Summary
In the far southeast of England, one might observe the existence of two distinct regions within Kent.
The gentle rural Kent is characterized by affluent towns, National Trust estates, and charming villages, while the coastal Kent features fortifications designed to protect the entry points to England, which were later transformed for recreational coastal activities in the 19th century.
In rural Kent, the county truly embodies its title as the “Garden of England,” with lush landscapes filled with hop farms and orchards, alongside picturesque villages featuring tranquil duck ponds, pubs, village greens, and Norman churches.
A unique architectural feature in the Kent countryside is the “oast house,” which consists of barns and residences situated on hop farms, identifiable by their conical roofs topped with a white vent used for air circulation and drying hops stored in the upper levels.
Let us delve into the premier locations to explore in Kent:
1. Canterbury
Canterbury is as beautiful as it is historically significant.
It serves as the seat of the first diocese in the British Isles, established in the 6th century.
The Archbishop of Canterbury remains one of the most notable public figures in England.
The splendid Norman and Gothic cathedral stands as a centerpiece within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the site of a crucial event in English medieval history: the assassination of Archbishop Thomas Becket by supporters of King Henry II at the altar in 1170. Canterbury offers many attractions, including Roman mosaics, the remnants of a castle and abbey, the city walls, and the impressive Westgate, the largest medieval city gate in England.
2. Dover
This town has historically served as a gateway to the British Isles from continental Europe and serves as the primary ferry port for travel from France and Belgium.
When arriving by sea, the first sight to behold is the striking white chalk cliffs.
On land, visitors can enjoy a notable walk along the grassy cliff-tops, leading to Kingsdown, situated eight miles away.
Given its proximity to France, Dover required fortification, leading to the construction of Dover Castle in its current form during the 12th century, under King Henry II’s reign. The site is rich in history, housing remnants from the Roman Lighthouse (one of England’s oldest buildings), 18th-century artillery emplacements, and the concealed Second World War tunnels.
3. Ramsgate
With six other beaches accessible within a short drive, Ramsgate Sands features a Blue Flag beach complemented by a promenade and cliffs.
During favorable weather conditions, it offers all the nostalgic delights of an English seaside resort, while in autumn and winter, it transforms into a dramatic setting ideal for invigorating walks.
Ramsgate is notable for being the only Royal Harbour, best appreciated from the long piers that shield it from the open sea and provide a Mediterranean ambiance during the warmest summer days.
A visit to the Ramsgate Tunnels is also essential—these deep air-raid shelters crafted for the Second World War are now available for guided tours.
4. Broadstairs
The introduction of steam power and railways in the 19th century enabled Londoners to access Broadstairs within hours, drawn by the sea air and seven delightful sandy bays.
Charles Dickens favored Broadstairs for his vacations, writing “David Copperfield” at Bleak House, perched on the cliff above Viking Bay, overlooking the North Foreland chalk headland.
On sunny days, Broadstairs remains the preferred destination in Thanet for a seaside escape, thanks to its historic high street featuring independent shops and the nostalgic charm of traditional holiday attractions like beach huts, a bandstand, and retro ice cream parlors.
5. Sandwich
Like Dover, Sandwich was part of the Cinque Ports, a historic confederation of five towns along the Kent and Sussex coast that collaborated for trade and defense.
Today, evidence of Sandwich’s rich history can be observed in the town’s gates from the old fortifications, two impressive almshouses, and several pubs that have served patrons for centuries.
The White Mill, a windmill established in the 1700s and meticulously restored, illustrates the traditional rural lifestyle of bygone days.
Additionally, just minutes from the town lies Richborough Castle, a fascinating Roman and Saxon fortress, which is believed to be the landing site for the Claudian Invasion in AD 43.
6. Rochester
Those familiar with the early chapters of Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” may recognize the muddy Medway River, even though the author never explicitly mentioned it.
Dickens was raised nearby in Chatham and later resided at Gad’s Hill Place, a mansion just outside Rochester, where he spent his final days.
Rochester boasts more attractions; its castle features a 12th-century keep, with remarkably preserved walls and towers despite their great age.
This breathtaking structure is rivaled by the impressive Rochester Cathedral, constructed in the 11th century and serving as the seat of a diocese dating back to 604, making it the second-oldest diocese in England after Canterbury.
7. Chatham
Punctuating a bend in the Medway River, Chatham is enriched with naval history.
From 1567 until the 1980s, the Royal Navy Dockyard operated here and is now preserved as Chatham Historic Dockyard.
For those captivated by the age of sail, the dockyard is a treasure trove, offering heritage ships such as HMS Gannet and the Grade I-listed ropery—a 364-meter-long building still producing rope commercially.
A worthy addition to the dockyard experience is Fort Amherst, constructed in 1756 to safeguard the dockyard during potential French invasions.
8. Royal Tunbridge Wells
Located in the High Weald’s craggy sandstone ridge, Royal Tunbridge Wells has welcomed affluent visitors since the 1600s, who were attracted by its restorative waters.
This unique sandstone geology is observable in the unusual rock formations, such as Wellington Rocks on Tunbridge Common and the magnificent High Rocks just outside the town.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely afternoons in the lovely gardens of distinguished estates, such as Dunorlan Park, Calverly Grounds, and Scotney Castle—all exuding utmost grandeur.
The surrounding landscapes resemble a picturesque painting, showcasing hop farms, duck ponds, village greens, pub gardens, and oast houses.
9. Sevenoaks
Situated just outside the M25, Sevenoaks is Kent’s primary tourist destination for travelers arriving from London and is home to many residents who commute to the city.
The picturesque countryside is adorned with lovely villages, such as Otford and Shoreham, while an abundance of woodlands provides ample opportunities for enjoyable walks.
However, the highlight of the area is Knole House, a National Trust property recognized as one of England’s most esteemed stately homes.
This remarkable gabled structure from the 15th and 16th centuries is set within four square kilometers of parkland where groups of deer roam freely.
The house is expansive for its era, boasting over 300 rooms and seven courtyards.
10. Deal
Deal’s seafront is filled with charming features, encompassing rows of whitewashed cottages alongside grander flat-fronted houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
Visitors can navigate through narrow lanes adorned with antique gaslights, discovering classic seaside staples such as fish and chip shops and candy stores selling traditional rock candy.
The town also holds military significance, with Deal Castle, a Tudor-era artillery fort constructed in the 16th century featuring 66 firing positions and a low profile designed to minimize exposure to enemy fire.
Walmer Castle, located further south, shares a similar design and was built during the same period under Henry VIII’s administration. The pebble beach stretches for miles, connecting to the neighboring towns of Walmer and Kingsdown, bordered by heathland where wild fennel flourishes along the beachfront path.
11. Whitstable
Whitstable is a seaside town brimming with character and authenticity, attributed to its flourishing fishing industry.
The town is especially known for its oysters, a local specialty harvested from its waters for over 2,000 years.
Following a decline in the post-war years, the oyster industry revitalized and is celebrated every July during the Whitstable Oyster Festival.
An essential component of any visit is a stroll around the bustling fishing harbor and market, supplemented by a dining experience at one of the town’s exceptional seafood restaurants.
Pebble beaches flank either side of the harbor, featuring the Old Neptune—a rare establishment, as it is a pub situated directly on the beach.
12. Folkestone
A distinctive remnant of Folkestone’s historical seaside prominence is the Leas Lift, a short funicular railway installed in 1885 for the transport of visitors from the seafront to the promenade located atop the Leas cliff. This landmark is maintained by a local non-profit organization.
On a clear day, one can even glimpse France from the Leas Promenade, while the area at its base houses the Lower Leas Coastal Park, complete with a beach adorned by colorful painted huts.
For enthusiasts of Georgian and Victorian architecture, Folkestone’s numerous whitewashed townhouses will undoubtedly captivate.
The Creative Quarter offers a quaint cobblestoned street, home to over 100 artists and independent galleries, studios, shops, and cafes.
13. Aylesford
A visit to this village, located near Maidstone, is worthwhile solely for the view from the south bank of the Medway, where the 14th-century bridge spans the river, framed by rows of towering brick and timber houses and the tower of St. Peter and Paul’s Church.
Along the high street, one can discover medieval almshouses and the exquisite George House, which once served as a inn for horse-drawn coach travelers.
Aylesford Priory, referred to as the Friars, holds a unique position as it was reacquired by the Carmelites in the 1940s, 400 years after the previous dissolution of monastic institutions.
The serene grounds welcome visitors without charge and are open year-round; visitors can also enjoy tea and pastries at the tearooms throughout the week.
14. Tenterden
An affluent country town, Tenterden presents a picturesque representation of rural England, with a medieval church, a quaint high street, historical pubs, and a connection to the Kent & East Sussex steam railway.
In the surrounding area, opportunities abound for tours at breweries, cider presses, and even wineries.
Small Hythe, located near Tenterden, is notable for Smallhythe Place, a delightful 15th or 16th-century half-timbered residence.
This property, now managed by the National Trust, was the home of the Victorian actor Ellen Terry for nearly three decades, with numerous artifacts displayed—including a letter from Oscar Wilde and stage costumes from her career.
15. Ashford
At the heart of the county, Ashford attracts visitors from neighboring villages and towns for its shopping opportunities.
The Ashford Designer Outlet stands out as a prominent attraction, featuring significant discounts on luxury fashion brands.
Additionally, Ashford serves as a critical junction between England and France, being the final stop for the Eurostar before it crosses the channel or terminates in London at St. Pancras.
Just moments away from Ashford lies the exquisite Godinton House, a Jacobean stately home set amidst beautiful gardens and housing a cherished porcelain collection.
For walking enthusiasts, the Kent Downs are easily accessible just north of Ashford, providing entry points to extensive trails such as the Stour Valley Walk and the North Downs Way.
