Setting sail into the height of summer with temperatures on the rise, there is no better way to cool off than by getting out on the water. At this time of the year, the Garden of England boasts an abundance of water-based activities and attractions, offering a refreshing escape from the heat.

Made better with Kent’s lush microclimate, the county has a number of freshwater reservoirs and natural lakes, making it home to some of the country’s best watersport destinations. This August, whether you wish to spend your morning on a serene kayaking trip along the River Medway or dive into a thrilling watersport experience, Kent offers a jam-packed schedule of unique water-based experiences, all promising a memorable day out and of course, a much-needed cool-down.

The Strand Lido | ©Historic Pools

Diving into August, head to The Strand Lido in Gillingham, recognised as the last remaining saltwater outdoor pool in the UK. The pool is filled and filtered using water drawn from the nearby River Medway, which means the pool is unheated, offering a refreshing swimming experience. First opened in 1896, this Victorian lido has welcomed generations of visitors, with a wealth of locals and tourists swimming here every year. Notably, The Strand Lido has finally been recognised for its historic significance and has become a member of the Historic Pools of Britain, making it a must-visit attraction in the summer months.

The lido is ideal for families, with a number of swimming areas and activities for all ages. Visitors can drift along the 300-metre lazy river and enjoy a morning swim in one of the designated lanes alongside a toddler pool and splash slides for littler swimmers. Beyond the pool, you can explore nearby attractions, including mini golf and a miniature railway, or alternatively, you can discover riverside walks along the Medway marshes, which offer the chance to explore the local Kentish landscape.

Making your way to Kent’s northeastern coastline, the vibrant seaside town of Margate combines a lively cultural hub with serene coastal waters. Located on Walpole Bay, the historic Walpole Bay Tidal Pool has been a popular swimming destination since 1937. Spanning four acres, it is believed to be the largest tidal pool in the UK, offering sea swimmers the chance to embrace the refreshing tides of the North Sea in a sheltered pool. 

Walpole Bay Tidal Pool

For over 90 years, the pool has been naturally regulated by the tides. At low tide, the walls become fully exposed, which creates a calm swimming spot alongside Walpole’s sandy beach and is an ideal location to relax after a dip.

After your swim, why not venture into Margate town and stop off at Little Swift, a natural wine and cocktail bar set on Margate’s seafront? The bar showcases the best of seasonal ingredients, where you can enjoy cocktails on ice including the Coastal Negroni, made with East London gin and burnt rosemary, and the Walnut Rye Old Fashioned, infused with black walnut and Amarena cherry.

Finish off your day with a stroll along Margate beach; with golden sands and pristine water, you can treat yourself to a scoop of Lulu’s Gelato. Crafted in traditional small batches, the Italian gelato is made using local Kentish ingredients – the perfect way to end a summer’s day out on the water.

For an alternative unique day out on the water, you can make your way to Action Watersports, based in the historic region of Romney Marsh. This family-owned watersports venue is set on a private freshwater lake, where a tranquil natural environment is complemented by a range of on-the-water activities.

Action Watersports

Home to the most diverse range of watersport activities in the UK, Action Watersports offers everything from water skiing, wakeboarding and paddleboarding to flyboarding if you are eager to try a new sport. This is all alongside the iconic Aqua Park, where visitors of all ages can challenge themselves to climb slippery obstacles and test their balance on the floating beams before launching themselves into the lake from a series of jump stations.

After an exhilarating day of watersports, you can head to the Lake View Cafe, found only a few steps away from the lake. Here, visitors can enjoy local Rye Bay coffee, refreshing iced drinks and creamy milkshakes, which can be paired with homemade smashburgers and loaded wraps, all while soaking up the picturesque lakeside views.

For those seeking a memorable day on the water, you can head to St Andrews Lake based in Halling where you will discov er a large private lake. Set within a former quarry, the lake’s striking turquoise-blue waters and exceptional water quality create a setting similar to that of a Mediterranean paradise, with a lush natural landscape and array of action-packed watersports to try.

The lake is home to Kent’s largest aquapark, where visitors can put their skills to the test on a range of floating obstacles including ‘stepping stones’ and a giant swing. Recognised as the deepest inland lake in the South East, St Andrews Lake is also a haven for wildlife; with crystal-clear waters, you can observe freshwater fish and a variety of bird species wading on the water’s edge. 

St Andrews Lakes

Those who want a more tranquil experience can explore the lake by paddleboard, kayak or even a sailing boat, offering a gentle meander through the peaceful surroundings. After a day of on-the-water activities, you can unwind at the lakeside Wellness Centre; with a Nordic-inspired outdoor spa, experience the chance to relax in the lakeside hot tub or detox in the wood-fired sauna. Finish off your spa experience with a dip in the natural lagoon – the perfect way to recharge by the water.

For those seeking a little escapism over the summer, you can make your way to Bewl Water, a spot nestled in the High Weald. The reservoir is situated in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering a unique waterside setting. It has also been recognised as the largest stretch of open water in the South East and supplies water to the surrounding region while also serving as an important natural habitat. The vast expanse of 800 acres of water and ancient woodland makes Bewl Water an ideal location for both nature-lovers and watersport enthusiasts.

Bewl Water

Start your visit with a trip to the Waterfront Café, set on the water’s edge of the reservoir, where you can relax on the terrace and enjoy a seasonal menu of light bites and hearty favourites from fresh smoked salmon sandwiches to buttermilk chicken burgers served with sriracha coleslaw and fries. 

From there, head down to the water where you can experience a range of activities including windsurfing, windfoiling and sailing, with the reservoir being recognised as one of the premier sailing sites in the South East, holding over 770 acres of water to explore. Visitors can try their hand at fishing, with the choice to sit on the bank or try a fishing kayak, and the reservoir is home to a variety of species including rainbow trout, perch and pike, which makes it a popular destination for anglers of all abilities. 

Alongside fishing, Bewl Water hosts open-water swimming sessions on Saturday mornings. After a refreshing dip, you can enjoy exploring more than 13 miles of scenic walking trails, which are rich in wildlife with some dog-friendly options. The routes offer the chance to spot a variety of wildlife including great crested grebes and cormorants.