Thousands of free tickets to top attractions across the county are up for grabs.

The tickets to iconic castles and wildlife parks, as well as adrenalin-inducing activities and meals out are all on offer as part of the annual Kent Big Weekend.

The event, organised by Visit Kent aims to encourage people to see what's on offer in Kent, will be held on Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5 - the first weekend of the school Easter holidays.

The ballot for the tickets opened on Thursday, February 20 for Kent residents over 18 to apply for as many attractions as they want. The winners, who will receive pairs of tickets, will be selected at random after registration closes on Monday, March 16.

Now in its 14th year, the event has grown in scale and popularity.

More than 120 Kent tourist attractions and businesses will be opening their doors or offering special gifts to lucky ticket holders this year, with experiences on offer ranging from entry into some of the county’s most iconic castles and close encounters with wild animals, to delicious meals, relaxing afternoon teas for two, and adrenaline-inducing activities.

The event started out with 80 attractions donating 10,000 free tickets while this year there are 33,000 up for grabs.

To register for tickets, go to kentbigweekend.co.uk

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