1 EXPERIENCE WARTIME WONDERS AT DOVER CASTLE

Visitors can learn about the key role Dover Castle played in the First World War this weekend. 1915 - Dover at War will have plenty of fun activities to bring history to life on Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2, including the chance to sit in a replica biplane and learn to communicate with Morse code and semaphore. There will be First World War falconry and cavalry displays, along with a recreated dance hall.

A century after guns on the White Cliffs successfully repelled a German Zeppelin raid, the sound of artillery fire will once more ring out over Dover when a rare anti-aircraft gun is fired from the castle. Carefully restored by English Heritage, the 3in gun is the only working example of just six known surviving weapons. A contemporary building that once housed the Fire Command Post and Port War Signal Station has also been conserved for visitors to explore.

For prices and more information visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

2 KNIGHTS TO REMEMBER AT LEEDS CASTLE

Medieval action is on offer throughout the summer at Leeds Castle, near Maidstone. From Saturday, August 1, to Monday, August 31, families can have a go at archery and shield painting, while on August 3, 28 and 31, Raggedy Jack will captivate children with a tale about the Prince of the World and his New Bride.

On selected dates in August, children can dress up as knights and princesses and learn how to build a castle wall, have a go at archery, discover battle tactics, take part in medieval games, wage war in a mini battle and follow the clues on a quest to win a tasty prize.

For prices and more information visit www.leeds-castle.com

3 MYTHS, LEGENDS AND FAIRY TALES AT GROOMBRIDGE

Magical characters from classic stories will be brought to life during a summer of fun at Groombridge Place and Enchanted Forest, near Tunbridge Wells. Until the end of August there is an array of family entertainment taking place and a programme that changes weekly.

One week families can take part in a Fairy Tales Got Talent show on the lawn, make magic wands, watch the story of The Sword In The Stone and more; the next, visitors can meet Robin Hood, see the Little Mermaid at the lagoon. For an extra charge, there will also be have-a-go archery every day and the Mega Blaster World, where children can have fun with Nerf Guns and Super Soakers.

For prices and more information visit www.groombridgeplace.com

4 DOGS JOIN IN THE FUN AT HEVER CASTLE

All the family are invited to Paws at the Castle on Saturday, August 1, and Sunday, August 2, when dogs of all kinds will be the centre of attention. The weekend features displays by Bravo Working Dog Rescue, Royal Army Veterinary Corps and Fire Investigation Search Dogs, plus Newfoundland dogs will demonstrate the incredible way in which they rescue people from the water.

Canine visitors can also get involved by taking part in a fun dog show, How Clever is Your Dog and Have a Go Agility events. You will also have the chance to chat to dog behaviour experts and pick up some well-deserved pet treats at the castle between Edenbridge and Tonbridge.

For prices and more information visit www.hevercastle.co.uk

5 VINTAGE ENTERTAINMENT AT CHIDDINGSTONE CASTLE

Step back in time and enjoy some retro fun when Chiddingstone Castle, near Tonbridge, hosts a summer vintage fair on Sunday, August 2. Punch and Judy will be entertaining the crowd with their energetic antics, while the Lindy Hoppers entertain with a dance display. Discover the fashions of the past with a visit to the hair and beauty parlour, take a nostalgic snap in the photobooth, listen to the music of the past and browse the stalls for a vintage bargain.

Anyone wanting to get into the real spirit of the day is encouraged to come along in vintage costume – there will be spot prizes for the best dressed visitors. Plus, the tea room will be serving up traditional teas. The fair runs from 11am to 4.30pm.

For prices and more information visit www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk