Days out with pre-schoolers in Kent - I need some ideas

[MrsFogi]

I have two under 4 and want to actually start organising some days out at the weekends as we seem to end up doing all sorts of catching up at the weekend rather than doing family things. So....any suggestions?

The rare breeds centre near ashford. Brilliant day out there if it is a nice day, a real mixture of things to do, can get very hands on with the animals and there are lots of child friendly activities too.

Its worth the trek even if its quite a way from you - you do need pretty much all day - i am assuming it is open this time of year.

Will watch this thread with interest as i have a 3.5 year old and if i have to step foot in one more soft play centre i swear i will go mad!

Quex Park is good -- a bit odd for modern sensibilities as it has a large collection of animals that the Victorian head of the family shot and had stuffed, but DS found it fascinating.

Howletts or Port Lympne?

Wildwood can be good (although last time we went almost all the animals were hiding).

the hop farm in/near paddock wood, they have family stuff all through the holidays and also have the farm where kids can see the animals.
leeds castle is nice when (if)the summer comes and hever castle too.

Thanks for the suggestions so far. They don't have to be just for holidays or this time of the year - my intention is to start to try to do something at least once a month from now on.

leeds castle does a yearly ticket, i thnk they have a maze and a play area for the children, if you are thinking of visiting more than once tis worth it i think.

We have been to the Enchanted Forest at

Groombridge

very nice.

Another vote for Groombridge Gardens. We took our 2 year old DD today , and we all had a wonderful day.
There is a little canal boat ride, a walk through a forest . Lots of places to stop with a picnic. It's free for under 3's.