Can you recommend a day out?

[Sally81]

Hi all knowing forumites!

As a new driver I'm looking for places i can drive to for a day out which aren't too far away, but are far away enough if you know what I mean? Where can we go this weekend that's maybe an hour or so drive away and is a nice day out for us with an 18 month old? Also, looking for ideas for places to take my 6 and 4 year old nephews in a couple of weeks. Open to all suggestions! Beach, forests, nice country pubs with a garden for the kids, castles...

Hope you can point me in the right direction!

[jennyh]

Not great with specifics but recommend heading out of town towards Kent as the journey is usually quite straight forward and traffic free. We went camping near tunbridge wells and the countryside there is beautiful. Similarly we have also had nice days in West Sussex, Arundel castle and lots of nice local attractions! Or you could try Hampton Court for a fairly short journey and lots for kids to do there, then maybe Richmond Park or Kew Gardens if the weather is nice!

[Fuschia]

Godstone farm would suit on both counts

Bedgebury pinetum?

[Pamela78]

Agree about Godstone Farn - my 22 month old adores it there. We've also had great days at Hever Castle and Leeds Castle.

[buggie]

Congrats on passing your test! I second Leeds Castle - straight forward drive (to practice your motorway skills!)

& your ticket gives you free re-entry for 1yr.

[dollydaydream]

There is also Christmas tree farm at Down near Biggin Hill in Kent

about a 45 min drive it's similar to Godstone Farm.

[Dodo1]

Eynsford! Just outside the M25. There's a Roman Villa and a Bird of Prey Centre.

[5imon]

another good thread on this here

[fapl]

Bewl Water, lovely spot for a picnic, playground, sand pit etc.

[Vickster]

Never Castle - lovely gardens and maze and water maze. Just slightly further than Godstone Farm.

[Sally81]

Thanks everyone! Great suggestions, really appreciate you all taking the time. We'll work

Our way through them. Hoping to head to Godstone Farm tomorrow. Cheers

[trevone64]

Groombridge enchanted gardens kent

[kirsun]

Hi

If you want a nice beach, but not seafront, just calming waves try the Isle of Sheppey in Kent. It is small but is is great for the kids and to be honest it is so easy to get too.

Just went to Sheerness this weekend they have really gone all out and have an amusement park all set up.

Do not worry though all amenities are available as the Tesco is just next door. All in all I found this as a really nice family day out!

Thanks