FLORRIE’ S AUGUST DOG DAYS
Florrie
DAYSOUT
BUDGET-FRIENDLY FUN
For families looking to make the most of the summer holidays without stretching the budget, Kent is jam-packed with affordable days out that promise entertainment for all ages.
Heading to the seaside town of Margate, the mysterious Shell Grotto( shellgrotto. co. uk) is a hidden gem for families to explore. Descending into a subterranean labyrinth, you will find walls decorated with more than 4.6 million shells covering every corner of the caves. The attraction has been fascinating visitors since 1838 and to this day no one knows exactly why it was built.
The caves are perfect for families of all ages as children can explore the patterns and shapes, spotting out different shells from cockles, whelks, mussels and oysters, while adults can enjoy learning about the cave’ s intriguing history. Better still, it’ s a budget-friendly option with tickets priced at £ 6 for adults and £ 2 for children.
Once you have emerged from the grotto, why not spend the rest of the day on Margate Main Sands? The wide, sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles and paddling in the sea, and of course no trip to Margate would be complete without a visit to Morrelli’ s Gelato( morellisgelato. com) where you can enjoy fresh artisan ice cream in flavours such as rich chocolate and sweet strawberry.
For families looking for something a little more action-packed, head west to Diggerland( diggerland. com), an adventure park where children and adults can get behind the controls of real diggers. The park has over 20 rides and attractions including the Skyshuttle, which lifts visitors 50 feet into the air for panoramic views across the park.
While you are there, you can have a go at driving diggers and racing go-karts, so families will be thoroughly entertained. Younger children can burn off some energy in the indoor and outdoor play areas, while parents can take a well-earned break in the on-site cafe that serves a range of freshly prepared food and cooling refreshments. Children under 90cm can visit free, making it an even more affordable day out for those with younger children.
FLORRIE’ S AUGUST DOG DAYS
BY FLORRIE, iK’ S RESIDENT COCKAPOO
Hello my holiday-season pals!
August is peak summer silliness. Roads are busy, beaches are packed and humans suddenly own camping chairs. My suggestion this month is a relaxed, dog-first escape where muddy paws are not just allowed but encouraged- Solleys Farm Camping near Deal.
This working farm offers dog-friendly camping and glamping surrounded by open countryside, with plenty of space to roam and breathe. For dogs, it’ s heaven- grassy fields, rural scents and relaxed routines.
There’ s plenty more to discover once you’ ve pitched up, too. The family farm is home to the famous Solley’ s Ice Cream Parlour & Café, where humans can tuck into breakfast, lunch or, naturally, a scoop( or two) of their award-winning real dairy ice cream. As the day winds down, The Pub at Solley’ s is the perfect spot for a relaxed drink or bite to eat while I keep a watchful eye on any chips that might accidentally make their way under the table.
Days can be spent exploring the surrounding footpaths that weave through the rolling countryside towards Ringwould and the Kent Downs, taking a gentle stroll to nearby Ripple and Sandwich Bay for sea air and wide-open views, or tackling part of the scenic Pier to Parlour route, which links the farm with Deal’ s seafront. It’ s the perfect excuse for another walk before returning to camp to watch the sun set over the fields.
August adventures don’ t have to be loud. Sometimes, they’ re best enjoyed under canvas.
with Florrie
Until next time,
Florrie
DIGGERLAND www. insidekent. co. uk • 39