Grove Ferry Picnic Area

If your looking for somewhere different to go with the kids for a picnic and a play you can't go wrong with a little trip to Grove Ferry (Upstreet near Canterbury). We've been going here on and off for the last 6 years and if like us you own Kayaks or Canoes there is a good entry point to the River Stour.

There is a large grass area with a few picnic benches but recommend you take a picnic rug. Great for the kids to run around and play games, there are a few large trees so you can find some shade if you need it. The River Stour runs alongside and the grass slopes up towards the riverside path so relatively easy to spot if the kids are venturing that way.

There is also a play park with swings, slides etc it is the wooden variety. It has a wooden fence all the way around with one gate so good for those with littlies who like to escape.

If  you want to make the most of your visit you have a few options. The riverside path is part of the Saxon Shore Way and the Stour Valley Way so you can take a little stroll away from the park down river, it's a rough path so better for a toddle then a pushchair. If your hardcore or have older children you can follow the paths out of the park and go stomping for miles and miles. Look out for the boats passing by, the ducks and general wildlife including dragonflies and butterflies. 

To see the river in all its glory why not take a trip on the water with Grove Ferry River Trips. 

The boat pick up point is from the pub near the bridge, although it is completely independent of the pub itself. It runs weekends from mid March through April, Wed-Sun from April and everyday through the Summer holidays, trips start from 12 and run hourly through the afternoon. The boat will take you up or down stream depending on the tide and the weather. It is advisable to book especially at peak times although you can just turn up as we have in the past, next trip time is usually on the board and it's first come first served. Its £9 for adults and £5 for kids for approx 50 minute trip. The kids love it and the Skipper always makes you feel welcome no matter your age. Check out the website for further details or Facebook page.

If your feeling adventurous or have bored teens, why not try a spot of canoeing. Wild Canoes is based here and you can hire a canoe complete with buoyancy aids and life jackets for the littliest. Paddle up or down stream, in either a Canadian canoe (fits 2 adults and 2 Children under 10) or a duo kayak (for 2) for an hour for £20. This is great fun, again it's worth booking in advance at peak times but they are usually set up so you can just ask on the day on the off chance. Check out the website for lots of other options, including half day guided tours from Fordwich to Grove Ferry (and a lift back).

The Grove Ferry Inn is next to the park, it has lots of seating outside along the river and a large garden with a some pigs and chickens. So if you fancy a drink or a coffee, and somewhere else for the kids to play, give it a try. They do food, although it was always on the pricey side and I haven't eaten there since the management changed

There are 2 car parks, one through the gates thats along side the park or if it's busy one opposite the entrance gate. £1.20 weekdays and £2 weekends. The pub also has a car park but only if you are a customer. There are public toilets including disabled which are reasonable and clean. 

Best for: Under 12s
Recommend: Picnic, Picnic Rug
Time: 3-4hrs