! There were little spots to eat including a restaurant, clean restrooms and lockers to store your belongings. Outside the front of Nausicaa is also a lovely green area with children's play park and access to watch the sea lions! There was so much information accessible and interactive activities to keep children engaged whilst being educational. I will absolutely return here one day!

This is a beautiful aquarium with an excellent story telling about the ocean. We really enjoyed the jelly fishes , corals and the story telling. I don't fully agree with the sea lion attraction hype but they are nice. The best is the manta ray fish in the main pool which makes all the kid wonder with awe and equally so the adults. This place has a good restaurant as well and therefore don't worry about going out for food. This place takes 4.5 hrs of you would like to walk through everything.

Such a brilliant day out with the family. It is so much bigger than we were expecting. 3 different areas to look around, with so many tanks and other things to do. Lovely restaurant on site with lots of options. Would definitely recommend to anyone going to the area. 10/10. Definitely book in advance online, we were able to book the group tickets and saved a lot of money. It was very busy, with lots of school trips. We went on a Friday.

This place is truly one of the best! It offers so much more than a typical aquarium. the experience is absolutely surreal. Please note that outside food isn't allowed, but the on-site café serves both hot and cold meals. With multiple levels to explore, it's a good idea to fuel up beforehand. Be prepared for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and come ready for an adventure!

Wonderful aquarium with huge tanks, so many different species of fish and some big Stingrays and sharks and a selection of well thought it and interesting exhibits. The cafe is good too and plenty to see and do for the day, even the kids are entertained.

Me and a friend turned up a little late for the last tour of the day, however thankfully we were let in anyway. Both tour guides Luke and Martin were very friendly and knowledgeable. I would recommend this tour to anyone in the area, tour ticket prices are about £9 per adult and well worth it !

We did the tour of Ramsgate Tunnels. Our tour guide was Gill. The tour was brilliant. It was done at a nice pace, very informative and with humour. You really get a flavour of what life was like during war time. The history of the tunnels was fascinating . The staff are all volunteers. I highly recommend this tour. Thanks Gill, you are a star!

Ramsgate Tunnels is a significant attraction with a rich historical background mainly due to its contribution during World War II. The tour lead, who was a very knowledgeable guide, was absolutely brilliant where we were told about the vast history behind the plan and its execution and the role it played to protect thousands of families during the war. The temperature inside the tunnel remains at steady 11C throughout. The tour takes roughly 1 hour 30 mind and advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointments. We visited on 7th September where the British railways had numerous displays of 200 year history of the railways which we were so keen and excited to have a look. This is worth to visit and know about its history, significance as well as enjoy the genuine beauty of the well preserved site.

My sister and I paid a visit to the secluded war time tunnels in Ramsgate, we booked our places on the tour about an hour before. Then went for a walk. We paid £9 per adult which I think was a reasonable amount. The tour starts with a short video. Clive our main guide/volunteer was very informative with a sense of humour and the other 2 volunteers (I think were Trevor and ?Kevin?) were extremely patient & helpful, pointing out markings on the walls, lighting up areas with their torches so we could get better photographs . The tour was approx. 2 hrs. I would advise sensible footwear as in places it was a bit wet & slippery, some mats/boards were down so that your feet wouldn't get too wet. We enjoyed our tour and the museum. They also had a little cafe area at the entrance which we did not make the use of on this occasion. I would highly recommend a visit 👍🏻

Brilliant bit of history I didn't know was there!! Cheap to enter, well worth the hour and half tour. Not recommended for small kids.

A fascinating trip into Ramsgate's wartime past. Our guide, Kim, gave us insights into the experiences of the wartime residents of the town (with some mention of those from Margate too 😂). He made the visit even more interesting due to his enthusiasm and passion for the subject and the tunnels. We would highly recommend this tour.

Worth every penny of the tour cost. Tour guide Bruce was very knowledgeable and interesting, kept everyone captivated throughout. Lasted approximately 90 minutes. I highly recommended this tour.

The Shell Grotto is definitely a unique and interesting place to visit - I just wish it was a little bigger/there was a little more to see. Fascinating series of passages and small rooms beautifully decorated with shells. And how and why it was done is still a mystery. I enjoyed reading all the history and info. Recommend. Only a 10/15 min walk from the old town (and we also saw a lovely Tudor house).

Visited the Shell Grotto and really enjoyed it. The staff were very friendly. And there's a nice selection of items you can buy in the shop. Definitely worth seeing. It was quite busy when we went in Sunday, but you can explore it in about 15 min. A short but very interesting experience.

Interesting place to visit and cheap activity. It takes approx 10 mins to walk around you can make it longer if you really want to inspect the design. But it is very small so if you area bit wary of tight spaces be aware this may not be for you. They have some interesting facts before you head down to the grotto. The team are friendly and the gift shop is lovely if a bit small when there are lots of people. Definitely worth a visit

Much smaller than expected but still very interesting with a little bit of history and alot of skill. I feel the entry price is far too expensive for something that took me 5 minutes to walk around, but for someone particularly interested in the artwork and fancy something different to look at, its still good. The gift shop is a must see as has plenty of gorgeous seashells and a few other pretty items for sale. No toilets or parking, if your lucky you can find free street parking nearby.

Visiting the Shell Grotto was an unforgettable experience. The moment I stepped inside, I couldn’t believe my eyes — every surface is covered in intricate patterns made entirely from seashells. It’s both mysterious and magical, and truly unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. This is absolutely a must-see destination for anyone. After exploring the grotto, I enjoyed browsing the charming gift shop, which offers a wonderful selection of seashells and other unique treasures to take home as souvenirs.

Stunning place decorated with many shells. Definitely worth a visit. There is also a shop to buy all sorts of small things. Not far, 3-4 minutes walk, there's a carpark with a pound stretcher, there the parking is free for two hours.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely mesmerizing! The Shell Grotto is one of Margate's hidden gems and a truly unique experience. From the moment you descend into this mysterious underground tunnel, you're transported into something magical. The intricate shell mosaics covering every surface are breathtaking - it's incredible to think that millions of shells were carefully arranged to create these beautiful patterns and designs. The craftsmanship is extraordinary, and the fact that we still don't know who created it or exactly when adds to the mystique. The audio guide is excellent and really helps you appreciate the history and theories surrounding this fascinating place. The lighting creates a wonderful atmospheric experience that makes the shells shimmer and come alive. Perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone looking for something completely different. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the gift shop has some lovely souvenirs. Don't miss this incredible piece of Margate's heritage - it's unlike anywhere else in the world! Well worth the visit and the ticket price. Highly recommended!

Dropped by Turner Contemporary during a day trip beach day to Margate and really enjoyed it. It’s free, super clean, and well looked after. I only had a quick wander before closing but it was still a really nice visit. Being right by the water is an added bonus. Worth checking out if you’re in Margate!

We spent a lovely couple of hours wandering through the galleries. All very well curated. Great for school groups. No entrance fee. Just donations requested. Small but interesting gift shop with pottery that reflects Turners key work.

I am always excited to see what's going to be on display next. The presentation is always top class with such attention to details. My daughter and I are frequent visitors.

It's free so always worth popping in if you're in Margate anyway. Quite surprised and a bit disappointed that there is literally just the one lonely Turner there. The other exhibits were a mixed bag really, two beautiful sculptures as you enter but the rest were bafflingly naive. Personal taste of course with any exhibition.

Always enjoy visiting the Turner no matter what the exhibition. It’s light,airy, has a great gift shop and cafe, entertainment for kids and decent toilets. We could easily spend a day here when the kids were small but now they are older it tends to be a couple of hours.

Super spot, convenient and plentiful parking, easy access to the gallery. Well worth a visit just to experience this amazing space…. which is just as well as the current exhibit (Anna Boghiguian) looked like it had been produced by a class of 6 year olds… which any self respecting 6 year old might even take umbrage with.

Hi all just been to the turner exhibition only one painting by him which we found unusual in the turner center lol The shell girl was good and the paintings and pictures buy the kids and teenagers of the area where good the sunken ship couldn't get my head around the chess piece where ok and the undersea world was ok .

The Folkestone Harbour along with the Lighthouse is an iconic attraction for anyone visiting Folkestone. The place has a long history dating back in the 1900s. The photos along with the valuable information speaks a lot. The Harbour area was quite windy when we visited yesterday but Sun came out later and calmed the environment. There is an entertaining promenade with live music and food cafes along with good seating arrangements. A place worthy to visit in summer.

What an amazing place to spend a few hours (or maybe a full day). Absolutely loved what had been done with a disused railway station. There are some great bars eateries, offering exceptional views across the English Channel.

The harbour arm has been 'done up' and is very nice. There are lots of independent small market shops and places where you can eat and drink, a bit like Christmas Market huts. There is a big outdoor TV screen fir watching sports etc. Not sure whether all this is seasonal abd just maybe weekends out of season? But there are other places such as the very nice bar by the lighthouse, and a small brewery pub that I should imagine stays open more regularly. There is also a few fair rides. The views of folkestone are lovely from here too.

Enjoyed a lovely walk from Lower Leas car park along the promenade & boardwalk to the harbour arm. Here we stopped at the Champagne bar in the old lighthouse. Well worth a visit, nice cocktails and yummy charcuterie.

I adore Folkestone Harbour. The views are absolutely stunning, if you're visiting Folkestone, you simply cannot miss the Harbour Arm. Plenty of independent traders offering a great range of foods and drinks, there's truly something for everyone. Lots of different events and entertainment on throughout the year... I could go on and on!

My first visit to Folkstone to explore the colorful Artist Quarter. Lovely coffee shops open on a Sunday morning, already buzzing with people! Colours of painted shop fronts were joyful and welcoming as I walked down old High Street to the Harbour. Spectacular views east to fishing fleet and chalk cliffs. Beautiful tulips planted in a memorial garden. I loved this visit to Folkstone!

I visited Folkestone and found it to be a charming seaside town with a nice mix of history, coastal views, and places to relax — the harbor area is great for a stroll, and it’s a pleasant spot to enjoy the sea atmosphere.

Free coffee and lately free snacks won't make up for overall cleanliness and horrendous state of the Club Car bathrooms. Tap water often smells worse than what you've left in the loo; hope they use different water for the coffee machines! Quick way across, just don't touch anything without gloves.

More often than not one train an hour during the night. Understandable at the beginning of the week when it’s quiet. but mid week when it’s busy and the lines are full and still only One train an hour, terrible service. Quite often have sat waiting to get on a train for two hours because of lack of trains being put on!

Fast and good service, if customs go smoothly…

I use this service multiple times a week and in both directions. When it runs properly, its a fantastic service! But the calais side is by far the worst side! It is an unnecessarily long process just to get through to the lanes. Don't bother even checking the train times on the app as they stop your lane half way through just to send a half empty train! 4 departures an hour, but sat in the lanes for over 30 minutes? I wonder how they get to those departure numbers. The staff are friendly enough though. The coffee on board is rancid but the hot chocolate is nice enough. Toilets can be hit and miss to the cleanliness, but thats down to the drivers. And let's face it, how many don't practice self hygiene. The toilet flushes only work as and when they want to. The carriages themselves are right enough. But I wonder when the last time they were given a deep clean was. Using the service today, I had over a 30 min wait I the lanes and there were only 10 drivers on board the carriage whilst the lanes were getting very full. They could have fit atleast another 2 lanes of trucks on this train alone. They prioritise passenger trains over freight. In January 2025, they removed the duty free from the UK side from freight drivers but kept the passenger side to which we have no access. We was told this would be for 6 weeks or so whilst they build a new one. Middle of August and there is still no duty free for freight drivers on the english side. There is so much room for improvement, but you never see any change.

Nice and quick through the lanes at the minute in the uk. But why do inside the trains have to be so bloody hot get some air-conditioning pumping through them properly

Currently missing 8 journeys for my points crossing, and the most recent shuttle had a very strong smell of bo

Cool 30 not long

Went on a Thursday, a week day. Large cathedral, bigger than expected. It did have some construction ongoing outside so that did affect the pictures of the building. Staff and volunteers inside were friendly and happy to tell you a lot about the history, for free. Ticket office staff also helpful explaining the differences in tickets. Very quick and easy. Cathedral probably needs two visits and definitely a tour guide to fully appreciate. There is a cafe and restaurant, and even a hotel. Toilet facilities were adequate. Good places to sit and read if you need a break also. Definitely will return.

Very impressed. More than expected. Magnificent architecture. Huge, light, airy and less dark and oppressive when compared with Westminster Abbey. Beautiful ceilings and stained glass and extensive history. Less ‘tombs’ and fortunately less busy midweek. During our visit a Chaplain addressed all visitors briefly from the pulpit, and offered a prayer, using the cathedral for it’s intended purpose as a place of worship - not a tourist attraction - as it should be. The entry fee to the Cathedral is very reasonable considering the cost of maintaining the building and overseeing visitors. We paid an additional small sum for a guided tour which was exceptional. Lucky to get a ticket. The volunteer gave us a lot of insight into the development of Christianity in the UK, the various phases of the Church during different occupations and global conflicts, the murder of Thomas Beckett in 1170 AD, the destruction of his shrine by King Henry VIII in 1538, all wrapped up with visiting the different areas of the building and outlining the many extensions and renovations over 1000 years! Wonderful learning experience.

A beautiful and peaceful place to spend the day. You can wander around the whole site taking in all of the history and story of the cathedral. There is plenty to see inside both in the crypt and the main floor. You can walk through the entire cathedral. There are places set aside for prayer and quiet contemplation. The outside areas are quiet and interesting to look at. Since the building has been cleaned on the outside you get a good feel for the surroundings and what it would have looked like when it was built. Hearing the bells on the hour was magical and seeing the places where St Thomas was murdered and the site of his tomb before it was destroyed in the reformation makes you stop and think. A fantastic day and a day of learning is never wasted. One day I will return to learn some more. Thank you.

Beautiful Cathedral inside and outside. Very well maintained. You might need two days to walk around inside and outside, lovely gardens with lots of historical information. We thought it was free to enter, but it wasn't. We brought tickets either £19 or £21.00 each (don't remember exactly) they are valid for 12 months from the day of purchase. Just as well really, we thought they opened early on Sunday mornings, but they don't they have Sunday service and they open at 12.30. We had planned to go somewhere else and couldn't wait that long. We managed to walk around inside on Saturday morning early when it was quiet. The cathedral echos when people are talking, it looses it's essence of peace and solidtude. Definitely check the opening and closing times when planning a visit, it isn't visible from the outside of the cathedral which currently has scaffolding surrounding it for maintenance work. I will definitely go back to walk around the remainder of the cathedral before our tickets expire.

Stunning... Just walking around this magnificent building is a delight... And there's no charges. So with a beautiful cathedral and a lovely quaint town with plenty of food options you definitely cannot go wrong for a good day out..

The Cathedral is truly a jewel of medieval architecture. The town, where Charles Dickens once lived for a while, has its own magic. You can feel the atmosphere of English life, away from the hustle and bustle of London (in a certain sense, it conveyed this to me). In the winter, it comes alive with university student life, and I think the pace of daily life changes, but despite everything, it remains beautiful to visit, perhaps even better.

Canterbury Cathedral Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking buildings I’ve ever visited. The sheer age of the structure is humbling; knowing that parts of it date back nearly a thousand years adds a deep sense of history to the experience. The moment you approach, its towering spires and intricate stonework capture your attention, and once inside, the vast height of the vaulted ceilings makes you feel both small and inspired at the same time. The architecture is stunning in every detail, from the stained-glass windows that flood the interior with soft, colorful light to the finely carved stonework and the elegant arches that seem to stretch endlessly upwards. Despite its grandeur, the atmosphere within the cathedral is remarkably peaceful. Walking through the nave and chapels, you can’t help but feel a sense of calm and reflection, as though the very walls hold centuries of prayer and contemplation. What struck me most was how the cathedral manages to balance its scale and significance with an atmosphere of serenity. It is both a place of awe-inspiring beauty and a space that feels profoundly spiritual. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a quiet, moving experience, Canterbury Cathedral is an unforgettable place to visit.

The beer was fine, but leaving the door open on a cold night was not a particularly welcoming atmosphere. No food is served. Very handy if you're visiting the Marlowe theatre opposite.

Service was fine but the pub stunk of damp, was very cold and the women’s toilets were mouldy. Not enjoyable for pre-theatre drinks. Could be a cosy little pub if it was cared for.

It’s not sure if it’s a pub or a disco/nightclub. No ales available. £6.40 a pint! You’re having a laugh! We’re in Canterbury, not London. One mouthful of substandard ipa and left. Please let someone who actually cares about their clientele take over.

Wondered into the Canterbury tales pub as just a stones throw from the marlowe theatre. Several pumps had run out so not much choice of beers. Pub was completely dead. Looked like the gents toilets was out of order so a bit of paper on the womens said unisex toilets. Was really cold inside the pub and smelt of dogs.

Got to experience folk music at its finest. Quaint bar worth a visit

Really interesting, the guides add humour and makes it an enjoyable experience...

Great location and simple in design and offerings. Definitely more of a "student vibe" but have to say they try their best to accommodate all. Stick to what's on tap and don't deviate to cocktails and you'll be fine!

The Marlowe theatre is a lovely newer building among the historic area around it. There are a few disabled parking spots just outside the entrance. There was a spot selling merch for the show (Rocky Horror) and a bar. The seats were comfortable and the stage was large and designed well. The show was great and well done everybody! Staff were very friendly. Toilets are clean.

Love going to the theatre... because I'm short, sometimes I struggle to see among the heads but yesterday I tried one of those cushions they provide and it was much better and SO comfy. Treat yourself to a night out! Oh! And we had dinner at the green room and it was delicious 😋

Lovely Theatre. Friendly staff. Comfortable seats. Bat out of Hell is an amazing show. There is so much talent on stage. We saw it being filmed for Cinemas.

Very good venue, well organised and spacious seating. Excellent selection of top quality shows. Highly recommended

My husband and I went to the Marlowe recently. Whilst there are steps up to the theatre from the street, there is also a slope for those with mobility issues. Our seats at the back of the stalls were comfortable and we had a good view of the stage. My husband has some mobility issues but the staggered steps were easy for his to access. A very enjoyable time

The Marlowe has some fabulous shows which never disappoint. Seats are a good, comfortable size. My only real gripe is the cost of their alcoholic beverages. While I may only have 1 glass of wine, I refuse to pay £11 for a 200ml bottle of prosecco, so do not purchase anything. This is my choice but its just far too expensive for me!!

Brilliant venue in the centre of Canterbury. Was pretty warm when I visited but inside was nice and cool. the only issue for me is the cost of parking nearby but this is not fault of this stunning venue.

I recently stayed overnight at Pinewood Lodge with my two kids (ages 5 and 8) and had such a great time! The lodge was cozy, the beds were nice and snuggly, and it was perfectly located for exploring the park. The kids absolutely loved the primate trail and the Dinosaur Forest, and the safari ride was a big highlight — spotting rhinos, giraffes, bison and more felt like a real adventure. They also had so much fun roasting marshmallows by the fire in the evening and next morning, which made the whole experience even more special. We really enjoyed our meal at Babydoll’s Restaurant too — great food and a lovely atmosphere to end the day. Everything was well organised, the staff were friendly and helpful, and we’ll definitely be back. A brilliant mix of wildlife, learning and fun for families!

My husband and I had a fantastic time at Port Lympne. We stayed at the hotel for 2 nights in the Sir Phillip Sassoon executive suite and it was beautiful. We had an evening meal at the Baby Doll restaurant on our first night and on our second night we had an evening meal at Bear Lodge restaurant, and breakfast was also served in Bear Lodge. The food in both restaurants was delicious. On our first day we did the Gorilla Encounter, we got to feed the gorillas from the roof top and then see them inside, following that we had a safari and on our 2nd day we did the Giraffe Encounter and got to feed the giraffes. The staff on both encounters and the guide on our safari were fantastic, very informative, very welcoming and we had the best time even the rain on our first day didn’t stop us. Having the use of a golf buggy during our stay was also a bonus. Every member of staff made us feel so welcome and nothing seemed to much trouble, we will definitely be returning in the very near future

A fantastic day out with our 16 months old. What we absolutely loved about this park was the fact that the animals had SO much room. We've never been to a zoo before where animals have been so fortunate to be placed there. When we compare it to Howletts it's night and day the animal welfare. You guys have done a brilliant job here, animals come first. Yes, you don't always see the animals, but that in my eyes is a brilliant thing, cause it means they have a more realistic habitat. The Sunday roast in the Garden room was just brilliant, couldn't reccomend this enough. The service was also fantastic. We wouldn't hesitate coming back. It's great to support a park that actually care about the animals and use the money to better not only captive animals lives, but also animals in the wild. So refreshing to see a company doing the right thing for once. One thing to note, it is VERY hilly, so having a push chair was a work out for us with steep hills etc. we were pretty shattered at the end of the day, but little one loved it!

5 stars all round, without a doubt. We stayed in Mansion House, and the room was one of the best we’ve ever experienced — waking up each morning to the sounds of tigers, lions, lemurs, and more was unbelievable. We also did the Ranger Safari with Will, who was excellent: friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about what he does. The food throughout our stay was incredible, and the whole experience felt like a once-in-a-lifetime getaway. Truly unlike anything I’ve ever done before. Highly recommend.

Rhino lodge. Where to start? Staff were great checking in, we were chauffeured to our lodge by a very knowledgeable young man who was extremely chatty. The lodge was clean, everything had been thought of, like toiletries, some snacks and drinks. There were even robes and slippers for us all to use. To our children's delight there were Rhinos by the fence in the paddock so they were straight out to see them. Next stop was the safari, the guide knew everything there was to know and shared so much information. Dinner at Babydolls was excellent. We had a fire pit in the garden and marshmallows had been lift in the lodge with sticks for us. This was a lovely touch! Breakfast in the garden room was beyond expectations, the food was incredible. The highlight of our stay for the kids was our golf buggy and being able to go round the zoo after closing time and early in the morning with no crowds. Not a cheap 24 hours, but one we'll never forget!

Booked a night at the Hog Deer Creek accommodation for my partner’s birthday. Absolutely amazing experience all round. The park itself is excellent, the animals are clearly well cared for with plenty of space. The staff on site be it in the reception, concierge, facilities team, rangers or restaurants are friendly, organised and highly professional. The food was fantastic and the Giraffe Experience is definitely worth doing. The accommodation itself was immaculate. Cosy, well equipped and it was extremely fun driving around such a large well kept site in the golf buggy. 5* all round, will 100% be returning again.

This was a truly magical stay & experience, with my daughter and grandsons, aged 12 & nearly 10 both wondered why we would stay two nights surely we can do the zoo in one day !! Ummm they soon changed their minds having the best time ever and loved every minute. Breakfast at the bear lodge was delicious, BabyDolls restaurant was a favourite a more relaxed vibe for children than the Garden room restaurant which we ate at the second night, food at both was very good and wouldn’t expect anything less. I would highly recommend this stay and would definitely go back. We made memories together that we will never forget.

We had a fantastic day of flying birds of prey with Paul, learning about each bird throughout the day. Would absolutely recommend and do again, thank you Paul for hosting and Zoe for organising.

My sister and I spent the day flying birds of pray at the Hawking Centre last week and can thoroughly recommend this experience. Zoe, the handler, was friendly, engaging, informative and very good with some children who were a bit apprehensive. We thought she handled the birds sensitively and made allowances for their mood and natural behaviour. It was lovely to see how much she cares for her job and the birds she looks after. She was very observant and intuitive about the different birds moods or if something (eg a dog) was upsetting them.

What a day! Had the full day VIP experience bought for myself by my Wife for Father's say. Wife came along to spectate. Nadia was brilliant, and the birds were unbelievable, especially Moet the eagle, and Mavis the vulture! Acrually they were ALL fantastic. Lunch wasn't the best, but we weren't hungry, and the day was about the birds! Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, and the Wife was actually terrified of birds when we got our first parrot five year's ago!

We booked the experience on a whim and I am so glad we did. It was an absolute highlight of our holiday. We had not expected to be so close to the birds, it was just beautiful to see them fly and land on your arm and you can really tell the handlers love their animals and understand what they need. We had a wonderful time, learned a lot and can only recommend everyone to go.

Well what amazing day out. A massive thank you to Paul this guy what he doesn't know about these amazing birds turely outstanding. The group i was with ask him so many questions and he knew everything about these birds. So a big thank from Steve and lesley for such a lovely day.

Absolutely brilliant time had with Paul and the birds. Paul has so nuch knowledge to share and a natural affinity with all his beautiful birds. We will definitely be back and recommend to everyone we know

We bad a fantastic experience at the Hawking Centre today. Learnt lots about birds of prey and had a fun day out, would highly recommend.

Could not believe the sand is so smooth here where the beach elsewhere in the UK is so pebblish and hard to walk around. Could see some kids doing sand surfing and is a very dog-friendly place. There are tides at different periods and riptides at some area.

❤️❤️Beautiful Beach ❤️❤️ expect a lot of people ❤️❤️ Lifeguards on location ❤️❤️Two things which I didn’t like No quality shops around for food . Parking Charge is too high 😐.. One more thing Seagull are very aggressive… Anyway if you plan properly like take food and park but far and keep eye on Seagulls then it very beautiful place to see .. ❤️❤️

Lovely beach. Served by lifeguards during peak season. Nice cafes on beach

Beautiful beach and place to go. We had an amazing day here and it was really cool to observe the tides. Water is not super clear so visibility is nothing special, but good for a short swim. The beach is clean and there is plenty of space to chill and relax.

Camber Sands beach is easily accessible from London and makes for a perfect day trip. We had a wonderful experience with its stunning turquoise water and beautiful sand dunes. What made it truly unique was the mix of soft sand, shingles, and pebbles all in one place. A peaceful and scenic spot to relax, explore, and enjoy nature.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Had a fantastic day at Camber Sands Beach! The beach itself is absolutely stunning, with golden sands stretching for miles, perfect for a long walk or a relaxing day by the sea. The parking was easy and affordable, and it was great to see clean, well-maintained toilet facilities nearby too. A brilliant spot for a family day out, we’ll definitely be coming back!

Camber Sands is without doubt one of our absolute favourite beaches in the UK. It’s a stunning stretch of coastline with soft, rolling waves of golden sand that seem to go on forever – perfect for long walks, sandcastles, or just lounging in the sun. The kids absolutely love it here – they’re constantly darting between the water and the sand, always finding something to do. Whether it’s paddling in the shallows, digging holes, or chasing each other up and down the dunes, there’s never a dull moment. There’s plenty of parking available, which makes getting in and out stress-free, even on busier days. Around the area, you’ll find handy little shops selling beach toys and snacks, which is brilliant if you’ve forgotten a bucket or spade. And for food, you can’t go wrong – there are some excellent fish and chips spots nearby, ideal for a proper seaside lunch. Camber Sands has that rare mix of natural beauty and family-friendly amenities. It’s clean, spacious, and full of charm. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, it’s a perfect beach for all ages. We never get tired of coming back!

Great little train and trip. Railway staff were brilliant. Not particularly cheap, but value for money. We managed to get our own carriage both ways, think that it would have been a little less special if we had had to share with other passengers. Scenery outstanding.

We planned to visit Bodiam Castle and couldn’t think of a better way to travel there than on the steam train from Tenterden. What an excellent decision, we had a lovely day out, enjoyed looking out for wildlife on the train journey and loved the atmosphere. I would highly recommend this to everyone!

The Kent and Sussex Railway is really worth a visit for a fantastic day out. Nice big free car park and lovely friendly staff and volunteers everywhere making sure you have a wonderful day. The atmosphere is great as steam loco's move about while you wait to board for a journey to Scotney castle and back. Barrie and I did the trip a couple of times on different loco's and enjoyed sausage and mash for lunch at Tenterden Station. The museum is well worth a visit near the car park. We had a really exciting day, thank you.

An interesting heritage railway capturing the atmosphere of a bygone era of travel by train. The main station is Tenterden which has a booking office, catering facilities and a railway museum. The journey is through countryside with a few intermediate stations, one of which has holiday let's in old railway carriages. The end of the line is Bodiam which boasts a castle about a 10 minute walk from the station.

Nice little place, lovely friendly staff working in the railway station. I paid for a guest class cream afternoon tea with the steam train. I did not get the first class photo advertised on the publicity and I did not get the tide on a steam train. They gave me a complementary voucher not valid in many special occasions with a free ginger biscuit. I was dissatisfied since I did not pay for that. The museum is small but worth it.

Fantastic railway. Served up a great diesel gala, might have been a good idea to hold the 1015 from Tenterden to Bodiam for the shuttle bus from Ashford seeing as there were so many passengers on it.

If you want the steam train experience then this is the place. The whole experience is like going back in time. The volunteers who run this are amazing. The train ride takes about 50min with 4 stops, old level crossings, whistles, and flags. Original carriages and dinners.

​I had a truly fantastic trip to Leeds Castle. This place is awesome—it genuinely feels like a jewel in a crown. ​While the entry cost is significant, it is absolutely worth the price because there is SO MUCH TO DO, making it an easy full-day trip. Even better, your ticket allows you to return for a whole year! ​The grounds are magnificent and incredibly varied, featuring beautiful hilly areas, serene lakes, and varied walled garden areas. Don't miss the maze, the epic-looking children's playground, the Birds of Prey display, and the unique and fun Dog Collar Museum (the only one, I believe!). Inside the castle is amazing, filled with great displays and information. ​What really stands out is the clear investment and the incredible staff. The whole operation is so well-organized, and there are countless staff members who were universally friendly, kind, and helpful. ​The café was especially great! The food was good, and the Lemon Drizzle Cake was absolutely sublime—a perfect break during the day. ​Plus, you can buy duck food in the gift shop—a small touch, but very fun for feeding the birds! Highly, highly recommend this incredible historical gem.

Wow, Leeds castle was stunning. Set in the countryside, the drive up to the castle you knew it was going to be spectacular and we weren't disappointed. The grounds are stunning. It just got better and better, the Maze, Falconry, castle. The food was good here and the restaurant was superb. There was a boat ride available on the lake, Go-Ape, play areas. You could easily spend a day here. The staff were polite and knowledgeable and the castle itself is steeped in history.

An absolute gem — the most beautiful castle in the UK! If you’re visiting Kent or anywhere in the UK, this is the castle you can’t miss. What makes it truly special isn’t just the castle itself, but the breathtaking landscape surrounding it — every view feels like a postcard. There’s something here for everyone: an incredible adventure play area for kids of all ages (the maze is a must!), a stunning collection of birds, and a truly entertaining eagle and owl show that keeps both adults and children mesmerized. Take your time strolling through the gardens and woodlands on your way in — and on your way back, hop on the charming little train or relax on the scenic boat ride. Both are experiences in their own right. The castle grounds have plenty of great dining options, from cozy cafés to proper restaurants, so you won’t have to worry about food. Plus, they host brilliant seasonal events throughout the year — whether it’s a medieval festival, light trail, or Christmas market, there’s always something new to enjoy. The ticket you buy gives you unlimited entry for a full year — which is perfect, because once you’ve been, you’ll definitely want to come back. Ample of free car park. I suggest booking your entry ticket online in case it's busy.

Leeds Castle is absolutely breathtaking — a true fairytale setting surrounded by beautiful gardens and a serene lake. The castle is rich in history and wonderfully preserved, offering fascinating exhibits and lovely walks around the grounds. The location is peaceful, and the atmosphere feels magical from the moment you arrive. A must-visit in Kent and one of the most beautiful castles in England!

Absolutely stunning castle afloat it's moat. Beautiful gardens as well, especially the Mediterranean area. Enjoyed seeing all the various sculptures around the gardens. Lots to see and do. Fun maze to get lost in. The castle itself is amazing and beautiful inside. Had a lovely chat with one of the volunteer guides. He informed us that sadly no black swans currently at the castle due to avian flu 🥲. You can have a boat trip on tge lake but this costs extra on top of the admission price!

We stayed in accommodation on site, marvelous location for a three night stay. Beautiful landscape and gardens, use of all facilities on site during our stay, castle is a fascinating place to visit with lovely walks in the grounds, a visit to the birds of pray is a good choice. All the staff are amazing and friendly and helpful.

A Fantastic Family Day Out! ​We had an absolutely brilliant family day out at Leeds Castle! There is a huge amount to see and do, with something to entertain everyone. ​The children had a blast in the giant adventure playground and on the sandy "Beach", and the Lickalix ice lollies were a massive hit with kids and parents alike! The hedge maze was a real highlight; it's genuinely challenging and great fun, with an incredible surprise waiting in the centre that completely blew us away (we won't spoil it!). ​The Birds of Prey display was spectacular. The handlers were fantastic, flying the birds right through the spectators, giving us a rare and unforgettable up-close view. ​We had so much fun exploring the grounds that we didn't manage to get into the castle before it closed. However, the "pay once, visit all year" ticket is fantastic value and gives us the perfect excuse to return. We will definitely be back!

Battle Abbey was built on the site of the Battle of Hastings. Managed by English Heritage, it's worth getting an annual membership for entry, and free parking nearby. (Use your membership card to validate the parking. The entrance to the site is through the main gate house. Once inside, you can see an independent school which uses some of the rebuilt buildings. There is a footpath made of small pebble chippings, and it's not too difficult to walk on. The footpath around the site is quite lengthy; however there are quite a number of benches along the longest section, so it's not too bad for those with reduced mobility. There is a great cafe, and an exhibition room just a short distance from the gatehouse. There are both inside and outside tables, excellent food and drink, and some very clean toilets. The footpath that runs along the rear of the site allows you to look down the hill towards the area where the Norman forces lined up before charging up the hill to attack the Saxon shield wall, just a short way back from the footpath. It looks quite steep, and it must have been an extremely challenging attack, even for fit and healthy soldiers. There are a number of buildings that were part of the Abbey that visitors can enter. Only a few have any information, but it's still worth exploring to help understand what life might have been like. It's also possible to see the site where it is believed an altar was constructed as part of the initial Abbey buildings, to commemorate the death of Harold Godwinson by William the Conqueror. I would advise asking for one of their audio guide units; they are very easy to use, and provide some really valuable insight that supplements the many signboard. I found it to be a truly interesting and enjoyable visit, despite the rather bad weather.

We used the audio guide which enhanced an enjoyable visit to the abbey. They show a 10 min film in the visitor center which helps to understand the layout of the grounds and where the battle was fought. We thought the shop had a lot of nice items but was put off buying anything by the high prices. Dogs are allowed access to all areas.

Came here without much expectations. And were suprised by the size of the grounds, all the buildings and all the things to discover. We've spent many hours here in the end. A real highlight on this years Road Trip through the UK. Parked right next to on the official carpark. Fixed price of 4£ was a fair deal (free for members). We bought tickets online before and there was next to no wait to enter. The Battle of Hastings, fought on 14 October 1066, is one of the best-known events in England’s history, when William of Normandy defeated the army of King Harold of England. William the Conqueror founded Battle Abbey. The abbey thrived as a Benedictine monastery for over 400 years, and after its suppression in 1538 the abbot’s lodging was transformed into a grand country house. Exploring the Abbey is a great and fun thing to do. There's so much history to read and to take in here. You can go to the top as well, enjoying the views. Or go explore every corner there is - you might find the old toilet here as well (it's named "garderobe"). After enjoying history at the Abbey we walked on the grounds. Checking out the Ice and Dairy House, the King Harold and High Altar Memorial and the Crypt. And a quick look at the walled garden. Then went onto the Battelfield. If you don't have an audio guide, you still can read all the info plates along the way. Really well done and informative. And the walk around the battlefield is a pretty one. With some wildlife as well. We did have our Bulldog with (and a pet stroller) without problems. Just the first section has some steps, after that it's pretty stroller-friendly. Then in the end we've visited the old Abbey ruins. Again: very impressive architecture. We had a great day here. There's so much to see and to do. Of course there's also a shop, a restaurant, a food truck and toilets. Some games for kids as well. A fantastic visit. And surely not to be missed. A must-do.

A lovely place to visit with a good climb up to the top of the gatehouse for nice views. A good little playground to keep the kids happy and a few picnic benches in the shade to enjoy lunch. The walk around the battle ground is easily done in 40 minutes with information boards around.

Fantastic place, really well laid out with a fantastic audio tour. We visited on a slightly damp day so the ground was slightly muddy and the sheep on the field added some minor obstacles in the form of poo! You can cut that out by doing the short walk but the full battlefield tour is worth it if you can handle it Parking is pretty good and it's free for English Heritage/CSSE members (English Heritage members scan their card on way out/CSSE members get a receipt at the entrance to use) Cafe to the left of the entrance is great, lovely hot chocolate and latte! Toilets at the cafe are the only ones on site so go before you walk...or join the sheep al fresco!

I haven't been here since I was a kid and brought my 9 year old as he is fascinated by history. It's amazing. The guides are friendly and very knowledgeable, we were able to tour the abbey itself which is a rare event so we dropped very lucky and Taskmaster (the TV show) had taken over the gardens with some fun and very silly games that all the kids we saw seemed to enjoy a great deal. My son loved the games, the tour and was very touched to see the Harold Stone - all in all a glorious day out and well worth the drive from Bognor (via West Yorkshire - we were on holiday from Leeds!) to take in the site.

I visited Battle Abbey with my daughter, who is passionate about history. We explored one of East Sussex's best-preserved castles, featuring medieval currency layouts, weaponry, and the vital gift presented to the monks living in the Abbey during the 1500, along with notable elements related to the Battle of Hastings, which took place in 1066 between William, Duke of Normandy, leading the Norman-French forces, and the English army led by King Harold Godwinson.

Our visit coincided with the 1940s-themed event, which was exceptionally well-executed. It is regrettable that this was the final iteration. The event's organization was commendable. However, the Call the Midwife taster session, priced at £10 per person for a 20-minute experience, received negative feedback from our group, who considered it to be a poor value proposition and not representative of the full tour. This may deter future participation in the main tour. Despite this, the overall experience remained positive.

We have used our yearly ticket a few times over the year and always end up having a long and fulfilling day out. Engaging for grown ups and a 6 year old. We usually pack a picnic, but this time having exited via the restaurant, the food looked delicious and the menu is fairly priced, so we will treat ourselves next time. All of the staff are so lovely and friendly, but an extra shout out to Jazmyn today who was FANTASTIC! She was so enthusiastic and gave us some lovely information about HMS Gannet. We feel like we learn something new every time, making the yearly ticket very much worth it. Can't wait to see further development of the site over the next 10 years.

Great day out. Never been before. The historic ships reviewed elsewhere. The ticket is valid for a whole year,so I will be back in the spring. If you are walking from the station, it's a good 30 minute walk.

Well worth seeing , make sure you go in the submarine . Tickets would be more economical as a local as they last for a year so it was expensive for us just to visit once . But very interesting my son loved it especially

I can't over emphasis just how impressed I was with Chatham Dockyard. I went because I'd seen advertising online about a LEGO shipwreck display which as it turns out was ok but the rest of the site was FANTASTIC. I got to go on board a 90's navy submarine HMS Ocelot. I walked around a WWII HMS Cavalier a real time capsule. For me one of the best things was being in the exact place seeing where HMS Victory was built. There is a BRILLIANT walk through experience with characters that literally show you the building process for ships around the time of HMS Victory and earlier. It really brought it to life for me. The cafe setting is superb with many of the buildings being made of old ships beams, masts and more. There is a hidden ship under the floorboards so don't miss that.

Really great museum full of history and learning! We visited as a family with our 9 year old. She loved every minute from walking around the exhibits to the tour of the cold war era submarine. Plenty to see and do covering the whole history of the dockyard from its earliest days to its closure in the 1980's. We spent about half a day and could have stayed longer if we had the time. Tickets are valid for a year so if you are local then you can go back and dont have to do it all in a single session. Also there are some concessions, when we arrived we found out english heritage members get discount which was an unexpected bonus. Overall well worth a visit and we will be back before our year tickets run out!

A really nice day out. Good facilities, with better on the way, to keep you comfortable and caffinated. Plenty to see but the gem for me is the 'Ropery', the last of its kind. Book your place as you enter the site if you want to see it.

I recently visited Rochester and had such a great experience exploring both the castle and the town itself. Rochester Castle is absolutely stunning—full of rich history and with an incredible view from the top. The castle is quite a climb, so if you're not great with heights or a bit nervous about steep steps, you might want to admire it from below. But even from the ground, the structure is impressive and totally worth seeing. The town of Rochester is just as lovely. It has a really charming, historic vibe with lots of independent bookshops, quirky little stores, and cozy cafés. We were lucky to catch the local market too, which had a great mix of food, crafts, and handmade items. There’s definitely something for everyone. The park next to the castle is big, peaceful, and perfect for a stroll or a picnic, and the whole area is family-friendly. I'd say it’s great for all age groups, but do be careful with the steps inside the castle—they’re steep and uneven in places. One thing that stood out was how kind and welcoming the people were. It really added to the whole experience. Whether you're into history, shopping, relaxing in the park, or just exploring somewhere new, Rochester has a lot to offer.

Amazing experience, well maintained, has a lovely gift shop with good prices. Has an option for an audio tour however isn't necessary as they have signage explaining the events. We went when the weather was beautiful so was really nice. Alot of steps but definitely worth it for the views of Rochester and the cathedral.

I loved this place. My kids enjoyed this place. The audio guide they gave was helpful. The castle is very old yet preserved well. It is safe with beautiful sights from the top. Absolute pleasure to visit

The castle looks so authentic - a lot of work has gone into preserving this! It's great that people can walk around the outer motte area free of charge. The surrounding area is all in keeping with the historic buildings. Stunning vistas of the castle and across the River Medway, excellent!

Came here for a Craig David concert, it was absolutely brilliant! Amazing venue in the grounds with the castle. Bag searches were vigorous! There were bars, food, tea and coffee, ice creams, glitter tent, medical tent and portaloos. Got a real mini festival vibe, was such a great afternoon and night, really nice crowd. Lots of security too.

Rochester Castle in Kent makes for a great day visit, offering one of England’s best-preserved Norman keeps—the tallest in the country at 113 feet. Built in the 12th century and famously besieged by King John in 1215, it’s a dramatic slice of medieval history. Visitors can climb winding staircases for sweeping views over the River Medway, explore the vast roofless interior, and relax in the surrounding gardens. It’s not wheelchair accessible due to the many steps, but the site is atmospheric, rarely overcrowded, and pairs well with a visit to nearby Rochester Cathedral. Expect to spend around two hours here for a rewarding mix of history, views, and quiet charm. Definitely Recommended.

Interesting to walk up the tower of this ancient castle. Some remainders of the walls of the Bailey still remain and there are lovely views over the River Medway, which are even better from top of tower. Good interpretive boards throughout. Didn't take particularly long to visit and was out in about half an hour. Friendly staff, Interesting history; a good ruin.

Beautiful castle with nice gardens you can walk around. Lots of seating areas outside along with benches to sit on as you walk around. There are public toilets a book shop a souvenir shop and ice cream stall along with lots of parking and knowledgeable staff members in different rooms of the house to answer any questions.

Amost interesting place, so much to see...and lovely walks around estate. Walled garden in car park full of colour and some pumpkins. Hexagonal in shape and easy to walk around. Inside house reflective of being lived in and each room had costumes on display as worn by previous owners which reflects alot of achieved acquisitions not normally seen. Walk to ruin castle steep but rewarded by good views. Dont miss boat house if you are sandman fans as thus part of estate was cain and ables home! 40 min lake walk good path and easy 2 mile walk. Quarry quirky where stone for building house came from. Dont miss cat on fountain at back of house.... We thought grounds better than sissinghurst. Oh yes no toilets at bottom of hill by ruin. So make sure you go at top!! The painting in dining room of dwarves Hunting worth a muse and comment as so unusual in any old property . Volunteers most tolerant of me telling them about sandman as not many knew much about it!! Last tip house/ castle/ grounds all shut at different times so check if going for pist lunch visit.

​Scotney Castle is simply one of the most beautiful and unique National Trust properties in Kent, offering far more than a typical castle experience. It is a true triumph of landscape design, centered around two distinct periods of history. ​The absolute highlight is the romantic, 14th-century moated ruin of the Old Castle, which sits dramatically in the valley bottom. The views as you descend through the sloping gardens towards the moat, especially in autumn and spring, are breathtaking and perfectly exemplify the "Picturesque" style. It’s fascinating to learn that the ruin was deliberately created in the 1830s to serve as the ultimate centrepiece for the landscape. ​Overlooking the valley is the Victorian mansion (the "New Castle"), a warm and engaging family home filled with eclectic collections. Taking a tour gives you a real sense of the Hussey family's life, from their collection of objects to fun details like the secret door in the library. Beyond the buildings, the 780-acre estate offers wonderful woodland walks, a productive walled kitchen garden, and a fascinating Quarry Garden.

We love visiting Scotney Castle with its beautiful house and dramatic looking castle in the valley down below! First stop though of course is always the cafe for a lovely breakfast snack and drink. Upon entering the property, all staff members were excellent at telling us anything there was to know about each room with their vast knowledge. We then took a walk around the grounds enjoying the scenery and views of the castle. We would always return and recommend anyone to visit! It may be recommended to book parking, as we found out upon arrival that without prior arrangement you have to park in the additional parking section.

This a beautiful Victorian mansion house with views over an even more beautiful estate that leads down to a ruined medieval castle. There was a real bounty of flowers at this time of year and the flowers in the walled garden were spectacular. Nice cafe, shop and second hand bookstore. Well worth a visit.

Beautiful and incredibly well maintained gardens. We were lucky that we had free passes from the paper otherwise it would be very pricey. We used public transport and the bus service is hugely patchy, the access guide will say there are footpaths but there are several quite scary bits of 50mph country road. It is possible to do it via public transport but you must time everything around the bus. After 1pm the next one was at 5:15pm

A really excellent place to visit. The gardens are extensive and somehow very relaxing. We visited over the summer when there was a Summer of Play area for the kids. Perfect for play, picnics and chilling. The house was almost something out of an Agatha Christie novel. It actually had a very gentle, warm vibe. It was nice to see the drinks selection in the library! You felt it must’ve been a fun house once upon a time. Some of the rooms - particularly the bedrooms - almost felt too personal for comfort. I felt almost like I was snooping round some elderly relative’s house at times. Nonetheless, a very interesting place to visit.

We did a car show here, was really lovely and lots of places to eat and drink

Wonderful place to visit for walks pubs restaurants and shopping

Beautiful atmosphere, lovely architecture, great spots for coffee, nice walks. Worth walking all the way around but allow an hour or two for it. There are little seals on the beach that can sometimes be spotted when the tide is out. Worth taking the boat tour that takes off in front of Pablos restaurant in warmer weather. The guides are brilliant and funny, interesting info along the way about the harbour history and happenings. The restaurants and coffee shops cater to all tastes and moods. Most of them have outside seating, which allows for watching the boats come by. Check out the blue bridge, which is lifted when bigger boats pass through. I believe the bridge connects the North and South harbours. It does take a while for it to come back down but if you are not in a hurry, it’s relaxing to watch. The locks are also interesting to watch as boats are coming and going. There is a lot to see and explore, it’s a great place to visit!

A very nice place to visit, relax, and go for a walk. Is clean and feels very secure. There's a variety of restaurants and cafés to sit down and enjoy although most of them not to a very high standard but for a casual moment will do it.

This is quite a walk from the centre of Eastbourne but on a nice day, a very pleasant one. There are a number of hi stoic attractions along the way including the old Redoubt Fort and the Martello Tower 66 and the entrance has an interesting double entry lock system. The marina is attractive and has a number of restaurants which should cater for every taste. We enjoyed our visit and and watching the gentle passage of time from a waterfront bar.

This road Harbour Quay has a barrier on ans a security guard. We were stopped at the barrier and advised we had come the wrong way and the guard gave us directions to the right car park. He was polite, civil and pleasant and a credit to his employer. We turned around and followed his instructions to where we should have gone and got parked up properly, upon exiting the carpark heading into the harbour area he waved to us which we thought was really good. He deserves a medal. Very impressed Visited Sunday 13th of July around 1130 in the morning.

Absolutely lovely. I love looking at all the boats, imagining where they've been, where they're going ... The only downside is that we can't get up close and personal anymore, so conversation with these interesting voyagers is impossible. A great selection of restaurants surrounds the Marina, and the ambience was convivial despite CoVid 19 lurking in the ether 💞

Eastbourne Pier is a must-visit destination if you're in the area! The pier beautifully blends Victorian charm with modern-day attractions, offering stunning views of the sea and coastline, especially during sunset. What really impressed me was the variety of food options available right on the pier. From traditional fish and chips to sweet treats and ice creams, there's something for everyone — and the best part? There are several halal food options available too, which is fantastic for Muslim visitors. I came across a few spots serving halal burgers, grilled chicken, and even doner kebabs — all clearly labeled and freshly prepared. The food was not only delicious but also reasonably priced, making it a great place for a casual meal with a view. There are also plenty of seating areas to enjoy your food while soaking in the sea breeze. In addition to the food, the pier has amusement arcades, souvenir shops, and a lovely tea room, making it a great place to spend a few hours with family or friends. Everything was clean and well-maintained, and the staff at the food outlets were friendly and helpful. All in all, Eastbourne Pier offers a complete experience — scenic views, great food (with halal options!), and fun activities. Highly recommended for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Great fun, old fashioned pier. Free entry. Fish and chips, tea rooms, fishing, arcade, sticks of rock. What more do you want.

Very nice place for a stroll and some family time. Went for the airbourne show this year and it is definitely a must see every year. Personally, I enjoy going to Eastbourne pier on a regular basis as it is fun and parking is not difficult. The seaside is lovely and there's plenty of places to have a snack.

Lovely four day break, nice hotel, nice clean town, pleasant local people. Great shops, great pier ,well looked after, with plenty of seating. Nice bar and fish and chips while listening to live music. Worth a visit.

Eastbourne pierThe structure of Eastbourne pier is a remarkable feat of engineering, stretching gracefully into the sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions and entertainment options along its length. It has become a beloved landmark, offering stunning views of the coastline. The pier's history has seen moments of triumph and resilience, shaping its enduring presence. A stroll along the pier is a delightful experience for all ages.

Beautiful Victorian pier with cafés and arcades. A lovely place for a stroll and to enjoy the sea views. Can feel a bit touristy, but still very charming.

A decent place to go, especially during the summer. The pier has a good selection of places to eat and the pub at the end of the pier is good and has live music, just watch out for those seagulls! There is a live music venue, but you will need tickets for it. The Seven Sisters is definitely worth a hike if that’s your kind of thing.

Quick Takeaways 🏰 Fascinating National Trust property with a mix of historic buildings and grounds 🚗 Sat nav may direct you to the old entrance — car park is a few hundred yards further on 🅿️ Easy parking and short walk to the main entrance 🏛️ House is well presented with engaging exhibits; volunteers add valuable insight ⚔️ Special exhibits include WW2 displays, family/staff history, and a WW1 Victoria Cross 🌳 Grounds are well kept — enjoy a short stroll or a longer countryside walk ☕ Café serves good coffee and standard NT food at fair prices 🛍️ Large, well-stocked shop (one of the biggest in the NT) ⏱️ Allow a couple of hours to explore fully Full Review Ightham Mote is a very interesting property managed by the National Trust. Getting there was straightforward, though it’s worth noting that the sat nav directs you to the old entrance — you need to continue a few hundred yards further to reach the car park. Parking is easy and it’s only a short walk to the main entrance. The site itself includes several buildings to explore, such as a couple of second-hand bookshops, a gallery, a coffee shop, the main National Trust shop, and of course, the house itself. The house doesn’t disappoint. It’s well displayed with interesting and engaging exhibits, and the experience is made even better by the knowledgeable volunteers who share insights into the rooms and their history. When I visited, there was a special WW2 exhibit featuring uniforms, artefacts, and interpretive panels telling the stories of the family and staff who served. There was also a section highlighting a Victoria Cross awarded during WW1, which added further depth to the visit. The grounds are beautifully kept and pleasant to walk around. You can either stay within the immediate perimeter of the house or take a longer circular walk into the surrounding countryside. The café served hot, tasty coffee along with the standard National Trust food and snacks at a reasonable price. The shop, one of the largest I’ve seen at a National Trust property, was well stocked with the usual high-quality items. Overall, Ightham Mote is well worth a visit and can easily take up a couple of hours of your day.

Ightham Mote has to be one of the most magical National Trust properties there is. The house itself is so unique in its looks and its history. When you enter and walk through, it's like going through every era of history over the past 700 years — Medieval, Tudor, Victorian to the Mid-century. There are some really fascinating details if you take the time to go through each room slowly. The volunteers and guides are extremely helpful too and are so knowledgeable about the house, you can chat with them for ages. The grounds are also beautiful and the gardens are very well kept, lovely to sit in and read your book on a sunny day! Ightham Mote is a must go and well worth the journey from wherever you are!

What a gem hidden in the depth of Kent. If you hike you can get there via Knole park, but it's a long walk. They do talks 3 times a day and two garden walks. Anthony who gave us garden walk was fantastic! Entrance is nearly 20 pounds, but it's definitely worth it as Mote itself is stunning inside with plenty to explore.bit took me 3 hrs to explore but I was limited with time, otherwise would definitely stay for lunch or coffee and relax in of the gardens or ponds.

What a fabulous day out! Ightham Mote is a truly magical place to visit, steeped in over 700 years of history. Apparently, it’s the most complete medieval moated manor house in England. The grounds offer wonderful walks, a natural play area for children, and a lovely café with delicious, reasonably priced options. The house itself is stunning, both inside and out. One of the highlights has to be the spectacular Tudor symbols painted on the ceiling of the New Chapel in the 16th century. I can’t wait to return and explore more!

Such a beautiful place! Lovely walk, cute little play area for kids. A bit hilly so if you struggle with hills be mindful! Nice cafe with friendly staff 💕 also has a super cute second hand book shop tucked away around the back & a very friendly duck 🦆

Delightful place to visit. Limited accessibility but what do we expect in a 700 year old place? Friendly knowledgeable staff. A variety of walks, great for families, fresh tasty cafe with lots of veg options. Fantastic destination to impress overseas visitors!

Interesting place to visit, not too large to walk around it, lovely grounds and lake walk. Good secondhand book shops as a bonus for those literary people. Small children's play area with small stream...not huge but enough to be able to get feet wet if not using stepping stones.

Beautiful park, especially to witness autumn colours. Impressively large with plenty of walking trails (not flat). Given the size of the park, we didn’t see any deers on our visit, maybe next time.

Wonderful deer park. Perfect for days out with the family. The house is an option for a ticket price but we love just exploring the park. Dogs on leads. The park is free and you can walk in from the town. Parking by the leisure centre is concurrent. Also great for seeing where The Beatles filmed some music videos if you are a fan.

We went to Knole Park on a summer day such an amazing place! The garden’s huge and perfect for a nice walk. Totally recommend it if you’re around Sevenoaks.

I love this park and have visited at least annually for the past 26 years! You can visit the house or walk the grounds or just enjoy golf ⛳️ The walks are well signposted however, the map in the booklet would be more helpful if it includes landmarks for walkers not following a specific path when they get lost 😅 It's good for family walks as well and there's a picnic area.

We had a lovely family day (2 adults and a child). Knole Park is free to explore on foot, with lovely walks where you can easily spend the whole day – we even saw a 200-year-old sycamore tree! The deer were fascinating and kept our little one happy. Parking is paid (free with NT membership), and there’s a café, bookshop, and toilets (10–5). Tickets are needed for the Showrooms and Tower House (free with NT membership)– both beautiful, though the Tower House climb is steep, the marvellous view at the top made it worthwhile. Don’t forget to bring a picnic!

Today my wife, our loyal friend Carmen, and I had a wonderful day at Knole Park. Lush green fields, freely roaming deer, and fresh air… Carmen was over the moon! Highly recommended for anyone looking for both a peaceful walk and nature’s beauty.

Beautiful place to spend a few hours. Lots of big old trees, deer everywhere, a decent cafe. The circular walks are between 4 and 5 km, and easy for most people to comfortably complete.