Summer Days Out in Kent, East Sussex and Epsom

Summer is the perfect time to get outside, explore somewhere new and make memories with family, friends or your partner. Whether you enjoy relaxing on the beach, discovering local history, walking through the countryside or attending exciting events, there is plenty to enjoy across Kent, East Sussex and Epsom.

Tourism remains a huge part of life across the South East. Kent welcomed around 66 million visitor trips in 2024, generating more than £374 million for the local economy, while tourism across Sussex contributes over £4 billion each year. These figures show just how popular our local area is with visitors looking to enjoy everything the region has to offer.

Seaside Escapes

Nothing quite captures the feeling of summer like a day at the beach. Kent is home to some of the UK’s most loved seaside destinations, from the colourful beach huts and oysters of Whitstable to the golden sands of Broadstairs and the growing arts scene in Folkestone. In East Sussex, Eastbourne offers a traditional British seaside experience, while Camber Sands is famous for its vast stretch of sandy beach and rolling dunes.

A day by the coast can be as active or as relaxed as you like. Some people enjoy swimming, paddleboarding or beach games, while others simply prefer a peaceful walk along the shore followed by an ice cream and fish and chips overlooking the sea.

Explore the Great Outdoors

The summer months provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful countryside that surrounds us. Kent and East Sussex are home to some of the country’s most picturesque walking routes, offering stunning views, historic landmarks and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

The White Cliffs of Dover remain one of Britain’s most iconic landscapes, while the Kent Downs provide miles of rolling countryside to explore. In East Sussex, the famous 1066 Country Walk takes visitors through historic villages, ancient woodlands and open countryside linked to one of the most significant events in English history.

Walking is not only a great way to discover new places, but it can also boost physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you choose a short stroll or a longer hike, spending time outdoors is one of the simplest ways to enjoy the season.

Discover Local History

Our region is packed with fascinating stories and historic landmarks. Canterbury Cathedral continues to attract visitors from around the world and remains one of England’s most important historic and religious sites. Dover Castle offers centuries of military history and spectacular views across the English Channel, while the medieval town of Rye feels like stepping back in time with its cobbled streets, ancient inns and historic buildings.

Many heritage attractions run special summer programmes, making it easy for families to combine education with entertainment. Interactive displays, guided tours and seasonal events help bring local history to life for visitors of all ages.

Look to the Skies

One of the highlights of the summer calendar is the Eastbourne Airshow, known as Airbourne. As one of Europe’s largest free seafront airshows, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and features breathtaking aerial displays from military and civilian aircraft.

Watching planes perform incredible manoeuvres above the coastline creates a memorable experience for families, couples and aviation enthusiasts alike. Combined with Eastbourne’s seafront attractions, it makes for a fantastic day out.

Reconnect with Nature

Summer is also a wonderful time to slow down and appreciate the natural world. Nature reserves such as Rye Harbour and Dungeness offer unique landscapes and opportunities to spot birds, insects and other wildlife. The area is particularly popular with photographers and walkers who enjoy peaceful surroundings away from busier tourist hotspots.

Closer to Epsom, green spaces such as Epsom Common and nearby Box Hill provide beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the longer days. Whether you prefer woodland walks, open grasslands or coastal habitats, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore.

Family Adventures

For families looking to keep children entertained during the school holidays, there are countless attractions to choose from. Hobbledown in Epsom continues to be a popular destination, combining adventure play, animal encounters and seasonal activities designed for younger visitors.

Across Kent and Sussex, many attractions host special summer events, from outdoor theatre performances and treasure hunts to farm experiences and educational workshops. These activities offer children the chance to learn something new while enjoying time away from screens.

Festivals, Food and Summer Events

Summer brings a packed calendar of events to towns and villages across the region. Local food festivals celebrate Kent and Sussex produce, while outdoor concerts and theatre performances make the most of the warmer evenings.

Epsom Downs regularly hosts summer race evenings that combine sport, live entertainment and a lively atmosphere. Across Kent and East Sussex, community festivals, artisan markets and outdoor cinema screenings provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy time with family and friends while supporting local businesses and organisations.

Romantic Summer Days

Couples looking for a quieter pace will find plenty of opportunities for memorable days out. A sunset walk along the coast, a vineyard tour through the rolling countryside or a leisurely afternoon exploring a historic house and garden can provide the perfect escape from everyday routines.

Kent and Sussex are home to several award-winning vineyards, reflecting the growth of English wine production in recent years. Many offer tours, tastings and beautiful views, making them ideal destinations for a summer afternoon together.

Make the Most of the Season

Summer often passes by more quickly than we expect, making it the perfect time to get out and explore what is on our doorstep. If you were looking to move to the areas, Love Living Homes has shared ownership homes available for reservation. Whether you prefer sandy beaches, countryside walks, fascinating history, exciting events or peaceful moments in nature, Kent, East Sussex and Epsom offer something for everyone.

With so many attractions, activities and events taking place throughout the season, there has never been a better time to discover somewhere new, revisit an old favourite or simply enjoy the longer days and warmer weather close to home.