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Latest news, ideas and top tips from the Visit Kent team

Welcome to Kent, the Garden of England

If you're looking for a short escape with beautiful beaches, stunning castles, exciting culture and delicious food and drink, then you've come to the right place.

Our corner of England is one of the best UK destinations for a day trip or short break, with a multitude of things to do and places to see. We've got some of the best beaches in Europe - voted by Lonely Planet - as well as art galleries, elegant stately homes, romantic getaways, fun-filled family attractions, and more than 4,000 of exhilarating foot and cycle trails.

We're less than an hour from London by train and with super-fast links to Europe, so it's easy to escape the rat race and see what Kent has to offer on your next adventure.

Take a look at some of our of inspirational ideas on things to do and see in Kent on your next visit, or browse our What's On section to find out what's happening around here. And you can always follow us on Facebook ,  Twitter,  Instagram , and TikTok.

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This Week's Top Picks

You're never stuck for things to do in Kent, but if you need a little inspiration, check out this week's top picks of great days out around the county, using our handy map.

To find out how to get to and around Kent, visit our Getting Here pages.

And keep browsing to find new attractions to explore on your next break! 

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Why we love Kent

From ice-cream parlours to seafood festivals and towns that are on the map for cutting-edge food and art, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery.  Just a short hop from London takes you to Margate – home to the Turner Contemporary gallery and Dreamland theme park.

Tuck into delicious oysters and other seafood in Whitstable or try bohemian Ramsgate for a weekend away. Relax among the candy-coloured beach huts of Broadstairs, or bring the past alive in the surrounds of Dover Castle, Leeds Castle or Canterbury Cathedral.

Alternatively, sample sparkling wines on vineyard tours or explore Kent’s Heritage Coast - voted one of the world’s top regions to visit in 2022 by Lonely Planet.

Getty Images/Nick Stone Schearer

Whitstable Oyster Festival

Discover this July-based festival in Whitstable, which ranks among the best for those looking for a little foodie escapism. Wander its beach and its pastel-painted shops and take in the thriving arts scene when you’re here.

Find out more about the  Whitstable Oyster Festival

Visit Margate’s seaside amusement park, home to a Grade II listed scenic wooden rollercoaster. There’s a packed events calendar too, including the Margate Pride festival.

Learn more about Dreamland

rockin.goodtimes

Shell Grotto

Buried under the streets of Margate, discover this mysterious collection of more than four million shells, tightly packed into the walls of underground passageways.

Find out more about the Shell Grotto

Things to do in Kent

Fresh oysters, stand-up comedy and live music, right beside the beach. Is there a more perfect summer scene?

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

The Shell Grotto

Decorated with an incredible 4.6 million shells, this spectacular underground hideaway has to be seen to be believed.

Turner Contemporary

This cutting-edge modern gallery sits right on Margate’s beach, featuring famous artists and new talents alike.

James Newton

Dover Castle

With its jousting tournaments, secret wartime tunnels and Medieval palace, Dover Castle brings Britain's history to life.

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Chislehurst Caves

Hidden underground, this maze of tunnels is one of Britain’s best-kept secrets – and now, it’s yours to explore...

Featured things to do

VisitBritain/Stuart Harper

Explore Kent’s vineyards

Enjoy a tour and tasting surrounded by fresh growth at one of Kent’s many wineries and vineyards, renowned for producing still and sparkling wines.

Margate Pride Festival

Join in a celebration of LGBTQI+ with this programme of summer events including a festival in Dreamland, followed by a parade and an incredible town-wide after party.

Canterbury Festival

Discover a two-week extravaganza of the arts – expect an eclectic mash of opera, folk, jazz and classical, alongside circus, theatre, cabaret and visual arts.

Copper Rivet Distillery

Take a warming tour around Pumphouse No. 5, an impressive red brick Victorian home that looks over the River Medway and experience the entire distillation process from grain to glass.

Places to stay in Kent

Home to the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and the surreal Shell Grotto, this seaside town is packed with experiences and plenty of eateries to get your teeth into.

The walled city of Canterbury is more like a relaxed town - explore the 11th-century Canterbury cathedral, as well as its many bars and restaurants.

With its chalk cliffs and beautiful winding streets, the port of Sandwich features medieval gems and a riverboat service along the River Stour - great for taking in the Kent countryside.

Explore nearby

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

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An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

Getting to Kent

One of the easiest modes of transport is by rail. Kent has one of the densest rail networks of any county in Britain, including connections to Europe via the Eurotunnel. By air, the nearest airports to Kent are London Gatwick and London Heathrow, with the journey time from both hubs taking less than two hours by road or rail.

Getting around

A vast network of roads, trails, paths and train lines run from town-to-town across the county, leaving you with more time to experience Kent’s coast and countryside.

Buses serve routes across  Kent. Check out Arriva and Stagecoach for the most frequently run services.

Most train services in Kent are operated by Southeastern , with the exception of local trains which are operated by Southern. You can use National Rail Enquiries for tickets and route planners.

Kent is a cyclist’s paradise - from bike tours, such as the heritage-led Col’s Kent Bike Tours , to the newly-opened Cantii Way or a host of other trails, it’s a great way to get out into nature and experience the best of what the county has to offer.

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Kent for top insider tips and travel inspiration

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Things To Do in Kent

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Kent, famous for the dramatic white cliffs of Dover, stunning English landscape, bustling seaside resorts, award-winning heritage coastline, historic castles and towering cathedrals.  Long known as 'The Garden of England', the county of Kent is home to lush green countryside scattered with glorious gardens and vineyards producing tasty English wine. 

A walkers and cyclist's paradise, with a wealth of national trails and cycle routes that criss cross their way through the Kent countryside.  Rich in history and heritage, it is full of stories from a time, long since passed, home to world renowned Canterbury Cathedral and the best preserved medieval village in England, Sandwich.  With a host of royal connections, film and TV links, entertaining indoor and outdoor attractions, there's no shortage of things to do in Kent.  

Places to visit in Kent

Take a short break to Kent and delve into the county's famous past, with a visit to the historic city of  Canterbury .  No visit here is complete without the chance to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site , take a stroll or a boat trip along the Great Stour river, wander the winding streets to see the historic timber-framed buildings with overhanging upper floors.   

Head to Kent's award-winning coastline, a beautiful place to visit all year round.  Explore the iconic White Cliffs of Dover , the infamous Dover Castle , or join an exhilarating trip to view the White Cliffs from the water and see seals in their natural environment.  Head along the coast to the picturesque seaside town of Deal , frequently highlighted as one of the best places to live in Britain, offering scenic views of the English Channel out towards the notorious Goodwin Sands, mixing fishermen’s cottages with well-preserved Georgian town houses. Don't miss the chance to make a stop along the way in the coastal village of St Margaret's at Cliffe , before heading on to Sandwich with its romantic charm and perfectly preserved medieval houses.

In 2021, Kent's Heritage Coast was on only part of the UK featured in the Lonely Planet’s list of the world’s best regions to visit in 2022.  Definitely one to add to your 2024 visit list.

Explore historic Maidstone , known as the events capital of Kent, with its eclectic mix of unique stores and high street favourites, and the River Medway at its heart, linking Rochester and the Thames Estuary.  Home to the famous Leeds Castle , an ideal base for exploring the beautiful Kent countryside.

The Isle of Thanet is a peninsular at the most easterly point of Kent, comprising of  Margate , Ramsgate and Broadstairs , it regularly boasts the most blue flag beaches in the UK. Home to the famous Margate Caves, the iconic Dreamland amusement park, the only 'Royal' harbour in the country, with a thriving arts and culture, food and drink scene, its the perfect place to discover your retro vibe. 

Find out more about the towns and villages that make up the Garden of England using our interactive map of Kent .

Top 15 things to do in Kent

• Hever Castle & Gardens , Edenbridge
• Kent and East Sussex Railway, Ashford
• Bedgebury National Pinetum , Cranbrook
• Leeds Castle , Maidstone
• Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery , Dover
• Coptree Manor Park , Maidstone
• Ramsgate Maritime Museum , Thanet
• Betteshanger Park , Deal
• Walking & Sightseeing at the White Cliffs of Dover , Dover
• Chapel Down Winery , Tenterden
• McArthurGlen Designer Outlet , Ashford
• Balfour Winery , Tonbridge
• Dickens House Museum , Broadstairs
• Walmer Castle and Gardens , Deal
• Mote Park, Maidstone

Find more things to do in Kent today by using the search box or viewing the map at the bottom of this page.

Things to do in Kent this weekend

Many of Kent's tourist attractions are open all year round so find something to do today with activities listings each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Seasonal events in Kent  take place all year round so whatever weekend you're visiting, there's bound to be a fun day out to be had near you.

Those who prefer their meals brought to them are always keen to try out a great country pub, where one of Kent’s most famous assets, the local wine, can be sampled. For a more active way to unwind Kent’s blue flag beaches offer ample opportunities to take part in the water sports, and for those who are looking to dive deeper into Kent, there are plenty of accommodation options for somewhere to stay if you’d like to experience more than a day.

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List of things to do & places to visit for days out in Kent

For more information about Kent, including ideas for days out, attractions and events, view the list below for information on things to do and towns and villages within the county. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.

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Number of results: 119

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Margate Museum

Margate Museum is opened by a group of volunteers called the Friends of Margate Museum who work with Thanet District Council to open Margate Museum on a regular basis.

Ramsgate Maritime Museum

Situated in the Clock House on the quayside at Ramsgate Harbour, Ramsgate Maritime Museum focuses strongly on Ramsgate and its immediate environs, with a brief introduction to the rest of the region's maritime past.

Cobtree Manor Park

Adventure Park / Playground

Cobtree Manor Park has over 50 acres of parkland displaying a diverse and maturing collection of trees and shrubs. The Park features a themed play area, along with a sculpture trail, plenty of space for picnics, and a visitor centre and café serving…

Dickens House Museum

Historic House / Palace

The museum is housed in the cottage that was Charles Dickens’ inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.

Dover Town Hall - The Maison Dieu

Historic Site

The Maison Dieu, the oldest of the Town Hall buildings, was founded by Hubert de Burgh, then the Constable of Dover Castle in 1203. It provided short term accommodation for travelling pilgrims, and has fulfilled many functions since.

Westbrook Bay

This is a great family beach with a sandy bay with a small section of sand at high tide.

From the historic port of Folkestone to the birdlife at Romney Marsh, there's plenty to discover in this lush and fertile area of Kent.

Sittingbourne

Sittingbourne provides an ideal base for walking, cycling, photography and other leisure pursuits.

Whitstable is like no other town by the sea. Its traditional charms, strong arts culture and rich maritime history complement Whitstable's modern appeal.

The Central Theatre

Located in the heart of Chatham town centre, this beautiful 965-seat venue is already home to a myriad of memories and it’s waiting for you to come along and make more unforgettable memories of your own.

Romney Marsh

"The fifth quarter of the world” Romney Marsh is a truly unique area of special landscape with a long and colourful history and heritage

St Mildred's Bay

Westgate-on-Sea

A beautiful cliff lined sandy bay with promenade and tidal pool.

Coastal Kent

Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate

Discover stunning sandy beaches and sea-carved chalk cliffs of more than a dozen seaside towns along the Kent coast

Dungeness is a headland on the coast of Kent, England, formed largely of a shingle beach.

Country / Royal Park

Mote Park has been a popular place to visit for both visitors and locals being a huge green open space in the heart of town. Its vast number of mature trees create a landscape of tranquil beauty.

Kearsney Abbey Park and Russell Gardens

Municipal Park

Enjoy an afternoon out at the popular Kearsney Parks - Kearsney Abbey and Russell Gardens – located on the outskirts of Dover. 

Maidstone is the county town of Kent off the M20 near London. Find a map, details of where to go in Maidstone and explore nearby villages and towns

Belmont House and Gardens

A late 18thC country house designed by Samuel Wyatt, seat of the Harris family since 1801. Harris clock collection, mementos of connections with India. Gardens and pinetum.

Royal Engineers Museum

There is something for all the family. Zulu War items, Boer War, World Wars I and II, planes, trains, tanks, bridges, bombs, 25 galleries.

UK Electric Bike Centre, Vineyard tours on an electric bike

Sightseeing

UK Electric Bike Tours run scheduled and bespoke electric bike tours in and around Kent. We also hire out electric bikes and help to advise you where to go and what to see.

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Undiscovered & Unexpected

Explore the world in one easy stop.

Get ready for total cultural immersion. 138 spoken languages. Over 12 countries reflected in global bites. A true sports town. And all just 19 miles south of Seattle, at nearly half the price.

Seattle Thunderbirds

Watch the pucks fly.

Cheer on the local hockey team right in downtown Kent. The Thunderbirds reached the final championship game in 2021-22. Find more chilly thrills with the Seattle Kraken, the NHL’s newest team, playing at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena.

San Juan Islands

Make memories on the water.

Soak in the fresh-air therapy of Washington’s islands. The marine breeze on our beloved ferry rides will clear your mind for a slower pace of shopping, organic fare, history and stunning views.

Mount Rainier National Park

Drive to paradise.

Get up close to the state’s most recognizable peak. Mount Rainier National Park is 14,411 feet of natural wonder: trails, scenic views, snowshoeing, horseback rides and wildlife.

Sparkle in the Emerald City

Don’t miss the quirky landmarks: fish tossing at Pike Place Market, Fremont troll, Museum of Pop Culture, the gum wall, the underground tour, the once-futuristic Space Needle. Count the coffee shops along the way.

Live Entertainment

Accesso showare center, stage a night out.

Choose from top-notch concerts, family shows and cultural programs that fill the ShoWare calendar. Affordable prices and close-up seats offer fans a memorable experience for Seattle Thunderbirds hockey and Tacoma Stars soccer matches.

Seattle Sports

Sporting events, see your favorite pro teams.

Catch the action of Seattle’s big-league sports teams. Football, baseball, soccer, hockey and women’s basketball games are all a short train trip or bus ride from Kent.

Woodinville Wine Country

Raise a glass.

Wander Woodinville Wine Country, about 30 minutes from Kent. Four districts are home to 120 wineries, supplied by grapes that thrive in Washington’s climate. If wine’s not your thing, the districts include craft breweries, cideries and distilleries.

Meet the art and the animals

Join the culture club in the Tacoma Museum District, with six museums within walking distance. Enjoy live music when national tours stop at the Tacoma Dome. Scenery surrounds visitors from the waterfront to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

Kent Valley Loop Trails

Refresh with a trek on the trails.

Grab comfy shoes and spend 20 minutes or a couple hours exploring this scenic trail system. Bike, walk or jog the paved routes along grassy fields, picnic areas, downtown access and the Green River.

Step Outside the Boundaries

Make kent your basecamp.

Fun day trips await in any direction: water, mountains and landmarks you’ve always wanted for a selfie.

Looking to Venture Farther from Basecamp? Easy.

Kent is less than three hours north of Portland and three hours south of the Canadian border.

From Kent to...

• Seattle 35 minutes
• Mount Rainier National Park 1.5 hours
• Portland, OR 2.75 hours
• Vancouver, BC 3 hours
• Tri-Cities 3.5 hours
• Coeur d’Alene, ID 5 hours
• San Francisco, CA 13.5 hours

Special Events

Always happening, puget sound photographic collectors society show & sale.

April 6, 2024 8:30 am

Kent Commons

Kent International Festival

June 1, 2024 10:00 am

accesso Showare Center

Kent Nerd Party

June 1, 2024 2:00 pm

Page Turner Books

Taste Your Way Through the Kent Food Trails

Sample Local Beer, Wine & Spirits

Stroll a Gallery or Unleash Your Creativity

Travel Blog

No time for winter blues with kent’s hot list for fun.

Cool weather brings a hot list of fun activities to Kent, Washington. Concerts, hockey, wine tasting, ice skating and a holiday parade are among the reasons to explore Kent. Make your to-do list and book a memorable overnight stay at one of Kent’s convenient, affordable hotels. What will you do in Kent to avoid the winter blahs? Holiday activities Nov. …

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The 16 best things to do in Kent

From enchanting caves to the best oysters on earth (in our opinion), here's your complete guide to the Kent county

Glorious, wonderful Kent. The home of some of the nation’s best seaside towns, from Whitstable and Margate to Deal and Canterbury . There is no better destination to fill your boots with oysters, fish and chips and all that seafront good stuff (after all, that’s what it’s famous for) and the best part is there is always more of Kent to see. 

But it’s not just food you should check it out for. Kent is home to some fantastic art galleries, huge beaches and the world’s oldest rollercoaster, so there’s plenty to keep you going in between meals. Kent is a big place, and it’s tricky to know where to begin. To offer a helping hand, we’ve scoured the county far and wide, to bring you the ultimate hit list. Festivals. Castles. The White Cliffs of Dover. We’ve got it all. Here are our best things to do in Kent all year, every year.  

RECOMMENDED: 🍦 The best things to do in Broadstairs 🏖️ The best seaside towns in the UK 📍 The best things to do in the UK

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Best things to do in Kent

1.  Shell Grotto

What is it?  A strange, enchanting underground cave in Margate, which was first discovered in 1835 while someone was digging for a pond. 

Why go?  Well actually, that’s all anyone knows about the Shell Grotto’s history. No one knows why it exists or who built it, but that’s all part of the magic. Kids and adults alike will all love this fabulous grotto, full of millions of strange shells coating the walls, and lots of little nooks and crannies to discover. Our top tip? One of the best views is actually in the café upstairs, where you’ll find a T-Rex head made completely of shells. 

2.  Whitstable Oyster Festival

What is it? A weekend (usually in July) celebrating the fishing, eating and history of oysters in Whitstable .

Why go? The Kent coastline is renowned for its salty sea molluscs – especially in Whitstable, where their native oysters (ostrea edulis) have been collected and enjoyed since the Romans were laying down roots. Whitstable Oyster Festival is the best way to truly immerse yourself in the cuisine. During the fest, you can see the ‘landing of the oysters’, when they’re all collected in the morning, follow a parade, battle it out in an oyster-eating competition and help build traditional mounds known as ‘grotters’ out of shells. Book a meal at The Whitstable Oyster Company  – it’s one of the longest-running (since the 1400s, believe it or not) organisations in Europe.

3.  The White Cliffs of Dover

What is it?  An iconic part of the Kent – and the entire country’s – coastline.

Why go? Visit for a brisk walk along the cliffs and see if you can glimpse the Exmoor ponies employed to keep the grass in check. While you’re there, you can also learn about the scientific discoveries made at the Victorian lighthouse, or don a hard hat and delve into the disused WWII tunnels within the cliffs. Plus, near Dover Castle you can stand in the exact spot that the first aircraft to fly over the channel landed. It’s marked by a concrete memorial in the shape of a plane. Stirring stuff.

4.  Margate Dreamland

What is it?  An amusement park that dates back to the 1870s.

Why go? As the London overspill fast migrates to Margate, cool events keep popping up – and one of the best places to find said cool events is Dreamland. This seafront venue offers vintage theme park rides, a roller disco, a dedicated play area for under-eights and a variety of bites and beverages. You’ll also find regular events here, from massive gigs and club nights to flea markets, circus shows and much more. Don’t forget to ride the ‘Scenic Railway’, a wooden rollercoaster that’s also the oldest in the UK.

5.  The Kentish Hare

What is it?  A Bidborough pub with a great range of vegetarian dishes (although they also host weekly steak nights).

Why go? It’s likely that on a visit to The Kentish Hare you’ll find orange and roast beetroot salad or five-spice tofu noodles or miso roast aubergine and not a stuffed portobello mushroom or bean burger in sight. For the carnies, steak night is Tuesday to Thursday and includes a 16oz steak and carafe of wine for two for £39.95. Plus it’s from the Tanner brothers – a duo you may well have seen banging pans on the telly.

6.  Smuggler’s Records

What is it? A brilliant indie record store and bar.

Why go? Deal is an underrated destination and in Smuggler’s Records it has one of the best record shops not just in Kent, but the whole UK. Its selection is well curated, with great staff on hand to make recommendations and turn you onto artists you’ve never heard of. One for the heads.

7.  Chartwell House

What is it?  The impressive stately home of Winston Churchill and his family from 1922. It looks much as he left it.

Why go? Photographs, books and other personal effects are on view, as is a large collection of Churchill’s paintings. The expansive grounds are dog- and family-friendly, with lakes, woodland trails, a kitchen garden and a little brick playhouse built for Churchill’s daughter Mary. When the National Trust took over  Chartwell , Churchill’s family requested that a ‘marmalade cat with white socks and bib’ always remain in residence at the house.

8.  The Fordwich Arms

What is it? An old riverside pub that’s been given a makeover by a top chef.

Why go? Britain’s smallest town is making a big splash in the food world thanks to Dan Smith. The Norfolk-born chef has given the Fordwich Arms a new lease of life, offering up local delicacies such as Stour Valley pheasant dumplings, Kentish Ranger chicken and Chart Farm venison alongside unbearably quaint views of the River Stour. For a pleasant pre-meal walk, take the public footpath up to Reed Pond and back. This is an hour’s round-trip and, as the pub allows dogs, perfect for Fido too. 

9.  Port Lympne

What is it?  The Aspinall Foundation’s   600-acre wild animal park, home to more than 700 incredible animals. 

Why go?  Black rhinos, Western Lowland gorillas, giraffes, tigers, lions, leopards, bears – all the crowd-pleasers are here. And you can really get up close and personal, with safari experiences and the chance to ‘go behind the scenes’ alongside the usual wandering opportunities. Plus, conservation is key here too, which means you’ll be doing your bit to help more than 90 different species – many of which are endangered.

10.  Royal Victoria Pavilion

What is it?  The biggest pub in Britain.

Why go? Restored by   Wetherspoons, this vast boozer was once a concert hall and assembly rooms, before closing in 2008 having been a casino. It’s a truly amazing spot, with a vast balcony looking out over Ramsgate ’s beach and harbour.

11.  Stark

What is it?  A much-loved spot that serves up some of Kent’s best food.

Why go? While much of Broadstairs ambles along at the leisurely pace of most seaside towns, one couple are lighting a fire under its food scene. In the past, visitors to Stark paid £55 for a six-course tasting menu and awaited a delicious evening. However, in 2022 it’s made a change and will also be serving tapas at its location at 15 Oscar Road, with help from Dos, its sister site just down the road. Walk-ins are accepted, but booking is advised.

12.  Chislehurst Caves

What is it? Ancient mines that were originally dug to provide chalk for building and guns.

Why go? At just half an hour from London Bridge by train, and a five-minute stroll from the station, Chislehurst Caves make for a convenient Kent outing. During World War I they stored ammunition, while World War II saw them used as a bomb shelter. Over the past century they’ve also played host to gigs, a church and a spot of mushroom growing. To get a look-in you’ll have to join a tour, which runs once an hour, and you’ll get an oil lamp to help you navigate the dark. Depending on the day you go, you may also get a show from members of the Labyrinthe LARPing Club, who regularly use the caves for their plays.

13.  The Poet

What is it? An olde worlde-looking pub with exceptional food, not far from Tunbridge Wells.

Why go?  The low ceilings, wooden beams and mismatched chairs give this charming place a comfortable, welcoming vibe and the palate pleasers are some of the best in the area. On tap they’ve got Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter, Kozel and Spirit of Kent pale ale, plus the cocktail experimentation is a winner here. Most, though, head for the high-quality food, comprising beautifully presented modern-European dishes that take influences from all over the world. Every August, The Poet hosts a gin festival, with over 30 types to try, plus a barbecue and live music. 

14.  Turner Contemporary

What is it? Margate’s contemporary art gallery on the seafront.

Why go? For a free bit of culture in Kent, you can’t beat the Turner Contemporary. Located in the same spot as the boarding house in which Turner used to stay when visiting Margate, the gallery offers the same views of the ocean that Turner would have once seen and painted. Inside, you’ll find a rotating cast of modern exhibitions, which in the past has included work by Grayson Perry and Carlos Amorales. At the end of Harbour Arm, which stretches out in front of the gallery, you’ll find a shell sculpture of Turner’s old landlady, Mrs Booth.

15.  Fish on the Green

What is it?  A two-AA Rosette Bearsted restaurant serving both classic and contemporary dishes, with seafood fresh from the trawlers.

Why go? At an hour’s train ride from Victoria station, Bearsted isn’t the closest place to get to in Kent, but it’s worth it. About five minutes from the station you’ll see a country pub called Oak On The Green, and beside that its superb seafood sister. And despite the name, on any given night there will be at least two non-fish options and one vegetarian. Mind you, do save room for an innovative dessert: although the menu changes regularly, it has previously included peanut butter parfait and buttermilk panna cotta with rhubarb and lime shortbread crumbs. 

16.  Blean Woods Nature Reserve

What is it? A nature reserve near Canterbury .

Why go?  Canterbury has so much going for it, but just outside Kent’s main city is this wonderful nature reserve, run by the RSPB, which is a haven for rare birds. Bring your bike and explore the trails which wind through the gorgeous woodland.

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One Week In Kent England Itinerary, Best Things To Do

Need a break from the big city? Just east of Greater London, the county of Kent is a fantastic place to spend a week.

Kent is so beautiful that it’s been dubbed the “Garden of England.” And it’s not just the greenery that seduces.

There are so many things to do and see in Kent. The county is graced with a wide array of medieval castles, well-preserved historic towns, grand manor homes, a rugged coastline, and a stunning cathedral.

With its myriad attractions and proximity to London, Kent has attracted some of England’s greatest celebrities over the centuries — Winston Churchill, Charles Dickens, Thomas Becket, to name just a few.

And while the Cotswolds get all the accolades and tourists, Kent is equally charming with the same chocolate box villages, but fewer crowds.

Overview Of One Week In Kent Itinerary

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see with this one week in Kent itinerary. It covers all the best places to visit and best things to do and see in Kent.

• Day 1 : Arrive and explore Faversham
• Day 2 : Explore Canterbury
• Day 3 : Visit Whitstable or Broadstairs
• Day 4 : Visit Dover & Deal, move to second base
• Day 5 : Visit castles (5 options)
• Day 6 : Visit Rye and Bodiam Castle
• Day 7 : Visit Leeds Castle & Hever Castle
• More than 1 week in Kent? Add on Rochester

Practical Information For One Week In Kent

1. where to stay in kent.

Where you stay in Kent depends on what type of traveler you are. It’s a fairly small region.

You can pick one base for your week in Kent or you can split your time between two bases. Your choice will also depend on whether you prefer small towns or cities.

I suggest having two bases for your road trip, one in northern Kent and one in southeast Kent. That way, your daily drives aren’t too long, eating into your sightseeing time. There are myriad options.

In northern Kent, Faversham makes an excellent base. It’s an adorable town close to Canterbury, Deal, Whitstable, Broadstairs, and Dover. For hotels in Faversham, check out the luxurious Cave Hotel Near Canterbury .

If you prefer beaches, you can base in Whitstable or Broadstairs.

For southern Kent, I recommend the town of Tenterden. It’s near all the great manor houses and castles in Kent and you can also visit the beautiful town of Rye (technically in East Sussex) on your one week in Kent. In Tenterden, you can check out Harbourne Oast or The White Lion for hotel options.

Of course, you can also spend the entire week holed up in Canterbury , the beautiful main city in Kent, and take day trips from there. That would give you the advantage of having plenty of things to do in the evening.

But Canterbury can be hard to drive and park in, with its pedestrianized center. You may have to leave your car in one of the municipal car parks. The smaller towns in Kent are easier to navigate.

Alternatively, you can just pick a nice villa in the country and use that as your base. In that case, I would make your decision based on the quality and value of the accommodations and not worry too much about what town it’s near.

There are plenty of other options too. Kent has a wealth of historic inns, boutique getaways, bed and breakfasts, and traditional hotels.

If you want to feel like a royal, you might also consider spending a night at castle. Hever Castle has a Tudor Village containing a 28 room boutique hotel called  Hever Castle Luxury Bed and Breakfast .

Sissinghurst Castle Farmhouse is a beautiful Victorian farmhouse right on the Sissinghurst Castle grounds.

You can also spend the night at Leeds Castle in their award-winning bed and breakfast or special cottages. Check out:

• Weir Cottage  ( 1 bedroom)
• The Oast  (3 bedroom)
• Stable Courtyard  (bed & breakfast)
• Maiden’s Tower  (bed & breakfast)
• Holiday Cottages

If you simply can’t bear to leave London, every destination I mention in the one week in Kent itinerary can be visited as a day trip from London. Dover is farther away at 2 hours each way, but still doable.

2. When To Visit Kent

As I always say on my blog, I like to visit places in the shoulder season, the spring or fall. The same holds true for Kent.

You can avoid some of the summer crowds and still see the bright colors of the gardens. I visited in late March and, while it was a little chilly, I didn’t mind at all.

3. How To Get To Kent

If you’re going straight to Kent from the airport, it’s easiest to fly into Gatwick. A car is definitely the best way to get around Kent.

If you want to take a train from London, St. Pancras International offers the fastest connections. Trains also leave from Victoria and Charing Cross Stations. You can book tickets online here .

One Week In Kent Itinerary

Here’s my recommend itinerary for spending 7 days in Kent. This itinerary begins in northern Kent and ends in southwest Kent. But you can rearrange the order of days based on where you’re staying.

As with all of my suggested itineraries, I recommend that you use this one week in Kent itinerary as a guide. You can tailor it to suit your own individual interests, needs, and pace of travel. 

To use this itinerary, it’s really easiest to have a rental car. Some of the castles aren’t easily accessible with public transport.

Let’s explore all the best things to do and see in Kent.

Day 1: Arrive And Explore Faversham

Tiny Faversham is known as the “Medieval Gem of Kent,” and one couldn’t possibly disagree with that assessment.

Faversham isn’t known for its grand monuments. It doesn’t have either a castle or cathedral. What Faversham has in spades in an adorable medieval old town filled with perfectly preserved timber framed houses.

Faversham has over 475 buildings listed as “historic,” including many from the Medieval and Tudor period. So, if you’re a medievalist who wants to steep yourself in an ancient atmosphere, you will love Faversham.

For an overview of Faversham’s history, stop in at the Fleur de Lis Heritage Center. You can get maps and tips at the tourist center and also visit the onsite museum.

Be sure to visit the lovely St. Mary of Charity Church, which is readily identified by its graceful spire. Inside, you can admire the quire, Tudor funerary memorials, and a medieval frescoed pillar from the 14th century.

You should also stroll by the 16th century Arden House, which is privately owned and only limited openings. The house was the scene of the infamous murder of Thomas Arden in 1551, who was done in by his wife and lover.

If you can plan your visit for a Saturday, you’ll be treated to the terrific weekly market, first established in 1086. You can also visit Maison Dieu , another heritage site, on the outskirts of town that’s only open on weekends.

For more information, check out my one day in Faversham itinerary .

Day 2: Explore Canterbury

Canterbury is only 15 minutes down the road from Faversham, so you will have a full day to tour this delightful town. Canterbury is the crown jewel and cultural capital of Kent.

Its well-preserved medieval center is a delight to stroll. It’s a timeless place where past and present run together like watercolor.

I advise kicking off your one day in Canterbury with a  small gr oup w alking tour  or a  private walking tour  of the city highlights.

Canterbury’s UNESCO-listed cathedral is the top attraction and focal point of the city. It’s the first of England’s great Norman cathedrals, dating from the 11th century.

The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and it’s the first cathedral I personally fell in love with in Britain. It’s been a place of pilgrimage since the scandalous murder of Archbishop Thomas Becket in 1170.

Once inside, you’re immediately gobsmacked by the height and length of the Perpendicular Gothic nave. Slender columns rise up to form vaulted arches. A stunning carved Gothic screen separates the nave from the choir.

Canterbury’s stained glass windows are exceptional and world famous. They date from the 11th and 12th centuries.

You’ll also want to visit St. Augustine Abbey. This is one of Britain’s earliest Christian sites, situated just outside the city walls 7 minutes from the cathedral. The abbey is mostly in ruins, but still very atmospheric.

Grab lunch and spend the rest of your day rambling the old town.

Canterbury has a thriving pedestrianized center. A square called Buttermarket marks the town center. The main drag is High Street.

One of the prettiest streets in Canterbury is Butchery Lane, where medieval buildings jut out right and left. Another beautiful lane is Mercery Lane, a shopping street that’s home to the Roman Museum.

Have dinner in Canterbury and then head back to your base. For more tips on where to eat, stay and play in Canterbury, check out my one day in Canterbury guide .

Another cute Kent town right outside Canterbury is Fordwich. You might try dining at the Fordwich Arms . It’s a Michelin restaurant by the duo that founded Clove Club in London.

Day 3 : Visit Whitstable And/Or Broadstairs

Today, you can visit the seaside towns of Whitstable or Broadstairs or both if you’re ambitious. They’re only a half hour apart.

Whitstable is a posh seaside town in the southeastern corner of Kent. The town is famous for love colorful clapboard houses and seafood (especially oysters). The best place to sample the goods is Wheelers Oyster Bar .

Whitstable’s historic center is laced with thin alleys, which all lead to the water. Stroll down High Street and Harbour Street for boutiques, shops, and restaurants. You’ll even find a Michelin starred restaurants in the tiny town, the Whitstable Oyster Company .

Whitstable Castle is a vast Neo-Gothic home built in the 1790s. This is a good place to have afternoon tea. 

Before or after sightseeing, you can hit the pebbly beach. It’s a beautiful spot despite the lack of sand. You can relax in a beach hut or grab a pint at the Neptune Pub.

Broadstairs

21 miles east of Whitstable is another seaside town, Broadstairs. The town has a spectacular coastline with seven sandy beaches and bucket loads of seaside charm.

Sitting on the very tip of Kent, Broadstairs is known as the “jewel in Thanet’s crown.”

This jewel was the setting for the BBC show Broadchurch . It’s also famous as a haunt of Charles Dickens, who spent time here writing Bleak House and David Copperfield at Bleak House.

The house itself is still closed, but you can visit the Charles Dickens Museum . It’s housed in a cottage that inspired the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield , with plenty of Dickensian memorabilia.

You can also hit the beach. Or, for some exercise, take the Viking Coastal Walk.

It’s a 3.5 mile stretch that takes you past pretty Botany Bay and to the town of Margate. Botany Bay is a simply beautiful sandy beach set against chalk cliffs.

Day 4 : Visit Dover & Deal

On day 4, visit the towns of Dover and/or Deal. Dover could definitely keep you busy all day with its castle and White Cliffs. But Deal is a cute town that’s worth a visit too, so maybe you can squeeze both towns into one day.

The port town of Dover has been around since Roman times. It’s home to the famous White Cliffs that welcome you to England from France.

The cliffs have been beloved since WWII, when they represented strong teeth bared menacingly against the enemy. Shakespeare said the decisive white slash along the coast had a “high and bending head [looking] fearfully into the confined deep.”

Dover itself isn’t the prettiest town per se . But its landscapes and attractions are phenomenal.

Dover Castle is England’s largest castle. One of the greatest Norman monarchs, Henry II, built the imposing 12th century keep you see today. Dover was a formidable castle the likes of which had never been seen before.

Much of what you see today is unchanged from that era. The castle could take all day to explore, if you wanted to poke into every nook and cranny.

The castle’s highlight is the central keep with its Great Hall, royal chambers, and private chapel. You can visit Dover Castle with the  English Heritage Pass .

The famous towering white chalk cliffs are Dover’s trademark. They stretch for 8 miles along Dover’s coastline.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can walk the entire stretch to the picturesque town of Deal. Alternatively, you can  book a guided local tour to see the most photogenic spots.

Paths between the chalk cliffs lead down to the seas.

READ : One Day In Dover, Day Trip From London

Deal is a picture-perfect tiny town that’s an overlooked hidden gem in Kent. It’s just 15 minutes away from Dover. It ticks all the cuteness metrics with its quaint rows of Georgian townhouses, unique boutiques, and laid back seaside charm.

There’s not a lot to do in Deal. It’s the kid of place where you can just kick back, relax, and poke into cute vintage shops and galleries.

If you want something specific to see, the town’s top attraction is Deal Castle. It’s a Tudor style castle built by Henry VIII as part of an ambitious chain of coastal “gun forts.”

Deal is sometimes called the “new Shoreditch.” It’s full of trendy and quirky art galleries. There’s also a thriving foodie scene.

And, of course, you should hit the golden sand beach and grab some fresh seafood. It’s a quiet pristine beach dotted with wooden fishing boats.

At the end of day 4 of your one week in Kent, move to your second base further south, if you have one.

Day 5 : Castle Day

Day 5 of this one week in Kent itinerary is dedicated to castle hopping, which is one of the best things to do in Kent.

I give you five attractions to choose from and you can decide which castle or castles appeal the most. They are all within a short driving distance from each other, maybe 20-30 minutes.

Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst

There are really two castles at Scotney Castle , a 14th century moated castle and Victorian mansion house. Both are heritage sites.

For 300 years, Scotney Castle was home to the Darrell family. Roger de Ashburnham built the castle in response to French invasions in 1377.

The castle is famous for having successfully harbored a Jesuit priest during the reign of Elizabeth I. All that’s left of the medieval castle are the ruins of Ashburnham Tower and vestiges of an Elizabethan home. But it’s incredibly picturesque, set amid a moat.

The second Scotney is up the hill from the old castle and couldn’t be more picturesque.

Built by the Hussey family between 1835-43, it was designed by Anthony Salvin in the Tudor Revival style. It has spectacular gardens and a tea room, if you fancy afternoon tea.

Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge

Tonbridge Castle is one of England’s most authentic medieval   castle, standing guard over the market town of Tonbridge in Kent. It’s known as the finest surviving example of a motte and bailey castle.

After being gifted the plot by William the Conqueror, Richard Fitz Gilbert built a wooden motte and bailey castle on the site. But Fitz Gilbert backed Odo against William in the civil war of 1088. William laid siege to Tonbrige and it fell.

Nonetheless, Fitz Gilbert’s son, Gilbert de Clare, became fast friends with William and rebuilt a stone castle.

In the late 13th century, another de Clare, the notorious “Red Earl,” built the mammoth 5 story gatehouse. The structure contained guard rooms, a great banqueting hall, and living quarters.

Today, you can enter the gatehouse and explore the great hall, winding stairs, and basement. Climb the battlements for breathtaking views across the town.

If you’re a fan of Madame Tussaud’s, you’ll love Tonbridge. Life size wax figures are scattered through the castle to give you slices of life from the Middle Ages. You can also get the complete scoop with the castle’s audio guide.

Chartwell House

Chartwell House  is where Winston Churchill grew up. It was his country seat for over four decades. The house was Churchill’s sanctuary from the tumultuous political battles in London.

Chartwell House isn’t a grand home. Though Churchill could ill afford it, he did try to gussy up the place. Churchill almost lost the house twice because he was broke. 

His friends bought the house and presented it to the UK’s National Trust. Upon Churchill’s death, it opened to the public as a museum.

You can see five rooms where Churchill lived — the dining room, the library, the drawing room, his wife Clementine’s bedroom, and Winston’s study. Three other rooms are filled with Churchill memorabilia. You can also check out his painting studio.

Sissinghurst Castle & Gardens

Just 40+ minutes from Hever,  Sissinghurst Castle  is a National Trust property and major highlight for garden lovers.

Laid out in the 1930s, the castle boasts one of the world’s greatest 20th century romantic gardens. They are set around the ruins of a moated Elizabethan mansion.

Former owner and writer Vita Sackville-West designed the gardens to look like rooms of a house. Each one has its own color scheme and theme.

The gardens are most beautiful in spring. You might be a tad disappointed in the summer time.

Head up the four story tower, that juts into the air, for panoramic views.

In Vita’s study, you’ll see the original printing press used by Virginia and Leonard Woolf to run off the first volumes issued by their company, Hogarth Press.

As I mentioned above, Sissinghurst Castle Farmhouse has a beautiful Victorian farmhouse bed and breakfast for overnighting.

Day 6: Visit Rye And Bodiam Castle

On day 6 of this Kent itinerary, you’ll dip into East Sussex, right on the border of Kent, to visit the historic town of Rye and Bodiam Castle.

The beautiful town of Rye is not technically in Kent. It’s just over the border in East Sussex and well worth visiting.

Rye is one of England’s best kept secrets and one of my favorite medieval towns in all of England. It’s a quintessential English town that seems suspended in time.

Rye is an ancient seaside town, perched on a hilltop above the Romney Marshes. It’s filled with crooked streets and quirky independent shops.

Rye is the perfect place to immerse yourself in old world English charm. You can visit the remains of a medieval castle, see an awe-inspiring church, and be gobsmacked by some of the best preserved medieval homes in England.

Be sure to stroll down historic Mermaid Street, known as one of the UK’s most adorable and photogenic streets.

You can also hit the beach at Camber Sands and explore Camber Castle, another one of Henry VII’s “gun forts.” The nearby village of Winchelsea is also cute and worth a short stop.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to spending one day in Rye .

Bodiam Castle

Bodiam Castle  is one of England’s true storybook castles. It’s a square fortress completely surrounded by a large lake-like moat. 

Built in the 14th century by the wealthy Sir Edward Dallingridge, Bodiam is one of the last medieval castles in Britain. It has a perfect symmetry with stout drum towers at each corner and crenellated walls. Conceived as a courtyard castle, it has unusually open middle grounds.

Like many castles of this period, Bodiam combined a fearsome facade with luxury elements. There were big rooms, toilets, and fireplaces.

By the 17th century, Bodiam was a celebrated and romantic ivy clad ruin. The exterior was restored in the 19th century. 

You can take the free guided tour or explore each nook and turret on your own. There’s a parking lot on site and you pay at the kiosk.

Bodiam Castle offers free tours that occur almost every day and give a brief history of the castle. The tours start at 12:15 pm and 2:15 pm and last around 35-45 minutes. 

Day 7: Visit Leeds Castle & Hever Castle

On you last day of your one week in Kent, you’ll visit two of England’s most famous castles: Leeds Castle and Hever Castle.

It’s a lot to do in one day. The castles are 45 minutes apart, but it can be done. You’ll start with Leeds castle because Hever Castle doesn’t open until noon.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle  is one of Britain’s best and most beautiful castles. The castle has a picturesque island setting on a lake in the wooded countryside of Kent.

Leeds’ history is no less romantic. Leeds Castle has been a Norman Stronghold, a Royal Palace, and the stately home of an American heiress. 

Today, you can visit the New Castle, the 13th century Gloriette tower, Maiden’s Tower, and the extensive grounds and gardens.

The castle was a royal residence until Tudor times and known as the “Ladies Castle.” Seven queens lived at Leeds. 

The castle was also a favorite abode of Henry VIII, who shuttled his ex-wife Catherine to live there permanently after their divorce. 

With Henry’s deep pockets, he lavished improvements on it, transforming Leeds from castle to royal palace. He added grand reception rooms, suites of rooms in the Gloriette, the graceful Maiden’s Tower, expensive glass, and fireplaces.

Thereafter, the castle fell into ruins. In 1926, American heiress Olive Paget (later Lady Baillie) purchased the castle. She saved it from centuries of neglect and restored it to medieval perfection.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to visiting Leeds castle . In high season, you should  pre-book a skip the line ticket  for the castle. It’s a bit pricey, but good for an entire year.

Hever Castle

If you’re a Tudor enthusiast, Hever Castle is one of the best castles to visit in England. Hever is a petite double-moated castle with a craggy romantic visage that’s largely unaltered by time.

It’s famously linked to the ill-fated royal couple, Anne Boleyn and Henry VIII. Their story is a fascinating one, one of the most dramatic in English history.

Hever was the childhood home of Anne, Henry’s second wife. It’s also linked to Henry’s fourth wife, Anne of Cleves, who was installed there after Henry divorced her in favor of Anne.

On a visit to Hever Castle, you can walk in the footsteps of these famous Tudor monarchs. And you can admire the castle’s medieval keep and gatehouse, Tudor rooms, original portraits, and exquisite gardens. 

The award-winning gardens are set over 125 acres.

The peerless Italian Garden is the highlight of the castle gardens. It’s the setting for a collection of classical statuary from Roman to Renaissance times. 

Here’s my complete guide to Hever Castle . As I mentioned above, this is one of the castles on your Kent itinerary that you can stay overnight in.

More Time? Add On Rochester

Rochester is another town in Kent well worth visiting. It’s in northwest Kent, so a bit further afield from other places on this Kent itinerary.

However, if you have more than 7 days, you might start day 1 of your Kent itinerary in Rochester and work your way west from there.

Rochester is an ancient town with a castle, cathedral, and more. It’s famous as the favorite city of the novelist Charles Dickens and you’ll find landmarks in the city dedicated to him.

Dickens lived in the nearby village of Gad’s Hill Place, where he wrote Great Expectations . Some of Rochester’s venues appear in the book, including Restoration House, which doubled as Miss Havisham’s House.

Rochester is also home to England’s largest vintage bookstore, which is a marvel to explore, Baggins Book Bazaar on High Street.

Rochester Castle  has one of England’s best preserved Norman keeps. Dating from the 12th century, it’s also one of the tallest at 113 feet high. 

You can enter the keep and, if you are game, tackle the steep spiral staircase to the top of the battlements for views of the countryside.

Rochester Cathedral is the smallest Norman-style cathedral remaining in England, but the second oldest. Saint Augustine founded it in 604 and it’s a history lover’s treasure trove.

The cathedral has a fine Romanesque facade and a lovely medieval Lady’s Chapel. You can see ancient Norman architecture in the nave, parts of the crypt (with graffiti), and a hidden (available to see by appointment) door.

Just outside Rochester is the pretty village of Cobham. It’s worth a quick stop to see the 13th century Church of Mary Magdalene.

I hope you’ve my one week itinerary for visiting the beautiful county of Kent England. You may enjoy these other England travel guides and resources:

• 3 Day Itinerary for London
• 5 Day Itinerary for London
• Hidden Gems in London
• 30 Day Trips from London
• Tourist Traps To Avoid in London
• Best Castles in England
• Best Museums in London
• One Day In Canterbury Itinerary
• One Day in Oxford Itinerary
• One Day In Stratford-upon-Avon
• Harry Potter Places in London

If you need a Kent itinerary, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 14, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

20 fun things to do in Kent – the Garden of England

I’m lucky enough to be able to call Kent home – in fact, I’ve lived here for nearly 30 years! I may be biased, but this county nestled south of London has remarkable landscapes, incredible opportunities, bustling small varied businesses, and people who know how to make life great!

From iconic coastal vistas to little known gems, we are awash with places to visit in Kent. It’s no mistake that there are many reasons why it is called ‘The Garden of England’.

Grab a cuppa and read on to discover a unique insider’s guide to things to do in Kent. 

Just a little note though… Kent is actually one of the largest counties in the country! As such, it’s bursting with things to do, places to see, and experiences to have.

So I can’t possibly fit everything in here but this list is a great starting point.

Let’s dive into 20 of the best things to do in Kent – from a local.

Author Bio: Jessie Moore

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

1. Go for a hike around Botany Bay

Address: Marine Dr, Cliftonville, Broadstairs CT10 3LG

Best for: Coastal hiking trails

What’s remarkable about Botany Bay is that so few Kent residents seem to know that this incredible spot exists in their county.

The landscape here is truly remarkable with orangey sands juxtaposed with chalk cliffs and stacks. 

Park up on the cliff and make your way down for a wonderful experience exploring amidst thoughts of smugglers and pirates.

I’d recommend going for a wander and checking out what’s hiding in the rock pools. But be sure to check the tides, because it’s possible to get slightly cut off!

At the end of your adventure, try the delicious fare at The Botany Bay Hotel .

2. Spend the day at historic Hever Castle

Address: Hever Rd, Hever, Edenbridge TN8 7NG

Best for: Tudor history

Opening times:

• Castle: Daily 12:00 – 17:00
• Gardens: 10:30 – 18:00
• Varies depending on season –  check website for details .

From one side of Kent to the other, right up against Kent’s western border you’ll find Hever Castle.

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn, expect lots of Tudor history! However, this is also a compact and beautiful UK castle , with incredible grounds.

I have very fond childhood memories of getting lost in the yew maze! You can also watch jousting tournaments in the summer, row on the outstandingly beautiful lake, watch an outdoor theatre performance, or dodge the water jets in the water maze.

The views out over the lake are mesmerising, and the gardeners here are clearly both dedicated and talented.

All in all, Hever Castle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kent.

3. Get the adrenaline pumping with a Dover Sea Safari

Address: Dover Sea Sports Centre, Esplanade, Dover, Kent CT17 9FS

Best for: An exhilarating excursion

Back down to the coast, but at a more southerly point, I really recommend doing a Dover Sea Safari .

Combining mighty good fun with the iconic white cliffs (as well as the potential for a bobbing seal coming to say hello), this is an exhilarating and enjoyable excursion.

If you’re after a spot of adrenalin then opt for the speedboat option. However, if a more sedate experience is your thing then their cruising yacht is an equally fabulous experience.

4. Immerse yourself in the history of Dover Castle

Address: Castle Hill Rd., Dover CT16 1HU

Best for: WW2 history

Opening times: Daily 10:00 – 17:00

• Adult: From £23.60
• Child (5-17): From £14.50
• Concession: From £20.90
• Family (2 adults, 3 children): From £61.70
• Family (1 adult, 3 children): From £38.10

While you’re in the Dover area, I simply can’t rate Dover Castle highly enough.

Owned by English Heritage I am always completely bowled over by the variety of history on show here. Spanning 900 years, you can literally take a tour through time.

It’s impossible to pick out just one part of Dover Castle that makes it worth a visit, but don’t neglect to explore the cliff tunnels which were used as a headquarters and a hospital in WW2.

Looking out over the sea, you should also be able to spot France on a clear day!

Book your Dover Castle admission ticket .

5. Go on safari at Port Lympne Animal Reserve

Address: Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR

Best for: Animal lovers

Run by the Aspinall Foundation, Port Lympne Animal Reserve is one of Kent’s highlights. Enjoy an authentic safari through the reserve and get up close to an incredible array of animals.

Laugh at the monkeys and bears who are extremely cheeky, or be amazed at the grace of the splendid giraffes ambling past.

With rhinos, tigers and lions, there’s something to get everyone enthusiastic.

What’s more, Port Lympne isn’t just one of the best Kent places to visit – you can stay here too. Trust me when I say, it’s an experience like no other.

I’ve stayed here twice now and each time had the most unforgettable time. There are lots of choices for accommodation, but my favourites include the Leopard Creek Wigwam and Giraffe Lodge .

There are also the Lion and Tiger Lodges where you have a floor to ceiling large window to view the tiger area.

These are definitely ones for a special occasion though, as this once-in-a-lifetime experience is excruciatingly expensive.

When you stay you get a golf buggy for exploring the site, which is perfect given its scale and hills!

6. Pay a visit to Canterbury Cathedral

Address: Cathedral House, 11 The Precincts, Canterbury CT1 2EH

Best for: An iconic cathedral

Oh how I love Canterbury! With medieval history bubbling up from everywhere you look, unique boutique shops and a university-city vibe, Canterbury can keep you busy and immersed for days. 

Canterbury Cathedral is of course one of the most interesting places to visit in Kent with its 1400 years of history.

It’s also breathtakingly beautiful and majestic – a good destination for a romantic UK city break .

Don’t miss stopping by the immaculately beautiful Westgate Gardens . Pause for a picnic or go for a relaxing punt down the river – the perfect summer activity in Kent!

Book a guided walking tour of the city to make sure you see all the best bits.

7. Indulge in a lavender massage at Castle Farm

Address: Redmans Ln, Sevenoaks TN14 7UB

Best for: Utter relaxation

Lavender season: From about late June to late July

This is an entirely seasonal experience, but it’s so wonderful that I thought it was worth a mention here.

When considering the best things to do in Kent in July, having a massage in the lavender fields at Castle Farm is an absolute must. 

I’ve probably got you hooked at the idea of an aromatherapy massage, but what’s so incredible is that you are literally in the lavender field for your massage. A sublimely blissful experience!

If you don’t fancy a massage, a visit to Castle Farm is one of the best things to do in the Sevenoaks area .

8. Have fun with friends at Prison Island in Maidstone

Address: 60-61 High St, Maidstone ME14 1SR

Best for: Fun with friends

Prison Island in Maidstone is completely different from anything else I’ve listed so far.

Basically, you rock up with your favourite people and get involved in trying to escape from various different ‘prison cells’ using your brain or your brawn!

Each cell is its own unique challenge and takes just 1-5 minutes to solve, and there are around 25 to do. It’s definitely one of the most fun things to do in Kent. 

If you don’t fancy that, there is also adventure golf, AR darts and shuffle boarding – perfect for a group of friends.

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9. Experience the eerie landscapes of Dungeness

Best for: An eerie but beautiful setting

For an otherworldly landscape, pay a visit to Dungeness on the Kent coast.

A strange and eerie place, it’s home to a sprawling shingle beach littered with abandoned boats, rusty machinery, and discarded fishing nets. All in the shadow of the nuclear power station that looms in the background.

It’s as if the place was abandoned in a hurry and you can’t quite shake the feeling that you’ve landed yourself in a post-apocalyptic movie!

Look out for Prospect Cottage or head to the top of the Grade II listed Old Lighthouse. It’s also a great place for photography and bird-watching. 

I’d recommend going for a coastal walk in the area, and stopping for a bite to eat at The Pilot Inn or the Snack Shack if you’re visiting during the summer months.

Fun fact: Dungeness is Britain’s only desert!

10. Revel in the nostalgia at Dreamland in Margate

Address: 49-51, Marine Terrace, Margate CT9 1XJ

Best for: Retro funfair

• Summer holidays: Daily 10:00 – 17:00
• Until 31st October: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00
• 1st November to 1st March: Wednesday to Saturday, 10:00 – 17:00

Lose yourself in the vintage magic of Dreamland in Margate – a retro funfair by the sea.

Ride on the scenic railway, one of the UK’s oldest rollercoasters, and whirl around on the classic waltzers.

On top of that, enjoy contemporary live music events and exciting food stalls that cater to every palate.

Dreamland is all about fun – pure and simple. From roller discos to live gigs to hair-rising rides, they’ve got it all.

Dreamland is definitely a bit quirky, but that’s what I love about it, and it offers a slight twist on your usual theme park or seaside resort.

12. Explore the charming seaside town of Whitstable

Best for: Oyster lovers

Also on the coast, but an entirely different experience to Dreamland, is the beautiful small fishing town of Whitstable.

You can indulge in some of the freshest seafood here (the town is particularly famous for its oysters).

Wander through its narrow lanes lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and, of course, oyster bars.

There’s a real arts culture to Whitstable and it feels like every time you turn a corner you find another interesting sight.

Walk along the shingle beach or head to the bustling harbour, where you can see fishermen bring in their daily catch.

And, if you’re there during the annual Oyster Festival, join in the festivities that celebrate Whitstable’s rich maritime heritage and its status as an oyster-producing powerhouse.

Whitstable is definitely one for your UK bucket list . Find hotels in Whitstable .

13. Visit The Historic Dockyard in Chatham

Address: Main Gate Rd, Chatham ME4 4TZ

Best for: Naval history

• February to March: Daily 10:00 – 16:00
• April to October: Daily 10:00 – 17:00
• October to November: 10:00 – 16:00
• December to January: Closed

If you’re a fan of naval history then you will be completely in your element at The Historic Dockyard in Chatham. However, don’t think it’s just for naval buffs. There’s so much to do and see here. 

Three ships really absorb your attention, each very different: a Cold War submarine (HMS Ocelot), a WW2 Destroyer (HMS Cavalier) and a Victorian Sloop (HMS Gannet).

You can wander aboard each of them and feel yourself transported in time. However, at the Dockyard there’s also something for Call the Midwife fans.

Many of the dock views in the TV series (and more!) have been filmed here. So, you can spot the sights and even go on a themed tour . 

It’s also where they filmed other popular period dramas, such as Mr Selfridge – I know this because I was a regular extra in the show, back in my university days!

14. Marvel at the splendour of Leeds Castle

Address: Leeds Castle, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL

Best for: History meets adventure

• The Castle: Daily 10:30 – 17:30
• Grounds and Gardens: Daily 10:00 – 18:00

Another castle to make my list is Leeds Castle. It’s such a quintessential part of Kent that I can’t leave it out!

I adore Leeds Castle for many reasons, but up there is the fact that it’s incredibly picturesque and lends itself to stunningly beautiful photos which change throughout the seasons.

I can see why it’s got the moniker ‘the loveliest castle in the world’.

Wander through its rich history that spans over 900 years, exploring rooms that echo tales of kings, queens, and many notable figures.

Outside, traverse the sprawling 500 acres of parkland, lush gardens, and even tackle the maze that leads to a secret grotto.

There is a lot for kids to explore with fantastically themed playgrounds and adventure golf, while the land train and boat add to the experience (and make it easier to get around).

If you’re feeling adventurous, take to the skies in a hot air balloon ride from the castle grounds, offering panoramic views of the Kentish countryside.

Or if you want to indulge your inner adrenaline junkie then there is a Go Ape high ropes course right here too.

Book your Leeds Castle admission with the Ultimate Explorer ticket .

15. Alpaca Annie

Address: Haguelands Farm, Burmarsh Rd, Romney Marsh TN29 0JR

Best for: A unique experience

For a delightfully unique experience, you can trek with alpacas at Alpaca Annie . It’s difficult to convey just how wonderful this experience is.

The alpacas are incredibly docile and friendly, and provide plenty of entertainment.

What’s really lovely about this alpaca trek is that you get to do it in the Romney Marsh habitat, which is another unique Kentish landscape.

Alpaca Annie is also close to the golden beaches of Camber Sands .

It’s also very close to Greatstone Beach which is gloriously beautiful, as well as the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway .

16. Go wine tasting

Best for: Wine lovers

I can’t list things to do in Kent without picking out at least one vineyard and winery, but it’s a tough choice!

Chapel Down Winery , in Tenterden, is very much in the heart of the ‘garden’ of England. You’ll spot iconic oast houses galore as you make your way there. 

From a walk through the vineyard and tasting afterwards through to their deluxe experience, which includes a delicious three course meal. You can expect to have a luxury experience here. 

I’d also really recommend Mount Vineyard in Shoreham – they do excellent wine tastings and serve the most mouth-watering pizzas in a really beautiful setting.

17. The Spa Valley Railway

Address: West Station, Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QY

Best for: Railway enthusiasts

Enjoying a ride on the Spa Valley Railway is like stepping back in time to a slower and more relaxed way of life.

You’ll travel through some of the finest and most quintessentially ‘Kentish’ landscape from Tunbridge Wells (pop into the Pantiles for a chance to explore this royal spa town) to High Rocks, Groombridge and Eridge.

They offer various dining experiences and there’s something so wonderful about enjoying a classic afternoon tea whilst wending your way through the countryside. 

18. The Big Cat Sanctuary

Address: Headcorn Rd, Smarden, Ashford TN27 8PJ

Best for: Seeing big cats

The Big Cat Sanctuary is something Kent should be immensely proud of having on its turf.

This charity is doing incredible things for conservation around the world. You may be familiar with it from the BBC’s Big Cat Diaries. 

The Sanctuary isn’t somewhere you just turn up at, except on Open Days. However, I really urge you to book an experience here for something that will take your breath away.

You can also do photography workshops here, where you have the opportunity to capture the beauty of the animals, as well as overnight safari experiences too.

For something more relaxing, stop by for a Paul Hollywood afternoon tea in the conservatory.

19. Go scrambling at High Rocks

Address: High Rocks Ln, Tunbridge Wells TN3 9JJ

Best for: A bit of adventure

Opening times: Wednesday to Sunday, from 10:15

• Children under 13: £3

While you’re in the area with the Spa Valley Railway, make sure you take the chance to visit High Rocks .

This is actually a national monument – the landscape here will bowl you over. You probably won’t have seen anything quite like it.

Your ticket allows a two hour wander around the The High Rocks. Note that rock climbing is by appointment and pre-booking only and costs £12 per day for over 18s only.

Keep a hold of little hands while exploring, and be prepared for some vertigo challenge!

Good to know: Check opening times before you visit, as The Rocks are sometimes closed to the public.

20. Knole Park in Sevenoaks

Address: Sevenoaks, Kent, TN15 0RP

Best for: Beautiful scenery

• House & café: Daily 10:00-16:00
• Park: Dawn until dusk
• Note that opening times can vary dependent on season

Last but by no means least I can heartily recommend a trip to Knole Park in Sevenoaks . This deer park is enormous, covering a staggering 383.4 hectares.

It’s largely managed by The National Trust, along with Knole House (also worth a visit!) and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Knole Park really comes alive at different times of the year.

A picnic amongst the hazy summer grasses watching a nearby cricket game is just as sublime as wrapping up warm in autumn and walking amongst the ochres and russets of the trees. 

You can also explore the house itself, meandering through the showrooms and visiting the Gatehouse Tower.

21. Stay amidst wilderness at Elmley Nature Reserve

Address: Kingshill Farm, Isle of Sheppey, Kent ME12 3RW

Best for: A peaceful retreat

Imagine waking up to a serene panorama of wetlands, birdlife, and the distant call of wild creatures. At Elmley Nature Reserve, you get just that!

Opt for an overnight stay in one of their unique accommodations – from stylish shepherd’s huts to costy bell tents.

This 3,300-acre reserve on the Isle of Sheppey provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Besides the rich birdlife (think avocets, lapwings, and barn owls), you might also spot hares, water voles, and if you’re lucky, the short-eared owl in its natural habitat.

22. Go beer tasting with a Shepherd Neame Brewery Tour

Address: 11 Court St, Faversham ME13 7AX

Best for: Beer lovers

Are you a beer enthusiast or merely curious about the brewing process? A visit to Britain’s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame in Faversham, is one of the best things to do in Kent.

Established in 1698, this brewery combines ancient traditions with modern brewing techniques.

Embark on a guided tour, where you’ll learn about the intriguing history of the brewery, witness the traditional mash tuns, and experience the aroma of the hops in the old kilns.

And of course, the tour culminates in a tasting session where you can sample some of the brewery’s classic and contemporary brews.

23. Groombridge Place

Groombridge Place used to be a fun family-friendly destination with its Enchanted Forest and giant swing.

However, it’s currently closed for refurbishment as it’s being converted into the latest addition to the Pig Hotel family.

I’ve kept it on this list because it will undoubtedly be a delightful place to go for lunch or an overnight stay.

I’m a big fan of The Pig Hotels so I am personally very excited for another Kent location! It’s due to open in 2025 so stay tuned.

For now, you can visit The Pig Hotel at Bridge near Canterbury.

There are so many things to do in Kent that I’m sure I’ll be back again with more another time. However, for now, I hope this article whets your appetite!

Find more UK inspiration in my UK bucket list post or read my guide to the best things to do in Eastbourne in nearby East Sussex.

Let me know your favourite Kent spots in the comments or ask away if you have any questions.

Jessie is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

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15 Best Things To Do In Kent, England

Kent, England is a beautiful destination full of fascinating sites and activities. From its stunning White Cliffs of Dover to its historic Leeds Castle, there is so much to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find something to suit your needs in the Garden of England. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Kent, England.

From touring the historic city of Rochester to sampling traditional Kentish food, there are plenty of exciting activities that will get you exploring. Take a boat trip on the River Medway, go shopping in Tunbridge Wells, and enjoy an afternoon at Leeds Village.

With so much to offer, Kent is the perfect place for an unforgettable holiday.

Table of Contents

Explore the White Cliffs of Dover

You can’t visit Kent without exploring the breathtaking White Cliffs of Dover! Standing at the edge of the cliffs, you can take in some of the most stunning views of the English Channel and the French coast.

The cliffs, which are composed of Chalk Marl, are a symbol of Britain’s enduring strength and resilience. A visit to the White Cliffs of Dover gives visitors the chance to experience the beauty of the landscape and be part of a rich history.

The cliffs are also home to a variety of wildlife, including some rare species of nesting birds. Be sure to bring your binoculars and camera to capture the breathtaking views of the cliffs and incredible wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, or just a peaceful stroll, the White Cliffs of Dover are the perfect destination for your next visit to Kent.

Visit the Leeds Castle

Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of Leeds Castle in Kent, England – a stunningly preserved medieval fortress that boasts 900 years of history.

Built in 1119 and surrounded by a 500-acre estate, this castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South East of England. From the moment you step inside the castle walls, you’ll be taken back in time, surrounded by centuries of fascinating history.

With a stunning interior featuring a grand staircase, lavish furnishings, and an impressive collection of antiques, Leeds Castle offers a unique experience.

There’s plenty to do at the castle. You can explore the castle gardens and visit the on-site falconry centre. You can also admire the magnificently restored castle rooms. Additionally, you can take a boat ride across the lake or enjoy a picnic in the gardens.

The grounds also offer a variety of activities for kids, including a playground, a maze, and a castle-themed adventure play area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an educational family outing, Leeds Castle is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Take a Day Trip to Canterbury

Just a short drive from Leeds Castle, Canterbury is a must-see destination in Kent, England, offering a wealth of cultural, historical, and religious attractions.

Start your visit off by taking a stroll through the cobbled streets of the city’s historic center. Here you will find some of the oldest buildings in the city, including the ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey and the city walls that date back to the 11th century.

The city is also home to the famous Canterbury Cathedral, which has been the main Anglican church in the country since the 5th century. The cathedral is a beautiful and imposing building, with its Romanesque architecture and breathtaking stained glass windows. Inside the cathedral, visitors can also explore the tombs of several famous figures, including Archbishop Thomas Becket.

In addition to the cathedral, make sure to visit some of the city’s other religious sites, including the remains of St. Martin’s Church, the oldest church in continuous use in England, and the ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey.

There are also a number of museums and galleries in the city, including the Beaney House of Art and Knowledge and the Canterbury Heritage Museum.

For a taste of local culture, take a boat trip on the River Stour or explore the city’s shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Canterbury provides a unique experience for visitors, offering a blend of history, culture, and religion.

Admire the Scenic North Downs

Head out to the North Downs for a breathtaking experience, where rolling hills, lush greenery, and picturesque views await.

The North Downs span a huge area of Kent, from Farnham in Surrey to Dover in the east, and are a great place to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet stroll or a more challenging hike, the North Downs has something to offer.

The area is well-known for its abundance of wildlife, with species such as the red kite, skylark, and adder all making their homes in the area.

If you’re lucky, you may spot some of these creatures during your visit.

The North Downs are also home to some incredible historical sites, such as the Battle of Hastings site and the ancient hill fort of Bigbury Camp.

Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to explore in the North Downs.

So don’t miss out on a visit to this beautiful part of Kent!

Tour the Historic City of Rochester

Step back in time and explore the historic city of Rochester, where a wealth of fascinating architecture, monuments, and attractions await.

From its impressive castle and cathedral to quaint cobbled streets, Rochester offers visitors the opportunity to experience a vibrant and fascinating past.

Tour the Rochester Castle and take in its impressive Norman keep, or explore the ancient cathedral with its beautiful stained glass windows and stunning architecture.

Wander the cobbled streets and admire the historic buildings and monuments, including the Guildhall Museum and the 14th-century Eastgate House.

Visit the tranquil Rochester Riverside Park to enjoy a relaxing walk and take in the stunning views of the River Medway.

Explore the vibrant Rochester High Street with its shops, eateries, pubs, and other attractions.

Enjoy a guided tour of the city and visit some of the hidden gems that are off the beaten track.

With so much to explore, Rochester is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend away.

Visit Reculver Castle and Country Park

Experience a fascinating glimpse into the past with a visit to Reculver Castle and Country Park, located in the beautiful county of Kent, England.

Located on the north coast of Kent, this historic landmark is full of mysteries and wonders. Built in the early 12th century, the castle was originally a Roman fort and was later used as a Saxon Shore fort.

With a wide range of historical attractions, including the ruins of the 12th century church, the castle walls, and the 12th century towers, visitors can learn more about the history of this region.

In addition to its historical significance, Reculver Castle and Country Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, geese, ducks, and terns. Visitors can explore the park’s many walking trails, take in the views of the nearby coast, and spot some of the many birds that make their home here.

Whether you’re looking for a day with the family or an educational outing for yourself, Reculver Castle and Country Park is the perfect place to explore and make memories.

Enjoy a Pint at Shepherd Neame Brewery

Visitors to Kent, England can enjoy a unique experience at the Shepherd Neame Brewery, the oldest brewery in Britain. Here, they can sample a variety of beers and ales brewed on-site. The brewery offers a range of tours, from a simple beer tasting to a full-day tour. On the tour, visitors can learn about the history of the brewery and how beer is made. They can explore the brewery’s traditional brewing methods, the methods of fermentation, and the art of selecting the perfect ingredients. Visitors can also explore the brewery’s vast collection of historic artifacts, including bottles, barrels, and advertising memorabilia.

At the end of the tour, visitors can enjoy a refreshing pint of beer in the brewery’s atmospheric bar. They can sample a range of traditional ales, stouts, and lagers. A selection of food is also available, including light snacks, traditional pub meals, and a selection of local produce. The bar also offers a range of exclusive beers, which are only available at the brewery.

Visitors to the brewery are sure to leave with a unique experience and a fantastic taste of Kent’s oldest brewery.

Walk the Seaside Promenade in Margate

Take a stroll along Margate’s picturesque seaside promenade and soak up the unique atmosphere of this charming seaside town.

Enjoy the stunning views of the sea, and perhaps take a dip in the ocean if the weather permits.

Walk the entire length of the promenade and take in the different attractions, including the Dreamland amusement park, restaurants, bars and shops.

There is also a stunning Turner Contemporary gallery, which features artwork from the renowned British artist, JMW Turner.

Then, take a break and take a seat on one of the benches and admire the views.

Along the way you’ll find plenty of delightful ice-cream parlours, so be sure to treat yourself to a sweet treat.

Margate’s promenade is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, and provides a great opportunity to explore this wonderful seaside town.

Visit the Chatham Historic Dockyard

Discover the fascinating history of the Royal Navy at the Chatham Historic Dockyard. Located in Kent, England, the dockyard is the world’s most complete example of a dockyard from the Age of Sail.

It was established in the early 17th century and has been in operation ever since.

With its collection of historic buildings, ships, and artifacts, the dockyard provides a window into the past, allowing visitors to experience the days when “wooden walls”patrolled the seas.

The main attraction is the shipbuilding yard, which is a large open space filled with ships of all sizes and eras. Visitors can explore the different vessels, learn about the unique history of each one, and even take a tour of a full-scale replica of the HMS Victory, the flagship of Admiral Nelson.

In addition to the shipbuilding yard, there are a number of other attractions such as the wooden walls exhibit, which provides a glimpse into the life and duties of a Royal Navy seaman. The dockyard also offers a variety of interactive activities, including a hands-on workshop in which visitors can build their own model ships.

The Chatham Historic Dockyard is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the Royal Navy.

Wander Through the Street Art in Folkestone

Folkestone is home to a vibrant street art scene, with colourful murals adorning the walls of many buildings throughout the town. It’s a great way to get a feel for the local culture and artistry of the area.

You can take a self-guided tour, or join one of the many organized walking tours of the murals. There’s something to capture the eye on every corner – from the street art of the Main Street to the large murals of the Old High Street. The art is displayed on the sides of buildings, walls and even houseboats.

There’s a wide variety of styles to explore, ranging from traditional art to modern graffiti. Many of the murals are painted by renowned local and international artists. Visitors can also explore the mural-covered alleyways, which are often home to small cafes and galleries.

It’s a great way to discover hidden gems in Folkestone, and take in the unique sights and sounds of the city.

Visit the Hever Castle and Gardens

Having spent the morning admiring the street art in Folkestone, I decided to take a break and visit the beautiful Hever Castle and Gardens. This stunning 13th-century castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. It’s a great place for a day out for the whole family.

The first thing you’ll see when you enter the grounds is the gorgeous double-moated castle. The gardens are also a sight to behold; with over 30 acres of grounds, there’s plenty to explore. The gardens are full of flower beds, lawns, topiary, and a lake with a Tudor-style bridge.

For those who want to explore the castle itself, there are a range of guided tours available, including a “Secrets of the Castle”tour. There are also regular events throughout the year, such as falconry displays, jousting tournaments, and garden theatre performances.

After a day spent wandering around the castle and gardens, you’ll be sure to have made some wonderful memories.

Go Shopping in Tunbridge Wells

After taking a break from sightseeing, head to Tunbridge Wells for some shopping. Tunbridge Wells is a bustling town located in Kent, England, and it’s the perfect place to find unique items to take home.

From high-end boutiques to local shops, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. Whether you’re looking to pick up a souvenir or two, or you want to treat yourself to some new clothes, you’ll find it all in Tunbridge Wells.

The town also boasts a variety of antique stores and markets, where you can find an array of interesting and unusual items. Whether you’re searching for vintage clothes, furniture, art, or something else entirely, you’ll find it in Tunbridge Wells.

With its cobbled streets, old-fashioned shops, and charming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to pick up a special memento to take home with you.

Take a Boat Trip on the River Medway

Cruising down the River Medway is a great way to experience the beauty of Kent, England. The river runs through many pretty towns and villages, providing picturesque views and a great opportunity to explore the local area.

The journey starts in Tonbridge and winds its way down to Allington, passing through East Farleigh, Teston, West Farleigh, and Yalding. You’ll be able to take in the sights of rural Kent, from the rolling hills and lush countryside to the unique architecture of the old buildings and churches.

The boat trips are incredibly relaxing, and you can choose from a variety of tours, ranging from short cruises to all-day excursions. You can also enjoy a tasty lunch or dinner on board, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the River Medway.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing, a fun day out with the family, or a chance to explore the local area, a boat trip on the River Medway is sure to provide a memorable experience.

Sample Traditional Kentish Food

Experience the unique flavors of Kent with a traditional Kentish meal! A visit to the county of Kent is not complete without sampling some of its traditional dishes. From traditional pub grub to hearty stews, Kentish food has a unique flavor all its own.

While some dishes are inspired by British classics, such as fish and chips, others are closer to true Kentish cuisine. One of the most classic dishes in Kent is the Kentish ploughman’s lunch, which is a mix of cheese, bread, pickles, and other accompaniments.

Another traditional dish is Kentish hop-pickles, which are made with pickled hops and spices. Other Kentish delicacies include roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, jellied eels, and the classic Kentish apple pie.

Try a traditional Kentish feast for a true taste of the region!

Enjoy an Afternoon at Leeds Village

Take a stroll through bustling Leeds Village and enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Kentish life! Located in the heart of the idyllic countryside of Kent, Leeds Village is a charming spot to spend an afternoon.

The village has a rich heritage, having been founded in 1086 and there are still plenty of historic buildings and monuments to explore. From a 13th-century church to a 15th-century pub, Leeds Village has a wealth of interesting attractions to discover.

The village also has a variety of shops and eateries to explore. Visitors can find a range of unique gifts and souvenirs at the village’s independent stores. There are also several tea shops and pubs where you can enjoy a traditional Kentish meal or a refreshing pint of local ale.

Alternatively, why not take a picnic and find a spot to relax in the village’s picturesque gardens? Leeds Village has something for everyone to enjoy!

It’s been a pleasure exploring Kent and its many attractions. From the White Cliffs of Dover to the historic city of Rochester, there’s plenty to see and do in this beautiful English county.

I’d highly recommend taking a boat trip down the River Medway, sampling some traditional Kentish food, and taking an afternoon to explore Leeds Village.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away or a full week of sightseeing, you’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy in Kent. So don’t delay – go explore this amazing county today!

You may also like:

• Best walks in Kent
• Best things to do in England

Will is an avid hillwalker and traveler. You may find him surfing in Cornwall or hiking in the Yorkshire Dales.

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13 best places to visit in kent.

Known as the Garden of England and being so close to London, Kent is the perfect place to explore if you want a quick break out of the city, or to get a feel for the UK beyond the capital.

Kent is also a great spot to escape to if you live in this country too of course, because goodness knows London-dwellers need a break from the chaos and a dose of good fresh air from time to time.

So the question is certainly not therefore whether you should visit Kent (the answer is, yes it’s an excellent idea) but rather whether where in this county you should for.

Because Kent is pretty sizeable and from quirky coastal town to classic castles and historic hideaways., it certainly has a lot to offer.

So here to help you decide where to head on your next break in this part of the country is my list of the 13 best places to visit in Kent…

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Coming in at number one, it’s London day trip favourite and all-round characterful, colourful coastal charmer, Margate.

A vintage classic now making a real revival, Margate was once a rather faded and bleak former beachside destination that has made an absolutely astonishing comeback in recent years.

The golden sandy beach here certainly makes it an easy draw, but so do the quirky vintage stores, the amazing seafood restaurants and the Turner Gallery, which has an outpost here.

Antony Gormley sculptures and the funfair Dreamland only add to the appeal, and the uniquely independent and kitsch feel of Margate has the hipsters flocking.

Learn more about how to travel from London to Margate , as well as the best things to do when you arrive in this town in the post I wrote.

Otherwise, don’t miss popping over to Ramsgate if you have a chance and saying hello to the historic harbour here and also my friend Grant who owns the wonderful and welcoming Bedford Inn pub !

#2 Leeds Castle

Next up, I show you just how diverse Kent is as we move from talking about quirky beachside spots to classic English heritage icons, such as Leeds Castle.

Boasting 900 years of history, this place makes an amazing day out.

With Maze challenges, falconry displays, gorgeous grounds, historic exhibitions and of course, the castle, itself, this is an ideal place to visit in Kent for all the family.

The fact you can even stay overnight here, with a range of accommodation including glamping on offer, means this is absolutely one of the best castles in Kent .

Built in 1119, you can chart a lot of English history through Leeds Castle, which sits just outside of Maidstone.

Use either the train or your car to get here, or hop on a sightseeing tour from London , which combines Leeds Castle with Canterbury Cathedral and Dover too.

#3 Whitstable

Next up it’s another coastal classic and an absolute favourite day trip for Londoners seeking some of the top seafood the country has to offer!

Yes Whitstable is definitely one of my favourite places to visit in Kent, and is especially loved for its oysters, antiques and cute beach houses.

Unlike Margate, the coast here is pebbly, but Whitstable is smaller and has more of an upmarket and community feel to it in my opinion.

The amount of vintage independent stores and excellent restaurants are a similarity though and the chance to enjoy the Oyster Bay Trail and then the Viking Coastal Trail, either via 2 feet or 2 wheels here, means if you have the time you can actually travel all the way from Whitstable to Margate!

Learn more about Whitstable Beach in this complete travel guide I wrote about the area.

#4 Deal Castle

And now it’s back to the Castles, wow we are skipping back and forth here aren’t we!

Run by English Heritage, (so free admission if you’re a member of this club) Deal Castle dates from the time of Henry VIII and is an absolute treasure when considering places to visit in Kent.

Located near the cute village of Deal, which is not far from the flagship port of Dover, it’s no coincidence that this structure was built to defend the coastline from French invasion.

Entry prices are really reasonable for this attraction and there’s a history audio guide for adults, as well as a whole range of activities and exhibitions usually laid on for kids.

A great stop-over if you are catching the ferry to France!

Or you could try Dover Castle instead! Pick up your entrance tickets for this one here .

#5 Canterbury

OK, now we start ramping it up a notch and getting seriously historical with this absolutely iconic place to visit in Kent.

Yes the Medieval city of Canterbury, home to one of the most famous Cathedrals in the world (it’s UNESCO-listed and home to the Church of England), absolutely cannot be missed if you are spending any time in this part of England.

An easy train ride from London, Canterbury can be toured independently – just get your tickets for the Cathedral online in advance – or you can also take a tour from London to this ancient religious building and city, which will allow you to visit some other great Kent sights (like the White Cliffs of Dover) at the same time.

A place of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages, audio tours can be bought to learn more about the history of this ancient cobbled city, which has been a place of worship for 1400 years.

For more modern visitor ideas, boat trips along the river, brewery tours, wine tasting, ghost tours and city walking tours can all be enjoyed in this picturesque place.

Learn more in full guide to visiting Canterbury here .

#6 Hever Castle

And now we’re onto number 6 on this list of the best places to visit in Kent and it’s time for another castle.

This time it’s Hever Castle, a 700 year old beauty complete with gorgeous gardens and grounds, a maze, miniature model houses, a military museum and, of course, a gorgeous castle!

You can day trip to this historic beauty or even stay overnight here for a special treat.

It’s worth pointing out that the Christmas season at this English piece of heritage is a magical time of year to visit as the whole place is wonderfully decked out.

#7 Reculver Towers & Herne Bay

And oh my goodness, more history, but this time some that hasn’t been so well-preserved, but is no less atmospheric for it!

Yes the Reculver Towers, which sit along the Kent Coast between Whitstable and Margate, are a wonderful place to amble around, not least because they are perched right on the clifftop and can be visited as part of a whole coastal walk stretching all the way from the wonderfully-named town of Sealsalter, through to the Isle of Thanet where Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs are located.

These towers date from Roman times when there was a fort here, but still look absolutely magnificent today.

You can cycle here as part of the Oyster Trail, or else drive and park just a short distance away.

Try to catch the Towers during golden hour and you’ll be treated to some stunning shots… made all the more sweet by the fact that this place is free to enter too!

After you’ve enjoyed the Reculver Towers, it’s time to continue on to nearby Herne Bay, where the wonderful historic pier and promenade captures some of the most quintessentially British seaside vibes you’re likely to encounter!

There are also some great artistic endeavours to get involved with at Herne Bay, from marvelling at the bronze statues that line the foreshore, to enjoying some candle or soap craft sessions in a local artist’s studio – it’s all for the taking in this lively spot!

#8 Broadstairs & Botany Bay

I mentioned the Isle of Thanet above, as well as the jewel in its crown (in my opinion) which is Broadstairs.

A wonderful hub of village life in this coastal sweep, you can visit independent cinemas, bookstores and pubs galore in this quaint English gem, as well as forage for fossils along the nearby Botany Bay – what more could you want?!

Or why not combine a visit to a  pub and bookstore at my absolute fav spot here – The Chapel!

Oh perhaps, you’d like a walk?

Yes well that’s on offer too, right along the coastal path that leads from either Ramsgate or Margate (Broadstairs is right in the middle!)

#9 Sandwich

The other great thing about Kent, if you hadn’t noticed already, is that there is no shortage here of totally brilliantly-named places to visit!

Yes from Sealsalter to Deal, Loose to Plucks Gutter, there’s no end of absolute classics, but perhaps my favourite has to be the old gem, Sandwich, and its accompanying No Name Street – they were really running out of appellations when they got this far!

Sandwich is located between Ramsgate and Deal, near the Kent Coast, and is actually one of the country’s best-preserved medieval towns.

This means just wandering around here for a few hours is an amazing way to take in the incredibly ancient architecture.

Don’t miss a stop at one of the cute cafes either, a walk along the English Coastal Path that runs through here, or a visit to the weekend market – they’re all delightful!

#10 Tunbridge Wells

Now we move away from the coast of the county and closer to London, as we head onto number 10 on our list of the best places to visit in Kent, with this historic town, the Royal Tunbridge Wells.

Famous for its healing waters and fresh air, once a favourite haunt of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, this is an easy day trip from London with some lovely shops and preserved historic features, including the famous Pantiles promenade.

#11 Chapel Down Vineyards

And after all that sightseeing, it’s likely you might need to sit down and enjoy a drink and what better place than the Chapel Down Vineyards, one of England’s most famous wine-growing centres!

Situated in Kent and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the county, this is a unique kind of experience where you can tour the grounds and sample the amazing produce too.

You can also stay overnight in this beautiful countryside spot or enjoy a wonderful group experience.

Either way, this is a side of Kent with a difference you shouldn’t miss!

If you’re closer to Canterbury , then Simpsons Wine Estate arranges vineyard tours and tastings that I can personally vouch for!

#12 White Cliffs of Dover

You’ve heard the song, now it’s time to see them in real life!

Yes the White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic classic on this list of the best places to visit in Kent and can’t be missed!

Take a tour from London to combine them with Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle, walk along them on a bracing clifftop walk, or wave at them on your way to France as you speed past on the ferry.

Whatever you do, just don’t miss them, because these National Trust giants boast epic views, scenic walking and some great bird spotting!

Oh and there’s an impressive Castle in Dover too!

And, if you have a bit more time, and aren’t speeding off to France, then St Margaret’s at Cliffe, which lies just around the corner and can actually be walked to from the Cliffs, it’s a lovely quaint bay complete with colourful beach huts and a delightful pub – The Coastguard.

Don’t miss it!

#13 Dungeness

And finally, we reach the last entry on this list of the best places to visit in Kent and I’ve given this much-sought-after place to the post-apocalyptic and very quirky Dungeness.

Not quite sure what this says about me, but I find this place fascinating!

A sort of end-of-the-line Australian Outback, Nevada desert feel washes over this huge shingle stretch of headland which continues to inspire artists with its bizarrely contrasting nuclear power stations, lighthouses and wooden weatherboard houses, mostly home to fishermen.

It’s totally unique, totally bizarre and totally Kent! I love it!

Learn all about how to visit Dungeness and what to do there in this complete travel guide I wrote about the place.

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Top Travel Tips for Kent

Where is Kent?

Located in the southeast of England, Kent is close to London.

Best Time to Visit Kent?

The best time to visit Kent is definitely during the summer months in my opinion.

The better weather from June to August will definitely allow you to get out and explore the glorious walks and historic sights around.

That said, I’ve also visited in winter, spring and autumn and loved it!

These are the perfect times for exploring without the summer crowds!

How to Get to Kent?

One of the great things about Kent is how easy it is to reach from London.

With direct and fast trains from St Pancras, Victoria and Charing Cross stations, it’s amazingly easy and affordable to get here.

As always, I use Trainline to book my rail tickets in the UK.

You can also drive from London in under 1.5 hours, and even cycle to Kent from the capital too!

If you need to hire a car for your Kent adventures, check out Discover Cars for some great deals.

Where to Stay in Kent?

Check out these top accommodation picks in the area.

How Long to Spend There?

I’d allow at least 3-4 days to explore all these top places to visit in Kent.

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Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

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So there you have it folks, my list of the 13 best places to visit in Kent, England.

How many of these have you been to and which was your favourite?

Also, have I missed any greats off the list?

Please feel free to join the conversation in the comments below and let me know…

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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21 Things to Do in Kent, England | Best Places to Visit in the County

Kent is a picturesque county in England, known for its lush countryside, woodland forests, and sheer, rugged coastline.

While there may not be many cities in Kent , there are plenty of quaint villages and small towns worth exploring.

There are so many activities in the area, it can be a challenge to know which fun things to do in Kent, England should be added to your trip itinerary.

This guide on how to spend your time in Kent, England, will help you narrow down your options to see only the very best attractions in the region.

Where is Kent, England?

Located on the eastern side of England, there are plenty of points of interest in Kent to enjoy and reaching them is easy.

Kent also acts as a gateway to the rest of Europe. If you’d like to make your way to France, simply take a day trip to Dover before hopping on a 1.5-hour ferry ride across the English Channel to Calais, France.

Kent County is made up of an impressive 13 districts, but it may surprise you to learn that there is only one city located in Kent.

Canterbury may be Kent’s only city, but it’s large enough (with its population of roughly 55,000 people) to draw many people each and every year.

However, just because Canterbury is the only city, doesn’t mean there aren’t many other places to visit in Kent.

Areas of Kent to Explore

Kent boasts an impressive 26 charming towns and a city that can keep you entertained for weeks. But if you’re on a tight schedule, then you need to choose wisely to make the most of your time while visiting Kent.

While every area is worth a trip, these are the places you should go out of your way to visit in Kent.

• Canterbury – Canterbury is often referred to by locals as a market town because it runs at a slower pace than that of other cities. But when you’re on holiday, that is exactly what you need to relax and explore the area at your leisure. So head to Canterbury for some time off and see the iconic Canterbury Cathedral.

• Belvedere – This is the perfect place to stay if you want everything right at your doorstep as Belvedere is connected to London City.
• Sandwich – Sandwich is a small town that can easily be explored by foot and is often believed to be one of England’s most well-preserved medieval towns. While it is small, there are still plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you occupied.
• Maidstone – Maidstone is filled with beautiful walks and rolling hills and is one of the more affordable places to stay in Kent.
• Dover – Dover is a small coastal town and home to many of the best Kent tourism locations. It’s also home to Dover Castle. If you’re ready to soak up the sunshine, this port town could be the right place for you.
• Royal Tunbridge Wells – Royal Tunbridge Wells may be a town, but it has a big city feel – while still being close to rolling green hills and many outdoor activities.

The Best Kent Attractions – Things to Do in Kent England

Kent County has an overwhelming number of attractions just waiting to be visited. If you’re still trying to figure out what to do in Kent, these are a few items you should be adding to your travel wishlist.

Hever Castle & Gardens

Located on the western border of Kent, Hever Castle is the beautiful childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The old UK architecture is certainly something to be admired, but the gardens really steal the show. The Hever Castle is one of the best castles in the UK.

You can meander through the beautifully manicured gardens, picnic on the lawns and take in the scenery. But if you want to make a full day of it, there is plenty to do on the castle grounds.

You can tackle the challenge of making your way through the yew maze or skillfully avoid the water jets waiting to soak you in the water maze – this is especially fun with little ones, or the young at heart.

If you’re feeling up for a paddle, take a row on the lake. There are also medieval jousting tournaments in the summertime and outdoor theatre productions occasionally.

But you’ll need to plan ahead to make sure you visit at the right time if you are hoping to catch either of these.

The Historic Chatham Dockyard

If you’re a naval history buff or just enjoy learning about the navy, this visit is not to be missed. That being said, very few people wouldn’t enjoy exploring the historic dockyard at Chatham.

You’ll have free roam of the docks while you’re there, getting the opportunity to hop on-board three of the most influential ships in the dock – a WWII Destroyer (The HMS Cavalier), a Cold War submarine (The HMS Ocelot), and a Victorian Sloop (The HMS Gannet).

You can wander around the dock at your leisure, taking in the historic ambience and imagining the seafarers that strolled through the dock centuries before you.

You may even recognise the port from a few angles as it’s been used to shoot scenes in TV series like “Call the Midwife” as well as many others.

Dover Castle

Dover Castle stands high on the iconic white cliffs of Dover and allows visitors to experience 2000 years of history in one place.

The castle was built under Henry II and is a medieval palace to rival the world’s best. On a clear day, you can look across the bay and see a faint outline of the French coast.

Even if the view isn’t enough to entice you, you’ll get to do a great deal of exploring here. You can enter the Great Tower, meander through the castle, and explore every room, as well as make your way onto the rooftop to see views of the English Channel.

If you like to form a good picture of how history played out, then visit the palace on the weekend.

There you will meet costumed characters who will recreate the court of Henry II. You will also learn about the pivotal role that the castle played in both world wars as it acted as a fortress.

While visiting the castle, be sure to explore the grounds and walk the battlements to get a real feel for the area.

Another coastal adventure awaits you at Whitstable, a quaint fishing village known for its oysters (among other seafood dishes), as well as its small-town atmosphere.

The town is buzzing with markets on the weekends, making it an exciting shopping location.

While you’re here, be sure to explore the art scene as the small town has a strong art culture and is filled to the brim with interesting sights and galleries. Meander through the quaint streets to get a real feel for what this town is all about.

And of course, being a coastal town, you can’t go without wandering the seashore for a little tranquility.

You’ll probably recognise the famed beach huts that line the beach as it has become one of the most Instagrammable things to do in Whitstable . If you’re looking for a wonderful place in Kent to spend a couple of days, this is surely it.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is also referred to as the “Loveliest Castle in the World”, and that’s because it is just that, rather lovely.

While the architecture is simple, the castle provides a beautiful place to take photos all year round, its atmosphere changing with every passing season.

Apart from the castle’s obvious beauty, there are multiple things to do on the grounds. Spend some time figuring out the maze or enjoy a game of adventure golf on the castle grounds. There is also a train and boat that make it easier to get around.

If you are travelling with a small child, then playing in the themed playground is an absolute must.

If you’d like to conquer a few fears during your time in Kent and enjoy some heart-pumping fun, then be sure to tackle the Go Apes high ropes course on the property.

Book your Leeds Castle admissions ticket in advance to ensure your spot on the day you wish to visit.

The Big Cat Sanctuary

The Big Cat Sanctuary is a charity organisation doing everything it can to take care of big cats from all regions of the world. They were even featured in the BBC’s Big Cat Diaries for their incredible work for big cats.

Unfortunately, you can’t simply show up at the sanctuary (unless it’s an open day) but it’s for the best as these animals are not used for show and tell purposes.

Rather, they are homed here to have a safe place to stay, away from those who wish to abuse them or put them in a zoo.

The sanctuary has special open days when you can show up and see some of the beautiful big cats housed on the property, but booking an experience comes highly recommended.

The sanctuary holds photographic workshops and night safaris that allow you to get a glimpse of their big cats in their natural habitat.

All the funds raised from these experiences go towards looking after the big majestic cats that call this sanctuary home.

Knole Park in Sevenoaks is a deer park covering an impressive 383.4 hectares of land. It’s mentioned as a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of the great number of deer that make a home for themselves here.

It’s an area looked after by The National Trust as well as Knole House, who make sure that the area remains in the pristine condition that the deer deserve.

You can visit the area at various times of the year to experience a different flavour of Knole Park in each season.

The summertime lends itself to those who wish to have a picnic under one of the many beautiful trees while enjoying the views of deer grazing in the distance.

Autumn may be a bit too crisp for a picnic, but if you wrap up warm, a stroll through the park will be rewarded with sights of deer huddled together to keep warm.

For more inspiration read my guide on  is Kent in London ?

Shell Grotto

Shell Grotto is located in Margate and is an interesting sight, to say the least. The most fascinating part is that nobody actually knows the history of this site.

The only thing known is that these underground tunnels were discovered by someone digging for a well in 1835.

The tunnels are lined with shells in a mosaic format, but nobody knows quite why the space was created. It truly does get your imagination running wild though, with thoughts of a possible underground temple or cult headquarters. Or maybe it was just the work of an artist obsessed with mosaic and the ocean’s offerings.

Once you’ve explored the underground tunnels, head upstairs to take in the artistic touch of a T-Rex head that was created with the use of thousands of shells. This truly is one of the more unique places in Kent.

Chartwell House

This impressive house was home to Winston Churchill and his family from 1922 and has been preserved almost exactly as he left it.

When you walk through the house you can explore the many rooms and see a wide collection of the man’s personal belongings.

Lining the shelves, you’ll see photographs and books, while hanging on the walls you’ll find an extensive of Churchill’s paintings worth admiring.

Apart from exploring the house itself, you can spend time enjoying the grounds which are rather expansive with lawns, woodlands and a lake.

If you have little ones with you, be sure to visit the brick playhouse built for Churchill’s daughter to play in.

Keep your eyes peeled for the cat named Jock VI. Churchills family requested that a ‘marmalade cat with white socks and a bib’ always be housed at the property – more than likely because they had a cat that looked just like that.

Turner Contemporary Gallery

If you’re a lover of everything avant-garde, the Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate is sure to intrigue you. Set on the seafront, this cultural location is free to visit but offers much in the way of beautiful artworks as well as historical significance.

The gallery is located in the former boarding house where Turner used to stay during his visits to Margate.

So, the gallery is home to the same views that Turner would see and replicate in his paintings. A fitting place to house his best contemporary works.

The artworks on display change as different exhibitions are held at the gallery, so you’re in for a completely different experience each time you visit.

But one sculpture that always remains the same is located right at the end of the Harbour Arm. This is a sculpture of Turner’s landlady named Mrs Booth.

Chislehurst Caves

The Chislehurst Caves were once a chalk mine that provided chalk for building as well as for guns. While the caves were used during both world wars, they were used for different purposes.

In WWI, the caves were used to store ammunition, but they were used as a bomb shelter during WWII.

Since then, they have hosted music gigs, a church, and have even been used to grow mushrooms as the cold, damp and dark are all suited to this practice. So, the caves have really seen a wide variety of events taking place.

To get inside the caves, you’ll need to join one of the tour groups (which are led once every hour). You’ll be given an oil lamp to light your way and to set the ambience while your guide teaches you about the intriguing history of the caves.

If you’d like to experience a unique music show, there are frequent performances in the caves by the Labyrinth LARPing Club.

Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is a World Heritage Site that should be explored for many hours. The Gothic cathedral has an extensive history spanning 1400 years and acts as the headquarters for the Church of England.

While a fire ravaged the cathedral in 1174, there are two pieces that still contain the original intricate carvings – the altar and crypt.

The main drawing card for this cathedral is the beautiful architecture, but it does have much more than that to offer.

There is a long and sordid history here, which you can learn more about on a cathedral tour .

Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in this very cathedral, and it also hosts the grave of the famed Edward the Black Prince.

If you’re interested in learning about these fascinating and true tales, a visit to the Canterbury Cathedral is a must on your list of Kent things to do.

Broadstairs

Are you a Charles Dickens fan? If so, you’ll love this excursion to explore Broadstairs, a place that acted as inspiration for many of the author’s most famed novels.

Dickens was a little obsessed with this seaside town , writing, “You cannot think how delightful and fresh the place is and how good the walks.”

You can explore the Dickens House Museum, which was once home to the women who inspired Miss Betsey Trotwood’s character in the book David Copperfield. It’s now home to a huge collection of Dickens memorabilia and prints.

As you explore the town, you’ll find many references to the author’s work – like the Copperfield B&B, Barnaby Rudge Pubs, and the Old Curiosity Shop, among many others.

If you want to take walking in the footsteps of Dickens to the next level, you can book a room in the hotel that Dickens often frequented – the Royal Albion Hotel.

Be sure to take time to step outside of the world of Dickens, however, to appreciate other beautiful sights. These include the Blue Flag beaches, a handful of contemporary art galleries, and an old traditional amusement arcade.

Apart from the main attractions, there are also cafes, bistros, pubs and bars that make a wonderful place to refresh and have a bite to eat.

Activities in Kent County, UK

If you want to spend your time in Kent actively exploring your environment, then these are some activities that are sure to go down a treat.

Explore the Rockpools at Botany Bay

Botany Bay is somewhat of a hidden secret – even to some locals. But it’s a real treat for the eyes and a great place to spend a couple of hours exploring – especially if you have kids to entertain.

The beach has beautiful orange sands juxtaposed against white chalky cliffs, making it the perfect place to take a photo for Instagram . If you are visiting for the stunning scenery, be sure to have your camera aimed and ready to shoot in the early morning or later in the evening when the lighting is ideal.

You can spend a couple of hours here, exploring the rock pools or simply relaxing on the sands taking in the beautiful views.

tip: Prepare Ahead!

Be sure to check when the tides are changing as it is possible to get stuck out on a rocky outcrop when the tides are turning. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Taste Wine at Chapel Down Winery

The Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden is located in what has come to be known as the ‘Garden of England’. So, a trip to the winery is sure to be filled to the brim with beautiful views and scenery that can take your breath away.

Chapel Down Winery gives you the opportunity to explore their grounds, meandering your way through their vineyards to get a better idea of how the wine is made.

When all the walking has your stomach grumbling, head to the on-site restaurant for a tasting experience.

Not only will you get the chance to taste the wines made at the farm, but you can indulge in a luxury three-course meal. Each meal is paired with a wine picked out by an experienced sommelier.

This is an excellent experience for those looking for a boozy day out. But remember to choose a designated driver so your day doesn’t get out of hand.

Take a Ride at Dreamland

Dreamland is not your average funfair situated in Margate. It’s a retro-themed park with activities that children and adults alike can enjoy. This is one of the many things to do in Kent that cannot be missed.

There are roller coaster rides to get your stomach turning, fair food to bring back old memories, and roller discos to get your mind reminiscing.

There are also live gigs and events for those looking for a party. If you want to attend live music at Dreamland, it’s best to prepare well in advance as it can be hard to find tickets at the last minute.

Dreamland is undoubtedly a quirky funfair that’s a little different from the rest. With its retro vibe, it not only is a great place to snap some unique photos but gets you craving years gone by.

Trek With Alpacas

Alpaca Annie is an incredibly unique place to visit in Kent and is one not to be missed by animal lovers. It’s an alpaca farm that uses the wool from their animals to make socks and bird nesting, so products are offered, but that’s not their only drawing card.

You’ll not only get the chance to meet the alpacas and hand-feed them, but you’ll also get to trek through the Kent countryside with your own alpaca by your side.

They are very sweet-natured creatures that love affection, so getting along with them is easy.

The farm owner, Annie, got her very first Alpaca in 2009 and fell in love with the precious creatures. The herd has now grown in numbers and gives you a wonderful opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with these cute animals.

You will need to book in advance to make sure there is space on each trekking mission. You can do this on their website ..

Stroll Along the White Cliffs of Dover

One of the most iconic scenes on any visit to Kent are the White Cliffs of Dover which create a dramatic edge to the Kent coastline.

Taking a stroll along cliffs while enjoying views of the English Channel is a must while you’re in the area.

See if you can spot some of the Exmoor ponies that graze in the area, keeping the grass to a neat length. If you love a good history lesson, visit the Victorian lighthouse, and explore the old WWII tunnels, these secret wartime tunnels are contained in the cliff.

If you walk the White Cliffs of Dover to Dover Castle, you’ll come across a concrete memorial in the shape of a plane.

It’s there to mark the landing spot of the very first plane to cross the English Channel. With so much history in one small area, it’s certainly worth adding to your list of what to do in Kent.

If you’d prefer to see the area with your very own tour guide, then it’s suggested that you book a White Cliffs of Dover tour during your time in Kent. This also means you won’t have to worry about organising your own transport.

Take a Ride on the Spa Valley Railway

If you’re looking for a day out and about, but still want to feel relaxed, the Spa Valley Railway allows you to do just that.

While the train winds its way through Tunbridge Wells, High Rocks, Eridge, and Groombridge, you can simply lap up the beautiful countryside views.

There are a handful of dining experiences plotted out for you along the way, so you won’t be going hungry during this day trip . You’ll also be served a delicious afternoon tea while enjoying stunning views.

The Spa Valley Railway feels like a portal back to centuries gone past with its old-timey atmosphere and antique-looking train.

If you’re looking for a pampered experience, this should be high on your list of journeys to indulge yourself within Kent, UK.

Walk the Bridges at High Rocks

If you’re looking for a mesmerising natural wonder, High Rocks is the place to go. These high rocks, which have been forming over millions of years, are set with the backdrop of tranquil woodlands.

These used to form a part of a stone age camp and are now connected with eleven bridges that make for a scenic walking trail.

If you suffer from the fear of heights, this walk may not be for you, although it is something worth conquering your fears for.

This national monument is steeped in interesting history, which you will learn more about when you’re visiting the High Rocks Complex. After daring to tackle the bridge walk, be sure to visit the on-site pub for a cold beer to calm the nerves.

Race Around the Track at Buckmore Park

This activity is especially fun for kids – or those who are still children at heart. Buckmore Park is a kart racing track, the very same that F1 racing champions, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button made a start to their racing careers.

The karting venue is nestled in the Kent woodlands, providing beautiful countryside views. But the views are not where the fun ends. Hire a kart with your travel buddies and race around the ring to get a taste of the excitement.

If karts aren’t for you, then have a go at riding quad bikes or Powerturn buggies for a different kind of thrilling experience. If you’re ready to hit the pedal to the metal and smell the tyre rubber burning, then Buckmore Park is the place to do it.

Final Thoughts On The Most Popular Things To Do in Kent, England

Kent has an overwhelming number of activities on offer. From experiences in nature to historical sites and thrill-seeking activities, there’s something that will tickle everyone’s fancy. Kent also has some great day trips to be had too. So, if you’re spending your UK city break in Kent, you’re in for a treat.

With no shortage of scenes and experiences to take your breath away, Kent has a list of itinerary-worthy items you must tick off your bucket list.

Ready for the trip of a lifetime through one of the most beautiful areas in England? Let me know how it goes!

READ MORE ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN KENT UK

🏰 Best places to visit in Kent

🏖️ Things to do in Margate

🚣 Things to do in Ramsgate

☀️ Things to do in Folkestone

🍧 Things to do in Hastings

🩴 Things to do in Broadstairs

🏊‍♀️ Things to do in Botany Bay

🤔 Is Kent in London?

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15 Picturesque Spots to Explore in Kent

The South Eastern English county, famously described as the ‘Garden of England,’ has extraordinary beauty and landscapes in abundance. With the iconic White Cliffs and easy-on-the-eye seaside enclaves, Kent’s coastline is particularly special, but the inland countryside is pretty spectacular, too.

Some of history’s most famous writers, poets, and artists were captivated by this corner of the country, and once you visit, you’ll see why! Here are my favourite spots…

1. Broadstairs

I would highly recommend starting at this coastal town on the Isle of Thanet! It has a distinctive charm all of its own and is filled with good old-fashioned seaside fun. For starters, the long, wide sandy beach lined with pretty, colourful beach huts and sheltered by low chalk cliffs is just wonderful.

The town has a nostalgic feel with a mix of retro and more stylish shops, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, a Victorian engineering museum, and attractive red-brick and flint-fronted buildings. The area is also fantastic for scenic hikes as many cliff-top paths link beautiful bays here.

Broadstairs also has some important literary connections, as this was Charles Dicken’s favourite holiday spot.

Make sure you visit the Dickens House Museum (the former and very charming home of Mary Pearson Strong, who inspired the character Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield) and Bleak House, a striking building high on a cliff where Dickens penned David Copperfield.

2. Canterbury

Located in southeast England, the cathedral city of Canterbury is a stunning and very popular spot! It has an ancient and important history with significant literary connections, but it’s so well preserved that it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was once a popular pilgrimage site, and its literary connections come from being the former stomping ground of Chaucer, the famous author and poet who hailed from the Middle Ages. The city inspired him so much that he based the world-famous “Canterbury Tales” here.

It has ancient walls, initially built by the Romans, surrounding its medieval centre. Inside the walls are a network of cobbled streets, gorgeous timber-framed houses, six museums, seven art galleries, six theatres, one castle, one abbey, 24 Canterbury Tales, and the gorgeous cathedral!

Add to these picturesque parks, gardens, and plenty of interesting shops, cafes, and restaurants, and you have a fine city destination!

3. Whitstable

Think more of a trendy foodie destination on the sea, complete with Michelin-starred restaurants, food (mostly shellfish) festivals, and craft beer a plenty.

It also has a creative side, with many art galleries, independent gift shops, and retro/vintage stores. In my opinion, it’s a great option for either a day trip or a longer break. Just make sure you check out the wonderful Fisherman’s Huts for unique seafront accommodation!

Beautiful coastal scenery also surrounds the town, so I would suggest exploring it further.

4. Scotney Castle

Located to the southeast of the small village of Lamberhurst, you will find this wonderful treasure, which the National Trust now owns.

Built in the 14th century, this beautiful turreted English country house with formal gardens and a moat is as arguably close as you can get to a fairytale building.

Located within the valley of the River Bewl, its surroundings are pretty lush, too and includes many walking trails over 770 acres of gorgeous woodland.

Explore the inside, discover all the building’s secrets on tour, walk around the grounds, enjoy a delicious meal in the tea room or picnic in the designated area.

5. Kent Downs

An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Kent Downs is one of the county’s most scenic sites to visit. It stretches from the London/Surrey border to the famous White Cliffs of Dover.

Its enchanting natural sights include chalk ridges, dipping slopes, dry valleys, grassy landscapes lined with hedgerows, traditional orchards, and picturesque ponds. It is also home to many species of wildlife, birdlife, and rare plant life.

It’s also home to some of the highest points in the Southeast, and you’ve probably guessed that this makes for an incredibly scenic walk. So, don those boots, grab your family and dog, and get going!

6. Scenic Cultural Coastal Drive and the White Cliffs of Dover

In my opinion, The Scenic Cultural Coastal Drive is a must-do attraction!  If you are hoping for a relaxing drive with jaw-dropping scenery, this may be the place for you.

Enjoy an excellent coastal journey through incredible sights like the White Cliffs of Dover and Thanet’s stunning chain of fifteen sandy beaches.

The White Cliffs of Dover are a famous landmark now owned by the National Trust. They face France, and during the World Wars, they became a symbol of freedom and hope and were often sung about in now-legendary war songs!

This scenic drive takes you through the historic towns and cultural regeneration of the county. At the same time, you can take in the glorious East Coast view of the place.

There are several galleries and vintage shops to be visited within the area. Visit the Cinque Port of Sandwich, which lies 2 miles inland and is flanked by three famous golf links.

7. Ightham Mote

This medieval 14th-century moated manor house is near Sevenoaks. It has an outstanding architectural design, and the writer John Newman described it as “the most complete small medieval manor house in the county.”

Get lost in the estate and explore the beautiful gardens, now owned by the National Trust and open to the public.

Three very pretty waymarked routes will take you around the Ightham Mote estate along footpaths, woodland, and country lanes. You can also tour the Grade I-listed building and see its wonderful and interesting historic interiors.

8. Aylesford

This is a medium-sized village and civil parish on the River Medway, which is accessed by a very picturesque 14th-century five-arched bridge.

It started initially as a small riverside settlement that originated as early back as Neolithic times, and the old town is comprised of around 60 houses, many of which were former shops.

You can go for a guided or unguided tour of Aylesford, and in my opinion, it’s an exceptionally pretty village and one of the finest in the SouthEast.

Many significant historic buildings exist to explore, including the church, Aylesford Priory, Preston Hall, and a few interesting independent shops.

9. Leeds Castle 

This stunning stone castle built in 857AD was once called the “loveliest castle in the world” Whether you agree or not, this is a fine specimen of place and one of England’s most important and best castles.

Once a Norman stronghold, a royal residence, and a royal palace (it was Henry VIII who lived with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon), it’s now open to the public. It offers various things, from accommodation to workshops, tours, talks, and events.

Its location is also very beautiful. It is not too far from the large town of Maidstone, set on two islands in a magnificent lake.

There is an option to explore further, and here, you’ll also find over 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland just waiting to be explored.

10. One Tree Hill and Knole

Owned and protected by the National Trust, this is a beautiful slice of countryside and a must-see for nature lovers and walkers.

Located in Kent’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this site offers stunning panoramic views of the unspoilt countryside, woodland, and open glades.

The scenic area also provides habitat to wildlife, flora, and fauna, including wild garlic, bluebells, and the rare point snail.

Nearby is also located in Sevenoaks (only a 13-minute drive away) and owned by the National Trust Knole. Knole is a country house and former archbishop’s palace within Knole Park, a 1,000-acre park located immediately southeast of Sevenoaks in west Kent.

The house ranks among the top five of England’s largest houses and occupies a beautiful four-acre area.

11. Hever Castle

Once an important historic landmark built in the 13th century, Hever Castle is now a popular tourist attraction. It’s also famous for being the seat of the Boleyn family of Anne Boleyn and Henry Tudor fame.

Located in the pretty village of Hever near Edenbridge, it began life as a country house and now has mazes, picturesque gardens, and a lovely lake.

You can go for a guided or unguided tour of Hever Castle to see all the preserved architecture from years gone by and also visit the well-maintained gardens. It also hosts a popular annual jousting tournament every summer.

12. Herne Bay

Herne Bay is a charming coastal town located near the city of Canterbury. It’s a lovely spot and is home to over two miles of coastline, a sand and shingle beach, pretty multi-coloured beach huts, seafront gardens, a pier, and even a bandstand – so expect plenty of seaside fun!

Don’t leave without seeing the very kitsch Seaside Museum, home to a collection of photographs from the town’s Victorian heyday and even an old Punch and Judy set.

There are also many fantastic independent shops and restaurants, art galleries, and plenty of opportunities for gorgeous coastal walks.

13. Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens 

A romantic spot, this beautiful historic building is located in Sissinghurst village and is famous for once being the home to the famous poet and writer Vita Sackville-West.

Vita designed the gardens surrounding the castle in the 1930s and hailed the whole place as a ‘ refuge dedicated to beauty’. Her husband, Harold Nicolson, an author and diplomat, also lived with her.

The Grade I-listed building is on Historic England’s register of historic parks and gardens and is owned by the National Trust, so you can take your time exploring the wonderful gardens and estate.

14. Chapel Down Winery

The Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden is known as the home to England’s leading wine producer and England’s answer to Sauvignon Blanc.

Here, you have the opportunity to see where the wine is grown and made, as well as take a tour of the vineyard estate to take in the stunning landscapes and views.

Depending on how long your trip is, you may take interactive masterclasses on making and tasting wine. Make sure you also take time out to check out the vineyard on the award-winning Chapel Down estate.

There is also a popular restaurant on-site and a restaurant selling food and drink.

15. Bewl Lake

This is one of the well-known reservoirs in the valley of the River Bewl. It straddles the boundary between Kent and East Sussex in England, stretches about 2 miles south of the village of Lamberhurst, and is a lovely beauty spot to explore.

You can go for a long walk and enjoy the beautiful water views.

You can also hire bikes to explore the tranquil scenery. Rowboats can be hired here for a lovely afternoon.

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7 of Kent's most beautiful villages that are perfect for a daytrip this summer

We listed below villages you must visit this summer.

• 14:54, 26 JUN 2023

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It is an undeniable fact that Kent has some of the most picturesque villages in the country. From medieval architecture to extravagant castles, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you like a quiet ramble through the rolling hills of the Kent Downs or going on a peaceful ride to explore more grounds, Kent has it all. The summer season is by far the best time to discover new places in your area.

With temperatures rising, here are just a handful that are perfect for a day trip.

READ MORE: Kent's stunning and unspoiled 'gem of a bay' which is the 'go-to getaway'

Surrounded by farmland, ancient woodlands and low grasslands, the village located just a few miles south of Dartford looks like a real-life postcard.

People from all across the country come to visit the Ford at Riverside, Eynsford Castle, Lullingstone Roman Villa and Lullingstone Castle. The ruins of Eynsford Castle, which is managed by English Heritage and is free to visit, are just off the High Street.

The village is located along the hillside of the Kent Downs, making it the perfect place for those loving the great outdoors. There are numerous nature trails and an abundance of flora and wildlife.

Chiddingstone

One of the oldest villages in Kent, Chiddingstone is a National Trust site. Considered as one of the best preserved Tudor villages in the country, the village has some well-preserved historic buildings, cobbled pavements a d its narrow main street.

The picturesque village is in the Sevenoaks district and is nestled near the River Eden.

Located in the heart of the inspiring Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Beauty, the historic village of Elham is definitely one of the most picturesque in east Kent with its footpaths, bridle paths and cycle routes.

The village has a good range of amenities including tea rooms, primary school, doctor's surgery, two pubs, one containing a Post Office facility, two churches, a restaurant/coaching inn and thriving village hall, together with floodlit tennis courts.

The beautiful village of Ightham, located between Tonbridge and Sevenoaks, is famous for the nearby medieval manor of Ightham Mote.

Dating from around 1320, the building was described by Nicholas Pevsner as ‘the most complete small medieval manor house in the country’.

This small unspoilt village in the beautiful countryside area known as The Weald of Kent, lies between two rivers and is famous for an ancestral home once owned by Henry VIII.

Cricket is still being played on one of England’s oldest pitches, and the village fete are still very much part of the community today.

Godmersham is a village and civil parish in the Ashford District of Kent, England.

Jane Austen, the 18th-century novelist, often visited this village because of her brother, Edward Knight, who owned Godmersham Park.

There is also a 12th-century parish church and walk on the road leading to a beautiful 17th-century bridge, where you can take a lot of pretty photos and watch some fish and sheep playing around.

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Kent is a superb balance of old and new, quaint and chic, old-fashioned and avante garde. Owner-operated shops offer stylish and eclectic goods from home and abroad. Comfortable restaurants serve inventive dishes from local ingredients. Galleries feature quality contemporary and classic art. From thr rolling river with its historic covered bridge, to Kent Falls, to the Appalachian Trail and hills made for biking, Kent offers varied of outdoor activities. Customer service with a smile and ample parking throughtout the village center make Kent a wonderful day to spend a day.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

10 of the Best Historic Sites in Kent

Towering cathedrals, ancient roman wall art, huge wartime forts and charles darwin's house are just a few of the historic attractions that kent has to offer. check out our selection here..

Lucy Davidson

23 may 2022, @lucejuiceluce.

Located between London and the Strait of Dover, which separates England from the European mainland, the county of Kent has witnessed its fair share of turbulent conflicts such as the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 and the Battle of Britain during World War Two . As a result, it is home to a number of fascinating sites which date as far back as the Roman occupation.

Nicknamed ‘The Garden of England’, Kent is home to historic castles and towering cathedrals that are often set against the stunning backdrop of her white cliffs of Dover, seaside resorts and coastline. We’ve put together a guide of 10 of the best historic sites that Kent has to offer.

1. Dover Castle

Dover Castle has been a vitally important fortress throughout British history, and has for many years been nicknamed the ‘Key to England’. Before the castle was erected, Dover’s cliffs were a popular site for building strongholds over the centuries, with evidence dating back to the Iron Age. The first incarnation of Dover Castle itself was built in the 11th century by  William the Conqueror . Over the centuries, Dover Castle would be improved, expanded and renovated, and remain continually garrisoned until as late as 1958.

Today, Dover Castle is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public, providing a fascinating insight into the fortress’ history. Visitors can explore the medieval castle and its underground tunnels, viewing numerous exhibitions which immerse them in the lives of Dover Castle’s former inhabitants and tell its fascinating story.

2. The Roman Lighthouse

The Roman Lighthouse in Dover is a ruined 1st century AD tower originally built to guide ships across the English Channel from France into the ancient Roman port and fort of Dubris – the site of present-day Dover. Today, the Roman Lighthouse (Roman Pharos) is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the country and one of the oldest in the world, dating from around 46-50 AD (during the reign of the Emperor Claudius ), shortly after the invasion of Britain in 43 AD .

The Lighthouse now sits in the grounds of  Dover Castle which was founded in the 11th century, directly alongside the late Anglo-Saxon church of St Mary-in-Castro, which is itself constructed from Roman building materials, built in 1000 AD. The Lighthouse stands at 19 metres high, with the top floor being a medieval restoration. After nearly 2,000 years the original Roman stonework on the seaward-side is inevitably weather-worn and crumbly, though the top medieval section is still in a reasonable state of repair.

3. Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is one of England’s most famous cathedrals, both because of its prominent history dating back to the 6th century. In 597, a missionary called St Augustine travelled to Kent from Rome, having been sent by the Pope to convert the English to Christianity. Settling in Canterbury, he soon established a seat or ‘cathedra’ there, marking the origins of Canterbury Cathedral. The remains of this original incarnation of the Cathedral lie underneath its current nave. Over the next few centuries, Canterbury Cathedral was renovated and rebuilt in parts. It was damaged during the English Civil War .

Today, Canterbury Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with some of its oldest parts – such as its crypt – dating back to the 12th century. Guided tours and audio guides are available at the site, but visitors are also free to explore its many mysteries at leisure.

4. White Cliffs of Dover

In some places over 300 feet high, the White Cliffs of Dover are a symbol of the United Kingdom. The history of Britain is intricately linked with the White Cliffs. The first recorded description of Dover describes the scene that Julius Caesar saw in 55 BC when, with two legions of soldiers, he arrived near Dover looking for a suitable landing place for the Roman invasion. Shakespeare famously mentioned the cliffs in King Lear. They were also the backdrop to the historic moment when Charles II stepped back onto English soil in 1660 after years in exile.

During World War Two , the White Cliffs of Dover were Britain’s frontline from 1941 and large gun batteries were constructed along the coast. On the cliffs close to South Foreland, important gun positions were built which would attack enemy forces across the Channel. Although quickly constructed and only fired sparingly, the guns were an important aspect of the defence of Britain. The Battle of Britain Memorial is located on top of the Cliffs, honouring those who gave their lives and served in this battle. It is a popular and scenic attraction.

5. Drop Redoubt

Along with the Citadel, the Drop Redoubt is one of two forts on Western Heights, Dover. The two are linked via a series of dry moats. It is frequently described as one of the most impressive fortifications in Britain. Originally constructed during the Napoleonic Wars of 1804-1808 and then from 1859-1864, the fort later became a look-out post during World War Two . In 1945, the site was abandoned permanently.

Today, Drop Redoubt is under the care of English Heritage and is open at times throughout the summer months. Special tours are also available.

6. Walmer Castle & Gardens

Originally built during the reign of  Henry VIII as a response to the perceived threat of invasion from Europe, Walmer Castle & Gardens have stood on the Kent coastline for nearly 500 years. After Henry VIII’s  break with Pope Paul III , The Holy Roman Empire and France declared an alliance against Henry in 1538, and were encouraged by the Pope to invade England. This prompted Henry to order the construction of a series of forts along the English coastline, of which Walmer Castle is one, built from 1539-1540. In spite of this, no invasion took place.

Today, Walmer Castle & Gardens are open to the public, and visitors can expect to enjoy the site’s historical relevance and beauty in equal measure. The garden includes the beautiful Queen Mother’s Garden as well as multiple terraces with different architectural influences and designs.

7. Roman Painted House

Discovered by Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit in the 1970s, the Roman Painted House is one of the finest Roman houses on show in Britain. Built in around 200 AD, it formed part of a large mansion or hotel for travellers crossing the Channel, when Dover (then called Dubris) was the leading naval base and gateway to Britannia . By 270 AD it was demolished by the Roman army during the construction of a larger fort.

Today, it is a popular tourist attraction. Over 400 square feet of painted murals survive which depict scenes from the god Bacchus, which constitutes the most extensive amount ever found north of the Alps. An elaborate hypocaust (underfloor heating) system is also on display.

8. Rochester Castle

One of the best-preserved Norman fortifications in England, Rochester Castle was built at a strategic crossroads in the years following the Norman Conquest. In 1087 Gundulf, Bishop of Rochester began the construction of the castle to command an important river crossing. Much of what remains of the walled perimeter remains intact from that time. Rochester Castle played no role in the Civil Wars and so it was never slighted. It appears, however, that a violent fire took place in the keep before the 1660s, which reduced the building to ruin.

Today, the castle has been largely restored and is open to visitors under the custodianship of English Heritage. Rochester Castle remains one of the most impressive Norman fortresses and continues to attract visitors from far and wide.

9. Hever Castle

Hever Castle in Kent is a picturesque Tudor mansion famous for being the family home of Anne Boleyn , the ill-fated second wife of Henry VIII . Hever Castle was built in the 13th century as a country house belonging to James Fiennes, 1st Baron Say and Sele. It was later converted into a castle, with the walls, towers, moat and Great Hall constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries. In 1462, it came into the possession of the Boleyn family, who transformed it into a stunning Tudor residence, and in 1505, when Thomas Boleyn inherited Hever, he further added to its splendour.

In later years the castle passed through many different hands before in 1903 it was acquired by American-British millionaire William Waldorf Astor, who restored it to its former glory and adopted it as a family residence. Today, Hever Castle is a popular tourist attraction that tells the story of Anne Boleyn’s life and her relationship with Henry VIII. A number of rooms may be explored throughout Hever Castle that each represent the elegance of the Tudor era  and the wealth of its past inhabitants.

10. Down House

Located in the village of Downe around 20km southeast of Charing Cross, on the border between Kent and south east London, Down House is a Grade I listed former home of English naturalist  Charles Darwin . It is particularly well-known for being the site where Darwin researched and wrote his famous On the Origin of Species . The house was built in the early 18th century – likely on the site of a 17th-century house – extensively modernised in the late 18th century by wealthy businessman George Butler. After his death, the house changed hands many times until Charles Darwin , along with his heavily pregnant wife Emma and two children, moved there in 1842.

The house was kept on by the Darwin children, later becoming Downe House school for girls from 1907. From 1921 it languished empty in an increasing state of disrepair. From 1927, it was proposed that the house be bought as a national memorial to Darwin. It was bought by a benefactor and restored under the close eye of Darwin’s son, Leonard. It then opened as a museum to the public for around 60 years, until it was bought by English Heritage and then re-opened as a museum in 1998, at which time a long-term programme of work was begun to restore the gardens, which is now complete.

The 16 best places to visit in Kent

The county of Kent is one of the prettiest in England. Often called “The Garden of England” , Kent is home to rolling hills, rich farmland, country estates and stately homes with beautiful gardens .

This fertile land means that Kent is the official suppler of strawberries to Wimbledon. Each berry must be between 25mm-45mm in diameter and fully red all over.

But there’s more to Kent than strawberries (although they are a very  good reason to visit). This corner of the UK is home to ancient woodlands and Royal towns, beautiful villages  and  historic towns , majestic castles and mysterious caves. It boasts colourful seaside resort s with sandy beaches as well as Dungeness, a shingle beach at the southernmost point in Kent and Britain’s only officially recognised desert .

For nature lovers there are plenty of things to do including exploring the Kent Downs , an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If you’re planning a trip then enjoy this list of the best places to visit in Kent whether you’re travelling solo or bringing along the whole family. Enjoy!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I have been or could be if you click on a link in this post compensated via a cash payment, gift or something else of value for writing this post. See our full disclosure policy for more details.

The best places to go in Kent

Table of Contents

Kent stretches from the London Borough of Bromley right the way down to the coast and, of course, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. If travelling from London it is easily reached by train, bus or by driving. You definitely have greater flexibility to explore if you drive your own car or hire one.

The seaside town of Whitstable is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Kent . Located on the north coast, just 5 miles north of Canterbury, this is the place to come for a traditional British beach day out.

This characterful fishing village hugs the northern Kent Coast and is filled with colourful houses , a fun array of independent shops along the high street and some of the best places to eat oysters in England.

The beach may not be sandy (you’ll find shingles instead) but that doesn’t stop visitors spending the day here. Plus, the beach huts , in an assortment of rainbow colours , make for a very pretty backdrop. Tankerton Beach , at the southern end of Whitstable, is a good place to head with kids thanks to its myriad rock pools.

Spend some time exploring Whitstable Harbour while you’re here. Built in 1832 to serve the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway (otherwise known as the Crab and Winkle line ), it’s a lively spot with fishing boats sailing in and out. This is a good place to pick up takeaway fish and chips or and ice cream (or, better yet, both!). This is also where you’ll find the Harbour Market.

Away from the water there’s Whitstable Castle and Gardens  and the Whitstable Museum and Gallery , home to the INVICTA engine. This steam train was one of the first to be used on the railway, pulling passengers from Whitstable to Canterbury.

Places to stay in Whitstable 

A fun family getaway, Ramsgate is a charming coastal town and resort in the heart of Kent which can be reached from London in around an hour if you jump on the super fast train .

Boasting beautiful sandy beaches (complete with beach-huts and ice cream kiosks), Ramsgate’s jewel in the crown is the spectacular Royal Harbour and Marina and accompanying hilltop views and walks. There are plenty of pubs overlooking the harbour primed for that perfect sunset pint accompanied with the freshest fish and best catch of the day.

Whilst most of Ramsgate seafront is taken up by the marina and a largely industrial port, there are two small beach areas for swimming , sunbathing and family activities. The easiest to access is the Ramsgate Main Sands to the left of the harbour arm with several beachside attractions like children’s amusements.

One of the best free things to do in Ramsgate is to stroll around the harbour and marina at any time of day, looking at all the yachts and vessels (and possibly guess how many millions some of them cost!).

The harbour is also the location for most of the day trips and sea fishing excursions available in Ramsgate. There are a lot of nice places to eat, plus museums and artist studios in the arches along the marina.

Finally, Ramsgate Royal Parade is one of the best cliff top walks and spots to hang out with nice views and several bars and restaurants all with their own alfresco dining areas with views overlooking the port. Cheers!

By Caroline and Neil, CKTravels.com

Places to stay in Ramsgate

Broadstairs

Some of the greatest writers in history have been inspired by the Garden of England including Charles Dickens who spent periods of his life living here. 

The seaside town of Broadstairs was his favourite holiday spot and the inspiration for many of his most famous works including David Copperfield , Bleak House and Our English Watering Place . Visit in June and you can enjoy the Broadstairs Dickens Festival .

Broadstairs is one of those charming seaside towns that’s particularly great for families. There are seven sandy beaches to choose from including Central Viking Bay , a horseshoe-shaped bay with tidal pools, children’s rides, beach huts and a surf school.

Botany Bay boats dramatic chalk stacks, soft sand and – when the tide’s out – the chance to look for fossils and explore rock pools. The 200m-long Joss Bay is the best surfing beach in the area.

The town itself is filled with colourful fishermen’s cottages , independent shops and lots of really good food and drink options. Visit the traditional Dickens House Museum , once home to Miss Mary Pearson who inspired Dickens’ character Betsey Trotwood in  David Copperfield .

It’s also worth taking a cliff-top walk past Bleak House, a Grade II-listed building that sits above Viking Bay. Once known as Fort House, this is where Charles Dickens would holiday, spending many summers writing here.

If you want to continue with a Dickens tour then you should add Gravesend and Medway (so called because of the River Medway) to your Kent itinerary.

Places to stay in Broadstairs

In many ways, Margate is your traditional British seaside resort . It has the sandy beach, amusement arcades and even a theme park . Yet the Old Town retains a lot of its character and charm, making it a lovely place for both families and couples.

For the younger kids, the main attractions are going to be the beach and Dreamland , the theme park. An amusement ride has actually been in place here since 1880 and the Scenic Railway (a rollercoaster from 1920) is the UK’s oldest working rollercoaster and a Grade-II listed monument. It’s entirely up to you if you trust it!

Margate Main Sands is the best beach – an award winning blue flag beach no less. Remember that this is the North Sea , so can be cold all year. Also, there is a huge tidal range, so the sea can be a bit of a walk to get to.

Other attractions include the Shell Grotto – a 30m tunnel decorate with over 4.5 million shells! Nobody really knows how, when or why it was created – a Margate Mystery!

There are also a couple of museums , an indoor market, adventure golf and the Draper’s Windmill – a working (at times) windmill where you can venture inside to learn about the history and mechanics of the traditional windmills of the area.

Be sure to drive from Margate to Broadstairs along the coast road- it’s one of the UK’s most scenic drives .

By Kathryn, Wandering Bird 

Places to stay in Margate

Pluckley .

Pluckley, near Ashford, may appear to be a quaint chocolate-box village in the heart of the English countryside , but after dark it becomes a very different place.

During twilight hours this village of just 1000 inhabitants becomes a mecca for all those that have watched Most Haunted and fancy a bit of ghost hunting for themselves. From the spooky sightings of the highwayman at Fright Corner to the continuously screaming man and the sound of ghostly horses hooves clip clopping down Maltman’s Hill, there are no end of spirits to go in search of.

In fact, Pluckey has been named by the Guinness Book of World Records , as Britain’s most haunted village and is reputed to have at least twelve different ghosts that frequent the area.

If you fancy seeking out the apparitions for yourself, The Dering Arms on the edge of the village is the place to start. Once a hunting lodg e, and now a pub that welcomes all, including your four-legged friends, this is often where visitors will start their hunt, for this watering hole is also meant to be haunted .

While enjoying your home-cooked meal, see if you can spot the old lady said to often be seen sitting at the bar in Victorian dress . Some have even claimed that she appears so lifelike that they have mistaken her for a real customer.

For those wanting to spend more than just a day exploring, spend a night at Elvey Farm , a small boutique hotel that dates back to the 15th century and is said to be home to its own ghosts.

Pluckey is the place to visit if you fancy doing something different during your trip to Kent.

By Tamason, Travelling Book Junkie

Places to stay in Pluckley

Hever Castle

You’re not short of historic castles to visit in Kent, but easily one of the best to explore is Hever Castle with kids . Not only can you wander around the place where Anne Boleyn spent part of her childhood (with a trail to help entertain kids as you explore), the huge grounds have so many entertainments and outdoor activities that it’s tough to fit them all into one day.

Once you’ve eyed up Anne’s own bed and checked out the portraits of Henry VIII’s wives , the main fun is still to come outside. Watching the jousting is a highlight: if you want a good view, it’s worth getting to the field early, or you can follow the knights, along with Henry VIII and the royal household, down from the castle for some added royal merriment.

If you’re inspired by the knightly arts , there are archery lessons or a chance to create your own crest with some shield painting (sign up early), plus in summer, you can wander the tented village listening to stories, chatting to more armoured warriors and eyeing up Tudor food.

In between, there are two mazes at Hever Castle to explore – both a traditional yew hedge maze , and a more unusual water maze . Dodge the jets and it’s possible to make it to the middle without getting wet, although given the choice, no child is going to resist scampering under the spray so a change of clothes is a bonus.

Not to mention 125 acres of grounds to explore , including the rose garden, Tudor garden, Italian garden and boating on the lake.

By Cathy, MummyTravels.com

Places to stay in Hever 

On the Southeast of England, sits Canterbury , one of the most charming cities in England . It is only 60 miles away from London, which makes it an ideal destination for a day trip from London or even a weekend gateway.

This city is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and it attracts history and culture lovers from all over the world. Here you can have a relaxing trip while learning about the Roman influence on English culture.

One of the best ways to explore Canterbury is to stroll around the maze of charming cobbled streets and admire the amazing architectures. When in the town centre, it is hard to miss the famous Canterbury Cathedral , which is one of the oldest and most known Christian structures in the country. It was founded in 597 , but later in the 11th and 12th century was rebuilt in Gothic style. This place is where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170.

Slightly beyond the city centre, you can find The Church of St Martin , the oldest church in England . The church was used by the Romans during the 4th century and later in the 6th century it was the private chapel of Queen Bertha of Kent. The Cathedral together with St. Martin’s Church and St. Augustine’s Abbey are UNESCO Heritage Sites today.

When it comes to food, Canterbury has plenty to offer. There are many restaurants , cute cafes in the town centre. No matter if you are looking for English food, or international cuisine such as Italian, Indian and Turkish.

However, if you are looking to have good food with a cosy atmosphere, you can head to Old Weavers House . It is located next to the River Stour and it has a beautiful garden. After your lunch, you can go on a boat tour on the river to relax.

By Mansoureh, TravelwithMansoureh.com

Places to stay in Canterbury

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is located in Leeds in Kent, just 25 miles from London. It is easy to reach by car or train and makes for a lovely day out in Kent.

It has been called “the loveliest castle in the world” and as you approach the castle along the winding path from the main entrance, you will see why. The fairy tale castle is surrounded by a moat and beautifully kept grounds .

Leeds Castle, built in 1119 , has not seen as much battle action as some other castles in England, but that does not make it any less interesting. Having King Henry VIII as one of its residents always makes for a good story.

There is not much left of the original 12th century Norman castle . In fact, the only part remaining is the cellar. This is because the castle has been significantly modified over the centuries. Much of what can be seen today is thanks to King Henry VIII who made Leeds Castle a home with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon , and to Sir Richard Smythe who built the Jacobean manor in the 17th century.

There is plenty to keep you busy at Leeds Castle. As well as taking a self-guided or guided tour of the castle, you can explore the maze, watch falconry displays , test your archery skills and maybe catch some special event taking place during school holidays.

If you are visiting with kids, there are a couple of fantastic play areas modelled on the castle – one for 6 years and under and the other for 6 – 14-year-olds.

If you have ever wanted to stay in a castle, they offer B&B accommodation in the castle as well as cottages in the grounds. In the summer months there are knight’s glamping tents which are great fun for families.

Leeds Castle is open all year round, except for Christmas Day, and is one of the best places to visit in Kent.

By Jacs, The Flashpacking Family 

Places to stay in Maidstone

Tucked away in the countryside of Kent is the small village Wye, one of the most picturesque villages in the county. The peaceful and laid back atmosphere of Wye offers a welcome escape from the bustle of city life. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind surrounded by nature.

A patchwork of ∫ surrounds the town with plenty of scenic walking trails to explore. Wye can easily be reached from London by taking the train service to Ashford and then switching trains and getting off at the next stop from there.

A popular thing to do while visiting Wye is taking a walk up to the Memorial Crown viewpoint . The Memorial Crown was installed on the hillside overlooking the town in the year 1902 to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII. Hiking to the viewpoint will reward you with spectacular countryside views . The walk begins in Wye’s town center and leads you upward along a public footpath, it takes around 30 minutes to complete.

Once you have finished the walk, make your way back into town to enjoy a traditional pub lunch at one of the charming historic pubs that Wye has to offer.

Located on the banks of the Stour River , the beautiful Tickled Trout Pub makes an excellent choice. Walking into this lovely old pub will take you right back in time, there has been a pub standing in that spot for over 400 years ! Their outdoor patio is a great place to have lunch on a sunny day. During winter, the roaring fireplace inside the pub makes for a cosy atmosphere to warm up.

By Ann, The Road Is Life

Places to stay in Wye

Chiddingstone Castle

Chiddingstone Castle and Village , sitting in the Weald of Kent in Edenbridge , is one of the best places to visit in Kent. Unlike the neighbouring Kent castles such as Hever and Leeds, this one is lesser-known and therefore doesn’t get crowded with tourists. It’s free entry into the grounds but there is an honesty box for the parking charge.

Chiddingstone Castle started life as a manor house on the outskirts of the village but over time was re-designed to imitate a castle complete with medieval turrets . The final owner of the castle was also an avid private collector of Egyptian and Asian artefacts and bought the castle to display his vast collections, which can be viewed when the castle is open.

In the grounds the open spaces lend themselves to family gatherings and picnics while the beautiful lily-pond allows anglers, with a permit, the chance to enjoy a spot of fishing on a summer’s afternoon. When it gets too hot head to the castle tea-rooms and cool off with a delicious ice-cream.

Children and adults alike will love the small maze with its stunning vistas over the North Downs and also the woodland walk that leads to Chiddingstone Village.

Arriving in the village, owned by the National Trust , is like stepping back in time. The original Tudor fronted buildings have been repurposed for modern day and have history seeping from every brick and timber.

The Post Office was once a shop owned by Anne Boleyn’s father and the tea-rooms date back to the 15th century and serve mouth-watering tea and cakes. Stop for a pint in the Castle Inn and then wander down to the Chiding Stone , from where the castle and village got their name, and learn how the druids used it as a place of worship.

Chiddingstone is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Kent in all its glory.

By Angela, Where Angie Wanders

Places to stay in Chiddingstone

Ightham mote .

The medieval moated Manor House of Ightham Mote sits in a leafy valley not far from Sevenoaks . Now owned by the National Trust, the building dates back to around 1340 and has been described as “the most complete small medieval Manor House in the country”. 

A moat surrounds four sides of the house, which itself is built around an open courtyard. Although the exteriors of the house have changed little over the centuries (any alterations and additions were done in keeping with the original architectural style), the interiors boast an eclectic mishmash of styles including a Jacobean staircase and Gothic windows. 

Ightham Mote makes for a great day out . As well as the house itself that sits surrounded by ancient woodland , there are walks, trails and a natural play area with balance beams and stepping stones that’s ideal for entertaining kids. 

Knole Park, Sevenoaks

Knole Park is a medieval deer park that covers over 1,000 acres of rolling green land. It is the perfect place for a meandering walk around the beautiful grounds, and the abundant deer roam free through the parkland. There is a delightful cafe within the park, where you can enjoy a drink on the rooftop terrace.

At the heart of the park is Knole House , a National Trust property that has served as a home to archbishops. The house has a strong Tudor history , having previously been a royal property of the Tudor dynasty.

Accordingly, Knole House is a popular filming location for lavish historical films, including The Other Boleyn Girl and the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Inside the house, visitors can explore the state rooms and galleries, and discover the impressive collection of royal furniture, portraits, and tapestries.

Knole is a great place to visit with kids , who can learn all about the fascinating history of the house. In the summer, the park is an inviting destination for picnics – just be wary of curious deer wanting to join the party! In the winter, it’s a beautiful place to go for a walk and on the rare occasion that it snows, the multitude of hills are ideal for sledging .

Knole Park is one of many things to do in Sevenoaks , a Kentish town that is steeped in history and surrounded by stunning countryside. After a stroll around Knole, the town centre is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. From traditional country pubs to independent cafes and recognisable restaurant chains, there are plenty of options to choose from.

By Jessie, Pocket Wanderings

Places to stay in Sevenoaks

Dover Castle

Dover Castle is actually the largest castle in England and a prominent landmark in Kent. Its clifftop location makes it a beautiful sight to see and a great spot to visit with the entire family.

The castle dates back to the Middle Ages and has been described as the “Key to England” owing to its strategic defensive position . It’s so large that you can easily spend a full day here especially if you opt to take one – or several – of the guided tours available.

Explore the many underground tunnels and see popular attractions like the underground hospital or the great tower. There is even a hidden escape room located in the castle which is a fun activity for kids ages 10 and up.

With slightly older kids you should take some time to learn all about the significance of Dover Castle during the Second World War which is demonstrated with interactive exhibits and light shows. During the weekends you can even watch a firing demonstration of the restored guns that are still fully operational. This is an impressive spectacle and shouldn’t be missed.

You can also visit the oldest lighthouse in the country which sits nearby. It dates back to Roman times and is located next to a small church which has been reconstructed.

With so many things to do and see at Dover Castle you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day. Don’t forget to have a snack at the on-site restaurants and busy some souvenirs to take home.

By Victoria, Guideyourtravel.com  

  Places to stay in Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover

Towering a mighty 350ft above sea level, the white chalk Cliffs of Dover are easily one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kent . These chalk giants stretch for over 16 miles along the south coast of England and offer a variety of walking trails for all abilities.

The South Foreland Lighthouse trail is one of the most popular trails and an excellent choice if visiting Kent with kids . This gentle 4-mile return route takes you from the National Trust car park to South Foreland Lighthouse and back.

At the lighthouse you’ll find Mrs Knott’s Tea Room . This charming English tea room offers a variety of delicious homemade baked goods if the kids need a bit of incentive to keep going! Or pack a picnic and pick any spot along the cliffs to enjoy lunch with a view.

From atop the White Cliffs, you’ll be offered breathtaking, sweeping views over the azure waters of the English Channel. On a clear day you can even spot France in the distance. Keep your eye open too for the semi-wild Exmoor ponies that are used to graze the chalk grassland here.

A visit to these iconic cliffs also offers some insight into British history . Their strategic location has allowed them to witness many historical events, from the first Stone Age settles to Roman invaders, and more recently the return of rescued soldiers during WWII .

For children 8 and over, there are even tunnels within the cliff s from WW2 that you can visit at Fan Bay Shelter . These offer an incredible insight into the war and provide not only an exciting adventure but an educational one too.

By Sophie and Adam, WeDreamOfTravel.com

Ashford is one of the most amazing places to go to in Kent. It’s located next to the River Great Stour and it’s about 61 miles from London. It’s easy to reach if you want to spend one day in Ashford  or if you want to go there for a weekend break.

It’s a lively town and there are lots of things to do in Ashford. On place you must visit is  Godinton House . Godinton House is a famous building in Kent that belonged to the Toke family for about 500 years.

Built in the Jacobean style , the house is as impressive on the outside as it is inside. One of the best things to see here is a Steinway piano . Besides that, you can learn a lot about the history of the place. While here, make sure to see the beautiful flower-filled formal gardens at Godinton .

Ashford boasts some interesting architecture; on Middle Row , in the old town centre of Ashford, you will find some of the oldest medieval houses in the town. These are half-timbered houses where you can see the timber framing on the outside of the building. They are most common in Germany , but you also find them in Ashford. Many were removed or demolished over time, but there are still some houses left to see.

Ashford is also home to some great museums . One of the best is the Ashford Museum where you can learn about the history of Ashford. There are many interesting exhibits. The museum is located in a building that dates back to the 17th century.

Another popular place to go in Ashford is Victoria Park , the city’s largest and most central park. This is a great place for a relaxing walk, a picnic or cycling. For children, there is also a lot to do here with play areas that are suitable for all ages.

By Dyma, Dymabroad.com 

Places to stay in Ashford

Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle is a real heart throb when it comes to a beautiful countryside English estat e. The gardens of this wooded estate are romantic to every inch and the castle offers a serene backdrop with stunning scenery around.

The castle has two parts. The old castle , which are the ruins of the old house built on an island in the lake, is surrounded by peaceful wooded gardens . It is perhaps the most instagrammable part of the entire estate with stunning scenery in all directions. The lake is a really nice spot during the summer and autumn with flowers in almost all seasons.

The new part of the estate is a house built in Tudor revival architectural style . It is called the Scotney New Castle .

The estate has a huge area devoted to gardens and woodlands , some 700 hectares of it. It’s a great place for a picnic with the family with plenty of space for kids to run around and explore.

Scotney castle is part of English National Trust , make sure to book a visit in advance to avoid disappointment, it is a busy spot. The nearest town is Royal Tunbridge Wells and the nearest big city is Lamberhurst. It is quite easy to reach to both via train from London and within Kent.

By Ucman, Brown Boy Travels  

Places to stay in Tunbridge Wells

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10 Must-See Towns in Kent, England – Great Day Trips from London (With Maps, Sights, and Essential Travel Guide)

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 15th March 2024

Categories Kent

Here are 10 unmissable towns in Kent – the county known as the Garden of England.

Easy to get to from london and offering fantastic local sightseeing, these kentish towns are worth a day trip or a longer exploration..

Expect medieval castles and cathedrals, long sandy beaches, important historic landmarks, delicious local dishes, charming hidden corners, and lots of fun things to do no matter if you are travelling with your family, as a group of friends, or by yourself.

High-speed trains and a dense network of roads connect Kent’s towns to Greater London and the neighbouring English counties of Essex, Surrey, and East Sussex. Thus you can quickly escape to Kent even as a last-minute decision for a great day out.

So, if you are looking for ideas for new destinations to explore in England, in this blog post today I will share with you my favourite ten towns in Kent and the best things to do in each. In alphabetical order, they are Broadstairs , Canterbury , Chatham , Dover , Faversham , Folkestone , Herne Bay , Margate , Rochester , and Whitstable . Feel free to scroll up and down to see which one will catch your eye.

To start with, there is a handy map. You can use it to see the towns’ exact locations in relation to London and calculate travel distances by car and public transport.

Some of these Kentish towns are large and some are small. Yet, all of them are unique and no matter what your interests are focused on – history, food, keeping active, or something else – you will find it here.

Even better! Many of these towns in Kent are right next to one another. This way, you can easily visit and enjoy a couple or more of them within the span of the same day trip, weekend break, or a longer exploration of the area. It’s a great way to see the most in the shortest amount of time!

To make your travel planning easy, for each of these ten must-see towns in Kent, I have included: a shortlist with the most important sights that can be seen in a day, approximate travel times by train from London, and photos to give you an idea of what to expect.

Plus, at the end of this blog post, you will find an essential travel guide about visiting the towns of Kent in England. From how to travel between them to where to stay here, everything is covered

I hope that all the information provided below – first-hand tried and tested by me – will give you just the impetus that you need to get out and explore Kent and its charming towns.

Have a look!

Map of 10 must-see towns in kent, england.

Here is the map showing you the location of the ten must-see towns in Kent, England in relation to the British capital London. You can use it just like any other Google map. You can zoom in and out, click to open the map in a separate tab, and click on the different pins to see their coordinates.

You can also use this map to calculate distances and directions from any point in the UK or abroad to any point in the ten towns in Kent covered in this blog post. You can also zoom in and explore the urban plan of any of these ten towns. This way, you can make your own itinerary to follow during your visit.

If you want, you can share this map of the towns in Kent, England on social media, too.

This map includes the British capital London (pinned with a green star) and the following ten Kentish towns (pinned with red stars):

1.  Broadstairs  2.  Canterbury  3.  Chatham  4.  Dover  5.  Faversham  6.  Folkestone  7.  Herne Bay  8.  Margate  9.  Rochester  10.  Whitstable

10 Must-See Towns in Kent, England – Great Day Trips from London

1. Broadstairs – Kent’s Town of Beaches, Smugglers, and Festivals

Broadstairs is a delightful discovery on the coast of Kent in England. This quiet seaside town truly comes into its own during the lively festivals that it holds all throughout the year. Dotted with eateries and independent shops, its streets curve along the top of a tall cliff. At its bottom huddles the picturesque Viking Bay with a spacious sandy beach. Colourful beach huts complement the holiday atmosphere.

In total, there are seven sandy bays in and around Broadstairs. Three of them – Botany Bay, Joss Bay, and Kingsgate Bay – are particularly famous. The first has a backdrop of steep white cliffs. Its dramatic chalk stacks often feature in iconic photographs of England. People come from near and far to see them, sun themselves on the beach, and enjoy a spot of beachcombing.

Joss Bay, on the other hand, is one of England’s best beaches for surfing. There is a renowned surf school here if you have always wanted to give riding a board on the waves a try.

Kingsgate Bay stands out with a photogenic arch in the tall chalk cliffs that hug its beach. At the top of the cliffs you can see the historic Kingsgate Castle. Built in the 18th century, nowadays it has been converted into residential flats but it still preserves its imposing exterior.

Yet, Broadstairs is not all about beaches and beach life. This picturesque Kentish town has strong connections to the history of England’s smuggling bands. In the past centuries, they operated illegal channels bringing in tax-free goods from the continent and had lots of brushes with the law.

Nowadays, a network of underground tunnels still exists beneath Broadstairs’ Edwardian houses. If the history of smuggling in Britain is of interest to you, have a look at this great website . In addition, this book is the ultimate resource. It takes a pride of place in my collection of books about England.

Broadstairs also has an interesting literary link that makes it a must-see town in Kent. The famous English writer Charles Dickens used to holiday here in a clifftop house with sweeping sea views. He wrote two of his most famous novels –  David Copperfield  and  Bleak House  – in Broadstairs.

What to see in Broadstairs:

Broadstairs Bandstand – a focus of community life, in summer live music performances are regularly held here.

Victoria Gardens and Promenade – enjoy the sprawling views from this clifftop promenade lined up by hotels and quirky eateries. Then sit on a bench in the lush gardens for a bit of rest and a cone of ice-cream.

Dickens House Museum  – this small and very well-curated museum is housed in the Broadstairs cottage that inspired the description of the home of Betsy Trotwood in ‘David Copperfield’ by Charles Dickens. Pop in to learn more about the celebrated English writer and his connection to this Kentish town where he spent long periods of time between 1837 and 1859.

Crampton Tower Museum – if you have a special interest in the history of engineering and transport, don’t miss this small museum in Broadstairs. It celebrates the Victorian engineer Thomas Russell Crampton who designed locomotives and railways. He was also the first to successfully lay a telegraph cable under the English Channel.

Thanet Open-Top Bus – go for a scenic ride along Kent’s coast. Hop on to discover local sights and several other Kentish towns over the course of one exciting day. Here is what you can see along the way. The open-top bus is a seasonal activity. Please, check its current timetable before making plans.

Broadstairs Dickens Festival – first held in 1937, this is a great festival to experience for yourself. It takes place annually in June. Expect to see people dressed in Dickensian costumes circulating around the old town and bringing the spirit of Dickens’ novels to life.

Broadstairs Water Gala – this is a summer extravaganza with live music, beach events, and spectacular fireworks over Viking Bay in the heart of Broadstairs.

Broadstairs Folk Week – a lively festival of traditional folk music that has been taking place in Broadstairs for over 50 years. It is a great family-friendly event with lots of gigs and activities for all ages. It takes place in August.

Broadstairs Food Festival – taking place twice a year – once at Easter and once at the start of autumn – this is a three-day festival dedicated to all things delicious.

North Foreland Lighthouse – with a history that stretches back to 1499, the current building of this lighthouse was erected in 1691. It stands on the edge of a tall promontory that affords sweeping sea views. It’s not open for visits but it can be admired from the outside. The former lighthouse keeper’s cottages have been converted into holiday lets. Best visited by car unless you fancy a longish walk from Broadstairs town centre.

Cotton Powell Museum, Quex House and Gardens – A short drive away from Broadstairs, this is a great place to visit with the family.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Broadstairs – from 1 h 20 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 49 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Broadstairs: Artfuls , Yarrow Hotel , The Guest House Broadstairs

Perfect for:  A nice trip to the English seaside so that you can sun yourself on one of the many beaches in and around Broadstairs, eat at the fab local restaurants, delve deeper into local history from smuggling to railways, and learn more about the famous writer Charles Dickens and the books he wrote while living in this town in Kent.

Official website:  Visit Broadstairs

2. Canterbury – Kent’s Cathedral City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site

A trip to Canterbury is a must in England. Charming, multilayered, and offering lots of things to experience and learn about, this is not just the only city in Kent (and as such, it takes a pride of place on this list of Kentish towns) but it’s also the religious capital of England.

As such, Canterbury has a large number of Christian landmarks tracing the arrival and presence of Christianity in the country. In addition, the city has Roman roots, imposing medieval ruins, England’s oldest cathedral, and three UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Since the Middle Ages, Canterbury is also the starting point for the pilgrimage to Rome along the ancient route of Via Francigena. Beside the south porch of Canterbury Cathedral, you can see the zero km stone.

For centuries, the city has been a destination for pilgrims in itself, too. The assassination of Bishop Thomas Becket inside Canterbury Cathedral in 1170 caused outrage across Catholic Europe. Soon, the spot where he was slain by the knights of King Henry II as well as his tomb (later shrine) became important places of pilgrimage.

Yet, it’s not all about history and religion in Canterbury. The Cathedral city has a young vibe thanks to hosting the University of Kent – one of the top 50 Universities in the UK. In addition, the streets in the old town are lined up with quirky independent shops and watering holes that have been in business for centuries.

The River Stour flows through Canterbury and you can go on an exciting tour in a handbuilt boat known as a punt. It’s a great way to admire waterside views of the city’s historic facades and lush gardens. Spring is especially nice here with daffodils and tulips in full bloom next to centuries-old buildings and ruins.

If hiking is your thing, Canterbury is a great starting point for many beautiful walks in Kent. A very popular path leads from the Cathedral city to the village of Chilham which is recognised as one of the most beautiful corners of the Garden of England.

What to see in Canterbury:

Canterbury Cathedral  – this is the mother church of the worldwide Anglican Communion. It’s also the Seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a truly fascinating place to visit on account of its millennial history and a splendid mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

St. Augustine’s Abbey  – this ruined abbey on the edge of Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded by St. Augustine of Canterbury in 598 and it flourished until the dissolution of the monasteries in England in 1538. Augustine was sent from Rome to Kent by Pope Gregory I with the mission to convert the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. He founded the abbey, converted Ethelbert – the King of Kent – and built the first Canterbury Cathedral. Thus Kent was the first Christian Kingdom in the British Isles.

Church of St. Martin  – a small church on the outskirts of Canterbury and the city’s third UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is the oldest still-in-use church in the English-speaking world. Originally, it was the private chapel of the Christian Queen Bertha of Kent back in the 6th century.

Canterbury Roman Museum – Built over the remains of a Roman townhouse, the museum explores the city’s Roman roots in a clear and exciting way. A great place to visit with kids, friends, or by yourself, here you can admire a splendid Roman mosaic from the 3rd century AD among many other things.

The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge – a great mix of an art gallery, library, and visitor information centre right in the heart of Canterbury. The Beaney is housed in one of the city’s most beautiful buildings – a large 19th-century house with a stunning Mock Tudor facade.

Dane John Gardens – a green oasis standing between Canterbury East train station and the old town. Originally a Roman cemetery, in the 11th century AD the place was turned into a Norman castle. In the 19th century, it then became a civic park. Nowadays, you can still see the Roman burial mound, go up to its top to admire the views, and then proceed to Canterbury’s old town on the walkway along the medieval defensive walls.

Westgate Towers – this is England’s largest surviving medieval gateway. Climb up to the top for spectacular views of Canterbury. Along the way, spend time in the on-site museum, too.

Old Weaver’s House – this is my favourite half-timbered house in Canterbury. Facing both the high street and the River Stour, it has a beautiful historic facade. Hundreds of years old, it owes its name to the Flemish and Huguenot weavers who settled in Canterbury and Kent in the 16th-17th centuries.

Marlow Theatre – the English playwright and Shakespeare’s rival Christopher Marlowe was born in Canterbury in 1564. Nowadays, the theatre of his birth city carries his name and there are lots of spots around the old town to get you back to the Elizabethan times that he inhabited. Have a look at this self-led walk for ideas on what to see.

Canterbury Festival – a two-week-long festival comprising over 200 ticketed and free events. Expect concerts, performances, art exhibitions, and family happenings. Don’t miss it if you plan to be in Canterbury in October.

Guided Tours of Canterbury: If you are short on time and you want to cover lots of ground, you can book this highly recommended and very affordable guided tour of England’s Cathedral city:

Travel Time by Train:  London to Canterbury – from 54 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 29 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Canterbury: Cathedral Gate , The Maidens Chambers , Canterbury Cathedral Lodge , The Hugo – Hotel Concept Canterbury

Perfect for:  A fantastic trip for those with an interest in history and quintessentially English destinations. You will love the centuries-old quirky houses, Canterbury’s long list of things to do and experience, and the local independent shops and eateries.

Official website:  Visit Canterbury

3. Chatham – Kent’s Naval Town Where You Can Ski in Any Season

At a first glance, the town of Chatham in Kent is quite unremarkable. With long residential streets flanked by endless terraced houses and a bleak town centre, it lives largely in the shadow of Dickensian Rochester – a splendid historic town just down the road (see point 9 below for more about it).

Plus, Chatham, Rochester, and a handful of other small adjacent towns in Kent nowadays are part of the same large conurbation (what a word!!) called Medway after the name of the river that flows through them. Thus Chatham blends and disappears even more into the mix of houses and streets that crisscross this rather industrial part of Kent.

Yet, Chatham has hidden depths and if you give it a chance, you will be surprised to discover some of the most intriguing sights and landmarks to visit within easy access from London. For, in the past, this town in Kent was a major naval port and dockyard producing large ships for Britain’s Royal Navy.

Some of the United Kingdom’s most famous historic personalities have a tight connection to Chatham and its naval glory. For example, Admiral Horatio Nelson – one of Britain’s greatest naval heroes. He started his career in 1771 as a 12-year-old boy in Chatham Dockyard.

Even more curiously, by this time the famous ship HMS Victory – which in 1805 would be Nelson’s flagship during the Battle of Trafalgar – had already been built in Chatham between 1759 and 1765.

Chatham keeps several more surprises up its sleeve. Charles Dickens spent his childhood here. Nowadays, the house where his family resided still stands. While it’s not open for visits, you can walk past it as it’s just across the street from the town’s train station.

Plus, Chatham was mentioned by Vincent van Gogh in a letter sent in 1876 to his brother Theo. At the time, the famous artist was a poor teacher working in the Kentish town of Ramsgate. Desperate to visit his sister Anne in the town of Welwyn 100 miles away, he set off on foot. This is what he had to say about Chatham: “In the afternoon I arrived at Chatham, where, in the distance, past partly flooded, low-lying meadows, with elms here and there, one sees the Thames full of ships.”

So, in a nutshell, should you decide to visit this often overlooked town in Kent and don’t spend too long in the still bleak town centre, then you will be in for some pleasant surprises. Including a yacht marina and a ski piste that is operational all throughout the year!

What to see in Chatham:

The Historic Dockyard  – explore over 400 years of naval history in Britain’s most complete and best-preserved dockyard of the Age of Sail. A truly wonderful place where you can easily spend a whole day and still have several areas left to explore. I particularly love the Victorian Ropery (which once was Europe’s longest brick building) and the submarine (don’t miss a chance to get on board). Chatham’s Historic Dockyard is also often used as a filming location. You may recognise it from such movie and TV hits as  The Mummy ,  Children of Men , Bridgerton, and  Call the Midwife .

Fort Amherst – take a tour of the underground tunnels of this Napoleonic fort which at the start of the 19th century had the world’s most advanced defense system for its time.

Chatham Naval Memorial  – an imposing hilltop monument. It was unveiled in 1924 in remembrance of those members of the Royal Navy who had perished during the First World War and had no known grave.

Chatham Maritime and St. Mary’s Island – a large residential development with a busy marina and an outlet shopping centre. This is a nice place to go for a walk, grab a bite to eat at one of the dozens of eateries, and admire the views of the River Medway.

Cafe Nucleus – with two locations in Chatham (and one in the nearby town of Rochester), this is a place that makes it worth it to explore Chatham’s high street. Set in amid the workshops and studios of local artists, expect a creative environment where delicious food and drinks are served throughout the day.

The Old Brook Pumping Station – a small place just off Chatham’s high street, come here to learn more about Medway’s and Kent’s industrial history.

Chatham Snowsports Centre – this place is one of the best surprises Chatham has in store for you. Here you can practice skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and tobogganing in any season! It sounds quite wacky and the first time that I saw it, I couldn’t believe that there is such a place in Chatham but it’s great and so much fun! I love the tobogganing track which happens to be the longest one in the UK.

Royal Engineers Museum – set in nearby Gillingham, this is Kent’s largest military museum. It has an eclectic and exciting collection covering a period of 300 years. From the world’s first guided torpedo to a chunk of the Berlin Wall, here you can see many unusual and intriguing artifacts.

Upnor Castle – built in the 16th century, this is an artillery fort with an interesting history and great views across the River Medway to St. Mary’s Island and Chatham Maritime. You will find the castle at the end of a beautiful street flanked by quirky houses in the village of Upnor . A great place to visit on the way to Chatham, if you are arriving by car from London or anywhere else in Kent. You can also stop here on the way to Rochester, Whitstable, and several other towns in Kent.

Copper Rivet Distillery  – standing right in the heart of Chatham Historic Dockyard, it makes distinctive English gin, whisky, and vodka. You can tour it to experience the entire distillation process from grain to glass.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Chatham – from 40 mins by high-speed train or from 44 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Chatham: The Ship & Trades , Bridgewood Manor Hotel & Spa , The Charles Hotel , St. George Hotel

Perfect for:  A trip full of history and surprising landmarks. If you love getting off the beaten track and finding beauty in unexpected corners, you will be so pleased you’ve made the journey to Chatham.

Official website: Visit Medway

4. Dover – Kent’s Town of the World’s Oldest Boat, Roman Ruins, and one of England’s Most Imposing Castles

Dover is an English town with ancient roots. A former Roman stronghold, it stands at the narrowest point of the English Channel and as such is the British town that is nearest to France. If you hike along the white cliffs that plunge perpendicularly into the water and provide the town’s dramatic backdrop, on a clear day you can see the French coast.

The view is particularly beautiful from the top of the Great Tower – the spectacular keep of Dover Castle . This is one of the most iconic English castles and had it not been for Windsor Castle, it would have undoubtedly been the largest one, too. It sprawls across the top of a steep hill – aptly named Castle Hill.

Dover Castle was first built in the 11th century and then enlarged and remodeled several times throughout the years. Yet, a fort had existed on Castle Hill since the Iron Age.

The Romans – upon their invasion of the British Isles in the 1st century AD, built a lighthouse here that is still standing minus its ceiling. Eight-sided and made of stone, it’s known as pharos (from the Greek word for lighthouse) and it’s Britain’s tallest surviving Roman building.

The Romans called Dover Dubris or Dubras . They appreciated its strategic position on the English Channel and the short crossing times from the continent. Hence, they built a stronghold and a port here and used them to facilitate their military campaigns across Britain.

Nowadays, over 60 Roman sites have been unearthed in and around Dover. Among them stand out the ruins of the Roman Painted House which is considered to be the finest Roman house open to the public in England.

You can see it for yourself just around the corner from Dover Museum which has its own star exhibit – the world’s oldest preserved seagoing boat. About 3,500 years old, it dates back to the Bronze Age and it was discovered in Dover in 1992.

What to see in Dover:

Dover Castle – from a Roman lighthouse and medieval fortifications to underground tunnels used during World War I and II explore 2,000 years of history during a visit to this imposing English castle. The views across the English Channel from its walls and its Great Tower are a must, too. Click to buy your tickets in advance.

Western Heights – built in the 18th and 19th centuries, these expansive hilltop fortifications were designed to protect England’s coast in the case of a French invasion by sea and land. They afford spectacular views over Dover and the English Channel. Free exterior visits. Guided tours are held on a number of dates between April and August.

Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery – come here to get to know Dover from pre-history to our days. This historic port town has a lot of stories to tell. Special attention here deserves the Bronze Age boat – the world’s oldest wooden seagoing vessel. See it in the special gallery built for it.

Roman Painted House – the finest Roman house open to the public in Britain, come here to see painted scenes depicting the God Bacchus and an elaborate hypocaust. The house dates back to 200 AD when it was a large mansio – a Roman inn for travellers crossing the English Channel on official state business.

Maison Dieu – a medical hospital that nowadays serves as Dover Town Hall. It was founded in 1203 specifically to accommodate the pilgrims travelling across the English Channel to visit the shrine of Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. Later on, it was used as a provisioning yard supplying beer and biscuits to the Royal Navy. Nowadays, it holds cultural and educational events and workshops. It will open permanently to the public in 2024.

Dover Pier – a great place to go for a walk above the waters of the English Channels. The pier affords splendid views over Dover Castle, Western Heights, and the White Cliffs of Dover.

White Cliffs of Dover – One of England’s most iconic landmarks, these are tall vertical chalk cliffs in sparkling white colour. You can go for a hike along the cliffs following one of the many paths, visit the Victorian South Northland Lighthouses or simply admire the cliffs from the sea by going on a sea safari. Alternatively, you can book a guided visit by choosing one of these options:

Sea Safari – you can get on a boat for an exciting little cruise during your time in Dover. There are different itineraries to choose from – a sail past the White Cliffs to admire their beauty and a trip to see the local seal colony are the two options that appeal to most travellers.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Dover – from 1 h 5 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 53 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Dover: Maison Dieu Guest House , Castle House Guest House , Heathwood

Perfect for:  A great trip if you want to see the splendid Dover Castle and glimpse the coast of France across the English Channel. A hike along England’s iconic white cliffs and a visit to Dover’s many other sights will make it a day to remember.

Official website:  Visit White Cliffs Country

5. Faversham – Kent’s Best-Kept Secret Where England’s Oldest Brewery Produces Award-Winning Ales and Lagers

Not many travellers have heard of Faversham which allows this little gem of a town in Kent to preserve its authentic look and spirit. Yet, there are many things here that make a visit to Faversham a must when you are in this corner of England.

You can easily spend a leisurely day simply taking in the local delights or combine Faversham with a visit to Whitstable and/or Herne Bay (see respectively points 10 and 7 below) in one hectic day. These three towns in Kent are on the same train line and the total travelling time between the three is less than 20 minutes. Plus, they are also connected by train to Rochester, Chatham, Margate, and Broadstairs.

I am very fond of Faversham on account of its very pretty high street populated by centuries-old houses with half-timbered facades and warped by the hands of time walls. Blooming flowers and post-stamp-sized gardens are everywhere you look. It’s all very quintessentially English and proper. Very quiet, very peaceful, with lots of plaques recalling curious historic events affixed to houses and walls, so that you stop and read them one by one as you walk by.

Small and easy to navigate in an hour or so, Faversham has hidden depths. First, this is the oldest market town in the county of Kent in England. A market has been regularly held here for at least 900 years.

Next, England’s oldest brewery – Shepherd Neame – was founded in Faversham back in 1698. Nowadays, you can visit its historic buildings and state-of-the-art factory on a guided visit.

Faversham Creek flows just a step away from the old town. Go for a leisurely stroll down to its banks to see the large boats moored at Standard Quay and browse the quirky shops housed in a cluster of picturesque old warehouses.

Plus, a short drive away from Faversham, you can visit the Brogdale Collections . In other words, here you will find every type of fruit tree that grows in the United Kingdom. There are dozens and hundreds of varieties of apples, cherries, pears, hazelnuts, and other trees.

What to see in Faversham:

Shepherd Neame – book a guided tour of England’s oldest brewery. You will find its visitor centre right in the heart of Faversham’s old town. Shepherd Neame also owns several pubs in England, so make sure that you sample its award-winning range of ales and lagers when exploring the towns of Kent.

Market Place – right in the centre of Faversham, this charming square has held a regular market for over 900 years. It’s even mentioned in the Domesday Book! This is an 11th-century manuscript recording every shire in England and parts of Wales with the purpose of calculating taxes. To buy fresh fruits, flowers, and veg, come here on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. In addition, there are monthly and fortnightly markets here focusing on arts & crafts, antiques, and local food producers. Click here for all the news and updates about Faversham Market.

Guildhall – an unusual building in a light green colour right in the middle of Faversham’s Market Place. Its boxy top floor is supported by wooden pillars and has elegantly arched windows which make it look light and airy. There has been a guildhall in Faversham since the Middle Ages hosting both the local market on its ground floor and meetings and assemblies on its top floor. The current Guildhall was erected in 1814 after the previous one burnt in a fire.

Standard Quay – a short walk away from Market Square, this historic quay on Faversham Creek is a former commercial port. Nowadays, it is home to a number of cute shops where you can buy anything from antiques to fresh fish. Large fishing boats moor here adding to the quirky atmosphere. The Oyster Bay House stands at the quay’s opposite end. Built in the 19th century, it was first used to store hops. Nowadays, it’s been converted into residential flats.

Fleur de Lis Heritage Centre – pop in for a look at extensive collections of documents and artefacts throwing light on Faversham’s local history from the Iron Age to Elizabethan times and onwards to our days. The centre also organises seasonal guided tours of this pretty town in Kent.

St. Mary of Charity Church – Faversham’s parish church has a tall spire that dominates the town’s skyline. The church’s history is tightly connected to the ancient abbey founded here in the 12th century. While the abbey no longer exists, building material from it was salvaged to erect several of the structures in this town in Kent.

Maison Dieu – this 13th-century hospital nowadays functions as a museum showing Roman artifacts. It has very limited opening hours.

Abbey Physic Community Garden – an award-winning garden in the heart of Faversham that acts as a community centre by organising workshops and events, holding arts & crafts and cookery sessions, and providing horticulture training.

Macknade’s Food Hall – Just outside Faversham you can shop in one of England’s oldest food halls. Founded in 1847, it stocks an amazing selection of foods from all over the world. The Italian and French offerings are particularly good.

Brogdale Collections – a short drive away from Faversham, this is a great place to visit. Green and bursting with life, here you can walk through lush orchards growing hundreds of varieties of apples, pears, cherries, and other traditional for England fruits. It’s especially beautiful in spring when you can picnic under the blooming cherry trees. In autumn, you can take part in large, pick-your-own events. The music playground will keep the kids entertained for hours and the onsite deli offers lots of local delicacies.

Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park – just outside Faversham town centre, this is a great place to go for a walk in the bosom of nature. Formerly an important centre for the production of gunpowder, the park nowadays preserves many historic buildings alongside water features and a pond.

Belmont House – an elegant 18th-century house surrounded by lavish gardens. Come to explore the extraordinary collections of armory and clocks. A special mention deserve the paintings by the Trinidadian painter Michel-Jean Cazabon. The gardens preserve their late 18th-century layout and consist of a walled garden, pinetum, wooded areas, formal lawns, and a large kitchen garden.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Faversham – from 1 h 6 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 10 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Faversham: The Sun Inn , The Quay , The Shepherds Snug , Cave Hotel near Canterbury

Perfect for:  A relaxing half-day or full-day escapade to take in the best of life in Kent. A bit of history, lots of quirky houses, delicious food, and a number of unique attractions. A great place to take it easy!

Official website:  Visit Faversham

6. Folkestone – Kent’s Unexpectedly Colourful and Creative Destination

Folkestone is an exciting throwback to England’s Edwardian era when this coastal town in Kent was the most fashionable seaside resort this side of the English Channel.

Royals and aristocrats flocked to it in their droves and to look presentable for them, the town was soon dotted with large and imposing light-filled buildings and spacious squares.

After World War II and with the English preferring to holiday abroad, Folkestone quickly lost its lustre. However, nowadays, the town has engineered its own revival by attracting creative businesses and artists from all over Kent and even London.

While the town still bears vestiges of economic hardship here and there, right in its heart a colourful Creative Quarter is filled with the shops and workshops of painters, bakers, interior designers, and vintage fashion connoisseurs. It’s a fun and vibrant place to be.

The Folkestone Triennial is now a well-established art event and the town boasts the UK’s largest outdoor exhibition of contemporary art. As you walk around, you come across installations and works of art that both slot into the urban environment and make you feel like you are in a parallel reality.

Richard Woods ‘ pink house bobbing on the blue waters of Folkestone Harbour is a case in point.

Next door to the harbour stands the old train station (no longer in use) which in the past would welcome travellers from all over England headed to the ferry to France. Since the construction of the Channel Tunnel – the structure that allows cars and trains to reach the continent along the bottom of the English Channel – the local ferry service has been discontinued.

Instead, Folkestone Harbour Arm – once a ferry station – nowadays is a lively place dotted with eateries and regularly holding large events. Go for a walk on it, then top your tan on the adjacent beaches, and spend a bit of time in the Lower Leas Coastal Park.

This is a gorgeous seaside garden that hugs the side of a steep cliff. It has several levels, a small amphitheatre, and a large children’s playground. Follow the zigzag path up to the top of the cliff. Along its edge runs Folkestone’s wide promenade – The Leas – flanked by imposing buildings and yet more cafes and restaurants.

Among them, stands the statue of William Harvey. He was born in Folkestone in 1578 and after studying at the University of Padua in Italy, he became a renowned physician, anatomist, and scientist. He was the first to describe the blood circulatory system.

If you continue your walk down the Leas back to Folkestone’s old town, you can see the place where Harvey was born. And this is just one of the many surprising discoveries this vibrant town in Kent has in store for you.

What to see in Folkestone:

Creative Quarter – a colourful nucleus of creative shops, studios, and businesses flanking picturesque cobbled streets in the heart of Folkestone. It’s a place with a great atmosphere. Seeing it is a must even on the shortest visit to this coastal town in Kent.

Folkestone Harbour Arm – a beautiful promenade jutting deep into the sea and with a cool lighthouse at its end. Populated by bars and eateries, it opens gorgeous views over Folkestone and the English Channel. The promenade has two levels, so for the full experience walk to its end on the lower level and return along the upper one.

Folkestone Museum – a thoughtfully curated local museum throwing light on the town’s evolution from the first settlements of the Stone Age people in the 4th millennium BC to its heyday as a fashionable seaside resort under the patronage of King Edward VII and his mistress Alice Keppel.

The Leas – Folkestone’s clifftop promenade. It affords splendid views over the English Channel all the way to the French coast across the water. It’s lined with fashionable hotels and eateries. A walk along the Leas is indeed a very pleasant thing to do. The promenade is the work of the illustrious 19th-century architect Decimus Burton who also designed the Wellington Arch in London and the layout of London Zoo, Hyde Park, and Kew Gardens.

Lower Leas Coastal Park – a lovely seaside park split into different levels and corners. The spacious playground with inventively designed equipment deserves a mention. Kids may want to spend the whole day here.

Sunny Sands – a sprawling sandy beach next to Folkestone Harbour. It’s great to top up your Vitamin D reserves and to enjoy the views of Folkestone.

Folkestone Beach – an incredibly large beach which, however, is covered by shingle.

Martello Towers – these round sturdy forts were built along Kent’s coast to defend England from potential attacks during the Napoleonic Wars at the start of the 19th century. Martello Tower Number 3 is an easy walk or drive away from Folkestone’s old town.

Battle of Britain Memorial – dedicated to the aircrew who flew in the Battle of Britain – a military campaign in World War II. It stands next to the village of Capel-le-Ferne just up the road from Folkestone.

Port Lympne Reserve – this is Kent’s largest wildlife attraction. Over 700 rare and endangered animals live here. You can visit for the day and spend the night here, too. Glamping tents, treetop houses, and lodges overlooking the tiger, lion, giraffe, and wolf enclosures offer you a chance to have a holiday to remember forever.

Channel Tunnel – Folkestone is the English terminus of the famous Chunnel. If you are travelling across the English Channel by car, you need to board the specialised vehicle-carrying Le Shuttle train here. If you are a foot passenger, however, then you need to board the Eurostar train either in London or the nearby Kentish town of Ashford.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Folkestone – from 52 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 41 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Folkestone: View Hotel , The Ship Inn , The Royal Norfolk Hotel , 10to12 Folkestone

Perfect for:  A great trip over one exciting day or a leisurely weekend. You will love Folkestone if you love beaches, quirky shops, and oodles of British seaside charm. The views of France across the English Channel are quite fab, too. And you can go on so many walks nearby!

Official website:  Visit Folkestone and Hythe

7. Herne Bay – Kent’s Town That Once Built a Pier Over a Kilometre Long

Herne Bay is a town with many stories to tell. While nowadays, it looks a bit unloved in places, it has many curious corners and a smattering of colourful facades to keep you taking photos for your social media. I know I did!

Next door to Whitstable and just up the road from Canterbury, Margate, and Broadstairs, Herne Bay is often overlooked in favour of these more popular towns in Kent.

Yet, Herne Bay more than holds its own. After all, this was one of England’s very first seaside resorts and at one point in history, it even had the second-longest pier in the UK. So, do consider spending a leisurely day getting to know it better.

Nowadays, Herne Bay still has a touch of its glorious Victorian past and a long promenade that follows the seemingly endless seafront. Walk west and you can reach the town of Whitstable in about an hour or so. It depends on how many times you will stop along the way to take photos of the brightly coloured beach huts.

Walk east and you will end up at Reculver Country Park where Roman and medieval ruins provide one of Kent’s most photogenic backdrops.

The beaches in and around Herne Bay are shingle. At the same time, they are some of the best spots in England for beachcombing and fossil-finding. 65 million years ago, just after the extinction of the dinosaurs, the area was part of a tropical sea and today fossilised teeth and even elephant tusks have been found here. If you can’t find one yourself, head to the local museum to see the incredible fossils that have been discovered here over the years.

The town is great to visit with kids as they can run around the beach, play in the seafront playground, and have fun on Herne Bay Pier. Among the cafes and the shops built on it directly above the water, it also has a helter-skelter – a very vintage British amusement ride.

The nearby Memorial Park has a play area, sports facilities, and a duck pond. It’s a nice place to relax after walking all around town.

What to see in Herne Bay:

Herne Bay Pier – this is a great place to experience, especially on funfair days. Expect a smattering of shops and cafes, as well as a helter-skelter in a nod to the vintage charms of the English seaside. Concerts and events are regularly held here. There has been a pier in Herne Bay since the first half of the 19th century. Since then, it has been remodelled several times. Most notably, in 1899, when it was rebuilt for the third time, the pier was 1,154 m long thus making it the second-longest pier in England. It was so long that it had its own electric tram running on it.

The Seaside Museum – a small local museum telling the story of Herne Bay. For me, particularly interesting here are the prehistoric elephant tusks and fossils. They were found at Herne Bay which during the Palaeocene was part of a shallow tropical sea surrounded by lush forests.

Clock Tower – it may look a bit plain when you are standing next to it but this is one of the first freestanding purpose-built clock towers in the UK. Some even believe it to be the first. It was erected in 1837. Right next to it there is a nice playground for the kids to run around and burn off some energy.

Statue of Amy Johnson – a pioneering aviator, in 1930 Amy Johnson became the first woman to fly solo from England to Australia. Known as the Queen of the Air, unfortunately, her life was cut short at 37 years of age when for still unknown reasons she went off-course over the Thames Estuary leading to her having to parachute just off the shore of Herne Bay. Nowadays, a bronze statue of Amy stands on the town’s promenade. It’s engraved with her iconic quote: ‘Believe nothing to be impossible!’.

Central Beach – a two-mile stretch of shingle beach dotted with beach huts, ice-cream parlours, cafes, and pubs. In the town centre, there is also a bandstand, a small public garden with a Victorian fountain, a long sea defense breakwater, and a wide promenade. It’s great for walks or simply to sit and enjoy the sea views.

Herne Bay Cultural Trail – walk around town trying to spot sights relevant to Herne Bay’s culture and history. From murals and a war memorial to the site of a gruesome murder by a serial killer over a century ago, the trail certainly covers a wide variety of events that have left their imprint on this coastal town in Kent.

Reculver Country Park and Towers – a large coastal park with historic ruins. A large Roman fort once stood here providing protection against Saxon attacks. Nowadays, coastal erosion has destroyed a large part of the remains of the past. An Anglo-Saxon monastery then flourished here. Two tall towers were added to the church in the 12th century and survive to this day. They are a stunning landmark to see on long coastal walks in the area. The adjacent beach is also a great spot for beachcombing. When the sea recedes, it leaves behind a mixture of beautiful and whimsical shells and stones. Many dedicated beachcombers have found fossils here, too. Just wrap up warm as in autumn and winter the beach can get incredibly windy and cold.

Herne Mill – a traditional for Kent smock windmill dating from 1789. It has rather limited opening hours but you can spot it from the A299 Thanet Way driving towards Herne Bay.

Wildwood Trust – set in ancient woodland, this is a centre for the conservation of British wildlife. Hundreds of animals native to the British Isles live here. Come to see bears, wolves, bison, deer, owls, and the nowadays rare red squirrel among many others.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Herne Bay – from 1 h 20 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 27 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Herne Bay: Evening Tide , The Sleep-Inn Hare B&B

Perfect for:  A nice day on the English seaside with a touch of nostalgia in. Once you have had fun looking through the shops in town and on Herne Bay’s pier, you can go for a long walk to nearby Whitstable and thus end up seeing two towns in Kent in a day.

Official website:  Visit Herne Bay

8. Margate – Kent’s Cool Town with a Huge Beach, Vintage Theme Park, and So Much Art

Margate is the epitome of an English seaside town. It has a wide sprawling sandy beach, one of the country’s oldest theme parks, and even a tidal sea bathing pool which was built in 1937 and it’s four acres large.

At the same time, this town in Kent is known for its close relations to the arts. The renowned English landscape painter J.M.W. Turner loved spending time in Margate. He is even quoted to have stated that the town had ‘the loveliest skies in all of Europe’. Coming from an artist who had painted Venice , Rome, Cambridge, and London among many other iconic places, this is, undoubtedly, a great compliment for Margate.

The town is also the birthplace of Tracy Emin – one of the most well-known British artists of our time. Come visit and you can amble through the vast rooms of Turner Contemporary – a renowned art gallery that stands on Margate’s seafront and was opened by Emin herself back in 2011.

While Margate was a famous seaside resort in the past, like many other towns in Kent, it went through a period of sharp decline towards the end of the 20th century. The Great Recession of 2007-2009 hit it particularly hard.

Nowadays, the town enjoys a new lease of life. Its Old Town is peppered with quirky cafes and boutiques. Haeckels – a locally created brand – is particularly famous on account of its skincare range based on seaweed harvested by hand in Margate.

It’s not all about the sea and art in Margate though. The town is just as interesting to see underground as above the surface. Two curious sights here beckon you to come.

The first is the Shell Grotto – a mysterious series of chambers. Every inch of their surface – from the bottom of the walls to the centre of the ceilings – is covered with millions of shells forming complex patterns.

The second is Margate Caves – a former chalk quarry that has rough walls painted with murals. Some of them have faded over the past decades and now are locally known as ‘ghosts’.

All in all, Margate is just like these murals – a bit faded, a bit vibrant, with deep layers of history, a bit crude, and yet with lots of details to grab your interest and keep you coming back for more.

What to see in Margate:

Turner Contemporary – an outstanding art gallery on Margate’s seafront. In itself, it’s a reason alone to visit this town in Kent. Housed in a purpose-built angular building that takes a little bit to grow on you, the gallery is named after J.M.W. Turner – one of England’s most renowned artists who had a longstanding connection to Margate.

Dreamland Amusement Park – a vintage theme park sporting UK’s oldest and the world’s second-oldest wooden roller coaster, a 35 m high Ferris wheel, and a music stage that often hosts famous bands. You cannot come to Margate and not spend at least an hour in Dreamland having fun and eating fish and chips or candy floss. It’s like a rite of passage.

Shell Grotto  – my favourite sight in Margate, this is a series of underground chambers the walls of which are completely covered with over 4.6 million shells. No one knows when it was built and what it was used for. It’s one of the most unusual places to visit in the whole of the UK. Don’t miss it!

Margate Caves – another underground sight to explore in Margate. This former chalk quarry at one point was used as a wine cellar and has large murals painted on its walls.

Margate Main Sands  – this is an impressive urban beach that is a Blue Flag award winner. Its wide and long sandy strip unfurls along Margate’s main seafront street. It has a large tidal pool at one end and a long pier known as Margate Harbour Arm at the other. Turner Contemporary stands adjacent to the starting point of the pier and overlooks the raw beauty of the North Sea.

Margate Museum – this exciting museum traces the history of Margate and its adjacent area over the last 5,500 years. It’s housed in an old building that in the past was used as a police station and magistrates court. The museum has reduced opening times.

Crab Museum – newly opened in Margate, this is Europe’s only museum dedicated to crabs. Pop in to learn more about these fascinating decapod crustaceans.

Tudor House – one of the oldest buildings in Margate. Built in 1525, originally it was a farmer’s house. Throughout the years, mariners, weavers, and shoemakers lived in it.

The Old Kent Market  – housed in a former cinema, the market has a bunch of great food stalls and small eateries. Very quirky, here you can sample both traditional English foods and bakes as well as international fare.

Winter Gardens – dating back to 1911, this is Margate’s top venue for concerts and events.

Tom Thumb Theatre – housed in a Victorian coach station, this is officially one of the world’s tiniest theatres. It has only 50 seats. Its quirky architecture is a mix of Alpine and Japanese inspirations.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Margate – from 1 h 26 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 43 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Margate: Victoria Hotel , Sherwood Hotel , The Duplex Margate

Perfect for:  The ultimate English seaside trip. Good to visit in any season on account of its long list of sights, Margate is especially cool on a sunny day when its huge sandy beach, quirky shops, great eateries, and lively vibe make it the place to be.

Official website: Visit Thanet

9. Rochester – The Town That Inspired Charles Dickens

Rochester is all your dreams of historic English towns come true. Here you will find both Roman and Norman heritage, as well as atmospheric half-timbered houses, a ruined castle, a majestic cathedral, a cobbled high street, and regularly held events that recreate centuries-old traditions.

It’s no wonder then that Rochester in Kent inspired the quill of one of the most famous English writers – Charles Dickens. His novels contain direct references to many real-life people and places in and around Rochester. Including Restoration House – the prototype for Miss Havisham’s rambling home in Great Expectations .

Nowadays, the town keeps the Dickensian spirit alive. Local shops and cafes are named after famous Dickensian characters and books. A Dickens festival and a Dickens Christmas take place every year. Plus, when you are in town, you can see the Swiss chalet in which Dickens penned several of his books. It is huddled in a cute small garden just off the high street.

Rochester has many claims to fame though. The Romans built a bridge here and had houses, roads, and shops. Later on, medieval builders and architects erected Rochester Castle and Rochester Cathedral.

Nowadays, the castle has the tallest Norman keep in all of England. The cathedral is England’s second-oldest, holds an organ festival, and produces its own premier gin . Inspired by historic recipes, it’s fetchingly named 604 after the year in which the Cathedral was founded.

Most importantly, Rochester Cathedral holds one of the most important medieval manuscripts in England The Textus Roffensis contains a compilation of early English laws going as far back as 600 AD.

At the same time, Rochester is a thoroughly modern English town. It has a high street dotted with independent boutiques and great places to eat. It also holds a monthly farmers’ market. I am very fond of this town in Kent. As I live just up the road in Chatham, I often go for walks around Rochester and there is always something new and exciting to spot there.

It takes less than three-quarters of an hour to reach Rochester from Central London. As such, this is one day trip in England you will want to take time and time again.

What to see in Rochester:

Rochester Castle  – a stunning, well-preserved castle with a tall Norman keep. It guards over the River Medway and it’s right across from Rochester Cathedral. First erected in the 11th century by Gundulf – Bishop of Rochester and one of William the Conqueror’s greatest architects – the castle is picture-perfect to this day.

Rochester Cathedral  – founded in 604 AD, this is the second-oldest cathedral in England. A must-see when in town, it has a lot to offer to the visitor interested in history and architecture.

Rochester High Street – a truly picturesque main street flanked by buildings in different architectural styles. Some of the houses here were originally built in the 15th/16th centuries. There is a great selection of independent boutiques and cafes here, too.

Guildhall Museum  – set up at the end of the 19th century, the museum tells the stories of Rochester in an engaging and emotional way. There is a brand new section dedicated to the life and works of Charles Dickens. For me, the most interesting exhibit to see here is the full-size reconstruction of part of a prison hulk. Prison hulks were ships moored in the River Medway. Prisoners were kept in them for years in what nowadays we would describe as completely inhuman conditions. In fact, Magwitch from Dickens’ Great Expectations is a convict who escapes from one such prison hulk.

Dickens’ Swiss Chalet  – a cute two-storey hut facing a small yet pretty garden just off Rochester High Street. Dickens had it installed in the garden of Gad’s Hill Place – his home in the nearby village of Higham for the last 15 years of his life. He wrote several of his greatest novels in it. The chalet was moved to its current location in Rochester in 1961. Currently, it’s not open to the public but it’s nice to see it from the outside considering its link to literary history.

Eastgate House  – a fascinating Elizabethan townhouse built between the 16th and 17th centuries. You will see it right next to Dickens’ Swiss Chalet. Don’t miss a chance to see its interiors if it is open on the day of your visit.

Restoration House  – a step away from the high street and opposite the pretty park The Vines, this is a grand house composed of several medieval buildings. Its history is fascinating both in real and literary life. King Charles II stayed here on the eve of the Restoration of the Stuart dynasty in the 17th century. And then the house was the inspiration for the rambling home of Miss Havisham in Dickens’ Great Expectations .

Six Poor Travellers’ House  – a Tudor charity house where up to World War II six poor travellers would be given food and shelter for the night.

Huguenot Museum – this is Britain’s very first museum dedicated to the history of the Huguenots who in the 17th/18th centuries escaped religious persecution in France and moved across the English Channel in search of new life.

Submarine U-475 Black Widow – this is a Soviet submarine from the Cold War period. For many years it operated as a museum in London and Folkestone. Nowadays, you can see it moored in the River Medway as your train goes across the long bridge and pulls into Rochester. The submarine is not open for visits but it has become an integral part of the local landscape.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Rochester – from 37 mins by high-speed train or from 40 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Rochester: The Golden Lion Wetherspoon , The Gordon House Hotel , North Downs Barn

Perfect for:  An unforgettable day trip if you love history, cobbled streets, Classical English literature, castles, wonderful coffee shops, and quirky boutiques. It’s a great place to base yourself to explore more of Kent. Alternatively, you can combine Rochester with nearby Chatham or venture further out to Faversham, Whitstable, or Herne Bay.

Official website:  Historic Rochester

10. Whitstable – Kent’s Bohemian Seaside Town with the Freshest Oysters

Whitstable is my favourite coastal town in Kent and England. This is on account of its oysters, curving streets lined with fishermen’s huts, and its relaxed atmosphere. You can spend the whole afternoon here just ambling along the beach and feel like you’ve done the most important thing in the world.

Even the ancient Romans loved the area and prized the local oysters so much that they would send them all the way back to Rome. Nowadays, oysters are still Whitstable’s trademark, and eateries selling them fresh or battered are easy to come by.

As you walk around town if you spot a pink facade make sure that you pop in. This would be the famous Wheeler’s Oyster Bar which has been serving juicy oysters since 1856. It’s a great place to visit to pick a picnic of delicious seafood to enjoy on the beach or to have outstanding fish dishes in the small onsite restaurant. People travel all the way from London for the experience.

Be adventurous and apart from oysters, ask for such English staples as cockles, whelks, winkles, and crab. I must admit that I find the whelks a bit chewy, yet do give them a try. You never know, you may find a new favourite food! The crab meat sandwiches are outstanding.

Whitstable Harbour is very picturesque with its black huts and traditional boats arriving laden with the catch of the day. A fish market operates here, too. Stop to see what’s on offer or grab a delicious portion of traditional for England fish and chips.

A coastal walk connects Whitstable to Herne Bay. The path is flat, easy to navigate, and passes by clusters of colourful beach huts. It’s a great way to get active and experience the English seaside. You can then take the train back to Whitstable.

Alternatively, wait for the low tide and be amazed by the water’s retreat and how much of the seabed actually gets exposed. This is when you can take a walk on the so-called Street – a strip of land that shows up when the waters pull back.

What to see in Whitstable:

Whitstable Harbour  – dating back to the first half of the 18th century, this is a lively working harbour with a thriving fish market . Come watch the fishing boats return laden with the catch of the day and indulge in Whitstable’s best oysters served absolutely fresh.

Whitstable Castle  – a manor house built between the 18th and 19th centuries. It looks a lot like a castle, hence the name. Come for a walk in the gardens and to enjoy a cup of proper English tea. A great experience to have in this coastal town in Kent.

Whitstable Community Museum and Gallery   – get to know Whitstable’s history and traditions first-hand with the help of the volunteers who run this small museum in town. There are lots of educational and enjoyable activities for kids.

Tankerton Beach  – covered with pebbles and lined by fishing huts (some of which nowadays have been turned into chic holiday homes), this is England-by-the-sea at its very best. At low tide, the water recedes to reveal The Street – a long walk straight through the sea. Don’t get caught there when the tide turns!

Whitstable West Beach  – expect groynes (wooden tide barriers) and shingle. It’s the quintessential English beach. It is also a great place to go for a walk or to sit down and enjoy the views.

The Favourite – this is a historic oyster yawl, the last of its kind. In other words, this is a boat that a century ago was used in the oyster trade. At its heyday, Whitstable used to have over a hundred yawls.

Old Town  – expect independent shops and galleries selling beautiful arts and crafts as well as many great eateries. Wheeler’s Oyster Bar deserves a special mention. It has been in business since 1856 and it has a very eye-catching pink facade.

Whitstable Oyster Festival  – a very popular annual event. It’s not in vain that this town in Kent is known as England’s oyster capital.

Oyster Bay Trail   – a 6.7 m bike route from Swalecliffe (just outside Whitstable) to Reculver where you can see the ruins of a Christian abbey and a Roman fort.

Shivering Sands and Red Sands – former military forts built near the Thames Estuary and used during World War II and the Cold War. They are literally huge buildings on incredibly long stilts standing upright in the water. Seeing them for the first time is quite the experience. Local companies organise boat tours to the forts and can also take you to see the Kentish Flats wind farms and to a secret spot with a large seal colony.

Travel Time by Train:  London to Whitstable – from 1 h 14 mins by high-speed train or from 1 h 20 mins by regular cheaper train. Click here to check travel times and prices.

Where to Stay in Whitstable: The Marine Hotel , The Crescent Turner Hotel , Fisherman’s Huts and Warehouse Holiday Lets ,

Perfect for:  A relaxing day trip if you love beaches, oysters, fresh seafood, and fish markets and are looking to experience the charm of coastal England.

Official website:  Visit Whitstable

Essential Travel Guide for Kent, England

Where in England is Kent?

Kent is one of England’s 48 counties. It’s the 6th largest in the country in terms of its population (1.8 million inhabitants) and the 10th largest in terms of its area.

You will find it in the southeast corner of England. It stretches between:

• Greater London to the north-west;
• the Thames Estuary , the county of Essex across the estuary, and the North Sea to the north;
• the Strait of Dover and the English Channel to the south;
• the county of East Sussex to the south-west,
• the county of Surrey to the west.

France is 34 km across the Strait of Dover from Kent. On a sunny day, you can clearly see the French coast from the White Cliffs of Dover and the town of Folkestone. The view is especially beautiful from the top of the Great Tower of Dover Castle.

The town of Dover is an important port providing regular transport by ferry to France.

Folkestone is the starting point of the Channel Tunnel (colloquially known as the Chunnel) – the just over 50 km long underwater tunnel that connects England to France.

Kent’s county town is Maidstone. This English county is dotted by a few dozen of towns and villages of different sizes, including Britain’s smallest town – Fordwich. In this blog post, I have covered ten of the most interesting and historic towns to visit in Kent. I will be adding more Kentish towns to this list throughout the year, so check back when you can for new destinations and information.

Here is a map showing the exact location of Kent in the United Kingdom. You can zoom in and out to see the geographical details that interest you.

How to Reach the Towns in Kent, England?

The towns of Kent are easy to reach from anywhere in England, the UK, and Europe. Some of England’s most important airports are an easy driving distance away. The Channel Tunnel connects Britain to France under the English Channel.

A well-developed railway system links the county to several of London’s train stations. A dense network of roads helps you get anywhere you want to go – from the main towns in Kent to the smallest villages – by either local bus or by car .

Here are a few more details to make your travel planning even easier:

How to Reach Kent by Air

These four major airports are within a short driving distance away from Kent, England:

• Gatwick Airport
• London City Airport
• London Stansted Airport
• London Southend Airport

Heathrow Airport and London Luton Airport are a bit further away but also relatively good points of arrival for Kent in England.

How to reach Kent by Train

High-speed and regular trains connect the towns of Kent to Greater London.

England’s only high-speed railway line links two major London railway stations – St. Pancras International and Stratford International – to many destinations in Kent. The Javelin trains travel at speeds of up to 140 mph. As such, it takes only 37 minutes to reach Rochester from St. Pancras International and 54 minutes to travel all the way from London to Canterbury.

Ticket prices for high-speed trains, however, tend to be significantly more expensive. It pays to buy your tickets well in advance or to consider taking the regular trains instead. They may take a bit longer but the savings can make the extra travel time worth it.

Depending on which town in Kent you want to reach, you may catch a regular train from London Victoria, London Charing Cross or yet another major railway station in London.

Many of the towns in Kent covered in this blog post are on the same train line(s). For example, the Chatham Main Line connects Rochester, Chatham, and Faversham and then splits into two branches. The trains serving one branch travel to Whitstable, Herne Bay, Margate, and Broadstairs. The trains serving the other branch travel to Canterbury and Dover.

Travelling times between the different towns in Kent tend to be quite short. For example, Rochester to Chatham by train is only three minutes and the journey from Faversham to Whitstable is about eight minutes.

This means that if you are a quick sightseer or if you want to cover a lot of ground in the shortest amount of time, you can plan to visit two or more Kentish towns within the span of the same holiday.

It is always advisable to buy your train tickets well in advance. This will give you better prices. Even if you are buying your tickets at the last minute, avoid travelling by train before 9.30 am Monday to Friday. This is when the train fares can be significantly more expensive.

To check train travel times and buy tickets in advance, I use  Omio . It shows prices and travel times for all available types of trains in England irrespective of the company that runs them. This way I can compare costs and times of departure and arrival. Trainline is another good website to use. It also has a mobile app you can download and refer to when making travel plans.

How to Reach Kent by Car

The English county of Kent is very well connected by road to Greater London and the neighbouring English counties of Essex, East Sussex, and Surrey. Road traffic in England, in general, can be very heavy with traffic jams occurring quite regularly during peak times and school holidays.

Always use a GPS app when driving in Kent and England, so as to avoid traffic jams as much as possible. Also, factor in parking fees which can be a significant expense. Be mindful of parking restrictions, as fines are steep.

If this is your first time driving in England (for example, if you are arriving via the Channel Tunnel), then be aware at all times that driving here is on the left.

Here is a handy map showing Kent’s road network and current traffic information. On this page, Kent County Council provides a good overview of the types of roads in Kent – from motorways to trunk roads.

Motorways in England are, in general, free of charge. You will have to pay the Dartford Crossing Charge if you drive across Dartford Bridge into Kent and through Dartford Tunnel upon leaving Kent. It needs to be done online, so it’s easy to overlook. Fines, however, are steep!

If you need to rent a car for your trip to Kent in England, click to check the latest offers and prices by  Europcar .

Where to Stay in the Towns of Kent, England?

You can find all sorts and types of accommodation in and around the towns of Kent in England to suit any budget. From luxury hotels in quirky buildings to cosy B&Bs in historic houses, there is something for everyone.

I usually prefer to book all my accommodation through  Booking.com . It gives me many different options in terms of budget and location and I can also read and compare reviews left by real people. Click to see  all available places to stay in Kent , UK.

If you need some visual help in terms of precise locations and price range, have a look at this map. It gives you a quick idea of the prices and whereabouts of the many hotels and privately rented flats and houses you can book for your stay in the towns of Kent in England.

You can zoom in and out, type in the specific location you are interested in, and adjust the dates according to your specific travel plans.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Towns of Kent, England?

Any time is a good time to come visit Kent!

Spring brings meadows covered with blooming daffodils and bluebells.

The great British summer is lovely to experience on one of Kent’s many beaches ice-cream cone in hand.

Autumn can be damp and foggy, yet apple harvests are on, and seeking refuge from the drizzle in historic pubs and quirky museums is a lot of fun.

And then in winter, Christmas markets and fairs are the order of the day.

Plus, all throughout the year, beachcombing is fab and town-wide festivals take place.

So, take your pick and come visit as soon as you can!

For a short overview of England’s weather, have a look at this link .

Can I Visit the Towns in Kent by Organised Trip?

Yes, of course! If you don’t have much time and want to see as much as possible or if you enjoy guided visits where everything is taken care of for you, then booking an organised tour of the towns of Kent is a great idea.

You can use tour search engines like Viator to see what’s available. Otherwise, here are some of the best options to choose from:

In Conclusion

Here you have them! The ten best towns in Kent to enjoy exploring on a trip from London or from anywhere in England really.

In this blog post, I outlined the best things to do in the following Kentish towns: Broadstairs , Canterbury , Chatham , Dover , Faversham , Folkestone , Herne Bay , Margate , Rochester , and Whitstable . I also gave you the travelling times from London to each both by high-speed and regular trains. Some suggestions for the best places to stay in the area were thrown in the mix, too.

I hope that all this first-hand tried and tested information as well as the photos I took will be just the impetus that you need to head out to see the towns of Kent during your time in England.

I will be adding more Kentish towns to this list as and when I explore them while I live in Kent myself. So, do have a look again every now and then.

Enjoy visiting the towns of Kent!

It’s one english county you simply have to experience for yourself, travel tools, now, get ready for your trip to kent, england.

Get a guidebook from Amazon. Buy plane, train, and bus tickets through Omio. Rent a car from Europcar. Research accommodation on Booking.com. Select local tours and activities on GetYourGuide , Viator , and Tiqets .

More Helpful England Links for You

Travel in England:  Best Towns in England London:  South Kensington Museums Cambridgeshire:  Cambridge Cheshire:   Chester Isle of Wight:   Alum Bay ,  Carisbrooke Castle ,  Osborne House ,  Pepperpot ,  Round the Island Race ,  St. Catherine’s Lighthouse Hertfordshire:   St. Albans Cathedral Kent:   Reasons to Visit , Towns in Kent , Kent Life Northumberland:   Lindisfarne English Lifestyle:   Differences Between the English and the Italians ,  Memorial Benches ,  Allotments ,  Charity Shops ,  Beachtime English Food:  Fish and Chips

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Matt Damon shares powerful dream he had after his dad died: ‘I can’t even explain what it felt like’

Matt Damon recalled a core memory that lives with him after the death of his father, Kent Damon.

During a April 1 appearance on “ The Late Show With Stephen Colbert ,” the actor played a round of “ The Colbert Questionert ” where he was asked a variety of quick questions, including his first memory.

Damon first said, “I remember my crib,” before diving into a powerful dream he had about his late father.

“After my father passed away in 2017, within that year, I had this crazy dream,” he began. “He came to me in a dream and he embraced me. And the feeling that I got was the feeling that I had — which I think is like my first memory — which was the feeling of what it felt like to be held by him.”

“It was a feeling of such overwhelming protection and love and it was preverbal, so I can’t even explain what it felt like,” he said, adding that all he knew was that his father was there. “And I was feeling that embrace.”

He added that it reminded him that “I must have felt that as one of the very first things that I was aware of as my consciousness came online.”

Kent Damon died on Dec 14, 2017 after a long battle with cancer. He was 74. The actor's representatives today TODAY at the time that Kent Damon died from complications involving multiple myeloma , a blood cancer that weakens the body’s ability to fight infection.

Kent Damon’s diagnosis was first revealed in 2011.

“It’s been a slow unfolding; my dad’s sick, so that’s a process we’re going through,” Matt Damon told “ Extra “ on Dec. 11, 2017. “We’ll take any prayers you got, so throw ‘em up there.”

Over the years, the “Bourne Identity” star has paid tribute to the Damon patriarch. In 2018, during his “Saturday Night Live” monologue , he recalled his dad letting him stay up to watch the comedy sketch show when he was eight years old.

“So, week after week, I tried to stay up, and it wasn’t until I was 8 years old that I made it all the way to the end,” Damon said. “I probably didn’t get all the jokes, but I laughed at everything that my dad laughed at.”

He added, “And although it was way past our bedtime, my dad knew there was nothing more important in the world than to laugh with the people that you love.”

Liz Calvario is a Los Angeles-based reporter and editor for TODAY.com who covers entertainment, pop culture and trending news.

703 episodes

Dr. Michael Savage earned his PhD in epidemiology and nutrition sciences from the Univ. of Cal. at Berkeley. Inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame after over 26 years at the top of the talk radio format. Borders, Language and Culture are his pillars. A NY Times Best Selling author of over 30 books and novels, he was appointed by the President of the United States to the Board of the Presidio Trust. A true conservationist, Savage converses about politics, science, films, nutrition, cooking, cars and boats. News, views and reviews you can trust. To advertise on our podcast, please reach out to [email protected] or visit https://www.advertisecast.com/TheMichaelSavageShow

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• MAR 25, 2024

CANDACE OWENS, BEN SHAPIRO, FREE SPEECH, ANTI-SEMITISM & DO THE DEAD LIVE WITH US? A Conversation with Rabbi Michael Barclay - #701

The Daily Wire has parted ways with Candace Owens, who has been openly feuding with founder Ben Shapiro since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. Savage speaks with Rabbi Michael Barclay about the high-profile exit and his EXPLOSIVE interview with Owens. Barclay discusses the backlash he's received and defends his feud with Owens. Then, the two discuss Barclay's unique relationship with the Mexican Native American tribe The Yaqui People. They explore the death traditions and the nature of resurrection. How death instructs us to live with passion and joy. Why we need to seek truth and avoid the vacuous pursuit of "clicks" and "likes" in the digital age. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

• MAR 22, 2024

THE CIVIL WAR IS ALREADY HERE (now they're using the courts) with Stephen Gardner - #700

Savage and Stephen Gardner expose the Left in their plot to erode America's borders, language, and culture. Savage quotes Voltaire: "Those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities." He shares examples of the Left's "absurdities" leading to "atrocities": defunding police, open borders, gender ideology, critical race theory, etc. They discuss how corporate greed and the Left are working to decimate our borders and bring down our civilization. Learn why Letitia James' prosecution of Trump is a political persecution. Savage explains why the Civil War is already here as the left is waging an insurgency to destroy America from within, without firing shots. Savage debunks the idea of "democratic socialism" and explains how Bernie Sanders played a role in shaping Biden's economic policies and federal budget. They discuss Trotskyism and the violent Bolshevik Revolution. It's time for people to wake people up to the underlying agenda and threats we face! https://www.youtube.com/@StephenGardner1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

• MAR 21, 2024

THE LEFTIST PLOT TO REDEFINE THE CONSTITUTION - #699

This week, Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson suggested during oral arguments that the First Amendment should not be allowed to “hamstring” the government amid a crisis. For years, Savage has been warning against the threat radical DEI justices posed to our future freedoms. Listen to this remarkable broadcast from 2012 where Savage exposed the Left's efforts to redefine the U.S. Constitution. Learn the shocking claims the late leftist icon Ruth Bader Ginsburg made about the U.S. Constitution. Once again, Savage was ahead of the pack in his effort to sound the alarm on the progressive plot to unravel our republic! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

• MAR 19, 2024

BLOOD MONEY: WHY THE POWERFUL TURN A BLIND EYE WHILE CHINA KILLS AMERICANS with Peter Schweizer - #698

Investigative reporter and best-selling author Peter Schweizer shares the BOMBSHELL revelations he uncovered in his new book Blood Money: Why the Powerful Turn a Blind Eye While China Kills Americans. Savage and Schweizer dig into the shocking details, revealing the deep influence China wields on America today. Learn about China's strategy of "cognitive" and "disintegration" warfare and how it is being employed to fragment American society; Why American tech companies like Meta are pushing the sale of TikTok; China's alleged involvement in the production and distribution of fentanyl in the United States; The long-term strategy for China to get revenge on the West for the Opium Wars; How Hollywood studios have co-financing deals with Chinese propagandists; The increasing influence of Chinese financing on Hollywood films and streaming services like Netflix; How Chinese-funded groups are linked to the Party for Socialism and Liberation, Black Lives Matter, and other left-wing organizations; And which politicians are financially profiting from Chinese influence. Share this alarming podcast so others learn the truth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

• © 2024 Michael Savage

Customer Reviews

11K Ratings

Too erudite for liberals

Thank you Dr Savage for sharing the sum of your life’s work. Unfortunately liberals will never understand what you are saying. Like the deluded children they are they are unable to comprehend intelligent conversation. Happy Birthday and many more.

Dr. Savage thanks for opening my eyes to the critical importance of ‘Borders, Language and Culture’. Without those we are nothing as a country

Podcast and YouTube

Ben Shapiro has done a lot of good.

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Canyon Crest Apartments

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9045 Canyon Dr, Kent, WA 98030

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Paragon Real Estate Advisors is pleased to announce the exclusive listing of the Canyon Crest Apartments.​ Seller financing is available as a financing option to purchase this property.​ Current ownership has improved operations over the past 24 months, but rents are still below market and a value-add opportunity exists to fully renovate the units and lift rents higher.​

 The Canyon Crest has seen extensive updates during the last 12 months, with over $160,000 spent on improvements.​ 6 of the 9 units have been updated with LVP flooring, new appliances, bathroom remodels, and paint.​ All the electrical panels have been replaced during the process as well.​ The unit mix of the 9 units is 4 – 1-bed/1-bath units and 5 – 2-bed/1-bath units.​

Exterior improvements include the installation of a brand-new membrane roof, fresh exterior paint, replacement of the sewer line connection, landscaping and the Puget Sound Energy box replacement.​ The building is “L-Shaped” with a courtyard which provides a sense of community for the tenants.​

 The City of Kent is a strategic location for property ownership, offering easy access to major cities and outdoor activities.​ Its growing economy and diverse population make it a promising area for commercial investments and rent growth.​

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Due diligence information will be provided. Please reach out to the listing contacts for details.

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