Open Day – Saturday 13th June 2026 (part of Maidstone's Big Day Out)
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Something for everyone this June — come and spend the afternoon at Maidstone's hidden gem.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular face, the Open Day is your chance to explore the reserve in style. Steve will be leading a History Walk through sections of the reserve connected to the Whatman family, using an 1869 map to bring the estate's past to life. There's also a Top 10 Tree Walk with local enthusiast Alan, pond dipping sessions where you might just encounter a dragonfly nymph or a Great Diving Beetle, and a Nature Curiosity competition from 2pm — use your phone to upload wildlife sightings and be in with a chance to win a prize.
For the little ones (and the young at heart): bring a favourite soft toy to the Teddy Bears Picnic at 12.45pm, and there's a Hook a Ducky stall to try your luck. Plus, Meet the Owls — always popular.
The Vinter Valley Park Trust's AGM takes place at 12 noon in the Terrace gazebo — all welcome.
Pre-booking recommended for the Tree Walk, History Walk, and Pond Dipping at: https://vinters-valley-nature-reserve.sumupstore.com/category/open-day-2026
List of Activities:
Top 10 Tree Walk – 12.30 & 3.00 (50 mins, £5 suggested donation) **pre-book**
History Walk with Steve – 12.30 & 3.00 (50 mins, £5 suggested donation) **pre-book**
Pond Dipping – 1.30–3.30 (15-min sessions, £3 suggested donation) **pre-book**
Nature Curiosity competition – 2.00–4.00 (free, just turn up)
Meet the Owls
Hook a Ducky Stall
Teddy Bears Picnic – 12.45–1.15pm (bring a soft toy, prize for best dressed bear)
AGM of Vinters Valley Park Trust CIO – 12 noon at the Terrace/gazebo
Just turn up 10 minutes before your slot.
📍 ///facing.cloak.purple (What3Words)
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular face, the Open Day is your chance to explore the reserve in style. Steve will be leading a History Walk through sections of the reserve connected to the Whatman family, using an 1869 map to bring the estate's past to life. There's also a Top 10 Tree Walk with local enthusiast Alan, pond dipping sessions where you might just encounter a dragonfly nymph or a Great Diving Beetle, and a Nature Curiosity competition from 2pm — use your phone to upload wildlife sightings and be in with a chance to win a prize.
For the little ones (and the young at heart): bring a favourite soft toy to the Teddy Bears Picnic at 12.45pm, and there's a Hook a Ducky stall to try your luck. Plus, Meet the Owls — always popular.
The Vinter Valley Park Trust's AGM takes place at 12 noon in the Terrace gazebo — all welcome.
Pre-booking recommended for the Tree Walk, History Walk, and Pond Dipping at: https://vinters-valley-nature-reserve.sumupstore.com/category/open-day-2026
List of Activities:
Top 10 Tree Walk – 12.30 & 3.00 (50 mins, £5 suggested donation) **pre-book**
History Walk with Steve – 12.30 & 3.00 (50 mins, £5 suggested donation) **pre-book**
Pond Dipping – 1.30–3.30 (15-min sessions, £3 suggested donation) **pre-book**
Nature Curiosity competition – 2.00–4.00 (free, just turn up)
Meet the Owls
Hook a Ducky Stall
Teddy Bears Picnic – 12.45–1.15pm (bring a soft toy, prize for best dressed bear)
AGM of Vinters Valley Park Trust CIO – 12 noon at the Terrace/gazebo
Just turn up 10 minutes before your slot.
📍 ///facing.cloak.purple (What3Words)
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Where is it happening?
Vinters Lodge, Lodge Road, ME14 5EH Maidstone, United Kingdom, Maidstone, United Kingdom
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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Host or PublisherVinters Valley Nature Reserve
