Nuthatches, swans and swallows will be watching from a safe distance as the kids descend on the play area at this 52-acre park in the heart of West Malling.

Once part of an 18th-century estate created by Thomas Douce, Manor Park is now a diverse location with an impressive variety of habitats and landscapes to explore.

Wildflowers to look out for include birdfoot trefoil, stitchwort and buttercups. The revamped play area is comfortably close to the car park, lake, toilets and a great little cafe that serves the kind of food kids actually like.

A great place for a family picnic and just a 15-minute stroll from the mainline station.

Address: Manor Park, St Leonard’s Street, West Malling, ME19 6PE.

Opening times: 9am to dusk or 9pm (whichever is earlier).

Cost: Admission is free. Pay and display parking is £1.50 Monday to Friday £1.50 and £2 on weekends and bank holidays.

Contact: Ring 0300 333 6488 or see www.kent.gov.uk