Beautiful place to fish , being a Canterbury member.  Photo speaks for itself.
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Grove Ferry Picnic Site

4.5
·354 reviews·, United Kingdom

A serene riverside spot perfect for picnics, paddling on the River Stour, and family fun with a playground.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Avoid crowds and secure parking

CrowdLow
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Beautiful place to fish , being a Canterbury member.  Photo speaks for itself.

Grove Ferry Picnic Site

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Avoid crowds and secure parking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene riverside spot perfect for picnics, paddling on the River Stour, and family fun with a playground. Reddit

4.5
(354 reviews)

"Lovely picnic spot with area for launching inflatables or hiring canoes. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast on nice days. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. :car:

🛶 Book Canoe Hire Ahead

Secure your canoe or kayak rental in advance, especially during peak times. :kayak:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Stour Paddling

River Stour Paddling

River Stour access point

Enjoy a peaceful paddle or canoe trip along the scenic River Stour. Perfect for a relaxing day on the water.

Reddit
Family Picnic Haven

Family Picnic Haven

Picnic area

Spacious grassy areas and picnic tables make this a perfect spot for a family picnic. Kids will love the play area.

Reddit
Tranquil Riverside Walks

Tranquil Riverside Walks

Surrounding paths

Explore gentle walking trails along the river, ideal for stretching your legs or taking your dog for a stroll.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Parking Pointers

Parking at Grove Ferry is a flat rate all day, which can be a great deal if you plan to stay, but be aware it fills up fast on sunny days. Some visitors found it a 'total joke' with no short-stay options, so arrive early or consider alternatives if you're just popping in briefly. Reddit

Water Activities Prep

Grove Ferry is ideal for water lovers, offering canoe and kayak hire. If you plan to paddle, book rentals in advance, especially during peak season. The site has good access to the river for paddleboarding too. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Avoid crowds and secure parking
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for water activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇬🇧 Things to do in Canterbury ⬇️ England ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🛶 Go punting along the River Stour⁣⁣ 🧺 Have a picnic at Westgate Gardens ⁣⁣ ⛪️ Wander through Canterbury Cathedral ⁣⁣ 🍽️ Lunch at Old Weavers House ⁣⁣ 📚 Book shopping at the Crooked Bookshop⁣⁣ 🍳 Brunch at Refectory Kitchen⁣⁣ 🍺 Grab a Pint at Parrot Pub⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Canterbury is only a 50+ minutes train journey from London, which means you can easily do a day...
@kelseyinlondon
192.5K likes • 1.3M views

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast on nice days. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. Reddit :car:

🛶 Book Canoe Hire Ahead

Secure your canoe or kayak rental in advance, especially during peak times. Reddit :kayak:

🇬🇧 Best things to do in Canterbury ⬇️ England ⁣ ⁣ 🛶 Go punting along the River Stour⁣ 🧺 Have a picnic at Westgate Gardens ⁣ ⛪️ Wander through Canterbury Cathedral ⁣ 🍽️ Lunch at Old Weavers House ⁣ 📚 Book shopping at the Crooked Bookshop⁣ 🍳 Brunch at Refectory Kitchen⁣ 🍺 Grab a Pint at Parrot Pub⁣ ⁣ Canterbury is only a 50+ minutes train journey from London, which means you can easily do a day trip...
@kelseyinlondon
36.8K likes • 254.3K views
It's all happening thick and fast right now! 📅 Sunday 18th May 📍 Grove Ferry Picnic Site, Canterbury. https://maps.app.goo.gl/c5JJ2iRrr3Wy48Gn8 ⏰ 9am - 6pm Come and join @kentcanineswim, @sitnpawsdogtraining deli and @conorkerriganphotography as we support our friends at @canoe.wild this Sunday 😃 Canoe Wild are hosting their doggy event at their Grove Ferry launch point, where you can hire ...
kentcanineswim
8 likes • 630 views

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

While there's a food van, bringing your own picnic is a classic way to enjoy the site. Reddit :sandwich:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

The riverside paths are great for walking your dog. Keep them on a lead where necessary. Reddit :dog:

A #greensandpiper happily feeding at #groveferry #stodmarshnationalnaturereserve #groveferrypicnicsite #kent #kentbirding #waders #london🇬🇧 #birdphotography #rspb_love_nature  #photographyislife    #sonyalpha7riva  #sonya7riva  #sonya7r4a  #sonyalpha7r4a  #sonyfe200600g  #telephotolens #birdsonearth  #kings_birds #birds_private #raw_birds #nb_nature_brilliance #planetbirds #birdfreaks #birds_f...
normanzjames
4 likes • 312 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Arrive Early for Parking

Parking fills up fast on nice days. Aim for early morning to secure a spot. Reddit :car:

🛶 Book Canoe Hire Ahead

Secure your canoe or kayak rental in advance, especially during peak times. Reddit :kayak:

🧺 Pack a Picnic Basket

While there's a food van, bringing your own picnic is a classic way to enjoy the site. Reddit :sandwich:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls

The riverside paths are great for walking your dog. Keep them on a lead where necessary. Reddit :dog:

🚽 Clean Facilities

Public toilets are available and generally kept clean. Reddit :toilet:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(354 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Grove Ferry Picnic Site is praised for its beautiful riverside setting, ideal for picnics and water activities like canoeing. Families appreciate the playground, and walkers enjoy the scenic trails. However, the parking system, with its flat all-day rate and tendency to fill up, is a common point of frustration for visitors with short stays. Reddit

"Beautiful place, great for a picnic or a quiet day out – but the parking system is a total joke. I came just to pick up my child, stayed barely 10 minutes, and had to pay for the whole day. No short-stay option? Seriously? Feels more like a trap than a service. Shame, because the location deserves better."

Marcin Konopka

"Lovely picnic spot with area for launching inflatible boats or hiring canoes.
Well equipped play area for young children as well as large grassy area to run about.
There is a stand that does hot drinks and food if you don't want to walk along to the pub (also very nice, see other review).
Parking is flat rate all day with a good availability in general but be warned it fills up fast on nice days.
Plenty of nice walks around as well if you don't want to go in the water."

Thomas Gilbert

"The parking is cheap at £2 for the day so well worth that, the Mobil food truck in there is very nice food is great and reasonable prices. Came here to sup, they have a good walk way to lead down the river to a pontoon to get on and off the board. Very quiet and peaceful."

Rob Stringer

What People Like

Beautiful riverside location
Great for picnics
Canoe and kayak hire

What People Dislike

Parking system (flat rate)
Car park fills quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grove Ferry Picnic Site is about a 15-minute drive from Canterbury. If you have transport, it's a straightforward journey. Reddit Consider driving as public transport options might be limited for direct access to the picnic site itself. :car:

While not directly served by frequent public transport, you might be able to combine a bus or train to a nearby village with a walk or taxi. It's best to check local bus routes for the most up-to-date information. :bus:

From Canterbury, head towards the A2 and then follow signs for Grove Ferry. The site is well-signposted once you're in the vicinity. :road_sign:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no specific entry fee to access the picnic site itself. However, there is a flat-rate parking charge for the day. Reddit :ticket:

Parking is a flat rate for the entire day, which some find reasonable at around £2. Reddit Be aware that this is a flat fee, so even short stays incur the full charge. :moneybag:

Advance booking for parking is generally not required, but the car park can fill up quickly on busy days, especially during summer. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit :calendar:

The picnic site is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific opening and closing times for facilities like toilets or the food van may vary. :clock:

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy picnics, go canoeing or kayaking on the River Stour, take riverside walks, and there's a well-equipped play area for children. Reddit :kayak: :child: :walking:

Yes, there is a well-equipped play area that is a good size and popular with younger visitors. Reddit :playground_slide:

Yes, there is good access to the river for launching inflatable boats, paddleboards, and kayaks. There's a walkway to a pontoon for easier access. Reddit :paddle_boat:

Yes, public toilets are available at the site and are generally reported to be clean. Reddit :toilet:

Yes, the site is dog-friendly, and the riverside paths are great for walking your dog. Please ensure dogs are kept on a lead where appropriate. Reddit :dog2:

🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining

There is a mobile food truck on-site that serves hot drinks and food at reasonable prices. Reddit There's also a pub nearby if you prefer. :hamburger:

The food van typically offers hot food and drinks. Reviews suggest the food is nice and reasonably priced. Reddit :coffee:

Yes, picnic tables are dotted throughout the site, making it convenient for enjoying a meal outdoors. Reddit :picnic_table:

📸 📸 Photography

The riverside scenery, particularly along the River Stour, offers beautiful shots. The green spaces and children's play area are also picturesque. :camera:

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light for photography, especially along the river. Weekdays will also offer fewer people in your shots. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Grove Ferry is a fantastic spot for families. The well-equipped playground is a big hit with younger children, and there are plenty of open grassy areas perfect for running around or setting up a picnic. TikTokReddit You can easily spend a whole day here with the kids enjoying the play facilities and the gentle riverside environment. Consider bringing a picnic to make the most of the dedicated picnic tables. Reddit

🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts

For those who love being on the water, Grove Ferry offers excellent opportunities. You can hire canoes and kayaks to explore the River Stour, or bring your own paddleboard for a serene glide. Reddit The site provides good access points, including a pontoon, making it easy to get on and off the water. Reddit Booking rentals in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Grove Ferry is a great destination for dog owners. The riverside paths offer lovely walking routes for your canine companions, allowing them to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Reddit While dogs are welcome, remember to keep them on a lead where appropriate to ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors and wildlife. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the River Stour

Grove Ferry Picnic Site is perfectly situated along the tranquil River Stour, offering a fantastic opportunity for water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy canoe and kayak hire, providing a peaceful way to explore the waterway. Reddit The site also has good access for paddleboarders, with a walkway leading to a pontoon for easy launching and landing. Reddit Whether you're looking for a gentle paddle or a more active day on the water, the River Stour here is a key attraction. TikTok+2

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the riverside walks are a major draw. These paths offer scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a dog walk. Reddit The natural beauty of the area provides a serene backdrop for a relaxing day out, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The combination of water access and walking trails makes Grove Ferry a versatile destination.

Family Fun and Picnics

Grove Ferry Picnic Site is a popular choice for families, largely due to its excellent facilities. The well-equipped play area is a significant highlight, offering a good-sized space for children to run around and have fun. Reddit This, combined with the ample grassy areas, makes it an ideal location for a family picnic. Visitors often praise the convenience of having picnic tables dotted around the site. TikTokReddit

The site's layout is designed to accommodate families, with easy access to amenities like toilets and a nearby food van. Reddit The peaceful riverside setting adds to the appeal for a family day out, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for both children and adults. The ability to launch small boats also adds an element of adventure for families with older children. Reddit

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