kent houses to visit

Stately Homes and Houses

Astoundingly beautiful stately homes and country houses abound in Kent, so why not explore them? 

As well as the residences of Sir Winston Churchill and Charles Darwin, you'll also find a few lesser-known treasures which have their own surprises in store.

Penshurst Place

Step into a beautiful depiction of the Tudor era at  Penshurst Place . This fortified manor house - home of Viscount De L'Isle - exudes 650 years of history from its ancient wood panels and heraldic crests. The 11-acre walled garden is kept pristine and laid out as it would have been in Elizabethan times, giving you a true feeling of the days gone by. Once used as a hunting lodge by King Henry VIII, the house now features luxurious state rooms, which have made appearances in popular TV and film productions. With it's regal beauty, you will feel like royalty whilst touring the intricately decorated rooms.  Peruse the picture perfect Penshurst Place

Darwin's Down House

Get a glimpse inside the home - and mind - of one of England's greatest scientists,  Charles Darwin, at Down House . See the study where he wrote The Origin of Species, and a replica of his cabin on HMS Beagle. After, take a trip to the hot-house where you can encounter his famous carnivorous plants. Visit a recreation of Mr and Mrs Darwin's bedroom, where he observed nature and his experiments from his window. Why not jump into the action? Channel your inner explorer and dress up as Charles or Emma Darwin using clothes from their dressing closet, then head down into the colourful gardens to get some fresh air. It's makes our natural selection

This hidden gem is situated in  over 1,800 acres of lush scenery, adjacent to the stunning Kent coast.  One of Quex Park’s best known visitor attractions is the  Powell-Cotton Museum . Learn about exotic wildlife with a view of their natural habitats through one of the most impressive Natural History dioramas in Europe. Visit the quaint and beautiful mansion, the previous home to the Quekes family, who prospered from the extensive wool industry in Kent. Quaint Quex Park

Lullingstone Roman Villa

One of the best preserved Roman ruins in England, Lullingstone Villa will transport you back to the Roman times. With its wonderful displays of ancient artefacts and captivating stone foundations, delve into the historic ages with costumes, fascinating fact boards, traditional board games from the period and much more. You can enjoy an amazing day out in any weather under the protective canopy, so you can admire the marvellous mosaics and intriguing wall art to your heart's delight! Roam a Roman Villa  

Knole House

This house oozes style and grandeur with its captivating collections of tapestries, textiles, furniture and silver furnishings of the King's room, proudly attest to Knole's  prosperous past. Peruse the scintillating show rooms and 15 of the newly-conserved historic rooms, then venture outside to breathe in the crisp fresh air at Knole Park. With over one thousand acres of surrounding parkland, look out for the  350-strong wild Sika and Fallow deer herd. If you're feeling more adventurous, you can always cycle through the park to make the most of the gorgeous Kentish views. Taste of luxury

Part Of The Family

The family home of Sir Winston Churchill welcomes you to an extraordinary day out at Chartwell . With many treasures and trinkets of the much-loved politician to explore, you can get to know the family-orientated side of the former Prime Minister. Personal mementos, pictures and books belonging to the family decorate the home, as if they were still living there. An avid painter, you can view some of Churchill's artwork at his Studio at Chartwell. After roaming the halls of the house, why not take a trip out into the sunshine and amble down the trails of the wide woodland. Then, head down to Quebec house for a more intimate look into General Wolfe's great victory. Then enjoy a few light refreshments in the Coach House, before heading out into the great outdoors for a walk around the delightful gardens.

Ightham Mote

Nestled on its own small secluded island this 14th-century timber-framed manor house is simply charming. Previously owned by Medieval Knights, courtiers to Henry VIII and high-society Victorians, Ightham Mote has a touch of class. With extensive land on the estate and a gorgeously serene garden, there are plenty of places to explore. The owners prefer to think of Ightham Mote as showing a living 'blog', highlighting the changing fashion and needs of its owners rather than just a show home. So, if you're ready for some time travel, journey through 700 years of history at this interesting home. Live through the history 

Godinton House

Set in 12 acres of magnificent countryside, dive into the Godinton House’s illustrious Jacobean history. Then explore the unique carvings, furniture and porcelain collated by those who have lived there. Feeling a bit peckish? Head to the Billiard room where you can taste delicious home-made cakes and relax whilst sampling some delicious refreshments. Stroll through the elegant and tranquil rooms, taking in the intricately detailed decor that has stood the test of time. Then wander round the vivid rainbow of flowers in the tranquil gardens. A home away from home

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England)

In the far southeast of England , you could say there are two Kents.

There’s the soft rural Kent of posh towns, National Trust houses and quaint villages, and then coastal Kent, fortified to defend the entranceway to England but also adapted for seaside fun in the 19th century.

In rural Kent, the county lives up to its nickname the “Garden of England” for its verdant countryside of hop farms and orchards, and florid villages with pastoral scenes of duck ponds, pubs, village greens and Norman churches.

Something in the Kent countryside that you won’t see anywhere else are “oast houses”, barns and houses on hop farms with conical roofs capped by a white vent to draw in air and dry the hops that would be stored on the upper floor.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Kent :

1. Canterbury

As beautiful as it is significant, Canterbury is a university crammed with history.

It is the seat of the British Isles’ first diocese, founded in the 6th century.

The Archbishop of Canterbury remains one of the most influential public figures in England.

The magnificent Norman and gothic cathedral is the showpiece of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was the scene of one of the pivotal moments in English medieval history: The murder of the Archbishop Thomas Beckett by supporters of King Henry II at the altar in 1170. There’s much to keep you enthralled in Canterbury, whether it’s Roman mosaics, the ruins of the castle and abbey, the city walls or the bulky Westgate, the biggest medieval city gate in England.

This town has always been the entranceway to the British Isles from continental Europe, and is the main ferry port for crossings from France and Belgium.

Approaching from the water, the first thing you see are those exalted white chalk cliffs.

On land you can take a memorable walk along the grassy cliff-tops, on a route that will get you to Kingsdown eight miles away.

As the closest port to France, the town needed to be fortified, and Dover Castle took its current form in the 12th century, during the reign of Henry II. There’s an overwhelming amount of history on this site from the Roman Lighthouse (one of England’s oldest buildings), to the 18th century artillery emplacements and the secret Second World War tunnels.

3. Ramsgate

As with six other beaches within a brief drive, Ramsgate Sands is a Blue Flag beach traced by a promenade and cliffs.

When the weather’s good there’s all the nostalgic treats of an English seaside resort, and in winter and autumn it’s a brooding scene for invigorating walks.

Ramsgate has the distinction of being the only Royal Harbour, and this is best seen from the long piers that protect it from the open sea and give it an almost-Mediterranean accent on the hottest days in summer.

Also a must is a descent into the Ramsgate Tunnels, deep air-raid shelters dug for the Second World War and now open for tours.

4. Broadstairs

With the advent of steam power and railways in the 19th century Londoners were able to get to Broadstairs in a matter of hours, and they came for the sea air and seven bays of inviting golden sand.

Charles Dickens chose Broadstairs for his holidays and wrote David Copperfield at Bleak House on the cliff above Viking Bay and with views of the North Foreland chalk headland.

On sunny days Broadstairs is still the Thanet’s best option for a day at the seaside, thanks to its historic high street with independent shops and the retro charm of old-school holiday amenities like beach huts, a bandstand and 50s-style ice cream parlours.

5. Sandwich

Like Dover, Sandwich was one of the Cinque Ports, a confederation of five medieval towns on the Kent and Sussex coast that cooperated for trade and defence.

And there are lots of hints about Sandwich’s history around the town today, like gates from the old town fortifications, two stunning almshouses and a handful of pubs that have been serving customers for hundreds of years.

Rural ways of life in days gone by are explained at the White Mill, a windmill built in the 1700s and fully restored.

And a few minutes outside the town is Richborough Castle, a ruined but compelling Roman and Saxon fortress and the mooted landing site for the Claudian Invasion in AD 43.

6. Rochester

If you’re familiar with the early chapters of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations then you’ll feel like you’ve read about the muddy Medway River, even if the author never mentioned it by name.

Dickens grew up close by in Chatham and moved back to Gad’s Hill Place, a mansion just outside Rochester later in life, where he passed away.

But Rochester has more going for it; the castle has a 12th-century keep with walls and towers that are almost complete despite their great age.

It’s a breathtaking sight, equalled by the Norman and Gothic Rochester Cathedral, which was built in the 11th century but is the seat of a diocese that goes right back to 604, making it the second-oldest in England after Canterbury.

Around a meander in the Medway, Chatham is a town soaked with naval history.

From 1567 to the 1980s the Royal Navy Dockyard was here, and is now conserved as the Chatham Historic Dockyard.

If you’re inspired by the age of sail the dockyard will blow your mind, not just because of heritage ships that you can board, like HMS Gannet, but for facilities such as the Grade I-listed ropery, a 364-metre-long building that still produces rope commercially.

A nice complement to the dockyard is Fort Amherst, constructed in 1756 to protect the dockyard in case of a French invasion.

8. Royal Tunbridge Wells

In the High Weald, a long ridge of craggy sandstone, Royal Tunbridge Wells is a moneyed town welcoming wealthy guests and residents since the 1600s, when they first arrived for the curative waters.

That sandstone geology is clear in the strange rock formations, Wellington Rocks on Tunbridge Common, and the sheer High Rocks just outside the town.

There are gardens in distinguished estates to idle in, like the house-less Dunorlan Park, Calverly Grounds and Scotney Castle, all as stately as you’d hope.

The local landscapes are out of a picture book,  all hop farms, duck ponds, village greens, pub gardens and oast houses.

9. Sevenoaks

Just outside the M25, Sevenoaks is Kent’s first tourist destination for people travelling from London, and in turn has many residents who work in London.

Right in the north downs the local countryside is dappled with pretty villages like Otford and Shoreham, and the abundance of woodland gives you plenty of choices for walks.

But the main landmark is Knole House, a National Trust property and one of England’s most revered stately homes.

It’s a marvellous gabled 15th and 16th century building in four square kilometres of forest and open parkland where deer herds graze.

The house is huge considering its age, with more than 300 rooms and seven courtyards.

There’s much to love about the seafront at Deal, with rows of whitewashed cottages and grander, flat-fronted houses from the 17th and 18th century.

You can cut down little lanes with old gaslights and find English seaside staples like chippies and shops selling rock candy.

There’s also military history in the town, at Deal Castle, a Tudor 16th-century artillery fort with 66 firing positions and a low profile to make it less of a target.

Walmer Castle, further south has a similar outline and was built in the same period during the rule of Henry VIII. The pebble beach goes on for miles, running in front of the neighbouring towns of Walmer and Kingsdown, and has a belt of heathland behind where wild fennel grows by the beachfront track.

11. Whitstable

Whitstable is a seaside town full of character and with an authentic feel created by its fishing industry.

The local speciality is oysters, which have been harvested in the local waters for 2,000 years.

This activity took a bit of a hit in the post-war years, but has bounced back and is honoured every July at the Whitstable Oyster Festival.

Integral to any visit should be an amble around the working fishing harbour and market, and to get a table at one of the superb fish restaurants in the town.

Pebble beaches are also on either side of the harbour, and the Old Neptune that rare thing: A pub directly on the beach.

12. Folkestone

An offbeat relic from Folkestone’s seaside glory days is the Leas Lift, a short funicular railway transporting you from the seafront to the promenade atop the Leas cliff and installed in 1885. It’s a fixture of the town, and is maintained by a local non-profit organisation.

You can see as far as France from the Leas Promenade on a clear day, and the area at the bottom is the Lower Leas Coastal Park, including the beach with its colourful painted huts.

If you have a thing for Georgian and Victorian architecture you’ll adore Folkestone’s many whitewashed townhouses.

And the Creative Quarter is a quaint cobblestone street home to more than 100 artists, with galleries, studios and independent shops and cafes.

13. Aylesford

If for nothing else you should come this village outside Maidstone for the view from the south bank of the Medway, where the 14th-century bridge spans the river and is framed by rows of tall brick and timber houses and the tower of St.

Peter and Paul’s Church.

On the high street you’ll pass medieval almshouses and the beautiful George House, which was once an inn serving horse-drawn coach travellers.

Aylesford Priory, also known as the Friars, is unique in that it is was bought back by the Carmelites in the 1940s, 400 years after the  monasteries were dissolved.

The peaceful grounds are free and always open, and you can also have tea and cake at the tearooms seven days a week.

14. Tenterden

A well to-do country town, Tenterden is a pretty slice of rural England, with a medieval church, a sweet little high street, old pubs, and is even on the Kent & East Sussex steam railway.

In the vicinity you can go for a tour at a brewery or cider press and even see a winery in action.

In the village of Small Hythe, close to Tenterden  is Smallhythe Place, a charming 15th or 16th-century half-timbered house.

The property is now managed by the National Trust and was home to the Victorian actor Ellen Terry for almost 30 years.

Some of her possession are shown inside, like a letter from Oscar Wilde, a monocle belonging to Sir Arthur Sullivan and stage costumes from her career.

15. Ashford

At the centre of the county, people come to Ashford from the villages and towns around for its shopping.

The Ashford Designer Outlet is probably the most famous destination here, with big reductions on luxury fashion brands.

Ashford is also at a nexus point between England and France, as this is the last stop for the Eurostar before it crosses the channel or terminates in London at St. Pancras.

Minutes from Ashford  you have the sublime Godinton House, a gabled Jacobean stately home in flower gardens and with a treasured collection of porcelain.

And for walks, the Kent Downs are just north of Ashford, and you can easily get onto long distance paths like the Stour Valley Walk and the North Downs Way.

15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England):

• Broadstairs
• Royal Tunbridge Wells

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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: 120

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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.

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.

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.

Dover Castle

Castle / Fort

Discover 2000 years of history at Dover Castle! Step inside the Great Tower and immerse yourself in the medieval world and royal court of King Henry ll. Travel deep inside the White Cliffs and tour the Underground Hospital.

Deal Pier was opened in November 1957, the 1026 feet pier is made from predominately from concrete and is home to Deal Pier Kitchen. A great place to sit and enjoy the sunset or to enjoy the views of the beautiful Kent coastline.

Tea Room/Coffee Shop

Visit Kent Life and experience afternoon tea in the newly revamped tearooms.

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

Ashford is a town in Kent boasting a lively cosmopolitan centre and world-class shopping with plenty of places to visit and things to do nearby

Tonbridge is a market town in Kent that dates back to before Norman times. Explore the area with things to do, towns & villages nearby & a local event guide

Brogdale Collections

The National Fruit Collection has over 3000 varieties of fruit trees including apples, pears, quince, plums and cherries. The orchards are a living history and heritage of fruit waiting to be discovered.

Brogdale Collections hosts a wide selection…

Dymchurch Beach

Romney Marsh

The flat, mainly sandy beach at Dymchurch stretches for approximately 3 miles along the Kent coast.  This award-winning blue flag stretches from Dungeness to Hythe and is ideal for families. 

Deal Bandstand

Event Venue

The Deal Memorial Bandstand Trust stages a series of 'free' public concerts on the Bandstand between May and September each year.

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Historic Site

Explore Chatham's shipbuilding legacy at The Historic Dockyard Chatham. Step back to the 'Age of Sail', visit interactive galleries, historic lifeboats, and more. Tickets valid for a year for a year-round adventure on this 80-acre maritime heritage…

South East England Tourist Guides Association

Sightseeing

Discover the real South East England. Blue or Green Badge Guides who each have an unrivalled knowledge of the region and take pride in helping visitors explore its unique heritage.

Kingsgate Bay

Some of the best examples of sea caves in the country can be found here.

Kentish Lady

The Kentish Lady River boat is synonymous with Maidstone and is one of Kent’s premier excursion providers, between Spring and Autumn we provide a unique experience of the Upper River Medway, we also offer self-drive hire on the Upper Medway with our…

Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Walking Tour

Take a journey into the past on a guided tour of Fan Bay Deep Shelter in the White Cliffs of Dover. 

The ancient Wealden village of Hawkhurst is widely known for its beautiful surroundings and long history.

Walmer Paddling Pool

Fun and Games

Walmer Paddling Pool offers the chance for families to cool off and have fun.  This popular leisure facility is situated on Walmer seafont, next to the new Roman Landings Adventure Golf and is suitable for children aged 10 and under.

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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 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 plenty.

It 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 surrounds the town, so I 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. 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 county’s historic towns and cultural regeneration. At the same time, you can take in the glorious East Coast view of the place.

There are several galleries and vintage shops 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 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 its wonderful and interesting historic interiors.

8. Aylesford

This is a medium-sized village and civil parish on the River Medway, accessed by a 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 a beautiful 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 stunning. 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 meadows.

The scenic area also provides wildlife, flora, and fauna habitat, 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 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 beautiful 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 can see where the wine is grown and made, and take a tour of the vineyard estate to take in the stunning landscapes and views.

Depending on your trip length, 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.

Beth Pinches - writer and photographer Beth was born under a wandering star, with drama in her veins and ink in her pen. After stints studying theatre in Dublin and Utrecht she used her creative streak to see as much of the world as she could on as little money. She toured Italian Schools with a children’s theatre troop, lived as an au pair in both Rome and Washington DC, explored the British countryside, worked her way through much of Europe, Salsa danced in Cuba and road-tripped down America’s west coast where she discovered her spiritual home; Portland, Oregon. Other places she loves include Croatia, Finland, Japan and India. In between adventures, travel writing and performing she resides peacefully with her family, cats and ukulele. Find Beth on Linkedin or  Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Visit Jersey , Visit Sweden , and Israel Tourist Board. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist . Portland Reviewing Experience - Lived in Portland for 6 months and spent many months scouting out all the coolest spots.

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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!

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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  

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The famous historic houses and castles of Kent

Kent in south east England dazzles with more historic houses and castles than any other county. Within a day’s horse ride from London, the Garden of England made a refreshing rural escape and playground for sovereigns and aristocrats through the centuries. We explore five of the best locations.

Home to the Sackville family since 1603 – members still live here today, although the National Trust now owns it – Knole was a former archbishop’s palace that was transformed into a show house for the family to show off their treasures.

Charles Darwin lived at Down House at Downe for 40 years from 1842 until his death. The gardens here provide a fascinating insight into the mind of the great Victorian scientist, with an open-air laboratory, where Darwin used to carry out experiments, plus the many greenhouses that housed his insectivorous plants.

Leeds Castle

Henry VIII lavished money on Leeds Castle , near Maidstone, making it the embodiment of a fairytale castle. The castle was originally owned by Henry’s great-grandparents Catherine de Valois and Owen Tudor.

The family home of two-times prime minister Winston Churchill, Chartwell provided a welcome relief from the stresses of political life. A prolific painter, the studio in the garden now houses many of Churchill’s artworks.

Hever Castle

Famously known as the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife Anne Boleyn, Hever Castle and Gardens owes its splendour today to William Waldorf Astor who extensively restored and extended the castle in 1903.

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Historic Kent Guide

Ben johnson, facts about kent.

Welcome to Kent, the ‘Garden of England’, so called because of its acres of orchards and hop gardens. The iconic Kent oast houses which dot the landscape are historically where the hops were dried, ready for the brewing process.

Kent is home to some of the nation’s most stunning historic castles. Leeds Castle , with its glorious grounds and moat, has been dubbed ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. Romantic double-moated Hever Castle boasts over 125 acres of stunning gardens and was the childhome home of Henry VIII ‘s second wife, Anne Boleyn.

This beautiful county is also home to some of England’s most outstanding gardens, including those at Sissinghurst, Penshurst Place and Brogdale, home to the National Fruit Collections, where you can enjoy orchard tours and fruit juice tastings.

‘Dubris’ (Dover) was one of the most important sites in Roman Britain. Today you can visit the Roman Painted House, and the remains of a Roman lighthouse can be seen within the grounds of Dover Castle. Dover Castle played a major part in the history of the nation from Norman times through to World War Two, and is described as the “Key to England”.

Canterbury and its Cathedral have been attracting pilgrims for centuries. The pilgrims in Chaucer's Canterbury Tales followed the Pilgrims Way to Canterbury to worship at the tomb of the murdered Archbishop, Thomas Becket , in the Cathedral. In the 6th century St Augustine founded a monastery near here, effectively kick-starting the Christian revival in southern England. The monastery ruins form part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site.

It was on the Kent coast in 55BC that Julius Caesar first set foot in Britain. The county boasts many Roman sites, including Richborough Roman Fort near Sandwich and Lullingstone Roman Villa with its fantastic mosaics and paintings.

As for local food and drink, Kent is famous for its beer, ale, cider - and wine! The vineyards of Kent produce award winning wines, and most offer winery tours for visitors.

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Lady’s 17 Best Places to Visit in Kent, England

Today I want to bring you my list of the best places to visit in Kent, England. From medieval castles to cathedral cities and seaside towns, this county on the south coast has an abundance of great travel destinations. Many of them are within an hour or two of London, and some of the most exciting areas in Kent are easy to reach by train. Read on for my top picks for places to visit in the Garden of England. There’s a map, too.

Places to Visit in Kent

My list of places to visit in Kent contains a variety of destinations. It has white cliffs on the south coast of England, seaside gems on the Isle of Thanet, moated castles in the interior, and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty throughout.

Whether you love traveling for sandy beaches, delicious seafood, fresh cider, or rich heritage, there’s a place in Kent you’ll love to explore.

I’ve been to all the destinations on my list (many of them more than once), and I can personally vouch for how worthy they are of your time.

Some of these spots make perfect day trips from London by train , while others make quick day trips from London by car . Still more are ideal for tours, weekend trips from London, or multi-day getaways.

There’s more about these trips and beyond in the book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London , too. You can get it on Amazon here .

1. Canterbury

I’ll start my list of best places to visit in Kent with Canterbury . When it comes to cathedral cities in England , this historic location is hard to beat.

Dating back to 597, Canterbury Cathedral is one of the oldest and most important Christian buildings in England. It’s the cathedral of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and it forms part of a World Heritage Site.

Beyond the cathedral, Canterbury is one of the best cities in England for its mix of religious importance and charming atmosphere.

There’s an abundance of chocolate-box streets, narrow lanes with colorful shopfronts, a Norman castle ruin, old city walls, and a bucolic river with boats floating by.

If that sounds appealing, it’s easy to get to Canterbury from London by train. There are frequent rail services from the UK capital.

You can also combine it with a trip to the seaside and visit Canterbury and Dover in a day. I’ve done this on a tour through a company called GetYourGuide and I had a great time. You can book the tour I went on here .

2. Whitstable

Located on the north coast of Kent , Whitstable is a fun seaside day trip from London . It’s the perfect place to travel if you love eating shellfish by the shore.

That’s not least because the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival takes place every summer. It’s an enjoyable event to attend if you like seafood and good entertainment. It makes Whitstable one of the best summer day trips from London , too.

But Whitstable is a great place to visit at other times as well. The beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun, and the high street has cute shops and great restaurants and cafes.

There’s a train station in Whitstable with direct links to the UK capital, so this is one of the best places to go to the seaside near London if you want to travel by rail.

Margate is another of the best places to visit in Kent. This hipster town is famous for both its waterfront and its abundance of vintage shops.

There’s a big beach in Margate with a lighthouse in the distance. The seafront is backed by colorful buildings and the famous Turner Contemporary art gallery. The Dreamland Margate amusement park and subterranean Shell Grotto are popular, too.

Margate’s vintage clothing shops, cafes, and restaurants round out the scene, which is to stay nothing of the 16th-century Tudor House and streets like Love Lane.

If that sounds good to you, it’s easy to go on a Margate day trip by train. There are direct services from London, and it’s a scenic journey.

4. Broadstairs

Broadstairs is another of the best places to go in Kent. This seaside town on the Isle of Thanet is packed with sandy beaches, chalk cliffs, and scenic coastline. From Botany Bay to Viking Bay and Joss Bay, there’s plenty to love about the waterfront here.

There are a lot of great things to do in Broadstairs beyond the seashore, too. From shopping to eating fish and chips, the town has plenty to offer.

Add to that Charles Dickens connections, lively pubs, ice cream shops, and scenic paths like the Viking Coastal Trail, and there’s no shortage of things enjoy in this place.

In fact, there’s so much to enjoy that it’s worth staying a night or two in Broadstairs. Hotels like The Bay Tree are great places to call a home-away-from-home. You can book a room here .

5. Ramsgate

Ramsgate is next on my list of places to visit in Kent. Not far from Margate, Ramsgate is a waterfront town in Kent known for its big sandy seafront, heritage architecture, and royal harbor.

Ramsgate is one of the best beach day trips from London because its beach is huge. It’s the perfect spot to have fun in the sun.

Beyond the sand, the town is known for everything from shops to seafood restaurants and heritage houses. The side streets are a delight to explore, and the views of the boats from the hill are exciting to see.

There’s a railway station in Ramsgate with direct services to London, so the town is an easy day trip from London by train.

Also on the coast, Deal is another of the most exciting places to visit in Kent. Located where the North Sea meets the English Channel, Deal features wide pebble beaches and a long pier.

Deal is most famous for what lies behind the beach, though. The seafront is stunning, and the pastel houses and historic pubs on Middle Street are both eye-catching and steeped in smuggling lore. There’s great shopping here, too.

There’s heritage galore as well. Deal Castle is legendary, and Walmer Castle has stunning gardens. They’re in walking distance of one another, and you can get free entry to both if you’re an English Heritage member. You can get a membership here .

There’s a train station in Deal with direct services to London, so this is an ideal trip if you want to travel by rail. Chic hotels like The Rose make it tempting to stay a night, too. You can book a room here .

7. Hever Castle

Hever Castle might just be the prettiest place in Kent. One of the most picturesque castles near London , this medieval fortress is well worth a day trip.

A moated beauty, Hever Castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. It’s since been owned by the likes of William Waldorf Astor. Its interiors reflect its owners’ tastes and the styles of their times, and it’s exciting to explore the rooms.

But perhaps the best thing about a visit to Hever Castle is the gardens. This place has some of the best gardens to visit in Kent.

From walled extravaganzas to topiary hedges and water features, the castle has everything a garden lover could dream of. It makes Hever one of the best garden day trips from London .

8. Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle is another of my favorite places to visit in Kent. Consisting of a medieval ruin and a Victorian mansion house, this unique place is a two-for-one special. If you’re a National Trust member, it’s free to enter. You can get a membership here .

Scotney Castle dates back to 1137. The castle was built in the late 14th century by Roger de Ashburnham. The mansion was constructed in the 19th century by the Hussey family. Both are rewarding to see.

The gardens are beautiful in the warmer months, too. There are lots of scenic walks you can do around them when you visit Scotney Castle .

9. Leeds Castle

Next on my list of the best places to see in Kent is Leeds Castle. This is one of the most visually appealing castles near London. Surrounded by a moat, the structure looks as if it’s floating on the water.

The interiors of Leeds Castle are eclectic, reflecting a range of owners that have left their marks on it over the centuries. Touring them is a highlight of a visit.

Outside, the gardens and grounds are equally appealing. From the Leeds Castle birds of prey to the woodland walk, there’s a lot to see beyond the moat.

It’s easy to take a day trip to Leeds Castle from London with a company like GetYourGuide . I did and I enjoyed it. You can book the tour I did with them here .

10. Sissinghurst Castle Garden

One of the most unique places to visit in Kent is Sissinghurst Castle Garden. The grounds were designed by former owner Vita Sackville-West to look like the rooms of a house.

The gardens here burst into life in spring, making this one of the best spring day trips from London .

Sissinghurst Castle is an easy trip from the UK capital by train or car. It has one of the best spring gardens in the UK when the weather is warm and the flowers are blooming.

11. Rochester

Next on my list of places to visit in Kent is Rochester . This city has everything from a Norman castle to a famous cathedral and Charles Dickens connections galore.

Rochester Castle sits right in the middle of everything. The ruined keep is one of the best-preserved examples of Norman architecture in the UK.

The eye-catching cathedral is located right next to it. Founded in 604, it’s the second oldest of its kind in England.

Dickens lived and wrote here, too. Many of the houses and buildings on the high street feature in his work. They make Rochester a great place to stop on a literary tour of England .

Rochester is an easy day trip from London by train. It’s a great place to visit if you love history and literature alike.

12. Dover Castle

Next on my list of places to visit in Kent is Dover Castle. This hilltop fortification is located in Dover, a port town in Kent known for its chalk cliffs and ferries to Calais.

Dover Castle is a big hit with history lovers. It ranks among the most famous seaside castles in England, not least because of its layers of heritage and secret wartime tunnels. They make it one of the most popular attractions in Kent.

Direct rail services operate from London to Dover , making this an easy day trip by train. You can walk from the station up to the castle when you arrive (just be prepared for the hill).

13. Sevenoaks

Sevenoaks is another great place to visit in Kent. The town is rife with historic streets and buildings, and there are markets and pubs galore.

If you love historic houses, Knole is one of the best stately homes near London . This gigantic house in Sevenoaks is packed with treasures from the royal household. If you’re a National Trust member, it’s free to enter. You can get a membership here .

Another fun thing to do in Sevenoaks is walk through Knole Park. There are lots of paths with waymarked routes, and plenty of resident deer to take in along the way.

If you have more time, you can take a longer Sevenoaks walk and explore the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Sevenoaks Weald. Houses like Winston Churchill’s Chartwell and villages like Westerham are highlights, too.

Sevenoaks is near the UK capital, so train tickets are relatively inexpensive and driving doesn’t cost a fortune. If you’re on a budget, this is one of the best cheap day trips from London .

14. Folkestone

Folkestone is another of the top places to visit in Kent. Located on the south coast, this historic English Channel port town features big beaches and stunning cliffs.

Folkestone Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun on the waterfront. It has views of the lighthouse on the Folkestone Harbour Arm.

Sunny Sands beach is a good alternative if you prefer sand to pebbles. And don’t forget to visit the Folkestone Mermaid while you’re in town.

Beyond beaches, Folkestone offers an abundance of shops and streets to explore. You can even do a Folkestone to Dover walk and enjoy the beach under the famous white cliffs when you get there.

There are direct rail services to Folkestone from London, so this is a good option for a day trip by train. There’s enough to do in the area to merit staying a night, too. Hotels like The Relish are stylish and fun. You can book a room here .

15. Faversham

The next destination on my list of places to visit in Kent is Faversham. With pretty streets, great shops, and heritage hotels like The Sun Inn , Faversham is perfect for weekend trips from London .

Faversham is a great place to visit in its own right. The streets are packed with historic buildings and great details. The town is also home to Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer. You can take tours while visiting.

Beyond the town, Faversham is in one of the best areas in Kent for visiting famous producers of English drinks . If you want to go on a Kent cider tour or visit places like Chapel Down, it’s the perfect base.

Easily accessible by train from London and located near many of the highlights of the county , Faversham is a beautiful destination for weekend trips in the UK .

16. White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs of Dover are another of the most popular places to go in Kent. These unique geological formations create a sheer chalk face above the Strait of Dover. You can see all the way from them to France on clear days.

The coastal paths along the White Cliffs of Dover are great places to walk and take in the views across the English Channel. There are beaches below them, too.

It’s easy to combine a visit to the cliffs with a trip to Dover Castle and Canterbury. They’re close to one another and many day tours from London offer the combination. You can book the day tour I did with GetYourGuide here .

17. Royal Tunbridge Wells

Another great place to visit in Kent is Royal Tunbridge Wells (called Tunbridge Wells for short). Ever since the discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606, this town has been a popular travel destination.

Tunbridge Wells is one of only a few English towns with the rare “Royal” designation in its name. It was a favorite of royals and aristocrats over the centuries, and Queen Victoria used to stay in a house that’s now the Hotel du Vin .

As a result, King Edward VII granted the town its “Royal” prefix in 1909.

Tunbridge Wells offers a lot for visitors, from beautiful parks and gardens to shopping and dining. It’s a fun place to spend an afternoon exploring.

The town is located near the border with East Sussex on the northern edge of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, too.

That means it’s a great jumping-off point for country walks near London . In the spring, the woodland areas around it are famous for their bluebells.

Map of Places to Visit in Kent

Below is a map of all the places I mentioned in this blog post. If you click on the blue pins, you can find more information about each one.

Best Places to Visit in Kent

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of places to visit in Kent, and that it’s helped you discover new day trips, tours, and weekend getaways from London .

Beyond these, towns like Sandwich, Chatham, and Cranbrook, villages like Aylesford, and wetlands like Romney Marsh are worth exploring. Happy travels!

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Thank you so much! I will really enjoy your tips.

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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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The Best Kent Villages | 20 Pretty Villages In Kent, England

Kent villages are pretty and full of history, heritage and sheer charm. Whether you’re looking for a castle or a country pub, Kent has a village for you.

Located on the banks of the River Medway, Aylesford is one of several charming Kent villages with almshouses. The village is home to Kit’s Coty House, a Neolithic stone monument.

The megaliths or large stones lead to a tomb that could date to 4000BC. You’ll also find a tea room here and the village pub at the  Hengist .

Chiddingstone

Chiddingstone is one of the oldest villages in Kent and full of historic timber-framed houses. The village is owned by the National Trust and dominated by  Chiddingstone Castle  — a 400-year-old country house.

Chiddingstone is a good place to see village community life at its best and to enjoy a traditional tea room.

Goudhurst is beautifully set out with a steep hill and high street running from the church to a character village pond. It dates from the 13th century, when Flemish weavers settled in the area.

Goudhurst was also a big part of the brewing industry, with hop-growing a major industry in the area.

Close to Ashford, this charming village is a world away from a busy town. It has oast houses from the hop industry and two pubs.

There is also a beautiful church dating from the 15th century and a real community feel to the village.

Biddenden is not only a picturesque Kent village but has one of the few  Michelin star restaurants  in the area. The village is full of historic streets and old weavers’ cottages and is also home to the Biddenden Malds — an arts and crafts signpost.

You can also walk through  Biddenden vineyards  and take a tour.

The village of Cobham is famous for its connections with Charles Dickens. You can enjoy a pint in the  Leather Bottle Inn  where he wrote The Pickwick Papers or walk around Cobham Park, which inspired his writing.

There are over 450 houses in this beautiful village. Wandering through the streets is an excellent way to soak up the literary atmosphere.

Penshurst was once home to Henry VIII and lies in the Weald of Kent. The pretty village lies between two rivers and has a lot of timber-framed buildings.

It is also home to one of England’s oldest cricket pitches, where matches are still played by the locals.

Elham is a beautiful village that is cross-crossed by walking and cycling trails in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

There are two pubs and a restaurant among the amenities in this vibrant community.

Pluckley is famous for ghosts and is said to be the most haunted village in England. It is also really picturesque with past houses and traditional cottages — and often used in filming.

Pluckley is the film setting for the TV series The Darling Buds of May.

Technically, Fordwich is not really a Kent village, but it has all the charms of one. It is actually the smallest town in the United Kingdom.

You’ll find the 16th century Watergate House, a town hall and many beautiful houses.

A bridge over the River Stour in Fordwich is a beautiful place to admire the view before heading to the local pub.

Appledore is another one of the quintessential Kent villages with traditional medieval cottages and three pubs.

It is also on the Saxon Shoreline long-distance walking trail and is a delight to explore. It is also home to a 14th-century church, a village store and antique shops.

Newenden is the smallest village in Kent and is located in the High Weald area.

You can fish on the River Rother or take the Bodiam Ferry to Bodiam Castle, dating from the 1300s. Watching cricket is another popular activity at Newenden Cricket Club.

There are lots of country walking trails and panoramic views in and around Godmersham.

The village is also famous for Godmersham Park, a country estate that was once home to Jane Austen’s brother, Edward Knight.

One of the features in the village of Ightham is the wonky brickwork and half-timbered houses.

It all adds to the character of this historic village that has no less than three pubs and a farm shop. Ightham Mote is a local historic country house with a 14th-century moat that is interesting to visit.

The village of Wye is surrounded by hilly countryside with walking opportunities and spectacular views.

You can relax on the bridge by the River Stour and perhaps spot some wildlife, or you can chill out in the local pub with a pint in this beautiful Kent village.

Cranbrook is one of the few places where a book has been written about it entirely in rhyme.

It was once a major player in the wool trade but is a quieter place now. Cranbrook has a windmill and is a delightful village to explore.

Eynsford is surrounded by farmland and woods in the Kent countryside. There are lots of walking trails nearby, including the Darent Valley Path.

Eynsford has a historic castle, lots of beautiful old houses, and a popular pub.

Sissinghurst

The picture-postcard village of Sissinghurst is best known for its  gardens  and castle . The gardens were created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson and are some of the most spectacular in England.

Lower and Upper Upnor are two small villages in the Kent Medway region. You can walk the picturesque streets or visit the Elizabethan Upnor Castle.

The village of Chartham has over 600 years of history of papermaking and is still in production today.

There is a traditional village green, timbered houses and a 13th-century church. Farmland surrounds the village in the Kent countryside.

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The Best Places To Visit In Kent (With Map) In 2023

Looking for the best places to visit in Kent? We can help! We have recently discovered Kent and now love spending time there.

For many years, Kent was a part of the UK that we passed through on the way to Dover to hop over to France for a French camping holiday .

We hadn’t given any consideration to the fact that there were, in fact, many highly worthwhile places to visit in Kent. That was until we found ourselves looking for UK holiday ideas due to travel restrictions.

We wanted somewhere not too far from London in case we needed to get home quickly. We wanted somewhere with a few family-friendly attractions and with nice beaches.

Having grown up in Suffolk, we have done Suffolk extensively and were in Norfolk visiting the beautiful beaches just a few months earlier.

Kent fit the bill perfectly and we had a wonderful week exploring the main sights and attractions on our days out in Kent. We have since been back a few times as there is so much to do in Kent.

These are our favourite places to visit in Kent.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book something using these links, we may earn a small commission but this is at no extra cost to you. Please check individual websites for closures.

Top of The Dane John Mound in Canterbury

1. The Castles of Kent

Kent has a large number of castles, many of which date back to the Norman times. William the Conqueror first landed in the south east of England in 1066 and set about immediately building castles in the area.

His aim was to strengthen his position after his defeat of the English at the Battle of Hastings.

There are some fantastic examples of Norman castles including but these are some of our favourite Kent castles.

Read more : The 10 Best Castles in Kent

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is hailed as the loveliest castle in the world, and we would tend to agree. It is definitely the most impressive castle in England .

It’s one of the best places to visit in Kent at Christmas to meet Santa and if you happen to be there with kids over any of the school holidays, there is bound to be something going on. It is one of our favourite day trips from London with kids .

We visited during the October half term and there were some spooky Halloween events on as well all the other fun things for kids. We had the best day there and would highly recommend a visit.

YOu can buy your Leeds Castle admission ticket here with flexible cancellation.

If you would like to find accommodation near Leeds Castle, you can’t get better than actually staying at the castle. There are plenty of accommodation options, including glamping in a knights tent during the summer months.

Weir Cottage  – 1 bedroom cottage

The Oast  – 2 bedroom cottage

Keeper’s House  – 5 bedroom holiday home

Battel Hall  – 5 bedroom holiday home

Guard’s House  – 3 bedroom cottage

Knight’s Cottage  – 3 bedroom cottage

Bed & Breakfast

Stable Courtyard  – various rooms sleeping from 1 – 4 people

Address : Leeds Castle, Broomfield, Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1PL Entry : Adult – £28.00, Child (4-15) – £19.50, Family – £90.00 (Under 4 – FREE)

Hever Castle

Hever Castle , built in 1270, is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn and it is said that her ghost haunts the castle today.

It is similar to Leeds Castle in many ways, with lots of fun activities throughout the year including jousting, archery and shield painting and the gardens are just stunning.

You can also stay at Hever Castle either in the castle itself or in the grounds.

Hever Castle is a fantastic place to visit at Christmas as there is so much going on. Make sure to check out our guide to the Christmas events in Kent if you are looking for some festive inspiration!

Address : Hever Castle, Hever Road, Hever, Edenbridge, Kent, TN8 7NG. Entry : Adult – £15.55, Child (5-17) – £9.75, Family – £42.75 (Garden only. Tickets for the castle may be purchased for an additional charge at the castle entrance).

Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle is one of the oldest castles in England dating back to the 1080s. It may not be one of the best preserved castles in Kent, but its history is fascinating and if you’re visiting the nearby Chatham Dockyard (see below), then you should pop in to Rochester to see the castle.

Address : Rochester Castle, Castle Hill, Rochester, Kent, ME1 1SW. Entry : Adult – £7.00, Child (5-17) – £3.50, Family – £17.50 (or get your English Heritage membership and entrance is free).

You might also want to check out Dover Castle .

2. The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Now a maritime museum, the Historic Dockyard Chatham was established in the 16th century as a Royal Naval dockyard and served as such for hundreds of years.

It’s a really fun place to visit in Kent with kids because of the interactive and educational activities available, including the amazing Victorian Ropery which is still in use today.

There are also some lovely play areas for kids including a soft play area for little ones.

No. 3 Covered Slip where many ships were built dates back to 1838 and was the largest widest timber framed structure in Europe. It has an amazing cantilever roof and today houses lots of interesting artifacts.

Note that the Dockyard is closed during the winter months.

Address : Historic Dockyard Chatham, Main Gate Road, Chatham, Kent, ME4 4TZ.

For something a bit fun – check here for the Historic Chatham Dockyard Call The Midwife Tour .

No.3 Slip at Historic Dockyard Chatham

3. Kent and East Sussex Railway

The train line that served Tenterden from the turn of the 20th century was closed in 1961 and now serves as a heritage railway with working steam trains and a museum.

If you are looking for a dining experience with a difference, you could book a seat on the Wealdon Pullman between April and October.

Your meal is served in the perfectly preserved Pullman cars by Pullman attendants in authentic attire.

Visiting Kent at Christmas? The Kent and East Sussex Railway put on special Santa Trains at Christmas which is a really fun alternative to a traditional Santa’s Grotto.

Address : Kent & East Sussex Railway, Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE.

Photo Credit: Kent & East Sussex Railway Steam Train

4. Chapel Down winery

English wine is growing in popularity and there are now around 450 vineyards in the UK, many of which produce award winning wines.

With Kent being nicknamed the Garden of England, it should be of no surprise to learn that it is home to some excellent wineries.

Chapel Down vineyard in Kent is one of the most famous English wineries. Chapel Down winery is located in Tenterden, not far from the Kent and East Sussex Railway.

Chapel Down produces award winning wines and is most noted for their English sparkling wine. Chapel Down Bacchus is one of our favourite white wines and the Chapel Down sparkling wine makes an excellent alternative to champagne.

The winery is one of the loveliest places to visit in Kent for wine lovers. There are walking trails in the vineyard where you can see the various grape varieties being grown or you can take a guided tour which lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes.

You will also be able to take part in some Chapel Down wine tasting and if you want to make a day trip out of your visit, there is a restaurant on site.

Address : Chapel Down Vineyard, Chapel Down, Small Hythe Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 7NG.

If you like wineries, check out these vineyards in Suffolk .

Vines growing at Chapel Down Vineyard

5. Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest

Bedgebury Pinetum is a lovely place to go for a family walk with a number of walking trails and remains open during lockdown when most other places are closed.

If you have little ones who are fans of the Gruffalo, they also have a Gruffalo Trail.

There are also cycling trails and if you don’t have your own bikes , there is a bike hire shop.

It is one of the most fantastic places to visit in Kent at Christmas because the forest is lit up with a magical illuminated light trail.

All day parking at peak times costs £13.00 per car, £10.00 at off peak times and if you just come for an early morning walk between 8am – 11am, it costs £3.00.

Address : Bedgebury Pinetum, Lady Oak Lane, Goudhurst, Kent, TN17 2SJ.

Gruffalo Trail at Bedgebury Pinetarium

6. Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most visited cities in the country. It is also the setting for the famous novel by Geoffrey Chaucer – The Canterbury Tales.

Canterbury is perfect if you are looking for a day trip from London by train . There is lots to see and do in Canterbury, including:

Canterbury Cathedral

• The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
• The Marlow Theatre
• Christ Church Gate
• St Augustine’s Abbey
• Dane John Mound (for fantastic views over Canterbury)

Canterbury Cathedral is of particular interest being one of the oldest Christian structures in England and home to the shrine of Thomas Becket.

When the cathedral is open, guided tours are available and a highlight of your visit must be the fantastic cloisters and stained glass windows.

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

You might like to check out this tour that takes in Canterbury, Dover, Greenwich and Leeds Castle or this guided walking tour of Canterbury .

7. The Kent Coast

Kent has some lovely beaches including sandy beaches, white chalk cliffs and traditional English seaside towns. They are all very accessible from London in case you were looking for beaches near London for a day trip.

• Broadstairs

Broadstairs is the most gorgeous little Victorian seaside town on the Kent coast close to the more well-known Botany Bay. The small, protected bay means that the water is lovely and calm which is great for families.

The beach has lots of colourful beach huts and many of the beachfront houses have maintained their original character which make the town even more quaint.

There are lots of fantastic restaurants including the outstanding seafood restaurant, Wyatt & Jones.

If you like fish and chips, you must try out their takeaway Flotsam & Jetsam but beware of the greedy seagulls who will swoop down to steal your lunch at any opportunity.

And a visit to a British seaside town would not be complete without an ice cream. Head to Morelli’s Gelato on the seafront which has been an institution since 1907. It’s really one of the best places to visit in Kent when it’s hot!

See here for more things to do in Broadstairs .

Colourful Broadstairs in Kent

Botany Bay is right next door to Broadstairs so it is definitely worth a visit if you are staying in Broadstairs. It is one of the seven bays in Broadstairs.

There isn’t a great deal here apart from a long 200m stretch of sand and its striking white cliffs.

When the tide is out, Botany Bay is a great place for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools. You can also walk around the chalk stacks at low tide and around to neighbouring Kingsgate Bay.

Parking is very limited here. There is a small, free car park so we would advise getting here early.

There is a food kiosk on the beach during the summer months but if you are looking for something more substantial, you can head up to Botany Bay Hotel .

White cliffs on the Kent Coast near Botany Bay

Margate has undergone a bit of a regeneration in recent years with art galleries, bakeries and clothing shops. Make sure to pop in to The Old Kent Market for the freshest hot cross buns from Gina’s Old Kent Bakery.

Just by the Turner Contemporary art gallery on Margate’s seafront you will spot one of Antony Gormley’s Another Time sculptures.

It is one of one hundred such sculptures around the world. If you want to see the sculpture, check out the tide times. It will be visible 3 hours before low tide. You can check the tide times here .

If you’re looking for some good, old fashioned thrill seeking, you can also find Dreamland in Margate, a traditional British seaside funfair with vintage rides and attractions.

It is one of the best places to visit on the Kent coast for a bit of an adventure with the kids.

The hip scenes of Margate

Whitstable is traditional fishing town that has been transformed into a thriving beach holiday destination.

It is also a great place for foodies with lots of fabulous seafood restaurants as well as seafood shacks. Whitstable oysters are a local specialty.

If you’re looking at staying in Whitstable, you should really give the converted fishermen’s huts a go. They are located right on the beachfront and are super cosy and a part of Whitstable history.

Sights and sounds of Whitstable in Kent

Although not in Kent, you should definitely pop into Camber Sands in neighbouring East Sussex. It is one of the best beaches in the UK .

And of course, Camber Sands is just next door to Rye , which is one of the most beautiful small towns in England.

8. Visit the best small towns in Kent

If you’re into visiting quaint English towns, Kent has plenty of them.

Wondering where is the prettiest place in Kent? Here are some of the most beautiful small towns in Kent.

Faversham town centre

9. Elmley National Nature Reserve

Did you know that there was an island in the River Thames? The Isle of Sheppey is home to Elmley Nature Reserve, a fabulous 3,300 acre national nature reserve.

You can take guided or self-guided walking tours to discover the unique and varied wildlife that visit the reserve.

Day visit tickets start at £6.00.

If you want to be completely immersed in nature, why not stay at one of their many holiday cottages which are perfectly secluded and offer a spectacular wildlife viewing experience.

It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for glamping near London.

Photo Credit : Elmley National Nature Reserve

10. Wingham Wildlife Park

Wingham Wildlife Park is one of the best places to visit in Kent if you are a dinosaur fan. They have a fabulous collection of animals, but it is their dinosaur park that we go for.

It’s one of the best dinosaur parks in the UK with 22 ferocious dinosaurs to delight any dinosaur fan.

Port Lympne Dinosaur Forest is also in Kent.

Address : Wingham Wildlife Park, Rusham Road, Wingham, Canterbury, Kent, CT3 1JL.

Dinosaurs at Wingham Wildlife Park

11. Shepherd Neame Brewery Tour

For those of you who like beer, you should visit Shepherd Neame Brewery , the oldest brewery in Britain. The brewery is located in Faversham, a lovely medieval market town.

You can take a tour starting at the Visitor Centre and learn some of their brewing secrets. The tour lasts 80 minutes and costs £18.00.

Address : Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre, 10 Court Street, Faversham, Kent ME13 7AX.

Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre in Faversham

12. Ashenbank Wood

If you’re visiting Kent in the spring, you should pop in to Ashenbank Wood for a walk. It is one of the loveliest bluebell woods in the UK and one of the best places to visit in Kent for a spring walk.

It is run by the Woodland Trust and is a Site of Specific Scientific Interest in the Kent Downs. It is free to visit and just off Halfpence Lane there is a small car park with parking for up to 10 cars.

Address : Halfpence Lane, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 3HB.

Bluebells at Ashenbank Wood in Kent

Map of Places to visit in Kent

This map of Kent shows all of the places we have mentioned above so you can get an idea of where each of these things to do in Kent are in relation to each other.

Hello, we are thinking about going to the area south of London to spend one week in summer. We are a couple with two girls, one of 7 and another of 1 and a half years. We had the idea of rent a house in the area and move around, and going to London too. Our concern is that if there are interesting activities for the 7 year old child. Thank you so much !

Hi – thanks for the question. We visited with our 7 year old and he loved Leeds Castle and Hever Castle. The beaches are also great for the kids. There is a lovely steam train at Tenterden if you like trains. If you like animals, Port Lympne or Howletts are great for family days out. There is a great retro fairground at Margate which is good for kids too.

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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.

Discover more of the best coastal towns in Kent .

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 and it’s also a great UK foodie break .

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, discover the best coastal towns in Kent , 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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VisitBritain/Dipyourtoesin

Why we love Kent

From retro rollercoasters to seafood festivals and cutting edge art galleries, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery. 

Just a short hop from London takes you to Margate, home of the Turner Contemporary gallery and Dreamland theme park. Tuck into delicious oysters in Whitstable or try bohemian Ramsgate for a weekend away. Relax among the candy-coloured beach huts of Broadstairs, or bring the past to life 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 by Lonely Planet.

Getty Images/Nick Stone Schearer

Whitstable Oyster Festival

Discover this festival in Whitstable in July, which ranks among the best for foodies. Taste Whitstable’s world-famous oysters, and be sure to wander its beach, browse its pastel-painted shops and check out the thriving arts scene while you’re here.

Find out more about the  Whitstable Oyster Festival

Dreamland Margate

Jurassic Coast

Visit Margate’s refurbished seaside amusement park, home to a Grade II listed, wooden rollercoaster. There’s a packed events calendar too, which includes 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 jousting tournaments, secret wartime tunnels and a Medieval palace, Dover Castle brings Britain's history to life.

billie_the_kid_071

Spend a memorable day out at the famous Dreamland amusement park in Margate, on the Kent coast.

Joss Bay Surf School

Get your board at the ready in Joss Bay, Broadstairs and try a spot of surfing or stand-up paddle boarding on the Kent coast.

Copper Rivet Distillery

Take a tour of Kent’s artisan brewery, Copper Rivet Distillery, in Chatham’s historic Dockyard.

Take a culinary journey at Stark in Broadstairs and enjoy Kent’s finest food at this Michelin-starred restaurant.

Key and Quill

Chapel Down Winery

Explore the stunning Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden, Kent and taste English wine at its best.

VisitBritain/Stuart Harper

Broadstairs Food Festival

Celebrate local food and drink at the popular Broadstairs Food Festival, in the beautiful Kent seaside town.

Harding-Lee Media

Hever Castle

Walk in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn in her childhood home of Hever Castle in Kent.

justsofestival

Call the Midwife Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Nurse Trixie with a Call The Midwife Official Location Tour of Chatham’s Historic Dockyard, where it was filmed.

Neal Street Productions

Leeds Castle

History comes to life at Leeds Castle, one of Kent’s most popular attractions. Tour the castle, explore the grounds and enjoy its maze.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Margate Pride

Join the parade and party at Margate Pride, as the Kent coast is lit up in rainbow colours.

Canterbury Festival

Head to Canterbury for its vibrant three-week festival of music, events, talks and science in the historic heart of Kent.

Black Deer Festival

Celebrate all things Americana and sing along to country music's finest.

Caitlin Mogridge/ Black Deer Festival

Visit the medieval deer park and magnificent Knole, one of Britain’s finest stately homes.

Alamy Stock Photo

Canterbury Cathedral

From the assassination of Thomas Becket to the dissolution of the monastery by Henry VIII, discover Canterbury Cathedral’s part in British history.

Bluewater Shopping Centre

Head to Bluewater – Kent’s most famous shopping centre – for stores, restaurants and much, much more.

Hangloose, Bluewater

Angela’s of Margate

Enjoy a low-impact meal at renowned sustainable restaurant, Angela’s of Margate.

Angelas Of Margate

Mrs Knotts Tearoom at South Foreland Lighthouse

Walk back in time along the white cliffs of Dover and stop in at Mrs Knotts Tearoom at South Foreland Lighthouse.

National Trust Images/Solent News and Photography Agency

Featured things to do

Explore Kent’s vineyards

Enjoy a tour and tasting in the lush surroundings of one of Kent’s wineries or vineyards, renowned for their still and sparkling wines.

Feel the love at Margate Pride Festival

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

Soak up some culture at Canterbury Festival

Dive into a two-week extravaganza of the arts. Expect an eclectic mix of opera, folk, jazz and classical, alongside circus, theatre, cabaret and visual arts.

Catch an exhibition at Turner Contemporary

This cutting-edge gallery on Margate beach was one of the driving forces behind the town’s vibrant regeneration. It hosts an ever-changing line-up of exhibitions and workshops that embody the town's creative spirit.

Places to stay in Kent

Home to the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and the surreal Shell Grotto, this seaside town is packed with experiences, plus 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, perfect for taking in the Kent countryside.

Explore nearby

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

VisitBritain/i360

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

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

A perfect blend of nature and urban living. Colchester, Essex, was made to be explored.

Indre @Colchesterstreets

Getting to Kent

Kent’s closest airports are two of the UK’s biggest international hubs, London Gatwick and London Heathrow . The journey time from both takes up to two hours by car or train, depending on which part of Kent you need to reach. 

Kent is well connected to London by rail, with Southeastern offering services from London Bridge, Charing Cross, London Waterloo East, and Victoria. From London St Pancras International, the High Speed One train reaches Kent in less than 40 minutes.

Getting around

A vast network of roads, paths and train lines run across the county, making travel easy and leaving you with plenty of time to experience Kent’s cities, 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, cycling is a great way to experience what Kent has to offer.

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Kent for top insider tips and travel inspiration

Visiting historical fortresses and castles of Kent

Hever Castle was the home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII who was beheaded. Getty

The pastoral garden county of Kent houses an extraordinary collection of historic fortresses, from Canterbury Cathedral to Battle Abbey and Dover Castle there's something for every Anglophile.

Balustrades and portcullises , sally ports, keeps, and moats: our images of English castles conjure up medieval knights in full armor. In fact, the castle had life for centuries before and after such a scene. From a staging ground for Roman legions to an intelligence bunker in World War II, the castles of Kent have been a dominating institution of social and military history .

• Five Victorian buildings in London you need to visit

It should come as no surprise that the pastoral garden county of Kent houses such an extraordinary collection of historic fortresses. After all, along with the narrowest point of the English Channel, Kent is the gateway to Europe and the front line of defense. Let’s go exploring two millennia of castle life and building. Here is a great easy road trip with a theme. Along the way, there are rural lanes, coast houses, assorted colorful country pubs and scenic vistas galore .

Leeds Castle & Hever Castle

Heading to Kent from London or the airports, steer via the M25 east to the M20. A grand place to begin our castle exploration is beautiful Leeds Castle, one of the most historic and picturesque castles in England. Say farewell to the motorway at junction 8 and follow the signs. Set in a majestic moat surrounded by 500 acres of parkland and gardens, Leeds was built in the early 1100s and looks much the same. In royal hands for centuries, Henry VIII refurbished the castle as a home for his first queen, Catherine of Aragon . Later, the castle belonged to the Culpepper/Fairfax family, from whence sprung First Families of Virginia.

Leeds Castle (Image: Leeds Castle)

After your visit, turn west a few miles on the A26 through Tonbridge to Edenbridge, for a visit to homey Hever Castle. The moated Tudor castle was where Henry VIII courted second wife Ann Boleyn. Acclaimed for its topiary and Italianate gardens, Hever was sympathetically restored by William Waldorf Astor early last century and has a great exhibit on the Boleyns and the Tudor court .

The Georgian spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells makes a nice overnight destination. You might catch Tonbridge Castle on the way, but do save time to walk the 18th-century Pantiles at Tunbridge Wells, where the famous Beau Nash served as master of ceremonies to the social elite of the day.

Bodiam Castle, Battle Abbey and the South Coast

Take a leisurely start to the morning, and join the A21 south roughly 20 miles drive to Bodiam Castle. Built-in 1385, Bodiam was the last great moated castle completed in England - before gunpowder and cannon made castles obsolete as a military sanctuary. Today flawlessly maintained by the National Trust, Bodiam is a picture-perfect ruins often used as a film set.

A few miles south in Battle, Battle Abbey is not a castle but looks like one. On the field of the Battle of Hastings , where William of Normandy became the Conqueror in 1066, William had the abbey built-in thanks to God for his victory. The abbey church altar marks the spot where King Harold died. It’s a great visit and a pretty village.

Hastings itself lies half a dozen miles south on the coast. The crumbling remains of Norman Hastings Castle sit on the cliff top towering over the faded seaside resort town below. Or first, detour west about 10 miles to Pevensey Castle. In the care of English Heritage, and always open, its curtain walls were built by the Romans in the third century (and still stand). The Normans reoccupied it in 1066 and added a keep and bailey. Though long a ruin, the castle was refortified and garrisoned during World War II. Hastings has a full range of accommodation, or perhaps follow the A259 east to pretty Rye for your overnight.

Chilham Castle an Canterbury Cathedral 

This morning’s drive crosses archetypal Garden of England landscapes, through Darling Buds of May countryside. From Hastings or Rye, make for the A28 northeast. The pretty market town of Tenterden makes a lovely morning stop for coffee - or for a ride on the old steam Kent & East Sussex Railway. The A28 leads to the historic cathedral city of Canterbury. North of Ashford, you might stop in tidy Chilham village for a visit to Chilham Castle. Though of medieval origins, the castle was refurbished in 2002 as a private residence. It is open on a limited basis to the public. Even if the castle gates are locked, the flower-bedecked village square makes a picture-worthy setting for lunch or tea.

Canterbury Castle (Image: Canterbury Cathedral)

Do continue on to arrive in Canterbury with an afternoon to explore this magnificent, visitor-friendly city. The centerpiece, of course, is medieval Canterbury Cathedral, mother church of the worldwide Anglican communion. The ruins of St. Augustine’s Abbey, Greyfriars, an old-world pedestrianized shopping and dining precinct, and an assortment of Chaucer and Dickens attractions also bring visitors from around the world. Canterbury has a full range of visitor lodgings and makes a great place to base a two-night stay.

Dover Straits, Castle and White Cliffs

If time permits do add in a short ride to the port of Dover - and imposing Dover Castle. Guardian of the Straits, Dover Castle is the second largest in Britain (after Windsor). Its medieval strength and purpose are profiled by the building of King Henry II. The historic castle, however, is as fascinating for “Hellfire Corner,” where the evacuation of Dunkirk was directed and a World War II field hospital was carved into the castle’s famous limestone cliffs .

• Exploring Dorchester and Thomas Hardy country

You might return this afternoon to continue exploring or shopping in Canterbury, or drive north along the white-cliff coast to Walmer Castle, built by Henry VIII and official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Deal Castle, a coastal fort originally built by Henry III is just up the road. It’s an easy return to Canterbury on the A257.

Back to the River Medway and Rochester Castle 

Turning back toward London, the M2 bears the brunt of the traffic and the lorries. Running roughly parallel, the A2 is more fun, following the route of Chaucer’s 14th-century pilgrims. The Norman fortress of Rochester Castle makes a dramatic finale to our theme, overlooking the River Medway. The imposing castle, across the green from Rochester Cathedral has the tallest, most complete medieval keep in England. If you’ve more days to travel, perhaps turn north on the M25 across Deptford Crossing to East Anglia and Constable Country or Norwich.

* Originally published in Apr 2016.

Related: Kent

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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

Visit European Castles

Visit The Best Historic Castles in Kent, England

In the South East corner of England lies the county of Kent. Kent is one of the home counties, bordering Greater London in the North and on the East in borders the English Channel with France beyond.

Kent has a long history, it is home to Canterbury Cathedral (the oldest cathedral in England) and Rochester Cathedral (the second oldest cathedral). But this interesting history can also be seen in the Kent castles. From castles dating to the Norman times to a Tudor royal residence and a castle that helped bring the English troops back from the beaches in Normandy during D-Day.

In this post, you will find the best castles in Kent. From Norman castles to the family home of Anne Boleyn (Henry VIII’s second wife) and beautiful historic houses owned by influential people. This list contains plenty of castles, stately homes, and country houses that are a perfect place to visit for the whole family. Surround yourself with English history and visit magnificent gardens on the English south coast.

Dover Castle

Set upon the famous White Cliffs above the English Channel stands Dover Castle. The castle was founded in 1066 and it has been the location of significant moments in English history.

The Norman castle is the longest-serving fortress and one of the largest castles in England. However, of that Norman structure are no remains as King Henry II rebuilt the castle.

Dover Castle also played an important role in the Battle of Dunkirk. It is from this castle that they tried to evacuate hundreds of thousands of Allied troops. The story of Dunkirk can be found in the Secret Wartime Tunnels.

But you can also explore the medieval recreated rooms in the Great Tower or visit the castle grounds with mighty battlements, a Roman lighthouse, and medieval tunnels.

Where : Dover

Built : 1066

Style : Norman/Medieval

Visitor information: the castle is open throughout the year. Visit the website for the current opening times.

Leeds Castle

The origins of Leeds Castle date back to 857 when it was owned by a Saxon chief. Since 1278 the castle was owned by the Royal Family. It was King Edward I who bought the castle for his Queen, Eleanor of Castile and presumably created the lake that surrounds the castle.  

King henry VIII transformed the castle for his wife Catherine of Aragon. In the castle, you can still see a painting of his meeting with Francis I of France.

Leeds Castle’s current Tudor appearance dates back to the 19th century when the Wykeham Martins family remodeled the castle. The last private owner was Lady Baillie who redecorated the castle’s interiors. When you visit the castle you will step back in time to the 1930s.  

The castle has a lot to offer, from 1930s interiors to stunning gardens and parkland. The estate includes children’s playgrounds, a maze and underground grotto, and an adventure golf course.

Where: Leeds

Built: 857 (19th century Tudor remodel)

Style: Tudor

Visitor information: the castle is open daily. Visit the website for more information.

Walmer Castle

Walmer Castle is a former Royal Castle and Tudor fortress in Kent. The castle was built by King Henry VIII to defend the southern shores of England against an invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire.

Later, the castle became the home for the Lords Warden of the Cinque Ports (like the Duke of Wellington, Winston Churchill, and the Queen Mother).

Surrounding the castle are beautiful gardens with a kitchen garden, the Queen Mother’s Garden, wildflower meadows, and woodlands.

Where: Deal

Built: 1539

Visitor information: the castle is open throughout the year. Visit the website for more information

Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle is placed in a strategic location astride the London Road, on the banks of the river Medway, guarding the River Medway Crossing. The stone tower or keep is one of the best preserved Norman towers in England.

The Kentish ragstone Norman tower-keep was built by the Archbishop of Canterbury and in 1215 it endured a siege by King John.

The castle was rebuilt by Henry III and Edward I and it was kept as a fortress until the 16th century.

Where: Rochester

Built: 1087

Style: Norman

Visitor information: the castle is open throughout the year (closed on Mondays). Visit the website for current opening hours.

Deal Castle

Deal Castle is a Tudor artillery castle in the seaside town of Deal. The artillery fort was built by King Henry VIII as part of the King’s Device program. Together with Sandown Castle and Walmer Castle did it need to protect the country from invasion by France and the Holy Roman Empire.

The castle has unique architecture with a keep with six inner and outer bastions. In total, the castle had 66 firing positions for artillery.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, the castle was no longer used as a defensive castle and therefore it was transformed into a private house for the castle’s captain.

Visitor information: the castle is open to visitors. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Tonbridge Castle

Tonbridge Castle is a 13th century motte and bailey castle. The Medieval castle was built by the de Clare family. Located close to the market town of Tonbridge you can step into 950 years of history by visiting the gatehouse, the Great Hall, and the winding stairs. From the motte you have a gorgeous view of the town. 

From Tonbridge Castle, you can take a 6-mile cycle ride (the Tudor Trail) to Penshurst Place.

Where: Tonbridge

Built: 13th century

Style : Medieval

Visitor information: the castle and grounds are open daily. Visit the website for more information.

Penshurst Place

Penshurst Place is one of the finest examples of 14th century architecture in England. The manor house was once owned by King Henry VIII but in 1552 the house was granted to the Sidney family by King Edward VI. It is the birthplace of Elizabethan poet, courtier, and soldier Sir Philip Sidney.

With a visit to Penshurst Place you delve into Tudor history, but surrounding the house are also beautiful gardens, and adventure playground, a woodland trail, and a maze. 

Built: 1341

Visitor information: the house and gardens are open daily from April to October. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Scotney Castle

Set in Romantic Picturesque garden you will find a Victorian country mansion and the ruins of a 14th century moated castle. The gardens of Scotney Castle are a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The wooded gardens has a fine collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, kalmia, summer wisteria, and roses. The central feature of the gardens are Scotney Old Castle, the ruins of an Elizabethan castle.

In 1835 the new Scotney Castle was built, after a design by Anthony Salvin. The castle is an early example of Tudor Revival style in England.

Where : Lamberhurst

Built : 1835

Style : Tudor Revival

Visitor information: the estate is open throughout the year. Visit the website for more information.

Canterbury Castle

Canterbury Castle is one of three Royal castles in Kent (the others being Rochester Castle and Dover Castle). All three castles were built shortly after the Battle of Hastings. The original castle was a wooden motte and bailey castle built-in 1066. The motte of this castle is visible as the mount in the Dane John Gardens. The stone keep was built during the reign of Henry I and is now in a ruinous state and  closed to visitors .

Lullingstone Castle

Lullingstone Castle is a historic manor house that has been owned by the Hart Dyke family for twenty generations. The history of the manor dates back to the time of the Domesday Book though the current manor house dates back to 1497.

Despite its name, the house is not a castle (nor does it look like one), but it was visited by King Henry VIII and Queen Anne. And that’s not the only Royal connection. Zoe Dyke creates Lullingstone Silk Farm that was visited by Queen Mary. The farm created silk for the coronation robe of King George Vi and the wedding dresses of Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana.

Surrounding the house is the World Gardens of Plants which is created by the castle’s current owner. The park also houses some of the oldest oak trees in Britain.

Where: Eynsford

Built: 1497

Visitor information: the gardens are open April to October. The house is only open on event days and Bank Holidays. Visit the website for more information.

Knole is a former Archbishop’s Palace and country house in Kent. The 15th century country house is one of the largest houses in England. Knole is a beautiful example of Early Jacobean architecture, the house transformed from an archiepiscopal palace to a hunting palace of Henry VIII (and his daughter Mary also lived here) and eventually it became an aristocratic treasure house for the Sackville family. The home now shows a world-class collection of art, furnture, and tapestries.

Where: Sevenoaks

Built: 15th century (with later additions)

Style: Jacobean

Visitor information: Th house i open to the public. Visit the website for more information.

Chartwell is a country house in Kent that was the home of Sir Winston Churchill for more than forty years. The origins of the house date back to the 14th century but it was rebuilt and extended by architect Philip Tilden for Winston Churchill. In 1946 the Churchill’s needed to sell Chartwell but it was acquiered by the National Trust and they retained a life tenancy.

Surrounding the house is a 20th century flower garden that is wonderful to visit every season. From the garden, you also have a lovely view over the weald of Kent. 

Where: Westerham

Built: 1923

Style: Vernacular

Visitor information: the house and garden are open to the public. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Chiddingstone Castle

Chiddingstone Castle is a historic house that was owned by the Streatfeild family from the 16th century until the beginning of the 20th century. In the early 19th century the house was rebuilt in Gothic style.

The castle was bought by Denys Eyre Bower, a former bank clerk, and antique dealer, in 1955. He bought the castle to show his collection to the public. However, Bower was convicted of attempted murder of his mistress. When he was released from prison in 1962 he again opened the castle to the public.

Today the castle shows Bower’s collection of Ancient Egyptian, Japanese, Buddhist, and Jabobite and Stuart items. You can also see the Great Hall, Victorian Kitchen, Library, Servant’s Hall, and Streatfeild Room.

Where: Chiddingstone

Built: 16 th century and rebuilt in the 19th century

Style: Gothic

Visitor information: the castle is open Sunday to Wednesday. Visit the website for more information.

Groombridge Place

Groombridge Place is a 17 th century moated country house designed bySir Christopher Wren. The first owner of Groombridge place Philip Packer designed the gardens together with horticulturalist John Evelyn. The 17th century grid layout of the garden can still be seen today.

The country house is most famous for being the film location of Longbourn in Keira Knightley’s Pride and Prejudice movie adaptation .

Where: Groombridge

Built: 1662

Visitor information: the house is not open to the public but the gardens are open. Visit the website for more information.

Hever Castle

Hever Castle is the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII. The oldest part of the castle dates back to 1270 and in 1462 it was converted into a Tudor manor house by Geoffrey Boleyn. After the death of Anne’s father the castle was given to Anne of Cleves (Henry VIII’s fourth wife).

In 1903, the castle was bought by American millionaire William Waldorf Astor. He restored the manor and added a Tudor village (the Astor Wing) and an Italian Garden.  

Where : Hever

Built : 13 th century

Style : Tudor

Visitor information: the castle and gardens are open daily. Visit the website for current opening hours.

Sissinghurst Castle

Sissinghurst Castle is a Tudor castle that is best known for its famous gardens. The gardens are created by poet and writer Vita Sackville-West an her husband Harold Nicolson.The garden is divided into ten smaller garden rooms, each with their own style.

Where: Sissinghurst

Visitor information: the gardens are open to the public. Visit the National Trust website for more information.

Upnor Castle

Upnor Castle is an Elizabethan artillery fort located on the banks of the River Medway. The castle was built to protect the English warships that were moored at Clatham dockyards. Despite these intentions, in 1667 the English fleet was destroyed when the Dutch Republic launched an attack.

Where: Upnor

Built: 1559

Visitor information: the castle and gatehouse are open to the public, Visit the website for more information.

Sutton Valence Castle

Sutton Valence Castle is a ruined Norman fortification that was located on a strategic spot overlooking a road to the English south coast. The castle was built in the 12th century and it was given to William de Valence in 1265 by his half brother King Henry III.

The ruined castle is now owned by English Heritage who have opened the ruins to the public. From here, you have a wonderful view over East Sussex and the Weald of Kent.

Where: Sutton Valence

Built: 12th century

Visitor information: Free to visit during daylight hours

Eynsford Castle

The ruined castle was built on the location of an Anglo Saxon manor in the 11th century. The castle is a rare example of a Norman “enclosure castle”. The castle had an inner and ouer bailey, protected by a stone curtain wall. Parts of this curtain wall survived, together with the remains of the Hall building.

Built: 11th century

Visitor information: the castle is managed by English Heritage. Visit the website for more information.

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The Best Historical Places to Visit in Kent, UK

Travel southeast from the city of London and you will arrive in the Garden of England: Kent . Spanning from the London Borough of Bromley all the way down to a glorious coastline, this county offers so much to see and do – including castles and caves. We have selected the most unique attractions in Kent to guide you through the county’s history. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Dover castle.

Retaining beautiful towers built in the 11th and 12th centuries, Dover Castle is a fortress with an amazing history. Visitors can wander through the secret wartime tunnels deep within the famous White Cliffs, and watch drama unfold as real-life stories are captured, illustrating the Dunkirk evacuation of May 1940. The medieval palace and the Great Tower captures the richness of royalty, also providing guests with remarkable views of Dover. There are plenty of cafes to dine in, and special events take place throughout the year.

The Moat Tea Rooms

Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway

The steam locomotive officially opened in the summer of 1927 and has since served the Kent coastline from Hythe along to the National Nature Reserve of Dungeness. Also known as Kent’s Mainline in Miniature, Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway has six stations spanning along the 13.5mi (22km) of track in the picturesque Kent corner that also offers access to beaches, lighthouses, cycle rides and medieval churches. Refreshments are available at some stations, and train rides are suitable no matter the weather.

The Hop Farm

Having the largest collection of iconic Victorian Oast houses, the Hop Farm dates back over four centuries but has only changed hands four times in 450 years. The land was a fully working farm before opening to the public, and it now provides a wealth of entertainment. Take a trip down memory lane in Yesterday’s World, a museum processing over 1,000 artefacts from Victorian times, and then prepare to be mystified in the Magic Castle. Visitors can also enter into the life of a hop farmer in the Hop Museum and meet friendly animals in Hopper’s Animal World and the birds-of-prey zone, while children can enjoy rides, a soft play area, outdoor adventure areas and so much more.

Chislehurst Caves

Take a lantern and explore the dark labyrinth of Chislehurst Caves , where you’ll discover tales of the Druids, Romans, and Saxons and a haunted pool in the guided tour. The man-made tunnels cover a massive 22mi (35km) and were originally constructed as chalk and flint mines. Opening to the public for the first time in 1900, the maze of caves famously provided air-raid shelters during World War II and then became a music venue during the 1960s and ’70s, with performances from legends including Jimi Hendrix. Tours leave every hour and last for around 45 minutes.

The Oak on the Green

Positioned upon a pretty village green in Bearsted, just a few miles from the town of Maidstone, the Oak on the Green is an authentic pub and restaurant that can historically be traced back to 1665. The cosy candle-lit interior serves a whole range of fresh dishes for starters, lunch, dinner and dessert, all from the cookhouse and made from good-quality, local ingredients. As the pub is still a free house, a quality ale list is available – and they serve wine too.

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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.

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15 Best Castles in Kent to Visit

• by Jonny Duncan
• May 5, 2022 May 5, 2022

The castles in Kent are some of the most historic in all of England and make for an excellent day out and can also be easily done as day trips from London if that’s where you are based.

Although there are quite a few castles in Kent these are the main ones to see, especially the first four on the list.

I mportant: It’s best to check ahead if the castle is open for visits just to be safe. There are links under each castle mentioned to the official websites for them where you can check.

Tip: If you’re an overseas visitor to the U.K. you can get an English Heritage Pass that will get you into a lot of these castles.

Dover Castle

Dover Castle is the number one out of the castles in Kent that you should visit. It’s been called the “Key to England” because it’s very strategically located on the English Channel.

Its origins date back to the 11th-century when William The Conqueror started building a castle on the site of a former fort.

There has been a lot of history that happened in the area with the most recent important one happening during WWII when the massive network of underground tunnels (some of which you can see) was used.

This is one of the largest castles in England that you can visit.

There’s a great day tour from London to Dover Castle you can do that includes Leeds Castle.

It’s open for visitors.

Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle has a lot of history behind it and is a must-see castle in Kent. It’s also one of the closer castles near London making it easier to get to if visiting Kent from there.

The origins date to the 12th-century when William The Conqueror had the castle built and it has held a strategic location on the Medway River during its history where it guarded one of the few bridges to cross the river back in the 12th-13th-centuries.

It has been famous for the 2-month long siege by King John against the rebels who held the castle during the First Barons War.

Leeds Castle

Leeds Castle is one of the most popular castles in Kent to visit and was described as “The loveliest castle in the world” by Lord Conway.

Most of what you see these days is from construction done in the 19th-century, although the origins of the castle go way back to the 12th-century.

You can spend a night in the castle itself like booking a room in the Maidens Tower . There’s also the option to go glamping in the Knight’s Village.

As mentioned under the Dover Castle section, there is a day tour from London to Leeds Castle that includes Dover Castle as well.

Hever Castle

Hever Castle started out as a country house in the 13th-century and then evolved into a castle over the preceding centuries.

An old Tudor bridge connects the castle across the moat to the land. The oldest portcullis that still works in England is at Hever Castle.

It’s partly famous for being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn who was one of Henry VIII’s wives.

During the summer there may be old jousting tournaments on display as well as archery shows.

It’s also well known for its stunning Tudor Gardens and easily makes for one of the best castles in Kent to visit.

Upnor Castle

Upnor Castle is technically an artillery fort from Elizabethan times that was built only a few miles from Rochester Castle in the late 16th-century to defend Royal Navy ships that were docked further up the river.

Upnor Castle is worth visiting if you go to Rochester Castle as they are close to each other.

Chiddingstone Castle

Chiddingstone Castle is not far from London and it’s really a historic house rather than a full-on castle as that’s how it initially started out in the 16th-century before being transformed somewhat to a castle in the 19th-century but is still good to see.

Like many of the castles in Kent mentioned here, it has stunning gardens to wander around and a lovely tea room to relax after.

Tip: Chiddingstone Village is one of the oldest and prettiest villages in Kent so make sure you have a look around when there and grab a bite to eat at the Castle Inn.

Chiddingstone Castle is also very close to Hever Castle and combining the 2 for a long day trip is a perfect idea.

Chilham Castle

Chilham Castle is a large manor house not far from the medieval city of Canterbury and dates to the 17th-century when the house was built on the site of a medieval castle.

It’s not open for visits but every Tuesday in summer you can go and wander around the gardens. If you get in touch early on they might be able to arrange a special tour of the house.

Walmer Castle

Walmer Castle is part of a chain of artillery forts constructed along the coastline of the English Channel by Henry VIII in the 16th-century to protect against attack from the sea, especially from the French.

It eventually became the home for the Lord’s Warden of the Cinque Ports.

It has some great gardens to wander around when there such as the Queen Mother’s Garden and a delicious looking kitchen garden.

Deal Castle

Deal Castle goes along with Walmer Castle as one of the artillery forts built along the coast and essentially has a similar history.

You can see all of the castle including the tunnels below. It makes a great idea to combine Deal Castle and Walmer Castle on the same day.

Tip: If you have a bicycle there’s a good cycle path between Deal Castle and Walmer Castle.

Tonbridge Castle

Tonbridge Castle is a great Motte and Bailey Castle that dates back to the 11th-century although much of the stoneworks came in later centuries.

Having undergone heavy renovations in the early 2000s’ it is now in great condition to visit.

Tip: There is a good cycle ride (or walk) you can do along the ‘Tudor Trail’ from the castle that is 6 miles and takes you to Penshurst Place, another great historic building in the area to visit.

Lullingstone Castle

Lullingstone Castle is a large manor house dating to the 13th-century, although much of what you see today was started in the late 15th-century.

It has the honour of being one of England’s oldest family estates.

It’s well known for its gardens and although the castle itself isn’t really a ‘castle’ so to speak, it’s worth going to.

Scotney Castle

Scotney Castle is a country house that dates to the early 12th-century. From 1778 it was in the hands of the Hussey Family until the late 20th-century.

It has some good gardens to walk in and being a small castle you can really slow down and not rush around trying to see a lot.

There’s an excellent tea room there to enjoy some tasty food and drinks.

It’s open for visits.

Eynsford Castle

Eynsford Castle is in a very ruined state as it’s one of the oldest medieval castles in Kent and was built by William de Enysford in the late 11th-century.

This castle I would only recommend to go to if you have a real interest in castle history. However, if you are just looking for 1 or 2 castles in Kent to visit then skip it to save time.

Canterbury Castle

Canterbury Castle is also in a very ruined state of affairs and is only recommended to see if you have a deep interest in castles.

However, it’s located in one of the most famous medieval cities, Canterbury, and Canterbury should be on your list of places to visit in Kent when there to see the historic cathedral, so stop by and see the castle as well.

St Leonard’s Tower

St Leonard’s Tower is just an added bonus to have a look at only if you’re in the area as it’s nowhere near as impressive as other places to see.

However, it is a perfect and well-preserved example of a free-standing Norman tower keep that dates roughly to the late 11th-century.

Castles In Kent

There are plenty of castles in Kent to choose from but in my experience, if I had to choose only one then make it to Dover Castle, with Rochester Castle and Leeds Castle as other options.

Have a read of 5 of the best things to do in Kent .

For more castles in Britain take a look at the 15 best castles in Cornwall to visit .

For a good book on castles in Britain take a look at this one from one of the best historians, Marc Morris:  Castle: A History of the Buildings that Shaped Medieval Britain (Amazon affiliate link).

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Rare visit by House speaker to campus escalates tension at Columbia

“Get off our campus!” one student yelled. “Go back to Louisiana, Mike!” someone shouted.

NEW YORK — House Speaker Mike Johnson and his Republican colleagues were met with boos, laughs and pro-Palestinian chants after parachuting into one center of the roiling protest movement against Israel’s war against Hamas: Columbia University in New York City.

Johnson and a group of GOP lawmakers landed on campus — where tensions are high between the university administration and students who have erected pro-Palestinian encampments — and demanded that Columbia’s president, Nemat “Minouche” Shafik, resign for failing to quickly dismantle the encampments and, in their view, for not doing enough to ensure that Jewish people on campus feel safe.

Around 4 p.m. Wednesday, the Louisiana Republican — who just shepherded through Congress a $26 billion aid package for Israel, including $9 billion in humanitarian help to Gaza and elsewhere — appeared on the steps of Columbia’s stately library, which looks out over the student encampments. Signs of a campus on edge were all over: A dozen New York police officers stood guard outside the school’s big black gates on Broadway. Bike racks strung with yellow police tape cordoned off some of the sidewalk.

“I am here today joining my colleagues and calling on President Shafik to resign if she could not immediately bring order to this chaos,” Johnson said. “As speaker of the House, I’m committed today that the Congress will not be silent as Jewish students are expected to run for their lives and stay home from their classes hiding in fear.”

A crowd of students, swelling as Johnson and his colleagues began speaking, intermittently laughed and yelled that they couldn’t hear the congressman or his colleagues. The students booed the speaker, chanted in support of Palestine, including “Free Palestine,” “Stop the genocide” and “ From the river to the sea ,” a phrase that some say constitutes antisemitic speech.

“Enjoy your free speech,” Johnson rejoined, sounding uncharacteristically irritated.

As Johnson wrapped up, the students renewed their boos and began to chant, “Mike, you suck!”

House Republicans have long accused elite colleges and universities of skewing left and pursuing a “woke” agenda that tramples on parental rights. But the antiwar outbursts on campuses across the country that began shortly after Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel — and the rise of antisemitism on college campuses, according to the Anti-Defamation League — are now oft-repeated targets of Republican criticism. GOP lawmakers are seeking to slash federal funding for universities and have hauled university officials to Capitol Hill to answer questions such as whether “calling for the genocide of Jews” would violate their schools’ code of conduct.

“If these campuses cannot get control of this problem, they do not deserve taxpayer dollars,” Johnson said. “We’ll continue to work on legislation to adjust this at the federal level. This Congress — and I genuinely believe there’s bipartisan agreement on this — will stand for what is good and what is right.”

House Democrats descended Monday onto Columbia’s campus to express outrage over antisemitic harassment of Jewish students on and around campus. They included Jewish Reps. Josh Gottheimer (N.J.), Dan Goldman (N.Y.), Jared Moskowitz (Fla.) and Kathy Manning (N.C.).

The lawmakers’ pleas were not as forceful as Republicans’, who left no room for distinction between those targeting Jewish students and those peacefully protesting the Israel-Gaza war . But the Democrats were adamant about the need to protect students with backgrounds like theirs.

“Imagine trying to study for finals at Columbia, while people outside the library are calling for your death,” Gottheimer said at a news conference following their walk through campus. “To the administrators at Columbia and beyond, here are our demands: Stop the double talk and start acting. Discipline harassers. Restore civility on this campus. Encourage peaceful, constructive, civil dialogue. Every student has a right to be safe on campus.”

Johnson’s remarks came after he met with Jewish students at Columbia University, shared a meal with the university’s Rabbi Yuda Drizin and briefly met with Shafik before the news conference with three New York House Republicans and House Education and the Workforce Chair Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.). Johnson said Republicans met with Shafik and other top officials and left the meeting believing that they had “not acted to restore order on the campus.”

Asked whether he believes the National Guard should be sent in to restore order on college campuses across the country, Johnson said, “If this is not contained quickly, and if these threats and intimidation are not stopped, there is an appropriate time for the National Guard.”

Johnson also said he would call President Biden to inform him about what he saw on campus and “demand that he take action. There is executive authority that would be appropriate.”

The speaker’s visit marks the first time the top representative in the U.S. House has visited a college campus amid ongoing protests that have led to tense exchanges between pro-Palestinian and Jewish students. More than 100 people on Columbia’s campus were recently arrested and charged with trespassing, with several students who took part in the protest facing suspension just weeks before year’s end. Shafik called on the New York Police Department, whose officers arrived in riot gear, to arrest protesters just one day after she and other Columbia leaders told Congress she would make changes aimed at ending the harassment of Jewish students. The school also announced it would start a hybrid learning model for the rest of the year.

Neither Johnson nor Congress has any power to force a university president’s resignation. White House press secretary Karine Jean Pierre on Wednesday declined to weigh in on whether Shafik should resign, telling reporters, “Columbia’s a private institution. We’ve been very consistent here about not commenting on personnel matters.”

House Republicans who visited Columbia with the speaker made clear they would follow through with punishing colleges and universities if the protests are not controlled.

“The inmates are running the asylum,” Foxx said. “The [Education and Workforce] committee will pursue every possible avenue to create a safe learning environment for Jewish students.”

Rep. Michael Lawler (R-N.Y.) was much more forceful in his rebuke of students, acknowledging that he too wants Palestinians to be free “from their oppressor, Hamas,” and characterized any students who support the terrorist organization as “an absolute abomination.”

“If you are a protester on this campus, and you are proud that you’ve been endorsed by Hamas, you are part of the problem,” fellow N.Y. Rep. Anthony D’Esposito (R) said.

House Republicans have been pummeling the heads of elite university institutions for months, using them as a punching bag to make a broader point about how out-of-touch elite institutions are with normal Americans. Johnson has previously invited Jewish students to meet with him in the Capitol, and he has often allowed them to tell their stories of being under attack at school during news conferences.

At a December hearing, the interrogation by House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) of Harvard President Claudine Gay over whether antisemitic remarks should be protected under free speech went viral.

The hearing led to a bipartisan call on Capitol Hill to denounce or demand the resignation of leaders at Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology for their responses, which were deemed out of touch. Penn President Liz Magill and Gay both resigned amid public outcry.

The hearing launched further investigations by the committee and continual hearings to combat antisemitism on college campus, ending in Shafik’s Capitol Hill testimony last Wednesday.

The Israel-Gaza war is also contentious among House Democrats, with liberals clashing with some Jewish colleagues early on in the war. That prompted Democratic leadership to attempt to keep attacks from becoming personal. Over the weekend, 37 liberals voted against sending $14 billion in aid to Israel over concerns that humanitarian aid would not reach Gaza, joining 21 Republicans who did not support the measure over spending concerns.

It’s just as complicated on Columbia’s campus. Basil Rodriguez, 23, argued Wednesday that Johnson and any lawmaker who backed sending aid to Israel is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Palestinians.

“I would urge him to reckon with his own positionality in the United States government and how the U.S. has been sending weapons that are falling in Gaza,” said Rodriguez, who is participating in the student encampment on campus. “He is directly complicit in this genocide unless he is a vocal advocate for it to stop.”

For Jewish student Spencer Davis, 19, the situation at Columbia is more nuanced than many of its critics have portrayed.

A member of a joint program between the Jewish Theological Seminary and Columbia, he was in the crowd watching Johnson speak. He said he feels safe on campus but understands why others do not and that his roommate booked a last-minute flight home over safety concerns. Davis said people have thrown things at members of his Jewish fraternity.

Still, Davis said, he believes the protests have been largely peaceful and questioned the motivations of politicians such as Johnson who have decried the encampment and Columbia’s leadership. “I think that a lot of Republican congresspeople are using this opportunity to further their culture war against liberal institutions like Columbia,” Davis said. “I think it has less to do with protecting Jewish students and more to do with their agenda, and they’re using Jewish students as pawns.”

Turkey's Erdogan postpones tentative White House visit, sources say

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Reporting by Steve Holland and Humeyra Pamuk in Washington and Jonathan Spicer in Ankara; additional reporting by Jarrett Renshaw and Paul Grant; writing by Susan Heavey; Editing by Doina Chiacu and Alistair Bell, Kirsten Donovan

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Thomson Reuters

Turkey Bureau Chief overseeing political, economic and foreign policy coverage. Work spans the country's diplomatic balancing act, landmark elections, historic earthquakes and the mainstream media, as well as reporting on Syria, Lebanon and Ukraine. Previously covered the U.S. economy, Federal Reserve and Wall Street including award-winning work on financial-market trading and a global cyber heist.

A Hamas delegation will visit Cairo on Monday for talks aimed at securing a ceasefire, a Hamas official told Reuters on Sunday, as mediators stepped up efforts to reach a deal ahead of an Israeli assault on the southern city of Rafah.

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