Welcome to Kent, a picturesque county in the far southeast of England that offers a delightful blend of history, countryside, and coastal charm. Known as the “Garden of England”, Kent boasts lush landscapes dotted with hop farms, oast houses, and quaint villages. In addition to its rural beauty, Kent is also home to historic towns, captivating castles, and stunning coastal vistas.
Let’s embark on a journey to discover the 15 best places to visit in Kent, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Kent has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this enchanting corner of England!
1. Canterbury: A Historic Gem
- Canterbury Cathedral: Marvel at the magnificent Norman and gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a pivotal role in English medieval history.
- City Walls: Explore the remnants of the city walls, castle ruins, and the iconic Westgate, the largest medieval city gate in England.
- Archbishop’s Palace: Discover the rich history of the Archbishop of Canterbury, one of the most influential figures in English ecclesiastical history.
2. Dover: Gateway to England
- White Cliffs: Admire the iconic white chalk cliffs that overlook the English Channel, offering stunning views of the coastline.
- Dover Castle: Step back in time at Dover Castle, a historic fortification with Roman, medieval, and World War II-era features.
- Secret Tunnels: Descend into the underground tunnels of Dover Castle, used during World War II for strategic military operations.
3. Ramsgate: Seaside Bliss
- Royal Harbour: Visit the only Royal Harbour in the UK, surrounded by long piers and a picturesque seaside promenade.
- Ramsgate Tunnels: Explore the deep air-raid shelters dug during World War II, now open for guided tours.
- Ramsgate Sands: Relax on the Blue Flag beach of Ramsgate Sands, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the coastal scenery.
4. Broadstairs: Victorian Charm
- Viking Bay: Spend a day at the historic seaside resort of Broadstairs, known for its golden sand beaches and charming Victorian architecture.
- Bleak House: Visit the cliff-top Bleak House, where Charles Dickens wrote “David Copperfield” and enjoy panoramic views of the coast.
- Old Town: Wander through the historic streets of Old Town Broadstairs, lined with independent shops, cafes, and traditional seaside amenities.
5. Sandwich: A Taste of History
- Cinque Port: Explore the medieval town of Sandwich, one of the Cinque Ports, known for its maritime history and well-preserved architecture.
- Richborough Castle: Visit the ruins of Richborough Castle, a Roman and Saxon fortress that played a key role in the Claudian Invasion of AD 43.
- White Mill: Learn about rural life in Kent at the White Mill, a restored windmill dating back to the 18th century.
6. Rochester: Dickensian Delights
- Rochester Castle: Admire the well-preserved keep of Rochester Castle, a medieval fortress with a rich history dating back to the 12th century.
- Rochester Cathedral: Visit the magnificent Norman and Gothic cathedral, the second-oldest diocese in England after Canterbury.
- Dickens Connection: Explore the literary heritage of Rochester, a town closely associated with Charles Dickens and his iconic works.
7. Chatham: Naval History
- Historic Dockyard: Immerse yourself in naval history at the Chatham Historic Dockyard, home to heritage ships and historic naval buildings.
- Fort Amherst: Discover the 18th-century fortress of Fort Amherst, built to protect the dockyard from French invasions.
- Ropery: Visit the Grade I-listed ropery, where traditional rope-making techniques are still practiced today.
8. Royal Tunbridge Wells: Elegant Escapes
- The Pantiles: Stroll along the historic colonnaded walkway of The Pantiles, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries.
- Dunorlan Park: Relax in the picturesque gardens of Dunorlan Park, set in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells.
- Scotney Castle: Explore the romantic ruins of Scotney Castle, surrounded by landscaped gardens and a tranquil moat.
9. Sevenoaks: Stately Splendor
- Knole House: Visit the grand Knole House, a National Trust property with over 300 rooms and extensive parkland.
- North Downs: Explore the scenic beauty of the North Downs, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a network of walking trails.
- Otford: Discover the charming villages of Otford and Shoreham, nestled in the rolling hills of the North Downs.
10. Deal: Coastal Charms
- Deal Castle: Step back in time at Deal Castle, a Tudor artillery fort with panoramic views of the English Channel.
- Walmer Castle: Explore the historic grounds of Walmer Castle, built during the reign of Henry VIII and surrounded by lush gardens.
- Pebble Beach: Relax on the pebble beach of Deal, stretching for miles along the picturesque coastline of Kent.
11. Whitstable: Oyster Capital
- Whitstable Harbour: Sample fresh oysters at the bustling fishing harbour of Whitstable, known for its seafood delicacies.
- Oyster Festival: Join the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival, celebrating the town’s rich maritime heritage and culinary traditions.
- Old Neptune: Enjoy a pint at the Old Neptune, a historic pub located directly on the beachfront.
12. Folkestone: Creative Corners
- Leas Lift: Ride the historic Leas Lift, a funicular railway offering scenic views of the English Channel from the Leas cliff.
- Creative Quarter: Explore the eclectic Creative Quarter, home to a vibrant arts community with galleries, studios, and independent shops.
- Georgian Architecture: Admire the elegant Georgian and Victorian townhouses that line the streets of Folkestone.
13. Aylesford: Riverside Retreat
- Aylesford Priory: Visit Aylesford Priory, a Carmelite monastery with peaceful grounds and tearooms open to visitors.
- Medway Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the River Medway from the historic Aylesford Bridge, framed by medieval architecture.
- George House: Explore the historic George House, a former inn that now houses medieval almshouses and charming guest accommodations.
14. Tenterden: Countryside Charms
- Kent & East Sussex Railway: Take a nostalgic journey on the Kent & East Sussex Railway, a heritage steam railway running through the idyllic countryside.
- Smallhythe Place: Visit Smallhythe Place, the former home of Victorian actress Ellen Terry, now managed by the National Trust.
- Local Breweries: Sample local ciders, ales, and wines at Tenterden’s traditional breweries and wineries, offering tours and tastings.
15. Ashford: Gateway to Europe
- Designer Outlet: Shop for luxury fashion brands at the Ashford Designer Outlet, a popular retail destination for locals and tourists.
- Godinton House: Explore the grandeur of Godinton House, a Jacobean stately home set in exquisite gardens with a collection of fine porcelain.
- Kent Downs: Discover the natural beauty of the Kent Downs, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with scenic walking trails and nature reserves.
Kent truly offers a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks and cultural treasures to scenic landscapes and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re exploring the ancient cathedrals of Canterbury, strolling along the golden sands of Broadstairs, or indulging in fresh oysters at Whitstable, Kent never fails to enchant visitors with its timeless beauty and rich heritage.
So why wait? Plan your next getaway to Kent and experience the best of England’s “Garden of England” for yourself!
In conclusion, Kent is a county that offers an array of experiences, from historic landmarks to scenic countryside and charming coastal towns. By exploring the 15 best places to visit in Kent, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this captivating region. So pack your bags, embark on an adventure to Kent, and create memories that will last a lifetime.