24 Things to Do in Kent in April 2026 (Easter Fun, Bluebell Woods & Farmers’ Markets)

With the Easter bank holidays falling right at the start of the month in 2026, there is no shortage of things to do. Whether you are after a lively food festival, a Easter egg trail or just want to stock up on some local produce, there is plenty to keep you busy across Kent.

Having lived in Kent for nearly three decades, I’ve seen it through every shift in weather, and April is when the countryside truly feels like it’s awaken. After the long winter, seeing the orchards burst into blossom and the bluebells starting to carpet our woodlands is, for me, the highlight of the year.

The air is fresher, the days are significantly longer, and there is a real buzz in our market towns as the outdoor cafe culture begins to return. It’s the perfect time to catch that first bit of spring warmth on your face while exploring a coastal path or a castle garden.

Is April a good month to visit Kent?

In my opinion, April is one of the most exciting months to be here because everything is reopening and the county is in full bloom. In 2026, Easter falls right at the start of the month (Easter Sunday is 5th April), so the first couple of weeks are brilliantly lively with egg hunts, family events, and a real holiday atmosphere.

The weather is much more inviting than the start of the year, with average highs reaching around 14°C to 15°C, though the evenings can still be a bit nippy. If you want to see Kent at its most photogenic, this is the time. The National Fruit Collection at Brogdale is usually a sea of pink and white blossom, and the first of the bluebells begin to appear in spots like Emmetts Garden or Sissinghurst.

Just a little tip from a local: be prepared for the famous April showers. One minute you’ll be basking in the sun at a vineyard, and the next you might be dashing for cover! I always tell friends to pack light layers and a thin waterproof—it’s the only way to stay ahead of the British springtime.

Just keep in mind that because of the Easter school break, the big attractions will be a lot busier than usual. If you prefer things a bit quieter, I’d suggest planning your castle or gardens visits for the latter half of the month once the schools are back!

Here is my personal pick of what’s happening and where I’ll be heading this month.

Special Days in April 2026:

• 3rd April (Friday): Good Friday (Bank Holiday).
• 5th April (Sunday): Easter Sunday.
• 6th April (Monday): Easter Monday (Bank Holiday).
• 30th March – 12th April (school spring and Easter break in most schools across Kent)

1. Easter Adventures at Chartwell

I love visiting Chartwell (Winston Churchill’s former home) in April because the hillside gardens are absolutely glowing with spring colour. Their Easter Adventure trail is running all the way through to the 19th of April. I think it’s a brilliant way to explore the 80 acres of grounds—the trail usually winds through the gardens and it’s always a great hit with kids (and adults!).

• Location: Mapleton Road, Westerham TN16 1PS
• Dates: Running until 19th April 2026
• Opening Times: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tickets: Free for National Trust members; non-members approx. £20 (the trail is usually an extra £3 per child).

2. The Great Dragon Egg Hunt at Hever Castle

I think, Hever Castle is at its most magical in spring. Their “Great Dragon Egg Hunt” is great for families, but even if you don’t have little ones in tow, the grounds are worth the visit alone for the spring tulips. I love the quirky touch of meeting a “real” dragon over the Easter weekend (3rd – 6th April)—it’s such a fun and a great way to spend the bank holiday.

My local tip: Historic Houses members have a free entry during weekdays, but not during school holidays, Bank Holidays or special events (still it’s a great value and you can visit towards the end of the April, which is what I tend to do).

• Location: Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG
• Opening Times: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Event runs 28th March – 19th April)
• Tickets: Adults approx. £24, Children £14 (Cheaper if you book online in advance)

3. Visit your local farmers’ market

Local markets are the best place to buy new season asparagus along with fresh spring lamb and local honey.

My local tip: If you are planning to head to Tonbridge or West Malling, I highly recommend getting there early in the morning. The best of the seasonal produce and the most popular artisan breads tend to fly off the shelves by midday!

There are plenty of fantastic farmer’s markets across Kent, but my top three markets to visit this April are:

Tonbridge Farmers’ Market: This is one of the largest farmer’s markets in Kent and atmosphere here is amazing. They often have over 60 stalls and a demo kitchen. It’s held on the 2nd Sunday of the month (12th April 2026) in the Sovereign Way car park.

West Malling Farmers’ Market: I think this is one of the prettiest markets in the county. The historic High Street is closed to traffic, which makes it feel like a real community festival. It takes place on the 4th Sunday of the month (26th April 2026).

Wye Farmers’ Market: If you want something a bit more traditional, Wye is the place. It’s set at the foot of the North Downs and is perfect for a morning browse before a hill walk. They run on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays (4th and 18th April 2026).

4. Hanami Blossom Tours at Brogdale Collections

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the Japanese tradition of “Hanami” (blossom watching), you don’t need to hop on a plane—just head to Faversham. I think the National Fruit Collection is one of Kent’s true wonders and definitely one of the best places for fruit blossoms in spring. In April, the cherry, apple, and pear trees create a canopy of pink and white that is breathtaking. Their guided tours are excellent; you’ll learn so much about the 3,000 varieties they grow there.

My local tip: Whilst local guided tours are extra, you can also buy a yearly pass for £20 and visit as many times as you like. This gives you chance to come back for apple picking in autumn or the Wassail celebrations in January.

• Location: Brogdale Farm, Faversham ME13 8XZ
• Opening Times: Guided tours usually at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 2:30 PM
• Tickets: Adults approx. £10–£15 for guided blossom tours.

5. Broadstairs Easter Food Festival

In my opinion, there is no better place to be on a sunny April afternoon than Broadstairs. Their Easter Food Festival (3rd – 5th April) is a fantastic celebration of local produce. I love wandering between the stalls at Victoria Gardens, picking up some Kentish cider and local cheeses, and then taking them down to the beach at Viking Bay for a makeshift picnic.

And if you miss the food festival, come next week (12 April 2026 – Sunday) for the regular Farmer’s Market in the grounds of Bleak House in Broadstairs (which is also newly open as a tearoom and antique shop!)

• Location: Victoria Gardens, Broadstairs CT10 1QS
• Opening Times: Usually 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Free entry!

6. The “Big Brick Build” at Dover Castle

Dover Castle is always impressive to visit, but this April they are doing something a bit different. From the 12th to the 21st, they are hosting a “Big Brick Build” where you can help Lego experts recreate a massive model of the castle’s famous Roman Lighthouse.

I’ve always found that even if the coastal wind is a bit cold in April, the sheer scale of the castle and the indoor exhibitions (like the underground attractions, such as the war time tunnels and the hospital will keep you plenty warm.

• Location: Castle Hill Road, Dover CT16 1HU
• Opening Times: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tickets: Adults approx. £22, Children £13 (Free for English Heritage members)

7. Bluebell Festival & Craft Fair at Riverhill

I think Riverhill Himalayan Gardens are one of hidden gems and I always find something new to see there. Their Bluebell Festival begins on the 22nd of April and runs into May. What I love is that they often pair the walks with a specialized craft fair in their Garden Room, so you can admire the blue carpet of bluebells and then browse some local jewellery and fine art.

• Location: Riverhill, Sevenoaks TN15 0RR
• Dates: Starts Wednesday 22nd April 2026
• Tickets: Adults approx. £12, Children £8.50 (Free for season ticket holders).

8. The Heritage Transport Show & South East Bus Festival

If you’re a fan of nostalgia and vintage machinery, you will love this festival. I think it’s one of the best value days out in the county. They have over 1,000 classic cars, tractors, and steam engines, but the real highlight for me is the South East Bus Festival. You can actually hop on free vintage bus rides throughout the day! It’s a lovely way to feel like you’ve stepped back in time for an afternoon.

• Location: Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF
• Date: Saturday, 11th April 2026
• Opening Times: Starts at 10:00 AM
• Tickets: Adults approx. £12; free parking on-site.

9. Robin Hood Easter Panto at Churchill Theatre

Who says pantomime is just for Christmas? I love the tradition of the “Easter Panto.” It’s usually loud, silly, and full of local jokes. In 2026, they are doing a “Robin Hood” adventure that’s perfect for a rainy April afternoon when you need a break from the garden trails.

My local tip: If you are coming for the evening show, you can easily visit Down House, which is only a short drive from Bromley and see the historic house, beautiful cherry blossoms and spring flower meadow as part of their gardens.

• Location: High Street, Bromley BR1 1DS
• Date: Friday, 10th April 2026
• Showtimes: Usually 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM
• Tickets: Prices vary, but usually start from approx. £20.

10. Kemsing Bluebell Walk

By mid-April, our woodlands undergo a complete transformation. I think the 8.9km circular walk from Kemsing is one of the best (and free!) way to see the bluebells in Kent. The path takes you up onto the Downs for some great views before dipping back into the woods. I’d suggest finishing with a well-earned lunch at The Bell pub in the village—it’s the quintessential Kentish experience!

• Location: Starts at Kemsing village centre (near Sevenoaks)
• Date: Peak bluebells are usually around the 16th April 2026
• Tickets: Free! (It’s a public footpath, but do stick to the trails to protect the flowers).

11. The Detling Showground Antiques & Vintage Fair

If you enjoy the thrill of the searching for that perfect antique piece of furniture or home decor, you cannot miss this. It is one of the largest fairs in the South East, and in April, the outdoor section really starts to expand. I love the early entry tickets on Saturday morning as you get the chance to beat the crowd and get the best picks of the vintage treasures. The grounds are huge, so wear your most comfortable boots!

• Location: Kent Event Centre, Detling, Maidstone ME14 3JF
• Dates: Saturday 18th – Sunday 19th April 2026
• Tickets: Early entry (Sat 8:30 AM) approx. £7; standard entry from £5–£6. (Note: It’s usually cash only at the gate!)

12. Artisan Craft Fairs

I’m a big fan of Kent craft fairs because they focus on local artists rather than mass-produced gifts. They are popping up in two of my favourite coastal and market towns this month. It’s the perfect place to pick up a one-off piece of pottery or some Kentish botanical skincare.

• Whitstable: Sunday 5th April 2026 at the Whitstable Umbrella Centre.
• Faversham: Saturday 25th April 2026 at The Alexander Centre.
• Tickets: Usually free entry; check out the stalls between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

• Herne Bay Artisan Market: Held at Wimereux Square on Sunday 12th April 2026 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM). It’s the second Sunday of the month and focuses on local food, drink, and handmade crafts.

13. “We Will Rock You” at The Malthouse

Canterbury has a brilliant theatre scene, and The Malthouse is a relatively new, atmospheric venue built inside an old Victorian industrial building. They are kicking off April with a high-energy production of the Queen musical, We Will Rock You. I think the acoustics in that old malt house are fantastic for a big rock show!

• Location: Malthouse Road, Canterbury CT2 7JA
• Dates: 1st April – 5th April 2026
• Tickets: Prices vary, usually starting from approx. £20.

14. Bluebell Carpet at Emmetts Garden

By mid-to-late April, the bluebells start to emerge, and I think Emmetts Garden offers some of the best views in the county. Because it sits on one of the highest points in Kent, you get these stunning vistas of the Weald framed by a sea of blue flowers. They also run a charming “Edwardian Circus” themed Easter trail throughout the month which is a lovely, nostalgic touch.

• Location: Ide Hill, Sevenoaks TN14 6BA
• Opening Times: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tickets: Free for National Trust members; non-members approx. £14.

15. Wing Walking for Charity at Headcorn

If you’re looking for something to watch (or perhaps you’re feeling very brave yourself!), Headcorn Aerodrome is the place to be on Saturday 4th April 2026. They are hosting a charity Wing Walk. Even if you stay firmly on the ground with a coffee from the café, watching the vintage biplanes take off with people strapped to the wings is quite a spectacle!

• Location: Headcorn Aerodrome, Ashford TN27 9HX
• Date: 4th April 2026
• Spectators: Free to watch from the public areas.

16. Young Artist Award Exhibition at Maidstone Museum

For a bit of culture, I highly recommend popping into the Maidstone Museum. They are hosting the “Young Artist Award” exhibition throughout April, with the theme of “Place.” I always find it inspiring to see how the younger generation views our county and the world around them. It’s a great free thing to do if you’re already in the town centre for a bit of shopping.

• Location: St Faith’s St, Maidstone ME14 1LH
• Dates: Throughout April 2026
• Tickets: Free admission to the museum.

17. Easter Fantasy Festival at Fort Amherst

I think this is one of the most creative ways to spend the Easter bank holiday. Fort Amherst transforms its historic Napoleonic tunnels into a child-friendly fantasy world. It’s a brilliant mix of make-believe and science fiction—imagine dragons and space adventures right inside a medieval-style fort!

• Dates: Sunday 5th April – Monday 6th April 2026.
• Tickets: Children under 16 get free admission if they come dressed in pirate or fairy fancy dress.

18. Gadds’ Easter Beer Festival

If you are looking for something a bit more grown up in Thanet, The Ramsgate Brewery hosts its annual Easter Beer Festival. I love the atmosphere here—it’s very communal and focuses on great local guest ales and fantastic street food.

• Dates: Friday 3rd April – Saturday 4th April 2026 (12:00 PM – 6:00 PM).
• Opening Times: Live music between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM each day, plus local food vendors like Jolly’s serving “chopped cheese” on the Saturday

19. Bouncing Bunnies Trail at Quex Park

For a proper family day out in Thanet, Quex Park runs a “Bouncing Bunnies” Easter Trail. I think the grounds here are lovely, and this event is very well-organised for younger children. And there is plenty more to do at Quex Park too – there is a lama centre, craft centre, farm barn shop and of course the Quex Park House & Cotton Powell Museum as well as a garden centre.

• Dates: Saturday 28th March – Monday 6th April 2026.
• Tickets: The ticket usually covers the trail itself, a chocolate treat, bunny ears, and even a tractor ride around the estate.
• Facilities: There are great play areas and a cafe on-site, so you can easily make a full day of it.

20. Hole Park gardens are opening for the main season

While some of Kent’s big gardens stay open year-round, April is when most of the other gardens re-open after winter break. I have my favourite gardens in Kent, which I visit all the time, but recently have discovered more seasonal gardens, such as Hole Park, Doddington or Riverhill Himalayan Gardens through the Historic Houses Association (it’s quite amazing how many there are in Kent!)

I love visiting Hole Park in the first couple of weeks in April for the incredible magnolias and camellias, but if you hang on until mid-to-late April, you’ll catch the bluebells in the lower part of the garden and woodland. They have a circular woodland walk that is literally a carpet of blue. It’s a family-run estate, and you can really feel that personal touch—especially in the coach house tea room where the cakes are all homemade.

• Location: Benenden Road, Rolvenden TN17 4JA
• Opening Times: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily from April 1st)
• Tickets: Adults approx. £12.00, Children £2.50.

21. Catching the tree blossoming in the Weald

If you don’t want to commit to a full attraction visit, I highly recommend a slow drive or cycle through the Weald of Kent (the area around Tenterden, Biddenden, and Cranbrook). April is apple blossom season and our orchards look like they’ve been covered in giant pink and white clouds.

There are plenty of places to see fruit blossom in Kent, but I think the best way to see it is by visiting a local farm shop like Biddenden Vineyards or Perry Court Farm. You can grab some local apple juice, take a walk through the rows of blossoming trees, and really see why we are called the Garden of England. It’s completely free to enjoy from the roadside, and the scent in the air is just wonderful.

22. Coastal Foraging & Rockpooling

Now that the sun is a little bit stronger, I love heading to the coast for a bit of exploring. April is a fantastic time for rockpooling in Broadstairs (Botany Bay), Kingsgate Bay Beach or Margate (Walpole Bay). The winter storms have usually cleared away the old seaweed, and you can find all sorts of treasures in the pools.

I also find this is the best month for a long lunch coastal walk. The wind isn’t as sharp as March, so you can actually sit outside a pub like The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie for a portion of fish and chips while watching the tide come in. Just remember my rule: always carry a light waterproof, as an April shower is never far away!

23. Visit a Local Farm Shop for the first seasonal produce

I always say that you haven’t properly experienced April in Kent until you’ve tasted our first crop of asparagus. The season is famously short, usually starting around St George’s Day (23rd April). I love the ritual of heading to a farm shop to grab a bunch that was likely cut from the field that very morning.

Aside from asparagus, keep an eye out for forced rhubarb (perfect for a spring crumble), purple sprouting broccoli, and the first delicate spring onions. It’s also the time when Macknade in Faversham reopens its Food Village for the season (3rd April 2026), which is a fantastic spot to enjoy local street food and soak up the community atmosphere.

Gibson’s Farm Shop (Wingham): I love their deli counter and their own home-grown Kentish potatoes.

Groombridge Farm Shop (near Tunbridge Wells): These guys are famous for their asparagus—you can’t get it any fresher!

Castle Farm (Shoreham): Even when the lavender is dormant, the Castle Farm Shop is a treasure trove of local produce, including farm’s own beef, lavender infused biscuits, jams and apple juices.

Frankie’s Farmshop (Staplehurst): A lovely spot for a relaxed breakfast before you browse their nursery for your own spring garden plants.

24. Herne Bay Easter FEASTival

If you’re near the coast on Easter Sunday or Monday, I highly recommend checking out the “FEASTival.” I think the name says it all! It’s a huge celebration of street food, local craft beers, and live music right on the Herne Bay seafront. It’s a great way to feed the family while letting the kids burn off energy by the water.

• Location: Wimereux Square, Herne Bay
• Dates: Sunday 5th April – Monday 6th April 2026
• Tickets: Free entry!

This blog post was originally published on 15 March 2026 and last updated on 15 March 2026