Quality time this Father’s Day can be spent exploring the Garden of England, with a number of thrilling events and quieter escapes to discover this June.

This year, Father’s Day – our much-loved celebration of fathers and father figures – will fall on Sunday 21 June, marking the special occasion to celebrate our loved ones and enjoy a weekend jam-packed full of exciting events.

If you’re spending the weekend celebrating, whether it is with your family, friends or a dog-friendly day out across the Kentish countryside and coastal towns, there are a number of must-visit events and dining hotspots; whether your dad craves a thrilling weekend out or a leisurely escape, Kent has it all. So, if you’re in the mood to get planning for this celebratory weekend, here is our guide on how to spend Father’s Day 2026.

Hever Castle

Starting off with an annual favourite for Father’s Day, head to the historic Hever Castle & Gardens, which are currently preparing for a weekend steeped in wartime history. Step back in time to 1940’s Britain as the castle welcomes Hever’s Home Front. From 10.30am to 6pm, spend your time exploring lived experience in wartime Britain, get dressed up and soak in the atmosphere at the historic castle grounds. There’s also a number of competitions and events running across the weekend, from the Best Dressed Visitor Competition to the Kent Model Boat Display.

Only a short distance away is Riverhill Himalayan Gardens in Sevenoaks where you can get ready to fly your kite high with the Kent Kite Flying Organisation returning to the gardens for the second year on 20 and 21 June. The organisation will be bringing a selection of kites to demo on the Old Tennis Lawn, giving you the chance to get involved and fly a kite yourself, with practical help and tips available. The event is perfect for a family day out, with the kites flying over the whole weekend from 11am to 4pm and no additional charge for the event after garden entry.

If you fancy travelling across the county for the day, the Kent and East Sussex Railway are hosting events throughout the month of June, with a Fish and Chip Special held on 17 June, events over Father’s Day weekend and an Agatha Christie’s themed Murder Mystery Experience on 26 June. The events will be suitable for all the family and you can travel in style while watching the Kentish countryside pass by with the return route running from Tenterden Town to Bodiam in East Sussex.

Brands Hatch

For racing enthusiasts, Brands Hatch is celebrating their centenary year, with exclusive events running throughout the season; Father’s Day weekend is holding a special event, the London Historic Trophy, running from 19 to 21 June. Get ready for a day celebrating motor racing legends, with cars from the 1920s through to the 1990s lining up for race action, displays and demonstrations. Under 13s can enjoy free admission, while adult entry starts from £15.

For those fathers seeking a quieter day out, Wildshark Vineyard offers a tasteful escape; from estate tours and personalised experiences to wood-fired sourdough pizza, this could be the perfect relaxed Father’s Day treat. With Wildshark offering more than just a vineyard experience, the land offers an incredible history lesson, highlighting the North Downs nautical past and how it has transformed into the current natural habitat we see today.

Wildshark Vineyard

For an evening filled with entertainment, Woolton Farm near Canterbury is hosting a Father’s Day party filled with live music, swinging golf clubs and delicious pizza. The event will be set on the stunning grounds of the farm, where Kentish Pip cider and Woolten Wines are produced. The evening is free to book and suitable for the whole family, with the added bonus of being dog friendly. 

If you’re looking for a coastal retreat over the weekend, you can embark on an 11-mile linear hike on the Dover to Deal Coastal Walk, heading along the iconic White Cliffs. Starting off in the port town of Dover, you head across the coastline taking in panoramic views of the English Channel. On your way, you will pass through St Margaret’s Bay, a secluded shingle beach with pristine water where you can choose to take a quick dip before reaching the fishing town of Deal.

Deal Pier Kitchen

When you arrive, make your way to The Port Arms, soaking in the coastal sunshine while enjoying a well-deserved lunch of authentic Jamaican cuisine, which can be paired with a selection of craft beers and premium-quality lagers. Alternatively, you can head to Deal Pier Kitchen located at the end of the Deal pier, the last fully intact leisure pier in Kent. Take in the breathtaking views of Kent’s east coast and tuck into freshly made lobster and crayfish rolls. When heading back, you can either refollow the coastal path or catch a direct train to Dover Town.

If you’re just looking for a simple and relaxed evening meal out, head to Compasses in Tunbridge Wells. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and outside terrace for a summer evening, enjoy the friendly service and delicious food on offer – the versatile menu offers breakfast, lunch or dinner and the pub is the perfect setting for a hearty meal and to raise a glass in celebration of the day.