Solar System Model: Earth

This outdoor Solar System Model near Sevenoaks is a proper bit of quirky science education stretched across the Kent countryside. Someone's actually built a scale replica of our cosmic neighbourhood, with the planets positioned at their correct relative distances from the sun. You'll walk between these markers - some are simple sculptures, others detailed installations - getting a genuine sense of just how vast space actually is.

It's free to explore and takes as long as you fancy. Wandering the full route is a solid afternoon activity if you're curious; half an hour if you're just popping by to see a couple of planets. The scale means you won't see everything from one spot - that's rather the point. History buffs and science types will appreciate the thinking behind it, though younger kids might lose interest after spotting Mars and Saturn.

The nearest proper town is Sevenoaks, which gives you some decent eating options and shops should you need supplies. If you're basing yourself at Thriftwood Country Park just four and a half miles away, this makes for a reasonable add-on during a half-day out - combines nicely with a countryside walk rather than being a destination in itself. Worth the detour if you're already in the area and fancy something different from the usual park attractions, though don't expect theme park thrills.