Enjoy one of the world’s best collections of tanks and armoured vehicles at the Tank Museum in exhibitions consisting of the world’s very first tank and a modern day Challenger 2…

 

If you are looking for a great family day out during your stay at the soon to be opened Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat, then why not head down to The Tank Museum in Bovington, which is a great location to learn about the history of our great nations’ armoured warfare over the past century.

The Tank Museum is located less than ten miles away from our brand new Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat near Poole. Find out what is on offer at this fantastic museum…

 

100 years of history

The museum consists of eight powerful exhibitions which are made up of close to 300 armoured vehicles from over the past century. It is generally regarded as the greatest collection in the world and includes the world’s first tank and the modern day Challenger 2.

The aim is to tell the story of the part that armoured vehicles have played in warfare over the past 100 years and the story of the people who fought in them. You can learn all about the vehicles, the part they played in conflicts and also how they have evolved over time. You can learn all about this in ‘The Tank Story’ exhibition, but those more interested in mechanics and the designs of these machines, will want to head down to the ‘Tank Factory’ exhibition which takes a look at how the tanks are made and the manufacturers behind them.

A very poignant exhibition given that it is the 100th anniversary of the battle of the Somme is ‘The Trench Experience’ exhibition where you are transported back in time to the trenches in 1916 during the First World War. You can also gain an insight into the lives of these brave men in the new ‘Tank Men: The Story of the First Crews’ exhibition.

For a slightly more modern experience of warfare, head to the ‘Battlegroup Afghanistan’ exhibition which benefits from accounts from today’s front line combat experts.

 

tanks in action this summer

Every weekday during the summer holidays between the 21st July and 2nd September 2016, the Tank Museum will be putting on an awesome display of tanks in action. Children and adults alike will no doubt relish the opportunity to see these fantastic machines in motion with their thunderous engines, but it is not for the faint hearted with life-like explosions to increase the atmosphere around the displays and simulate the feel of a real battle ground.

The commentary provided during the shows ensures that as well as being spectacular, the displays are also educational with experts explaining how the tanks work and their functions in battle.

The live action show takes place in the Kuwait Arena just outside of the museum. Guests are welcome to attend the shows at no extra cost other than what has already been paid for their admission to the museum, giving you an even better reason to head down to the Tank Museum during the summer holidays.

 

Book a holiday at Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat

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Experience one of the finest holiday homes in the Lake District exactly how it was over 100 years ago

 

Many of us have dreamed about having our very own luxury holiday home in the Lake District, but the Holt family made this dream a reality in the late 19th century when they commissioned the stunning Blackwell House, which offers stunning views overlooking Coniston Fells and also Lake Windermere.

You can experience everything that the Holt family experienced over 100 years ago when you visit this fantastic historic house that has been preserved exactly how it was originally. At Blackwell you can also take in various arts and crafts exhibitions which are held throughout the year. Read more about everything that Blackwell, the Arts & Crafts House has to offer as well as finding out about a special offer which is open to Darwin Escapes customers staying in the Lake District.

 

the perfect holiday home in windermere

The centre is based in Blackwell House, which was built between 1989 and 1900 by architect M. H. Baillie Scott for the wealthy Holt family, from Manchester, who wanted a luxury holiday home overlooking Lake Windermere with glorious views of Coniston Fells.

This is perhaps the finest example of Scott’s work, which took inspiration from Tudor designs as well as arts and crafts styles reminiscent of the work of Charles Voysey. The arts and crafts movement of the time was a response to the industrial revolution, with the aim being to recognise the skills of British craftsmen of the time.

This Grade 1 listed building remains fully intact, with many of the original decorative features and furnishings still in evidence. You’ll see things exactly the same way that the Holt family would have seen them over 100 years ago when the house was originally completed.

The period rooms are still furnished with the same styling and furnishings that were originally advocated by Scott. This includes various pieces made by leading arts and crafts designers such as Morris & Co and William de Morgan. When you visit the house, you can sit back and enjoy the atmosphere in front of the fireplace or stroll around the beautiful rooms without being restricted by roped off areas. This is a stately home with far more open access for visitors than is the norm.

The house was also designed to take full advantage of the tranquil atmosphere and surrounding natural wonders, with the gardens also following this philosophy. The surrounding gardens were designed by Thomas Mawson to take advantage of the stunning beauty of Coniston Fells.

 

exhibitions & events

Blackwell is more than just a beautiful building with stunning furnishings and surroundings; it also hosts various exhibitions, displays and events which will be heaven for art lovers.
Currently on display until the 9th October 2016 are the works of renowned potter Chris Keenan, in the ‘Houseplace’ exhibition. Keenan has an international reputation in his industry, and recently undertook a six week residency at the Mashiko Museum of Ceramic Art in Japan. Examples of his work are showcased far and wide including in the V&A Museum in London. Funded by the Headley Trust, this fantastic exhibition showcases his distinctive porcelain pot designs, which are designed as a response to this “mind-consuming house and the man behind its creation”.

On the 24th September, the house will be opening a new exhibition devoted to the textile designs of Annie Garnett who was a figurehead in the revival of weaving and hand spinning in Cumbria. The exhibition will describe the ethos behind Garnett’s workshops set up in Bowness-On-Windermere, which provided employment for over hundred women at the time. It will also show case examples of her work along with original paper designs.

 

2 for the price of 1 on tickets

There are plenty of reasons to head to Blackwell this year with its various exhibitions, but if you need another then Darwin Escapes customers staying in the Lake District are entitled to 2 for 1 adult admission until the 31st December 2016. All you need to do to redeem this offer is present your Thanet Well Lodge Retreat z-card to reception upon purchasing your ticket. You will be given this Z-card upon arrival at the resort, but if you don’t think you’ve been given one just ask a member of the Darwin Escapes team.

Tickets cost £8.50 each (£7.70 without Gift Aid donation), with all children and students entitled to completely free admission.

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Welcome to Hidden Britain ladies and gents! We will be unearthing those little hidden gems off the beaten path around our glorious country! So lets kick it off with wondrous walks and scenic views in the breathtaking Surrey, and these five hidden secrets are very close our own Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat, a peaceful place to use as your base. So lovely readers, read on and find some hidden gems to explore…


waverley abbey

Located on a very peaceful loop of the River Wey the ruins of Waverly Abbey are stunning. This Monastery was founded over 900 years ago, the resident monks farmed the land, provided shelter and even ran an infirmary. The ruins are so hauntingly beautiful that even Hollywood has come knocking, filming scenes from the cult classic Hot Fuzz (2007), the musical Into The Woods (2014) and brand new blockbuster The Huntsman (2016). So go and enjoy the history at this outstanding location.


godstone farm

A brilliant and interactive family fun day out, meet the llama’s, goats, ducks, pigs, ponies and bunny rabbits! Have blast at the animal handling, feeding the farmyard animals and petting the babies too (I love baby animals, so cute). Pick your favourite Hog and cheer them around the Hog’sticle course, follow the Dino Trail and dig up some bones and make sure to pose for a T-Rex toothtastic photo! Loads of climbing frames, indoor and outdoor available for all ages too! Family fun day out!


mother ludlam’s cave

This little hidden cave in the woods has beautiful and intricately made gates at the entrance, the little known spot has a charming walk in the woods before you reach the naturally formed cave. The cave is said to have been home to the White Witch of Waverly, also known as Mother Ludlam, and legend has it that the Devil, in disguise, came to borrow her cauldron one day but the witch recognised him as the Devil and refused. The witch then hid the cauldron in the nearby Frensham Church to keep it safe, the cauldron in question is still in the church to this day and was used to brew ale by the monks. See the local wildlife and the surrounding woods on a trip to the cave!


birdworld

Birdworld has over 100 species of birds to marvel at, including many unusual birds, penguins and even reindeer! You can pet the pair of reindeer, visit the Underwater World zone with over 30 exhibits to see, and watch the two species of penguins being fed. Learn about owls at the Owl Parliament and let the keepers take you on a feeding trail of the birds of prey – if you aren’t too squeamish! Explore the Outback Landing and see all the best species from the Australian Outback or head to Jenny Wren Farm and see all the best farmyard animals.


the watts gallery

The gallery was purpose built in 1904 to house the works of Victorian artist GF Watts, who was popularly adored in his home country as well as abroad and with over 100 paintings on permanent display it’s easy to see why! There is also a full programme of temporary exhibitions to watch out for too, as well as the Watts Studio that brings the process of making art in the Victoria era back to life for you to witness! Through displays and demonstrations you can see how it all happened, and join in the Learning Studio to create your own art through the workshops and relax in the tea room after your busy day!

So enjoy exploring these hidden gems whether it’s spending a fun filled day at Godstone Farm or a relaxing walk around Waverley Abbey.

Happy adventuring folks!

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Create memories that will last a lifetime amongst the trees with Goodleaf. The Award winning Goodleaf Tree Climbing provides the perfect offbeat adventure for anyone looking for something a little bit different the next time they enjoy a holiday in the Isle of Wight.

No matter how old you are, the adrenalin created by tree climbing never goes away. So if you’ve got a nerve for heights, head to Appley Park and enjoy a great day out for the whole family.


an unrivalled experience

Goodleaf Tree Climbing advertises itself as being designed for the whole family, with ages eight and over welcome to the attraction. All that is required is a nerve for heights and a desire to get amongst the trees.

Located in the beautiful Appley Park in Ryde just behind the golden beach, you will enjoy a unique two hour recreational tree climbing experience like no other in a magnificent oak tree which is located in the centre of the park.

If you are willing, you can climb 15 metres high to a point where you will be able to enjoy stunning views over Appley Beach and the Solent. There is no pressure to reach the top though, you can go at your own pace and Goodleaf’s friendly staff are there before hand to show you the ropes and offering support where required.

There is also no need to be concerned about fatigue, with plenty of resting places during the ascent in the conveniently placed canopy hammocks. This is a no pressure environment which is designed entirely for family fun, so you won’t feel any pressure at any point.


a great family day out

Appleby Park is somewhat of a hidden gem of the region, and it’s not just popular with climbers. There are plenty of scenic walking routes to be enjoyed in the woodlands and also on Ryde beach which runs alongside the park. They will also be sure to have hours of fun in the children’s play area which sits between Goodleaf and the beach. This secure area features an exciting pirate ship climbing frame, so the adults can have a rest after all the climbing and simply enjoy the surrounding area.

If you’re looking for refreshments, you can enjoy tea, coffee or squash on the Goodleaf picnic blanket. We’d also recommend sampling one of their mouth watering Tree Climber’s Flapjacks!

Being located just less than six miles from Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat, Goodleaf Tree Climbing is ideally located and a great place to visit if you are looking for a fun family day out on the Isle of Wight.

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Enjoy a magical family day out at Pili Palas where you can get in touch with nature & friendly resident animals. Pili Palas is a relatively small zoo which is located in North Wales within driving range of our Aberconwy Resort & Spa. It is the perfect destination for a fun family day out.

Visitors will get the opportunity to get hands on with the resident animals at the zoo which includes meerkats, various bugs and also a butterfly enclosure. It is primarily aimed at children, who are also sure to have a great time in the indoor play zone.

Read more to find out what is on offer at this much under hyped local attraction.


meet the animals

One of the main attractions at Pili Palas are the butterflies with the zoo making a significant contribution to butterfly conservation efforts with an ethical butterfly farming policy in place. You van view the various breeds of butterfly in the on-site butterfly house where you will experience tropical breeds flying around you in a magical environment. You’ll also get the chance to meet Elvis when you head into the birdhouse, along with his fellow furry friends Del, Rudolph, Jake and Charlies.

Although these animals are slightly less hands on, you will get the chance to be up close and personal with the animals in the barn which include rabbits, sheep, guinea pigs and goats. There are also a selection of donkeys and pigs in what is the ultimate real life animal farm. Kids will love getting the opportunity to feed the sheep and pet the rabbits. You may even get the chance to catch a glimpse of the nosey meerkats.

Slightly less cute are the animals in the bug-zone where you will see terrifying tarantulas and scorpions as well as seeing ants, cockroaches and much more interacting with one another in their own natural environments.


something for all ages

This is a farm which is primarily aimed at helping you keep the kids entertained for the day, and they are sure to have hours of fun when you head to the indoor play area where you will find various activities for toddlers.

Older children will also be accommodated with the giant bouncy castle and also in the adventure playground which features its own zip-wire.

While the children are busy playing, the adults can head to the on-site café which serves a range of scrumptious home cooked meals and beverages. The tables in the conservatory area are ideally placed to allow you to watch the meerkats at work while you eat.


a magical experience for all

With so much to do and see, Pili Palas is a great place for a family day out particularly for the animal lovers amongst you.

It is located just a 20 minute drive away from Aberconwy Resort & Spa; ideally placed for countless fun family days out if you are a holiday home owners at our five star resort.

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Have a great day out for the whole family the next time you are staying at Hawkchurch, when you pay a visit to Pecorama

 

Pecorama is one of the leading tourist attractions in East Devon, being situated in the historic fishing village of Beer on the Jurassic Coast, just over ten miles away from Hawkchurch Resort & Spa.

This is a great attraction for railway enthusiasts, with the name of park stemming from the PECO model railway equipment manufacturers whose headquarters are situated adjacent to Pecorama. Pecorama enjoys a close relationship with PECO, even displaying and selling many of their products on-site.

There is very much a railway theme here, with Pecorama being home to one of the country’s finest 7 ¼ inch gauge railways in the form of Beer Heights Light Railway. The hillside location of the railway means that you can enjoy breathtaking views over Lyme Bay and also the Jurassic Coast itself, which is of course one of the few World Heritage Sites in the UK, as you take a ride around this 1 mile track, which was first opened in 1975.

Starting off from near the garden entrance, the journey takes you over many bridges and also a lengthy tunnel in a beautifully recreated track.

 

something for everyone

This isn’t just a place for railway enthusiasts though, with Pecorama also being home to The Millennium Gardens which was first opened in July 2000 to help celebrate the millennium. Designer Naila Green has ensured that a celestial theme has been followed here, with the sun, moon and rainbow gardens reflecting this with their colour schemes.

You will also find the impressive Millennium Garden Grotto here which is constructed mainly from sea shells as part of the aim of creating a sea theme, with the grotto also featuring an impressive dolphin sculpture leaping out of the sea. It really is a must-see masterpiece.

There is also plenty to keep the kids entertained as well, with a 10 hole crazy golf course and the play station indoor soft play area. You can all grab a bite to eat in the Garden Room Restaurant or enjoy a cream tea in a 1951 ‘Orion’ Pullman Carriage.

If you are looking for a bit of tranquility, then why not head to the secret garden and take in the peace and quiet ensured by the wall herbaceous borders.

 

peco charity garden day – sunday 17th july

Pecorama puts on a number of special events throughout the year, the next being their annual Garden Day aiming to raise money for charity. This will be taking place on Sunday 17th July and is being put on for Parkinson’s UK and the MS Society.

Special £6 admission prices are available on this day, with £5 of this being given to the two chosen charities. Also on-site on the day. to add a little something extra. will be the Sidmouth Donkey Sanctuary with their miniature donkeys as well as the Sidmouth Steppers Morris Dancers.

If you happen to be planning on a trip to Hawkchurch Resort & Spa, make sure that you pay a visit.

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Get the know the local wildlife & explore some of the most beautiful walking routes that North Wales has to offer. North Wales is famous for its scenic walking routes and beautiful countryside, and you can explore all of this at its very best when you visit Pensychnant Conservation Centre and Nature Reserve on the Sychnant Pass in Conwy. This is not just a great place to explore the countryside, but is also an area filled with glorious local wildlife which the Centre works hard to safeguard.


a history lesson

This is a hidden gem of the North Wales region, being based around the former home of the Stott family and covering 150 acres of land.

The original house built on the grounds was erected in 1690, but much of the architectural character of the estate stems from the Victorian era. It is beautiful relic of this time when the grounds were the home of the Stott family headed by Abraham Henthorn Stott who led one of the most prominent Victorian architectural firms. He was responsible for building a large number of the cotton mills in Oldham.

However, by 1937 the world had moved on and cotton was no longer the booming trade it had once been. This resulted in the Stott family being forced to give up their home; with Pensychnant and all of its grounds being sold.

The great grandson of Abraham Henthron Stott managed to buy the land back in 1967. In 1989, Brian Henthorn Stott set up the Pensychnant Foundation and it is for this that the centre is now most famous, with the aim of the foundation being to support local naturalists and wildlife, with countless conservation organisations counting on the support offered by the Centre.


wildlife conservation

The nature reserve is now open all year round and is firmly one of the best wildlife sites in North Wales.

There are countless rare and exotic wildlife in the region. Did you know that the Conwy Morfa region is home to a rare wingless Moth known as the Belted Beauty? These animals only exist in one of part of England as well as in the Hebrides. If you are a holiday home owner at Aberconwy Resort & Spa and happen to see some bright lights floating around the dunes late at night, then fear not because it is simply the team from Pensychnant looking to catch a glimpse of these rare creatures.

This is just one of the many animals who inhabit this nearby area, including the beautiful spotted Flycatcher whose numbers have declined by 77% over the past 25 years. The centre deserves praise for its efforts to help these rare creatures survive.


steeped in history

This isn’t just a great site for animal lovers, with Victorian woodlands on the estate where you can view relics of Welsh oakwoods which stood long before Conwy Castle was even constructed. The Stott family also planted many beautiful trees during the Victorian era, with Corsican pines, sycamore and much more which are still on the grounds of the estate.

Sychnant itself is classified as being a Regionally Important Geological Site (RIGS). This is awarded on account of the areas value to Earth science and heritage, with many of the stunning mountains around the Sychnant Pass a result of erosion caused by the melting of ice age waters. It is a wonderful geographic area where you can feel at one with nature and the history of the area.

You can take advantage of the guided walks which are on offer at Pensychnant to really gain an insight into the local wildlife and the environment.


pay a visit to pensychnant

While the nature reserve is open all year around, if you are looking to pay a visit to the house then you will need to go between the beginning of April and the end of September.

In the house you can take advantage of the Victorian Arts and Crafts exhibition where the work of some of North Wales best wildlife artists are put on display. Many of these works are available for sale so you have a great memory to take back with you to your holiday home or perhaps a gift for someone back home.

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Go behind bars at Bodmin Jail for a fascinating family days out in a historic building which was once used to house the crown jewels…

 

If you are looking for a great family day out in Cornwall which is as educational as it is fun, then head over to Bodmin Jail which was built for King George III in 1779 on the edge of Bodmin Moor.

Designed by Sir John Call, the jail was originally intended for prisoners of war and is famous for being the first British jail to hold prisoners in individual cells. During the First World War, it was used to house some of the countries national treasures including the Domesday Book and the crown jewels.

 

look back in time

The jail eventually closed in 1927, but the building is now used as the base for this fascinating attraction which houses countless interesting exhibitions to showcase the history of the jail and the prisoners who were detained there.

Jaunt through the various cells where you will find mannequins, historic documents and objects which will highlight the crimes of the inhabitants and what life was like for them once they were behind bars.

Please be aware that the jail tends to get very cold and there are many steps to navigate, so make sure that you wrap up warm and wear sensible shoes to ensure you can make the most of the attraction.

You may not automatically associate jails with fine cuisine, but Bodmin Jail is doing its bit to alter this with a range of food and beverages on offer in the impressive Governors Hall and the Witness Box Wine Bar.

 

the paranormal

On account of the public hangings and grim nature of the past undertakings which took place in the building, it is perhaps inevitable that it has become closely linked to paranormal activities. It has even recently been used as the setting for an episode of Most Haunted.

You can learn more about these paranormal events when you book yourself onto an After Dark event at the Jail where a resident medium will teach you the basics of Reiki and energy management before setting your lose on the jail over night. The event includes a 3 course meal, souvenirs and a free family pass for a day visit to the jail at a different time. You will also receive a complimentary £20 gift voucher. Take a look at the available booking slots if you are interested in one of these events.

 


20% discount off tickets

Bodmin Jail is just a twenty minute journey away from Piran Meadows Resort & Spa, and anyone staying at our resort can enjoy a 20% discount off the price of tickets to the attraction.

All you need to do is show your holiday park card to staff on reception when you are buying your tickets in order to benefit from this.

Want to keep up to date with all the latest information? Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all things Darwin Escapes!

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We love some good scenery here at Darwin Escapes, and there is no striking landscape quite like Cumbria!

 

Thanet Well Lodge Retreat is located just minutes away from beautiful Penrith, the scenery around Cumbria and waking in your holiday lodge to the mountains is like no other. Here are our favourite instagram posts from around Thanet Well and the Penrith area…

 

1. imagine waking up to this

A post shared by Gibson90 (@bhoygibson21) on


2. secret hideaways

A post shared by Faith (@abbey_yorks) on


3. stunning mountain scenery


4. heaven in a hot tub

A post shared by Darwin Escapes (@darwinescapes) on


5. a surprise around every corner


6. animal friendly areas


7. peaceful personified

A photo posted by Emma (@emma_1091) on Jun 9, 2016 at 2:03pm PDT


8. explore the region your way

A post shared by Geoff Moorhouse (@headbadge) on


9. wonderful wildlife (that’s one way to keep cool)


10. surrounded by history


Thank you to everyone for their stunning images! Remember the next you’re visiting Thanet Well to use the #thanetwell or #thanetwelllodges and we could be using your images in out next post!

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Family fun at this wonderful annual event, with interactive displays and activities for all ages! Visit Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat from 7th – 9th July and join in with the annual family fun! The annual event is organised by Kent County Agricultural Society, and offers a wide range of diverse entertainment, with the Shetland Pony Grand National, live music and baby Dinosaurs to headline the weekend long event. With a balance of traditional displays, alongside new, unique and contemporary entertainment, there will be something for all ages at the Kent County Show.


traditional activities

The Shetland Pony Grand National is spread across the 3 days, with small jumps and real jockeys (children) enjoying the fun! This hugely popular event started 20 years ago, and is raising funds for Bob Champion Cancer Trust this year. There will be local bands attending on the different days, including local brass band Faversham Mission Brass Band, and the Kent Police Band, a self-funding band with both current and retired officers.

Tractor Ted will be back to entertain the children again this year, he will have his own area where the little ones can play on the Tractor Ted bouncy castle, operate digger den and complete a giant puzzle!

Titan the Robot will also be back this year, this incredible giant robot is a real crowd pleaser and has been a-part of the show for over a decade! Don’t miss out on the awesome free-flying birds of Prey at The Hawking Centre, visit the Dog and Duck display where a Collie dog herds the ducks skilfully through a course and around a ring. Don’t miss out on the Terrier Team, Harrietsham Ferrets, Gamegoer Gundogs, as well as free pony rides!

Purchase a 3 day membership ticket, where you can take advantage of the membership area, priority parking, enhanced amenities and dedicated caterer, as well as live music including The Damsels, whose members have West-End experience.


brand new events for 2017

Meet Dexter, a 2 year old baby Tyrannosaurus, Dexter is a brilliant 4m long life-like, part animatronic dinosaur who mesmerises children and adults alike. Visitors will also be able to see the Dinosaur Nursery, with new-born Tyrannosaurus, baby Triceratops and a baby Stegosaurus, where you may even be able to give them a hug if you’re lucky!

Keep an eye out for stilt walkers Mr and Mrs Flora, who will be covered head-to-toe in scented flowers that are so realistic people often think they have been freshly picked. These living, moving sculptures are mesmerising and enchanting.

Also new for 2017 is The Old Milk Parlour, a unique display of a vintage dairy parlour. You will get an insight into how milk was produced and how it first made it to our breakfast tables and cereal bowls! Get a real sense of a what a working diary was really like.


opening times & ticket prices

Opening hours are 8am to 6pm, however there is no need to rush out as quite often the food stands will stay open later.

There are 3 day membership tickets available to enjoy the member’s area and perks that come with the exclusive ticket. Children under 5 go free, there are pre-show tickets are available with 10% discount, and prices on the gate are;

  • Adult – £23
  • Child (5 – 15) – £7
  • Family (2 adults & 2 children) – £50

Visit our brand new and beautiful Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat in Kent and join in with the family fun at the annual Kent County Show, where you can take advantage of all the fabulous family fun to be had!

Book your holiday now and visit one our wonderful new locations, where peace and tranquillity is the order of the day, and it’s the perfect place to base yourself while you explore the region.

have some summer fun!

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