Mersham le Hatch, Deer Park

The deer park at Mersham le Hatch is one of those proper old-school attractions that doesn't shout about itself. You'll find it just outside Hythe, nestled into the Kent countryside - and yes, there are actually deer wandering about, which keeps things simple and honest. It's the kind of place where you can walk the grounds at your own pace, spot the animals if you're lucky, and get a feel for what these estates looked like centuries ago.

Walkers will get the most from it, honestly. There's proper countryside to explore here rather than manicured gardens, so if your family enjoys a decent ramble and doesn't mind if the views are subtle rather than showstopping, you'll have a decent afternoon. Kids aged five to ten tend to stay engaged if there are deer about, but I'd warn you - it's not a petting zoo situation. Bring binoculars if you've got them.

Admission details are thin on the ground online, so ring ahead to check opening hours and whether there's a charge. The walk takes roughly two to three hours if you do it properly. It pairs well with Port Lympne Safari Park four miles away if you're making a day of it - that's got far more structured attractions if you need a backup plan. Broadhembury and Daleacres caravan parks are both close by, making it an easy stop-off point for a camping holiday in the area.