Five Fun Ways to Spend the Festive Gap Between Christmas and New Year in Kent
The days between Christmas and New Year can feel like a blur – a time when you’re full of cheese but not ready for sales shopping. If you’re looking to escape the sofa and make the most of Kent’s incredible offerings and support independent local businesses, here are five great ways to spend the “Twixmas” period while avoiding the Boxing Day sale shopping crowds.
- Bears Ice Cream by the Sea in Whitstable
Wrap up warm, grab a delicious treat from Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium, and take a leisurely stroll along Whitstable’s iconic shorefront. Whether you’re a fan of their creative flavours – choose from Christmas Tree, Candy Cane or Kentish Blue, Hazelnut & Mulled Pear from their festive menu – or just in it for a classic cone, this is a refreshing way to embrace the season and the sea air.
- Food, Films and Fresh Air at Folkestone Harbour Arm
Head to Folkestone Harbour Arm for a perfect mix of incredible food, drinks, and stunning views. Enjoy an invigorating walk along the neighbouring beach and along to the lighthouse at end of the Harbour Arm. Then warm up in one of the Harbour Arm’s many indoor dining options and take in the festive twinkle of Folkestone’s creative lights and decorations.
Once your fed and watered, stay for the free cinema screening, as Folkestone Harbour plays host to some family movie favourites at 2pm every afternoon from Boxing Day to New Year’s Day:
- Thursday 26th December – Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
- Friday 27th December – Despicable Me
- Saturday 28th December – Jurassic Park
- Sunday 29th December – Matilda
- Monday 30th December – The Goonies
- Tuesday 31st December – UP
- Wednesday 1 January – Groundhog Day
Grab a hot chocolate and some popcorn and settle in!
- Festive Fun at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park in Maidstone
Enjoy a slice of nostalgia at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park. Grab your wellies and wrap up warm to step back in time and visit the historic Kentish houses in the vintage village, meet the farmyard animals including goats, sheep, pigs and donkeys, or take a farm ride to soak in the holiday spirit. There are also owl flying demonstrations, and meerkats to meet. A fun day out for all ages.
- Explore the Vineyards of Chapel Down, Tenterden
For something a little more indulgent, after all it is the season of indulgence, visit the Chapel Down Winery for a tour and tasting experience. Discover how their award-winning sparkling wines are crafted and enjoy a scenic walk through the picturesque vines – a perfect escape from the post-Christmas slump.
- Discover Canterbury’s Festive Past
Take a trip back in time with a guided winter walk through Canterbury. Learn about the city’s fascinating history while soaking in its festive charm. Stop for a hot chocolate at one of the independent cafés, and don’t forget to snap a photo of the cathedral against the winter sky.
Kent offers countless opportunities to shake off the post-Christmas haze. So, grab your coat and head out for some fresh air, festive spirit, and fun!
