The summer holidays are six wonderful — and let's be honest, sometimes long — weeks. If you're a parent around Ebbsfleet, Dartford or Gravesend wondering how to keep the kids busy, happy and off screens in 2026, here's a local guide to the best summer activities right on your doorstep.
1. Explore Ebbsfleet Garden City's parks & play areas
Ebbsfleet Valley has fantastic green spaces and play parks — perfect for a free morning out. Castle Hill and the surrounding parks have room to run, scoot and picnic, and they're ideal for burning off energy before lunch.
2. A creative morning at the Summer Holiday Art Club
If your little one loves getting messy and making things, the Shilpkar Summer Holiday Art Club runs Monday to Thursday, 11am–1:30pm throughout the summer, right here in Ebbsfleet Valley. It's for ages 4–12, with eight hands-on projects — canvas painting, mandala art, tote-bag design and more — and every child takes their masterpiece home. You can book single days, a full week, or all eight sessions, with a sibling discount, so it's easy to fit around your plans. All materials are included; you just bring a snack.
3. Splash about at a local splash park
On a hot day, nothing beats a splash park. Central Park in Dartford has a popular splash area, and there's plenty of shaded space for parents nearby. Bring towels, sun cream and a change of clothes!
4. Get outdoors at Shorne Woods Country Park
Just outside Gravesend, Shorne Woods Country Park has woodland trails, a play area, a den-building zone and a café. It's a lovely half-day out and great for little explorers and nature lovers.
5. Cycle, scoot and play at Cyclopark
Cyclopark in Gravesend is brilliant for older kids — traffic-free cycling and scooting circuits, a pump track, play areas and a café. Bring bikes and scooters, or hire on site.
6. A day out at Bluewater
When the British weather turns, Bluewater is a reliable rainy-day option — cinema, indoor activities, and plenty of space to wander. It's minutes from Ebbsfleet and easy to combine with lunch.
7. Woodland adventures at Jeskyns Community Woodland
Near Gravesend, Jeskyns is a free-to-enter community woodland with walking trails, a play area and open meadows — perfect for a picnic and a runaround.
8. Riverside walks and views at Gravesend
The Gravesend riverside and promenade make for a breezy, scenic walk, with ice-cream stops and boats to spot along the Thames.
Tips for a great summer with the kids
- Mix active days with calmer, creative ones — a busy morning at the park pairs perfectly with a relaxed afternoon of art or reading.
- Book popular activities early — summer clubs and camps fill up fast, especially for the sunniest weeks.
- Keep a rainy-day list — Bluewater, a craft session or a home art project saves the day when it pours.
Looking for something creative this summer?
If you'd love a fun, calm, screen-free morning where your child makes real art and new friends, come along to the Summer Holiday Art Club in Ebbsfleet. Spots are limited to 12 children per day and book up quickly — reserve your child's place here.
Have a wonderful summer! 🎨☀️