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Mudpie Fridays >> Kent >> 13 Of The Best Kent Coastal Towns to Visit in 2024

13 Of The Best Kent Coastal Towns to Visit in 2024

The Kent coastline is home to some of the best seaside destinations in the South. We often like to escape for a day to the seaside. There are so many Kent Coastal Towns within easy reach of London. With direct trains running out of St Pancras, Charing Cross and Kings Cross. It makes these beautiful beaches a popular choice in the Summer season. But many are worth a visit all year round. Here are our favourite seaside towns in Kent.

Table of Contents

The Best Kent Coastal Towns

If you think any other towns or villages should be included in this best Kent coastal towns article. Then please let me know in the comments below and I will add them in. 

We visited  Whistable for the first time in Twixmas  and it was the perfect seaside break. We got so lucky with the weather with blue skies the whole time we were there. Whitstable is one of the more popular Kent seaside towns and is a lovely location to visit for the day or spend a few days for a mini break. With a shingle beach looking out onto the Thames Estuary. It is a great spot for the family to enjoy some time by the seaside. You can also catch fishing trips and sightseeing boat trips from the harbour.

Famous for its oysters, the picturesque seaside town comes complete with colourful beach huts and a working harbour. Which is good for a wander, hosts a little market in wooden huts and is a great place to pick up some fresh fish for dinner. Or you can sample the famous Whitstable oysters in the local restaurants. Which are renowned for their exceptional quality and unique flavour. If you plan on visiting during the late Summer then keep an eye out for the  Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival  that normally runs over a weekend in September. Normally there are lots of activities going on over the weekend, including live music, parades, seafood tastings, and family-friendly entertainment

Explore the quaint shops and art galleries along Harbour Street. Visit Whitstable Castle and Gardens, and then continue along the coast to the beach huts. And for a chance to see ‘The Street’ which is a shingle road that emerges during low tide. If you are staying for longer then you could also take a day trip to  Canterbury  or the  Blean Woods National Nature Reserve.

Broadstairs

If you are looking for a  quintessential British seaside experience, then Broadstairs is for you. Probably the most popular of the Kent coastal towns. Known for its sandy beaches, stunning cliffside views, and charming old town with narrow winding streets. It is between more well-known seaside towns such as Ramsgate and Margate and is often overlooked. Making it the perfect option if you want a beautiful seaside town that isn’t so crowded. Broadstairs also serves as a good base if you want to explore the other Kent coastal towns.

The main attraction is Viking Bay, a beautiful sandy beach with picturesque white cliffs and a vibrant seafront promenade. Having been awarded a blue flag the sandy beach is sheltered, offering a variety of water sports and has been voted one of the best on the South East Coast. There are several scenic coastal paths with stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding coastline. Or you can take a boat trip or a sea kayaking excursion discovering hidden coves, sea caves, and marine wildlife along the way.

If you are looking for a bit of culture then you can explore  Bleak House  – Dickens House Museum The historic building that inspired Charles Dickens now houses a museum dedicated to the author. It is normally open from Easter through to the end of October half-term. Alternatively head to the  Crampton Tower Museum , which showcases the history of Broadstairs and its other famous residents.

Broadstairs also hosts the annual  Folk Week , a popular music festival that runs from the 9-16th of August in 2024. The festival features concerts, workshops, and traditional dance events.

Possibly one of the most well-known of the Kent seaside towns. It is located on the North Kent coast Margate is famous for Chas and Dave and Delboy and Rodney, but these days Margate has undergone a revival. In recent years the town has become an artistic and cultural hub. It is home to the Turner Contemporary Art Gallery  which is not only free but offers an ever-changing range of exhibitions.

In the warmer months, the amusement park  Dreamland  offers vintage rides, roller coasters, and entertainment options for all ages. In the colder months, it acts as an inside entertainment venue with live music and events. For something completely different visit the  Shell Grotto  for underground passageways adorned with seashell mosaics. I have never seen anything like it. 

Margate Museum  is housed in a Grade II listed building in the heart of Margate Old Town. And is a unique example of a Victorian Police Station and Magistrates Court displaying an eclectic history of the seaside town of Margate over the past 5,500 years.

There are several sandy beaches, Main Sands is one of the best on the South East coast. A large wide expanse of sand where families congregate on warm and sunny days. Perfect for making sandcastles and taking a dip in the sea. The Margate Harbour Arm dates back to 1815 and offers panoramic views of the coastline with its lighthouse which was rebuilt in 1955. With eateries right next to the sea, it is a great spot for lunch. Margate’s old town has many independent shops to browse.

If you have a car then you may also want to consider a visit to the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool or Botany Bay with its stunning chalk stacks. It is also a great place to look for fossils and explore rock pools.

With its historic charm and a blend of Georgian and Victorian architecture, Deal is a delightful Kent coastal town. It boasts all of the typical things you would expect from one of the best Kent coast towns, only on a smaller scale. It won’t get as busy as some of the other suggestions, making it perfect for families. Deal Pier, is one of the UK’s most iconic and historic seaside piers and the only intact pier in Kent. Stretches out into the English Channel.

The town’s pebble beach, a picturesque pier that has recently undergone a huge upgrade, and a vibrant high street with independent shops and eateries make it a popular destination. You can explore the English Heritage site of  Deal Castle . A striking Tudor artillery fort built during the reign of Henry VIII. The castle’s distinctive circular design and formidable defences provide a captivating glimpse into England’s military past. You can explore the castle’s interior, climb its battlements, and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

Just a little further along the coast, there is also another English Heritage site –  Walmer Castle and Gardens .  For something completely different you can visit the  Timeball Museum  on the seafront which still has a functioning timeball. This historically served as a vital timekeeping device for ships and provides insights into Deal’s maritime legacy.

Despite it being a small town there are still a lot of bars, restaurants and pubs to enjoy. As well as a hamlet of local boutiques and shops in Middle Street. The old town has many distinctive Georgian and Victorian buildings. It doesn’t seem to be as commercialised as some of the other locations mentioned, giving it that charm and beauty. From Deal, you can take a train or car to the nearby town of Sandwich, with its historic charm, medieval architecture and the sweeping Sandwich Bay.

This Kent coastal town is known for its long promenade, Herne Bay offers a sandy beach, colourful beach huts, and traditional seaside attractions. It is also one of the best places to go crabbing in Kent . We enjoyed visiting the historic Herne Bay Pier and the central beach with its kid’s playgrounds. A great spot to enjoy some fish and chips or ice cream as the kids play.

The  Herne Bay Festival  generally runs from the end of July through to the end of August. Over the five-week programme of the festival, there are lots of events including a carnival, jazz festival, live music, art exhibitions, family-friendly activities and fireworks.  The Seaside Museum  showcases a diverse array of exhibits, offering insights into the town’s local heritage and maritime traditions.

This is a really scenic area of the Kent coast and is a great option if you are looking for one of the best beaches in Kent. Perfect for families to enjoy all of the usual seaside activities. Plenty of spots for some food and drinks and lots of fun to be had at the amusement park and along the promenade.  Herne Bay Memorial Park  is situated in the heart of the town. It has formal planted gardens, a lake, a play area and several sporting facilities. The lake is large and although not available for fishing, it is used for model boats and is home to lots of ducks who are always keen to be fed.

For a day trip, there is the English Heritage site of  Reculver Towers and Roman Fort . An ancient site with historic ruins, coastal walks, and panoramic views of the coastline.

Situated on the southeastern coast of Kent, Folkestone is probably best known as the home of the Eurotunnel. However, it also boasts a charming harbour, a sandy beach, and the artistic quarter of  Creative Folkestone . Which is the United Kingdom’s largest urban outdoor exhibition of contemporary art. You can also wander through the Creative Quarter, a vibrant and eclectic area filled with independent shops, art galleries, and creative studios.

The town is also known for the scenic  Lower Leas Coastal Park . A linear park between Folkestone and Sandgate, with wildlife such as migrating birds and insects thrive in the area and the park contains an under cliff area with a unique microclimate attracting wildlife rarely found in the United Kingdom. 

Take a journey on the charming  Leas Lift , a historic funicular railway that provides a scenic and convenient link between the seafront and the clifftop promenade. The town’s iconic Leas Promenade offers breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel. With its well-manicured gardens, inviting benches, and refreshing sea breezes. The  Folkestone Harbour Arm , is a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a variety of food and drink outlets, live music, art installations, and stunning views of the sea. 

The Sunny Sands beach itself has plenty for families to enjoy, with a sandy beach and shallow waters. The harbour gives you plenty of opportunity to go boat spotting, and the town boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in Kent.  Folkestone Museum  takes you on a journey through the history of Folkestone. From its origins as a humble coastal community, through to its heyday as a fashionable seaside resort and beyond.

While Dover might not be a town you may associate with a seaside visit, thanks to its busy port it is still a great town to visit on the coast of Kent. You can enjoy the harbour and port and have a look at all the larger ships and boats. There is a small stretch of beach where you can enjoy paddling and beach activities. However if you are specifically visiting a town for the beach, then Dover might not be your first choice. 

But Dover has a lot to offer. Including the English Heritage site of  Dover Castle . A historic fortress that offers a fascinating journey through centuries of military history from medieval royal courts to World War II military operations. You can explore the castle’s interior, including the Great Tower and medieval tunnels, with panoramic views of the English Channel. When we visited we spent a whole day exploring everything it has to offer. in the town centre, there is  Dover Museum,  which has a diverse collection of exhibits, including the Dover Bronze Age Boat. Visit the National Trust  South Foreland Lighthouse , a historic Victorian lighthouse that offers panoramic views of the coastline. In a tour, you can learn about the evolution of maritime navigation and lighthouse technology.

If you have vehicle mad kids then a trip to the  Dover Transport Museum  is sure to impress. Where you can see a unique collection of vintage vehicles, including buses, cars, and motorcycles. Or visit the  Roman Painted House . Which was found by the Kent Archaeological Society and features well-preserved Roman murals.

You can enjoy those famous white cliffs of Dover, a stunning natural landmark with some of the best coastal walks around. The White Cliffs hold a special place in the town’s identity and have been celebrated in literature, art, and popular culture. On a clear day, when close to the harbour, you can also get some incredible views of France from Western Heights. This is still a fabulous spot for a day trip with plenty of bars, amusement arcades, chip shops, and restaurants in the town. 

Ramsgate is home to one of the largest marinas on the South Coast. So if you do have a yacht to dock, then this is the spot. But when we are not dreaming about yachts, it is still the perfect seaside town in Kent. The town’s historic Royal Harbour stands as a focal point of Ramsgate’s maritime identity as a major port. Featuring a picturesque marina and vibrant waterfront promenades. Lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, the harbour area provides a delightful setting to wander, al fresco dining, and opportunities to admire the array of yachts and fishing boats that dot the harbour.  It is also home to  Ramsgate Maritime Museum ,  featuring exhibits on maritime history, shipwrecks, and the town’s lifeboat service.

A busier option and more well-known than some of the other Kent Coastal Towns suggested in this post. It has beautiful sandy beaches, the most popular is Ramsgate Main Sands beach. A family-friendly stretch of coastline with golden sands, shallow waters, and traditional seaside amenities. It has been awarded a blue flag and so ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying recreational beach activities. The West Cliff promenade is well worth a visit, here you can pick up one of several  West Cliff walks . 

When we visited we explored the  Ramsgate Tunnels , a network of underground passageways that served as air-raid shelters during the Second World War. You can only go into the tunnels on a guided tour but it was absolutely fascinating and I would encourage everyone to visit. There is also the newly refurbished RAF Manston History Museum. Which features the town’s aviation heritage. For something completely different visit  The Micro Museum . A unique attraction showcasing the evolution of home computers and video games. A great option for teens, offering interactive displays and nostalgic insights into the world of retro technology.

Westgate-on-sea

This is one of those underrated Kent seaside towns. The quiet seaside town has a beautiful sandy beach called West Bay Beach. Perfect for a beach day spent building sandcastles and enjoying the sea views. Next door is St. Mildred’s Bay Beach, with its gentle waves and pristine sands. Both beaches offer lots of fun for families and amusements to keep the kids occupied on the promenade. 

It is one of the smaller Kent seaside towns, but it is perfect for families or couples looking for something less overwhelming than some of the other seaside towns suggested. Although this does mean there are fewer things to do. The Victorian  Carlton Cinema  offers a nostalgic movie-going experience, compared to the larger movie chains. And a good option if the weather is not playing ball. Discover the local charm of the village with a visit to quaint shops, including gift and speciality stores.

If you are looking for something a bit more liver then you can take a short trip to the nearby town of Margate which is around 2.6 miles away. Close enough to walk, or catch the bus for tired legs on the return journey. This allows you to balance the quietness of the traditional coastal town with all that Margate has to offer. 

Hythe’s history dates back centuries, and the town’s legacy as one of the  Ancient Cinque Ports . The  Royal Military Canal , a monumental feat of 19th-century engineering, stands as a testament to the town’s strategic significance and provides a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks and boat trips. 

The mainly pebble beach is approximately midway between Folkestone and Dymchurch and would make a good day trip from either location. The high street is full of small businesses with local artists and produce being sold. The long seafront has plenty for families. You can enjoy all of the usual beach activities or even fly a kite on a particularly windy day. The promenade has shops, bars, and restaurants. Ideal for a quieter Kent coastal town experience. 

Just a mile from Hythe you have the small village of Saltwood which is home to  Saltwood Castle  and  Brockhill Country Park . A little further afield is Port Lympne Wild Animal Park. We have visited several times, not only can you go on a safari but they also have the most amazing Gorilla enclosure. With the option to eat in the manor house and stay in one of the glamping tents, it is a destination in its own right.

For railway enthusiasts and nature lovers, the  Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway  offers a delightful journey through the town’s coastal landscapes. We took the journey a couple of years ago and really enjoyed the experience. The views were stunning. 

Dymchurch and St Mary’s Bay

Two of the lesser-known suggestions are these two separate Kent seaside towns on Romney Marsh. But there is only a mile walk between St Mary’s Bay  and Dymchurch. them so you can easily do that along the seafront and experience these two smaller, but still delightful, Kent seaside towns. This coast is well-known for kite flying as the wind and breeze are a little stronger than in some other locations. There are many seaside shops selling them if you do need to buy one. The kids will love this old-school activity. Dymchurch has expansive golden beaches.

In Dymchurch itself, the  amusement park  is free to visit. Where you only pay for the rides, games and attractions you chose. There is also various bars, a micro pub and cafes will satisfy any rock/candy floss cravings.  Martello Tower No. 24  in Dymchurch High Street was one of 74 towers built along the south coast between 1805 and 1812 to resist the threatened French invasion. Open to the public at the weekends from Easter to the end of October half term.

There are plenty of places to buy everything you need for a day by the sea and lots of locations to enjoy some fish and chips once you are done. These two areas may not be as busy, but they are still well worth adding to your list and are perfect for a day trip or weekend. As above you can catch the railway down to Dungeness Beach which is like visiting the end of the world.

This is the most southern point of Kent so you can often think that you have reached the end of the world with far-reaching views. It definitely felt like that when we visited with a vast expanse of open space. And although there is not a huge amount to do it is an experience not to miss. If you catch the railway down then you will only have about forty minutes to explore. The  Dungeness National Nature Reserve  is known for its striking beauty offering a serene setting for nature lovers and photographers.

Unless you look in the other direction to  Dungeness Power Station Visitor Center . Discover the fascinating history and technology behind the nuclear power station. If this is not your thing then instead you can visit  Dungeness Old Lighthouse . At certain times of the year, you can climb the historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the English Channel.

This is a smaller fishing town so you may not find the usual abundance of commercialisation as you would in some of the other suggested Kent coast towns. But it is still one worthy to add to the list as it is very picturesque. It can often feel like this location is abandoned with some of the abandoned fishing boats on the beachfront. There are still places to eat such as the  Snack Shack . Where you can have locally caught fish and shellfish. Although it is worth checking opening times before visiting.

Reculver is a village and coastal resort about three miles east of Herne Bay on the north coast of Kent. One of the smaller villages on the Kent Coast. There are a number of different walks you can enjoy. The one from Reculver to Herne Bay will take you along the Saxon Shore Trail which gives stunning views of the coastline. It takes around an hour and a half. A slightly shorter walk is the Reculver to Beltinge Coastal Walk which will take around an hour. 

Of course, you have Reculver Towers and Roman Fort to explore as mentioned above. Known locally as the Twin Sisters, they are the remnants of a medieval church built within the grounds of a Roman Fort. Close by is Reculver Bay a peaceful small shingle beach providing a scenic setting for picnics. For tide times and to keep up to date with what is going on in the area. Visit the  Reculver Visitor Centre . Offering exhibits and information about the region’s archaeological finds so great for history buffs. They also offer information on the Coastal Park which has diverse coastal flora, wildlife habitats, and opportunities for nature walks and bird watching.

Do you think I am missing any Kent Coastal Towns that deserve a mention? Perhaps you have visited some Kent seaside towns on holiday that deserves a mention? If you are looking for something on the border with East Sussex, then both Camber Sands  and  Rye  are close by. 

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Welcome to Mudpie Fridays where I share our travels. Both here in the UK but also across Europe and further afield. My name is Clare and I am married with two mischievous boys, Charlie aged 11 and Harry who is 7. Read along as we find hidden gems, pack as much holiday time in as possible, while working a 9-5 and find amazing and unusual experiences. Proving travel can be fun, educational and hugely rewarding with kids. Grab a coffee and come and join us on our latest adventures.

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The best places to visit on the Kent coast

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The Kent coast, with its pretty beaches, coastal walks and creative seaside resorts, is always popular with British holiday-makers. If you want to escape the crowds, here are the best places to visit.

If the long queue of traffic into Whitstable and the heaving main sands of Margate are giving you second thoughts about visiting Kent's beautiful coast, rest assured that there are still plenty of quiet corners, whatever the season. From sand or shingle beaches, to wetlands and Roman forts, these are the crowd-free places on the Kent coast.

1. For a beautiful beach: Botany Bay

This gorgeous secluded sandy beach with dramatic chalk stacks is a photographer’s dream. Botany Bay is a Blue Flag beach, so the water quality is guaranteed, and there are plenty of nooks and crannies to be explored, not to mention rock pools when the tide is out.

The poster child of the local tourist board, it’s surprisingly overlooked out of season, possibly because of the lack of public transport and limited facilities. But the tide goes a long way out, which means plenty of sandy bay available. It's possible to cycle here from Margate or Broadstairs train stations (or even walk, at a push), and either of those towns has all coolest places to eat and drink.

READ MORE: Our full guide to the Garden of England

2. For maritime tradition: Ramsgate

In the early 19th century, George IV decreed Ramsgate a Royal Harbour – and today it’s the only one in Britain. Information panels on the quayside will give you the lowdown on the town’s seafaring history, including the countless wrecks offshore on the Goodwin Sands and the town’s vital role in the Dunkirk evacuations. See too, the memorabilia in Little Ships Restaurant and Cafe , a wonderful harbourside spot with outside tables and seafood on the menu.

You can stroll around the pretty marina to see the last sea-going steam tug in UK waters, the 320-ton Cervia, and the diminutive Sailor’s Church, which was built in the mid-19th century for fisherman and their apprentices who were known as “smack boys” (look out for the lettering on the building next door to the church). There's still a traditional chandlery under the arches of the harbour, a few doors down.

3. For wetlands and marshes: Isle of Sheppey

While it’s true that Sheppey has prisons, sprawling caravan parks and less-than-pretty-towns, it also has two important coastal marshland nature reserves, quiet beaches for searching out fossils, big wide skies and some superb cycle routes.

The 36-square-mile (93sqkm) island was once the “isles” of Sheppey, but today Harty and Elmley isles to the south have all but merged with the main island. Separated only by narrow channels and marshlands, these wetlands are teeming with birdlife and make Sheppey's most appealing places to explore.

You could also visit the remote early Norman Church of St Thomas the Apostle and eat or stay at the charming Ferry House Inn .

4. For salty sea air: Seasalter

A couple of miles west of Whitstable you’ll find the same big sky and shingle beach etched with timber groynes, but none of the crowds. This lonely and atmospheric spot at the mouth of the River Swale was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as belonging to the “kitchen of the archbishop [of Canterbury]” and is today famous for oysters (muddy offshore oyster beds are revealed when the tide is out) and Michelin-starred The Sportsman (make a reservation in advance).

Few seaside walks can beat the hour-long stroll east from Seasalter, along Whitstable’s rugged beach with its weathered upturned fishing boats, to quiet Tankerton, and the lovely JoJo’s restaurant, which is hoping to reopen in August.

5. For Roman history: Reculver

For a small site, Reculver Towers and Roman Fort makes a big impression as a looming landmark on the north Kent coastline. Human settlement here dates to prehistoric times, but it was the Romans who built a fort here in the early third century. Much of this history has been washed away by dramatic coastal erosion, and the twin towers you can see are the remains of a remodelled Anglo-Saxon church.

READ MORE: The UK's most amazing stately homes

Reculver is on two long-distance walking or cycling routes, the Viking Coastal Trail  and the  Saxon Shore Way . There’s a pub – and car park – close to the fort, but even better are the delis and cafés in the seaside resort of Herne Bay four miles (6.2km) west, or the Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie on the seafront three miles east.

6. For artsy regeneration: Folkestone

Yes, it has a creative quarter but Folkestone has managed to keep hold of its old sea dog character. The arts have helped coax this vibrant, busy seaside town back to life and on a stroll of its narrow cobbled lanes you'll spot studios, galleries and bookshop-cafés like Steep Street .

The restored Harbour Arm  is a true hub for live music and events. Here, you can find independent food and drink vendors and the Harbour Screen , an outdoor cinema with the sea as a backdrop. Finally, don't miss the one remaining Anthony Gormley statue beneath the harbour arm.

And once you've had your culture fix? Take a walk along the East Cliff and Warren Country Park .

7. For Georgian townhouses and Tudor castles: Deal

Henry VIII built a chain of coastal defences along the Kent Coast, and the charming seaside town of Deal is bookended by two of his artillery fortresses: Deal Castle and Walmer Castle (book tickets for each in advance). Between these two landmark buildings is a long, peaceful pebble beach fronted by handsome Georgian townhouses.

The restored pier is the best place to start any visit, and from here you can explore the grand seafront along Beach Street and the warren of lanes between here and the atmospheric old High Street. The best pick for a pub lunch and a Kentish ale is The Rose .

READ MORE: Amazing places you won't believe are in the UK

8. For views of the French coast: St Margaret’s at Cliffe

The rural village of St Margaret’s at Cliffe, between Dover and Deal, is set a couple of miles inland on the South Foreland Heritage Coast. It’s a beautiful stroll down to sand, shingle and pebble St Margaret’s Bay, or you can follow footpaths through South Foreland Valley to South Foreland Lighthouse White Cliffs of Dover .

St Margaret’s Bay is the departure point for attempts to swim to France, which on sunny days looks tantalisingly close. Francophiles wanting a more relaxing pursuit should have a drink in the nearest pub to France, The Coastguard , which has ridiculously beautiful sea views and outdoor tables for walk-ins.

9. For nature and tranquillity: Samphire Hoe

At the foot of the iconic Shakespeare Cliff a few miles west of Dover, Samphire Hoe is an entirely man-made nature reserve, created from the chalk marl that was excavated for the Channel Tunnel.

READ MORE: 50 brilliant British staycation ideas

Two decades have passed since this new part of England was forged and the blustery site has become a haven for wildlife, attracting a wide range of species including a rare early spider orchid, birds, butterflies, moths, dragonflies and 200 types of plant.

The dramatic white cliffs setting and gorgeous sea views make it a great place for a stroll and a picnic.

10. For a post-apocalyptic feel: Dungeness

The vast shingle beach at Dungeness and its looming nuclear power station really does feel like the end-of-the-world, rather than the end-of-the-line for the small steam and diesel locomotives that chug here on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch railway from Hythe.

Railway enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Model Railway exhibition at New Romney, while fans of The Railway Children should beeline for author Edith Nesbitt’s grave, marked with a simple wooden cross at a church in St Mary in the Marsh.

Though it’s the bleak landscape of Dungeness that’s the star attraction. Derek Jarman trail-blazed the arts scene here by planting his famous garden at Prospect Cottage (which is private but can be viewed from the road) and today eclectic art galleries are dotted about in various clapboard dwellings. The headland is a national nature reserve and you’ll see lots of weird and wonderful flora and fauna .

Main image of Dungeness: Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

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Coastal Kent

Type: towns & villages.

Home to the world-famous White Cliffs of Dover, the dramatic coastline of White Cliffs Country offers spectacular views from clifftop paths and secluded beaches where fishing boats shelter on the shore. Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate's coast is a feast for your eyes. Discover stunning sandy beaches and sea-carved chalk cliffs.

With it 200km of golden sand and white cliffs, Kent's coast certainly boasts some of UK's best beaches. Gaze into rock pools, build a sandcastle, cycle shorelines, hike cliff-tops, wander around marinas, munch on chips, go barefoot beachcombing or simply chill out with a coastal escape in White Cliffs Country or at Thanet's 15  sandy beaches  and bays.

Make sure you take a look at our  Kent things to do  or  Kent events  guides where you will find plenty of things to do in Kent for all ages. If you're thinking of staying in around these area then take a look at the range of  accommodation  around Kent. 

List of seaside towns in Kent

Find maps and other information on these coastal towns in Kent, starting in the south and moving along the coast to the north near London.

• St. Margaret’s at Cliffe
• Isle of Sheppey

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What's Nearby

Margate Museum

Margate Museum is opened by a group of volunteers called the Friends of Margate Museum…

Turner Contemporary

Turner Contemporary is a visual arts organisation, based in Margate that celebrates JMW…

Margate Main Sands

This timeless beach with tidal pool, children’s rides and amusement arcades offer…

Shell Grotto

The Shell Grotto is one of the world's most mysterious places: a series of underground…

Westbrook Bay

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

Walpole Bay

Walpole Bay is ideal for investigating fascinating rock and tidal pools.

St Mildred's Bay

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

A completely tidal bay, with a long stretch of sand when the tide is out.

This hidden gem offers stunning views of white cliffs and beautiful chalk stacks.

North Foreland Golf Club

North Foreland Golf Club offers seaside golf at its best: with views of the sea from…

Kingsgate Bay

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

A surfer’s paradise, this popular 200-metre long bay is known as the best surfing beach…

Crampton Tower Museum

The Crampton Tower Museum is a fascinating small museum is partly housed in a flint tower…

RAF Manston Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum

The Memorial Museum permanently houses splendid examples of two iconic British fighter…

A beautiful bay with scope for rock pooling.

Joss Bay Surf School

South East England’s premiere surf school. Established in 1998 we have given thousands of…

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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.

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11 of the best things to do along Kent’s Heritage Coast: art, history, and nature

Jan 5, 2022 • 8 min read

From visiting historic Dover Castle to wandering the White Cliffs or exploring the many beaches, here's how to experience the best of Kent’s Heritage Coast © Martin Poole / Getty Images

Kent 's fertile countryside, ancient woodland, and dramatic white cliff coastline earned the county its nickname, "the Garden of England". Within that garden is Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Kent's Heritage Coast, a region between Folkestone and Dover. 

Recent years have seen economic regeneration for Kent along with the arrival of high-speed trains that put the county’s distinctive natural landscapes and historic buildings within even-easier reach of London and the rest of the country. Its wild swimming opportunities, cycle routes, vast nature reserves and country parks all offer an antidote to a life lived on Zoom, while its castles and cathedrals reveal the fascinating history of this beautiful county.

From Folkestone to Dover  and beyond, here are some of the best things to do along Kent’s Heritage Coast.

Explore Lower Leas Coastal Park 

You can easily lose a whole day with children in Folkestone’s Lower Leas Coastal Park , which has a transportive "is-this-really-the-UK?" quality thanks in part to the dramatic botanical architecture of its well-maintained gardens, with many Mediterranean and non-native plants. 

Much of the park has sea views, while other parts are set back and sheltered from sea winds by greenery. The elaborate adventure playground – the largest free play area in the South East with wooden pirate ships, sand pits, zip-lines, and tunnel slides – will occupy younger children. Once they're done, drag them away to a nearby cafe, such as  The Lift Cafe , serving thick sourdough toasties made with bread from the local Docker Bakery.

Follow the Coastal Path's distinctive Zig Zag Path, which was created in the 1920s from an artifical sandstone mix called Pulhamite. The path wends down to the park from its starting point on the Victorian promenade of The Leas passing planters of Mediterranean vegetation and grottos that appear as if hewn from natural rock. Photogenic Mermaid Beach is nearby, and has a swimming spot that is popular with locals all year long.

Have a family day out at Dover Castle  

A seasonal program of weekend events, from Easter Egg hunts to a Christmas Adventure Quest , keep families returning to Dover Castle . The sweeping views across the Channel from the battlements never lose their "wow" factor, either. 

Arguably as engaging as the castle’s storied medieval history and Great Tower, are its Secret Wartime Tunnels . These chalk passageways give a great insight into how the castle found new life as a base during WWI and WWII, including housing an underground hospital. Beware that the underground paths are narrow, dark, and damp, which may make some visitors uncomfortable.

Experience Folkestone's site-specific artworks

Encountering contemporary art, whether you mean to or not, is becoming a quintessential part of the Kent coast experience . Since 2008, Folkestone Triennial has seen new site-specific artworks by high profile and international artists appear throughout the seaside town every three years (a pandemic-related delay in 2020 aside). Each edition also leaves behind some permanent works and, as a result, Folkestone now hosts the UK’s largest contemporary outdoor art exhibition all year round. The best bit – it’s free to visit.  

There are more than 70 permanent Folkestone Artworks to be spotted – from sculptures and art objects, including Antony Gormley figures and Tracey Emin’s bronze-cast Baby Things to seaside pavilions, graphically-adorned beach huts, and a morse code message from Yoko Ono. The artworks are widely dispersed and you’ll never see them all in a day, so follow one of the suggested walking routes  from Creative Folkestone – or simply keep your eyes peeled.

Walk the White Cliffs to South Foreland Lighthouse

The Victorian South Foreland Lighthouse   – the first in the world to use electric light and the site of various pioneering experiments in international radio – and its wonderfully retro tearoom are your reward at the end of a bracing walk along the White Cliffs of Dover. Mrs Knotts tearoom ticks the authenticity boxes that English tearooms should: chintzy bone china, pots of loose leaf tea, and generous slabs of cake. 

Getting here is part of the pleasure, via either a 2-mile (3.2km) clifftop trail from Dover to really earn that cup of tea, or a shorter walk from St Margaret’s Bay. Choose a still day so you can can contemplate the lighthouse at your leisure; when it’s windier, the lawns here are a popular kite-flying spot. Note that there’s nowhere to park at the lighthouse itself.

Splash about at Sunny Sands Beach

When it comes to Kent’s sandy beaches, Margate seems to capture many day-trippers’ imaginations, but the smaller Folkestone beach of Sunny Sands, adjacent to the town’s regenerated harbor area, is almost as tempting (and a shorter train journey from London). 

This golden stretch hosts paddling toddlers, sunbathers, and casual swimmers in summer, before colder weather gives ways to bundled-up dog-walkers enjoying the still-glittering views across the Channel. Cold water-loving locals take a Boxing Day dip here en masse every December 26. A word of warning, though: The beach disappears entirely at high tide, so check the tide tables before visiting.

There are kiosks for ice creams and buckets and spades, and you’re also in walking distance of the smart dining and cocktail bar of Rocksalt , with lovely views across the harbor.

See biodiversity on reclaimed land at Samphire Hoe

Samphire Hoe is a unique nature reserve that was created during the building of the Channel Tunnel, when almost 5 million cubic meters of spoil were deposited at the base of Shakespeare Cliff, near Dover, to reclaim land from the English Channel. 

This area was seeded with wildflowers and opened to the public in 1997. It has since acquired stellar biodiversity credentials, as the 30-ha (74-acre) area is home to more than 200 plant species and even more species of birds. Despite the site’s youth, what you are struck by as a visitor here is a sense of timelessness, thanks to its meditative views of expansive sea and dramatic vistas of the rugged White Cliffs of Dover.

Complete the Cathedral-to-Coast cycle ride 

Those with two wheels and some stamina can immerse themselves in Kent's highlights on a 50-mile (80-km) circular Cathedral-to-Coast cycle ride , linking  Canterbury , Dover, and Folkestone. 

In Canterbury expect to be moved by the scale and serenity of its vast cathedral , whether you share the Christian faith or not. This medieval pilgrimage site still pulls in nearly a million visitors annually to its dizzyingly high-ceilinged, stained glass-adorned interior. From there, the full cycle route follows part of the North Downs Way through rolling countryside, pretty villages, and a nature reserve near Elham. As you approach the Heritage Coast you'll be rewarded with spectacular sea views. 

Alternatively, choose just one section of the cycle route, such as the 17 miles (27km) from Canterbury to Folkestone. The area is well-served by train stations, so you can continue your journey by rail.

Go shopping at Deal's Saturday market 

Making plans to browse the long-established Saturday market in Deal will give some direction to a weekend day trip to this coastal hot spot, where the thoughtful refurbishment of local establishments like the Rose Hotel has piqued the interest of glossy magazine editors and London professionals trying to buy a house. Less than a 10 minute walk from the train station, the morning market (open from 8am or 9am depending on the time of year) is also just a couple of streets back from Deal’s refreshingly long stretch of shingle beach. 

The market has existed here in various forms since the late 1600s. Today’s stallholders sell everything from handmade soaps to vintage toys, and quality food from Kent's farmers and makers. Pick up what you need – and a few things you don’t – before grabbing some lunch and making the most of the sea air.

Ride the miniature railway from Hythe 

Hythe has much to recommend it, including some choice secondhand shops worth a rummage and a walkable stretch of Royal Military Canal . But one of the best things to do here is to leave aboard the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway . The railway’s one-third-size locomotives take passengers as far as the eerily beautiful nature reserve of Dungeness (just over an hour, each way). 

Once there, enjoy the shingle beach and visit the late filmmaker Derek Jarman’s garden, before taking the tiny train back to Hythe and choosing between its gastropubs pubs for an evening meal.

Wildlife watch at Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve 

The largest of Kent Wildlife Trust’s reserves is Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve, where you can spend time fully immersed in nature. Its rich in biodiversity with varied habitats, including beach and salt marshes, as well as a more orderly and easy to navigate Country Park. 

It’s not unusual to spot seals from here, especially in winter, and in spring, look out for rare green hairstreak butterflies. But this reserve is primarily bird-watchers’ domain, where you might hear nightingales, or spot a short-eared owl, snipe, kestrel, or tern.

Get close to France at the beautiful St Margaret's Bay 

An aesthetically pleasing curve of shingle beach and green sea, St Margaret's Bay  appears on several popular walking routes in this part of White Cliffs country.  

Its resident boozer, The Coastguard , bills itself as Britain’s nearest pub to France (on this part of the coast, you might even receive a "Welcome to France" message from your phone provider, or French radio stations on your car stereo). The 300-year-old establishment’s best selling point is its sea-view terrace where visitors take in the view of the bay over a cold pint or a warming nip of whiskey.

There is sometimes an informal beach school meet-up for outdoorsy under-5s and their parents here, too. But in general you have a fair chance of having the bay almost to yourself.

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You might also like: The best short breaks from London are just two hours by train    Winter wonderland: the best day trips from London    Experience the very best of the Kent coast   

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The best beaches and towns on the Kent coast for the perfect seaside daytrip

Explore these coastal gems while avoiding the crowds, says abigail blasi, article bookmarked.

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I t was the Hamptons of the 1800s, when everyone from Queen Victoria to Karl Marx frolicked in the surf. Today, the Kent coast is at turns incandescently beautiful and desolately down at heel, as full of historic smugglers’ coves and wild swimming as it is faded Georgian glories. Geographically significant as the UK’s closest land to Europe, this coast is also peppered with historical sites, from Roman Forts to Second World War bomb shelters.

With fewer people travelling abroad this summer, the Kent coast, an easy under-two-hours trip from London, has seen some front-page-worthy crowds on sunny days. However, some of the coast’s greatest joys can be found if you swerve its best-known places.

Herne Bay, the next town along the coast from Whitstable , has not been yet colonised by the DFLs (down-from-Londons). Its fine Georgian houses are the colour of a box of chalks, and its beach is famous for its wealth of fossilised sharks’ teeth. On a calm day, the powder-blue sea ripples like silk.

At the other end of the beach is the Herne Bay suburb of Beltinge. Hillocks back the beach, ideal for sliding down (even if unintentionally). For walking or cycling, the Oyster Bay Trail hugs this part of the coast for six miles from Swalecliffe to Reculver. The area also hosts Kent’s best boot fair, the Whitstable Bends.

Another lesser-known cycle route is the Crab & Winkle Way, between Canterbury and Whitstable. This follows what was a six-mile railway line, and from outside Canterbury is mostly traffic-free. It crosses Blean Woods, 90 hectares of ancient woodland that glows with bluebells in the spring.

You can escape the coastal hubbub on a sunny day to dive off wooden pontoons at Westbere Marshes Lake, just to the east of Canterbury.

Back on the coast, the twin towers of Reculver are visible for miles, dramatic medieval ruins on a promontory. This was once the site of a Roman fort built to defend against Saxon pirates, and the fort’s ridges are still visible; the pebble beach, too, yields up more fossils, and sometimes even Roman fragments. From here the shore-hugging Viking Coastal Trail takes in Turner-worthy views all the way to Ramsgate .

Even in Kent’s town-of-the-moment Margate there are secret places to escape the crowds. To the east of town is Walpole Bay, with its grade II listed, four-acre tidal pool in front, built in 1937 to allow safe bathing and fed by natural fresh springs.

Between Margate and Broadstairs, Botany Bay is Kent’s favourite wild beach, backed by chalk cliffs and with a lone kiosk on its golden sands. On warm days, however, it gets mobbed, so instead walk to the next beach eastwards, Kingsgate, beyond Botany Bay’s chalky outcrops. The golden-sanded crescent is famous for its smugglers’ caves carved into the cliffs.

North of Ramsgate, as far as Dumpton Gap, the beaches are usually empty. Ramsgate rivals Broadstairs and Margate in looks, yet doesn’t receive the same attention. The town was a favourite of Jane Austen, Coleridge and Engels (who complained about the local petit bourgeoisie). With its hoop of boat-bobbing marina and Harbour Arm, it’s fronted by golden beaches and lined by fine Georgian houses, and its warren of Second World War tunnels reopens to visitors on 1 August.

For unspoilt coastline where social distancing is the natural option, there’s the 615-hectare natural park of Sandwich and Pegwell Bay, five miles south of Ramsgate, with sandy coast, saltmarsh and ancient dunes, favoured by nightingales, teals, and warblers, and shaggy highland cattle in the long grass. Hundreds of seals flop ashore during winter.

Another great tip is Sandwich Bay, a little farther south, which is backed by a toll road: the £7 charge puts visitors off, so you’re more likely to find a lonely spot on this beach than not, and it’s Kent’s best place for kitesurfers.

Deal, with its broad beach and warren of fishermen’s cottages, is hugely popular, but take the path along the coast (with plenty of climbing trees en route) to the gleaming pebble beach at Kingsdown, with its pastel-painted fishing village almost on the shingle. There’s a lone, lovely pub, the Zetland Arms, for sunset views with a drink and a pint of prawns, and at nearby Oldstairs Bay you can fish and rock-pool under the cliffs.

The treacherously shifting Goodwin Sands lie offshore, stretching from Ramsgate to Dover. This sometimes lethal sandbank was mentioned in The Merchant of Venice and Moby Dick . Take a speedboat tour with Dover Sea Safari, spotting seals and ghostly shipwrecks. Close to Dover, St Margaret’s Bay is worth a visit, backed by white cliffs and a millionaires’ row of grand villas: both Noel Coward and Ian Fleming once lived here.

Finally, to take in art without a crowd, stop at Folkestone , whose many artists and artisans populate and decorate its Creative Quarter. In a Covid-nervous world, it is the perfect gallery: Folkestone has the UK’s largest exhibition of outdoor urban art, with works such as Richard Woods’s Holiday Home , six colourful bungalows dotted in unexpected locations around the town.

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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

7 gorgeous Kent seaside towns you have to visit for your 2021 staycation

It looks like we could all be spending another summer closer to home

• 18:21, 29 JAN 2021

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Despite coronavirus infections falling and the vaccine rollout going well, it is still not known if holiday makers will be able to head abroad this year.

Ministers have advised people to hold off booking summer holidays for the moment until the picture across the rest of the world becomes clearer.

So it could be that Brits decide to spend another summer closer to home, with Kent one of the destinations high on the agenda.

It was revealed that Kent was one of the top staycation destinations in the UK in 2020 with people flocking from all over the country to see what Kent has to offer.

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Kent saw a 59% increase in bookings in 2020 compared to 2019 - so could 2021 follow the same path?

The county’s glorious beaches, amusement parks and whole host of fine dining restaurants make it one of the most attractive destinations for holiday makers.

The Kent coast is full of wonderful holiday towns and destinations perfect for a family trip to the seaside!

If it’s good enough for Del Boy in Only Fools and Horses then it’s definitely good enough for you.

We’ve gone through some of the best coastal towns perfect for a summer vacation to save you the hassle.

During the mid 20th century Margate was THE place to go in the UK for a summer holiday.

However, after a period of decline in the 1990’s and early 2000’s, Margate has slowly rebuilt itself to become one of the trendiest and most popular seaside resorts in the south-east.

With the striking Margate main sands spanning across the seafront - it is hard not to fall in love with the town as soon as you step off the train.

But Margate is more than just a beautiful beach now - it truly is a town where everyone can enjoy themselves - no matter your age or your interests.

The Turner Contemporary is the stand out attraction on the seafront with it’s fabulous art displays and exhibitions and has turned the ‘old town’ into a splendid place to spend an afternoon.

The historic amusement park Dreamland is back up and running and is better than ever, with plenty of rides and attractions to keep everyone entertained!

Add to that minigolf, the Shell Grotto and the Margate caves and you have enough to keep the whole family entertained for a good few days!

There’s also a number of really lovely restaurants with beautiful views overlooking the seafront!

• Broadstairs

Broadstairs certainly doesn’t get the coverage that Margate does - and that’s just how residents like it!

It definitely isn’t as loud or as hectic as it’s coastal neighbour and everything is just that little bit more relaxed.

Locals will tell you it hasn’t changed too much over the years and that’s perfect for them as they like it just the way it is.

Viking Bay is a wonderful place to spend a warm sunny day with the beautiful sandy beach popular with locals and tourists.

Furthermore, you can enjoy some music at the Bandstand on most summer days and can even treat yourself to a game of minigolf at Lillyputt with the beach just a stone's throw away.

There may not be loads of attractions but if fine dining is your thing, then Broadstairs has it all!

Stark is a Michelin star restaurant just yards away from Viking Bay while Samworth and Mee, Wyatt and Jones and The Little Sicillian all offer high quality food within 5 minutes of each other.

If you’re visiting Thanet you simply have to go to Ramsgate .

The harbour, overlooked by stunning townhouses, always looks beautiful in the summer with the sun glistening down on all the boats moored up.

Dozens of restaurants also overlook the harbour, with La Magnolia, The Little ships and The Greek Arch all perfect for a meal rain or shine.

Ramsgate also has a sandy beach just away from the hustle and bustle of the main town and top tip - it’s often less busy than Margate and Broadstairs!

There are two places you must visit if you head to Ramsgate though!

The Ramsgate tunnels are well worth a visit for those who have an interest in how over 50,000 people sheltered during World War II.

And Wetherspoon - it’s not just any Wetherspoon though, it’s the biggest in the country and has some unbelievable views overlooking the sea - it certainly beats the normal high street spoons we have got used to!

Whitstable has built up a reputation over the past 10 years or so as being one of the most popular destinations for Londoners.

There can be few nicer things to do in Kent than get a drink and watch the sunset over the sea on a warm summer's evening - it’s why it’s always so busy down there!

Whitstable has plenty else going for it too - the harbour is a great place to buy some gifts before getting a bite to eat and enjoying the hum of a seaside resort.

Add to that the abundance of art galleries and the Playhouse theatre and you’ll find a weekend in Whitstable will have passed you by before you know it!

Being that much closer to London, and the first seaside town you stop at when you head into Kent, makes this a very desirable place with people heading down to the seaside.

Just along the coast from Whitstable is Herne Bay , and even though it may not attract the same numbers of visitors every year as its noisy neighbour there is still plenty to do.

You’ll often find the central beach packed out on a warm summer’s day and any place with a seaside museum has got to be high on the list of places to visit!

It’s got a bandstand where you’ll find some brilliant bands, orchestras and singers performing throughout the summer and there’s plenty of places to pick up an ice-cream too!

With Reculver Towers just a short coastal walk away from the main town, you’ll find plenty to do in Herne Bay.

Deal & Walmer

Situated between Dover and Ramsgate, Deal and Walmer are typically quaint British seaside towns

You may not have heard of these towns, but each town has its own castle so there’s plenty more than initially meets the eye here.

Deal Pier is a hotspot for fishermen but is perhaps the perfect place to start and end a coastal walk along the seafront.

The walk between the two towns is scattered with glorious views overlooking the sea.

Like many of the seaside towns mentioned in this list, there are a whole host of galleries and boutiques that are easy to get lost in!

Further along the coast is Dymchurch, a small coastal town often overlooked by those not in Kent.

Dymchurch has a whole host of attractions including an amusement park that sits a stone's throw away from the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway.

The amusement park has everything you could possibly want from a seaside amusement park - From Mickey’s Runaway and Rocket Revenge, to the spine-tingling Ghost Train and the Dymchurch Dodgems there really is something for everyone.

The railway has been running since 1927 and is sure to be a massive hit with the little ones!

With micropubs, restaurants and even a ballooning centre all within a couple of miles - you’d be rude not to spend a day here!

• Most Recent

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 or check out my favourite afternoon tea spots in Canterbury .

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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Broadstairs - Quintessential seaside town

Visit Broadstairs - a charming seaside resort on the Kent coast with connections to a giant of the literary world.

A timeless family-friendly resort packed with beautiful bays and lots to see and do...

Broadstairs' spectacular coastline gives you seven sandy beaches and bucket loads of seaside charm. Here, families rediscover the joy of having fun together beside the shore. Central Viking Bay boasts children’s rides and beach huts; rural Botany Bay has photogenic chalk stacks; whilst  Joss Bay offers a surf school and peaks that have long made wave-riders smile.

In Broadstairs you’ll find fishermen’s cottages, clifftop walks and independent shops lining original Victorian streets and alleyways. The town was Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot and his legacy includes Dickens House Museum . Nearby you’ll find the multi-award winning, costumed, St Peter’s Village Tours . Or for something with a more modern twist, try your luck at beating the challenges The Escapement  escape room has to offer.

Like your food? You’ll love Broadstairs. Eateries include smart restaurants, quaint cafés and 1950s ice cream parlours. Visit in the autumn and at Easter to feast at the three-day Broadstairs Food Festival – a smorgasbord of fine Kentish produce, cider, beer and wine.

Other events will see you meeting costumed characters at June’s Broadstairs Dickens Festival ; singing-along at sessions in August’s Broadstairs Folk Week or playing beach games and watching the fireworks at the Water Gala . In Broadstairs, nostalgia mixes easily with the new, especially on the music scene. If you like your music, Broadstairs Bandstand hosts regular concerts and gigs, while February's Broadstairs Blues Bash attracts fans of all kinds of blues music for this mostly free festival.

On 5th October 1849, Charles Dickens was staying at the Albion Hotel (now Royal Albion Hotel), writing early chapters of David Copperfield . In a letter to his friend, the illustrator John Leech, about the delights of this Thanet resort, he wrote: "There has been a trifle of rain here – a spot or two. But today is one of the most wonderful and charming days I ever saw – the air so brisk and bracing as it is nowhere but at Broadstairs – the Channel so busy and alive with shipping as it is nowhere but off Broadstairs – the hotel so cosy and like a private house as it is nowhere but in Broadstairs – everything as nothing is out of Broadstairs. Veeve la Broadstairs!"

Looking for places to stay in Broadstairs?  Broadstairs offers seafront hotels with stunning views, boutique B&Bs and guest houses to quaint seaside self catering properties 

FREE CAR PARKING is available every Saturday at St Peter's Park Road, Broadstairs

Read latest news on and about Broadstairs in the Broadstairs Beacon

Discover things to see and do.

Map View - click on pin

Keep looking.

Plan Your Visit to Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate

Margate - The Original Seaside

Ramsgate - Royal Harbour and Regency Architecture

Villages of the Isle of Thanet

What's On in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate

Accommodation in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate

History and Heritage of the Isle of Thanet

Arts and Culture

Beaches and Bays

Kent’s Coastline and Beaches

The Kent coast is a 350-mile stretch of chalky white cliffs, sandy beaches, shingle bays, vibrant coastal towns and, above all, glorious views stretching out across the Channel.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re a family looking for a day of ice creams and sandy beaches. A walker looking for some windswept cliff-top jaunts, or a thrill-seeker looking for a great place to have a go at some water sports. The Kent coast has it all so come and explore.

For those who want a little more action, you’ll find towns like Margate , Broadstairs and Ramsgate offer plenty more than lively seaside resorts. The range of walking routes, surfing beaches and cycle paths along the magnificent 32-mile Viking Coastal Trail might just have you lacing up your walking boots, reaching for your surfboard or getting back in the saddle.

There are various bays and coves on this corner of Kent, many are family friendly, some have tidal pools and others are just great for exploring – Botany Bay , Broadstairs. Joss Bay , Broadstairs. Walpole Bay , Margate.

If you’re looking for elegant restaurants, quirky seaside towns and boutique hotels, Kent has it covered. Lose yourself along Sandwich and Deal’s winding streets and discover independent shops and restaurants. Not to mention beautiful beaches like St Margaret’s at Cliffe .

The Isle of Sheppey is a haven for coastal jaunts, with striking scenery, wonderful beaches and unique wildlife. Transport yourself back to the good old days with a trip to one of the scenic beaches. Don’t forget to saddle up and take on one of two family cycle rides. Or head east along the coast and you’ll reach Herne Bay . A paradise for families, with miles of long sandy beaches, a bandstand and its very own pier. Don’t miss a visit to the medieval ruins of Reculver Towers if you are over on this coast.

Further along on the North Kent coast, Whitstable is a cultural and gastro hub. Offering restaurants and elegant bars, and don’t forget those famous oysters!

Explore the south side of the county and discover beautiful sandy beaches, like those in Folkestone . Take a stroll along the popular Harbour Arm, which hosts a range of independent small businesses, ranging from food, drink, music and even an artisan market. Wander and or even cycle along the England Coast Path to explore the long stretches of beaches from Sandgate and Hythe to Dymchurch .

Nature At The Coast

The Kent coast is also home to a range of glorious National Nature Reserves and fantastic wildlife habitats. Take a walk along the truly unique and windswept Samphire Hoe. Home to a variety of wildlife, all sat beneath the famous Shakespeare Cliff . The beautiful isolated beaches of Romney Marsh are just a stone’s throw away from the Dungeness National Nature Reserve , sat amid the intriguing and unique landscape of Romney Marsh.

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The 15 best things to do in Kent

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

Photograph: Shutterstock

Glorious, wonderful Kent – the ‘garden of England’, so they say. It’s the home of some of the nation’s best seaside towns and there’s no better destination to fill your boots with oysters, fish and chips and all that seafront good stuff (after all, that’s what it’s known for). But the best part is that there’s always more of Kent to see.  

This county is home to some fantastic art galleries, huge beaches and the world’s oldest rollercoaster, so there’s plenty to keep you going in between meals. Kent is a big place, and it’s tricky to know where to begin so to offer a helping hand, we’ve scoured the county far and wide, to bring you the ultimate hit list. Festivals. Castles. Family-friendly attractions. The White Cliffs of Dover – we’ve got it all. Here are the best things to do in Kent all year, every year. 

RECOMMENDED:  🍦 The best things to do in Broadstairs 🌤️The best   things to do in Deal 🏡The best   things to do in Ramsgate  🌊The best   things to do in Whitstable   🏖️The best   seaside towns in the UK

At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Kent

1.  shell grotto.

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

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

2.  Whitstable Oyster Festival

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

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

3.  The White Cliffs of Dover

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

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

4.  Margate Dreamland

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

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

5.  The Kentish Hare

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

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

6.  Smuggler’s Records

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

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

7.  Chartwell House

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

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

8.  The Fordwich Arms

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

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

9.  Port Lympne

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

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

10.  Royal Victoria Pavilion

What is it?  The biggest pub in Britain.

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

11.  Chislehurst Caves

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

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

12.  The Poet

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

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

13.  Turner Contemporary

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

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

14.  Fish on the Green

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

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

15.  Blean Woods Nature Reserve

What is it? A nature reserve near Canterbury .

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

More great things to do in Kent

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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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The most beautiful places in Kent: See our 10 favourites here

By Toby Skinner

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Kent is a real all-rounder – a place of on-the-up, foodie-friendly seaside hangouts, but also ancient woodlands, wineries and medieval market towns, with a county-wide obsession with provenance. While Londoners often assume that you have to head for East Anglia or the Southwest for really wild beaches, or to the Cotswolds for the perfect village pub, Kent has excellent versions closer to hand. Here are 10 of its most beautiful spots.

It isn’t really garden-of- England pretty – a wind-snarled promontory on the edge of the Romney Marsh, with a hulking nuclear power station and a series of weather-beaten dwellings and old boats that seem to have been left to decay on the shingle. But for wildlife and a certain brooding atmosphere, there are few places like it: a nature reserve home to uncommon plants, insects and migratory birds, Dungeness has also fostered a sort of knockabout creativity, from the house and garden of the late Derek Jarman to new design-focused stays such as The Pump Station and Shingle House.

On the Kent Downs west of Canterbury , Chilham is olde England at its most chocolate boxy – so much so that Miss Marple and Jane Austen’s Emma have been among the fictional characters to have their close-ups among its half-timbered medieval buildings. This is a village for afternoon tea at Shelly’s Tea Rooms, or a burger and a pint at the 14th-century White Horse inn – which is positively contemporary compared to the Norman keep at nearby Chilham Castle, built for Henry II in 1174.

Arguably the most stunning portion of the Margate- Broadstairs area is the coastline between the two towns – especially the thrillingly wild Botany Bay, backed by cliffs, with its stacks, picnic-ready caves, fossil-hunter’s rockpools and wide stretches of sand strewn with crumbly chalk. So named because smugglers caught here were deported to the Australian version, it’s best explored on a walk or cycle from Margate , also taking in the similarly lovely Kingsgate Bay and surf-friendly Joss Bay on the way to Broadstairs – and ideally fritto misto in a cone from harbourside seafood counter Flotsam & Jetsam.

Its claim to fame is that it is Britain’s smallest town, but this spot west of Canterbury is also one of the prettiest in Kent. With its winding alleyways and bridge over a particularly lush portion of the River Stour, Fordwich also has that most crucial ingredient: a good pub. A few years ago, the wood-panelled riverside Fordwich Arms was taken over by Daniel and Natasha Smith, alums of Shoreditch’s Clove Club who have already earned the place its own Michelin star on the back of theatrical dishes such as duck hearts served in a bell jar of Kentish applewood smoke.

Eastwell Manor

Kent has some lovely castles and stately homes – from Leeds Castle, surrounded by a lake, to the fairytale-worthy Scotney Castle amid 770 acres of woodland. But to stay the night, there are few grander spots in the county than Eastwell Manor, a Neo-Elizabethan manor house near Ashford where Queen Victoria’s son Prince Alfred lived in the late 19th century, roaming the topiaries and gazing over seemingly endless Kentish fields. Today, it’s a Champneys hotel and spa, with cottages in the grounds, a hydrotherapy spa, and croquet and pétanque among the civilised garden games.

Elmley, Isle of Sheppey

The Elmley National Nature Reserve is barely an hour east of London but feels a world away, with its shepherd’s huts overlooking bleakly beautiful salt marshes and mudflats on the low-lying Isle of Sheppey. The solar-powered 3,300-acre estate, an important breeding site for wading birds, is the only family-owned nature reserve in the UK and offers opportunities to stay overnight – either in a restored farmhouse building or one of the eco huts dotted around, such as the driftwood Saltbox, with hot-water bottles and Romney Marsh wool throws in case you’re chilly after an al fresco shower.

Port Lympne Nature Reserve

An overnight stay in a Kentish safari park sounds potentially purgatorial – but with more far-flung trips postponed this year, the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve is well worth a visit, especially with kids . The reserve’s Western lowland gorillas, Eastern black rhinos and Chapman’s zebras live in a particularly bucolic corner of southern Kent, its forests and rolling fields impeccably managed by conservation charity The Aspinall Foundation. The hotel in the Grade II-listed Port Lympne House is surprisingly elegant, with understated safari vibes and cool additions such as the loft-style Lion Lodge, with actual lions eyeballing you through floor-to-ceiling windows. Next year, a 15th-century stately home on the reserve is set to open as the Giraffe Hall, with Rothschild giraffes peering into elegant drawing rooms.

Deal seafront

Kent has a lot of pretty oceanfronts, including Whitstable and Broadstairs – but Deal is one of the more picture-perfect, with views from the county’s last remaining leisure pier back towards a great row of colourful fishermen’s cottages. There’s a cycle -friendly path right along the edge of the pebble beach , passing wooden fishing boats and nets – ideally followed by a pint at the planter-festooned King’s Head, or local seafood cooked the classic way at the Frog and Scot, whose owners (he’s French, she’s Scottish) also run the lovely Le Pinardier wine bar a few doors down the High Street.

The Crab and Winkle Way

This 7.6-mile bike path between Canterbury and Whitstable takes its name from the old railway line that ran between the two places and forms the basis for the route. From Canterbury, the mostly traffic-free track passes the Winding Pond picnic spot and meanders through Blean Woods, an ancient forest home to woodpeckers and rare heath fritillary butterflies, before climbing towards some of the prettiest views across Whitstable. In the seaside town, crab-walk through Squeeze Gut Alley for oysters at the Whitstable Oyster Company, best eaten on the pebble beach.

St Margaret’s Bay

Bond author Ian Fleming had country homes across England, but his first was the whitewashed White Cliffs Cottage at St Margaret’s Bay, east of Dover – known as ‘the first house in England’, because St Margaret’s Bay is the closest point in the UK to France (Channel swimmers leave from here, and mobile phones often think they’re in France). It’s not hard to see why Fleming chose this spot, a crescent of beach surrounded by some of the most dramatic of the cliffs. While the Coastguard pub isn’t quite as good these days under new pubco ownership, it’s still a lovely place for a pint while watching the ferries roll in.

Watch the South Downs video here:

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Things To See and Do in Kent

Looking for things to do and see in Kent? We can help you plan days out or a short break. Browse our attractions, inspirational ideas & themed days out.

In Kent, the list of things to do and see feels almost endless...so let us help you start planning your escape to The Garden of England.

Kent is truly the Garden of England, with breath-taking countryside, stunning coastline, world-famous attractions and delicious food and drink. Incredible locations are waiting to be discovered such as  The White Cliffs of Dover ,  Leeds Castle ,  Hever Castle ,  Canterbury Cathedral ,  The Historic Dockyards Chatham ,  Dreamland Margate  and  Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve  are all waiting to be explored. We are also famous for our award-winning sparkling wine so why not take a tour of one of Kent's many  vineyards  to sample some English wine, or visit Britain's oldest brewer  Shepherd Neame  for a taste of proper British beer. And since we are home to Michelin star restaurants, gastro pubs, food festivals and farmers' markets, you certainly won't go hungry on your visit!

Not sure where to begin? Have a look at our Inspirational Ideas for some handy top ten lists of things to see and do in Kent.

If you already know what sort of thing floats your boat, then have a look at the themes below and start gathering ideas for your next day out or short break in Kent...

Find even more inspirational ideas on kentattractions.co.uk