Kent with Kids: Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens, Dover

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Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens in Dover is one of Finn and Lola’s favourite places for a free day out (we’ve had so many fun days there!) so if you’re local, or visiting Kent with the kids, keep reading for a full review of what’s on offer (and some photos too) – you won’t even need to pay for parking!

Where is Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens located?

Situated just over two miles northwest of Dover town centre, Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens is easily accessible by various modes of transport. For those driving, there’s a car park just off the main road. If you’re travelling by public transport, Kearsney train station is a mere five-minute walk away, and local buses stop right outside the parks, making it convenient if you’re visiting without a car too.

What is there to do at Kearsney Abbey?

Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens is split into two areas on either side of the road, with a crossing in between. It’s a beautiful place to visit for a stroll outdoors and, if you’re lucky enough to get some sunshine, the children can paddle in the shallow streams which is a firm favourite with my two and their friends in the summer! There are some smaller areas for the little ones, but also places for the older ones to climb and explore – just remember to bring towels and a change of clothes.

There are a couple of play parks to keep the children entertained too – these are on both sides of the road, so it’s worth moving around to make the most of it all. It does get quite busy in the summer holidays, but as there’s a lot of space to roam it doesn’t ever feel too crowded or overwhelming. The park on the main side is best for younger ones, whilst Russell Gardens (on the other side of the road) has a more natural themed park better for older kids, and a flat rectangular grassed area perfect for a game of football.

We’ve had so many days out there with friends and family; there are huge areas of grass for picnics and games – we take all sorts with us when we go to keep the kids occupied, there’s plenty of space for a game of rounders. With such large grassy areas available, and trees for shade on a hot day, packing up a picnic is definitely the way to go if you’re visiting over the warmer months. I honestly can’t get my kids out of the stream! 😂 They’ll happily spend an afternoon messing around in the water with their friends.

What facilities are there at Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens?

The main areas (including the café, playground and pathways) are wheelchair and buggy accessible, but you’ll probably want to avoid bringing a pushchair if you want to venture off the beaten track for a wander. There’s a small car park near the restaurant area with disabled bays – the toilets are located there too and there are baby changing facilities. Dogs are welcome at Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens so you can bring your furry little friends with you if you’d like.

As I mentioned earlier, parking is free in the adjacent car park – you can park there for up to four hours. However, it can fill up pretty fast in the school holidays (it’s not huge) so you may need to find parking elsewhere. In this instance, I drive past the park and around the edge to park at the back of it along the road – there are a few routes onto the site from the different sides of the park. There’s a lovely cafe at Kearsney Abbey too – it isn’t unusually dear, but it’s not really cheap either so we always bring our own food and drinks. Though, there is a cute ice-cream stand outside where you can get mixed flavour Mr Whippys – they always go down a treat with the kids.

What are the opening times for Kearsney Abbey and is it free?

Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens is a great choice for a sunny day out in Dover with the kids. It’s open 24 hours a day, every single day of the year, and it won’t cost you a penny for entry or parking – as I mentioned above, it’s completely free to visit Kearsney Abbey. So, if the kids don’t fleece you for an ice-cream, you can have a completely free day out – perfect for locals in Kent, or for those visiting and wanting to enjoy a budget-friendly family day out. Have fun!

Useful information for your visit:

Website: https://www.kearsneyparks.co.uk/Home.aspx
Pets: Yes, dog-friendly park
Parking: Yes, free
Facilities: Restaurant, parking, toilets, picnic areas
Address: Alkham Road, Temple Ewell, Dover, Kent. > The postcode for the western car park (opposite Russell Gardens) is CT16 3EE.