Kent Travel Guide
Read our travel guide of Kent, featuring attractions, hotels, transportation, food, culture, and more. Plan your trip to this charming county in South East England.
- Introduction to Kent
- List of Places to Visit in Kent
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Kent
- Best Things to Do in Kent: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kent
- Food and Drink Scene of Kent
- Where to Stay in Kent: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kent: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Kent
- Best Time to Visit Kent
- Do’s and Don’ts of Kent
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kent: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kent
- Where to Go Next from Kent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kent
Kent is one of the most beautiful counties in South East England, known for its rolling hills, sprawling countryside, and charming seaside towns. The county is home to many attractions - from historic landmarks and museums to sprawling parks and stunning beaches - making it a perfect destination for a family holiday or a romantic getaway.
List of Places to Visit in Kent
Visitors to Kent will be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions to visit when in Kent:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Canterbury Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 6th century and is the home of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the head of the Church of England.
- Hever Castle and Gardens: This historic castle, built in the 13th century, was once home to Anne Boleyn. The stunning gardens are open to the public.
- The Historic Dockyard Chatham: A maritime museum that tells the story of the Royal Navy and its role in the defense of Britain over the centuries.
- Dover Castle: A medieval castle that has played a critical role in the defense of Britain for over nine centuries.
Natural Attractions of Kent: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- White Cliffs of Dover: The iconic White Cliffs of Dover offer stunning views of the English Channel and France on clear days.
- Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest: A 320-acre forest that offers beautiful walking trails, cycling routes, and outdoor pursuits.
- Leeds Castle: This historic castle overlooks a serene lake with stunning views of the Kent countryside. The castle has beautiful gardens and a maze.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kent
Kent is a perfect destination for walkers and cyclists, with hundreds of miles of dedicated trails and paths to discover. The following are some of the top trails to follow:
- North Downs Way: A 153-mile trail that runs from Farnham in Surrey to the White Cliffs of Dover in Kent, offering some of the most stunning views of the county.
- Viking Coastal Trail: This 32-mile trail offers a combination of coastal and countryside scenery, taking cyclists through picturesque towns and villages.
- Stour Valley Walk: A 58-mile trail that follows the River Stour, offering beautiful views of the rolling Kent landscape.
Best Things to Do in Kent: Activities and Tours
If you’re looking for activities and tours in Kent, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do while in Kent:
- Take a ghost tour of Canterbury: A spooky and exciting way to get acquainted with the history and legends of this ancient city.
- Visit a vineyard: Kent is known as the Garden of England for a reason, with its lush fields and perfect climate. Head to one of the many local vineyards for a guided tour and wine-tasting session.
- Attend a cricket match: Cricket is a beloved national pastime in England, and there’s no better way to experience it than live. Look for matches at the Kent County Cricket Club in Canterbury.
Week-Long Itinerary for Kent
Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Kent and all it has to offer:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Canterbury Cathedral and the city’s historic center |
| 2 | Spend the day at one of the many stunning beaches of Kent |
| 3 | Explore the stunning gardens of Hever Castle and Leeds Castle |
| 4 | Cycle or walk along the beautiful trails of the North Downs Way |
| 5 | Take a trip to Dover Castle and the White Cliffs of Dover |
| 6 | Visit the Historic Dockyard Chatham for a day of maritime history |
| 7 | Take a vineyard tour and enjoy a wine-tasting session |
Food and Drink Scene of Kent
Kent is famous for its fresh produce and locally made food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Kentish Gypsy Tart: A sweet, caramelized tart made with evaporated milk and muscovado sugar.
- Kentish Huffkin: A type of bread roll made with lard and yeast, often served with cheese or butter.
- Oysters: Whitstable in Kent is famous for its oysters, and the town holds an annual oyster festival in July.
Local Beverages
- Kentish Ales: Kent has a long tradition of producing top-quality ales. Look out for Shepherd Neame brewery, one of the oldest breweries in the country.
- English wines: England has been quietly making a name for itself in the world of wine, and Kent is one of the leaders in this field. Visit one of the many vineyards for a guided tour and wine tasting.
Where to Stay in Kent: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Kent offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommended places to stay:
- The Canterbury Hotel: A charming hotel located in a renovated 18th-century townhouse, just a short walk from Canterbury Cathedral.
- YHA Canterbury: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the city, within walking distance of all the major attractions.
- The Cooden Beach Hotel: A luxury hotel situated on a stunning stretch of beach in Bexhill-on-Sea.
What to Buy in Kent: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Kent has a rich history and vibrant culture, and there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the top buys:
- Whitstable Oysters: Fresh, locally caught oysters from Whitstable make for a unique and tasty souvenir.
- Kentish Wine: There are many top-quality vineyards in Kent, producing award-winning English wines.
- Canterbury Cathedral souvenirs: From postcards to replicas of the cathedral, there are plenty of souvenirs to choose from.
Local Culture and Customs of Kent
Kent has a rich cultural history, dating back thousands of years. The county has been the site of many important events and was even a battleground during the Roman era. Today, Kent is known for its vibrant arts scene, music festivals, and traditional celebrations like Morris dancing.
Best Time to Visit Kent
The best time to visit Kent is during the summer months, from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kent
Do:
- Visit the beaches: Kent has some stunning beaches, and they’re not to be missed.
- Try the local food and drink: Kent is known for its fresh produce and top-quality food and drink.
- Explore the countryside: Kent has some of the most beautiful countryside in England, with endless walking and cycling trails to discover.
Don’t:
- Litter: Kent is known for its natural beauty, so do your bit to keep it clean.
- Leave valuables in your car: As with any tourist destination, it’s best to keep your valuables with you or leave them in a secure location.
Safety and Health
Safety in Kent
Kent is a relatively safe county, with a low crime rate. However, as with any tourist destination, it’s always essential to exercise caution and keep an eye on your belongings.
Health in Kent
The healthcare system in the UK is excellent, and tourists can access medical treatment if needed. Kent has many hospitals and clinics, and most accommodation providers will have information on the nearest medical facilities.
Getting to Kent: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Kent
The nearest airports to Kent are:
- London Gatwick Airport: 35 miles from central Kent, with regular train and coach services to the county.
- London Heathrow Airport: 65 miles from central Kent, with direct coach services available to the county.
Bus Stations Near Kent
There are several coach stations located throughout Kent, including:
- Canterbury Coach Station: This coach station is located in the heart of Canterbury and offers connections to all major towns and cities in the UK.
- Gillingham Bus Station: This bus station is located in Medway, which offers connections to cities in the South East of England.
Other Options
For those who prefer to drive, Kent is easily accessible via the M20 and M2 motorways.
How to Get Around in Kent
The best way to get around Kent is by car, as this gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure and makes it easy to get around the countryside. Alternatively, there are several public transportation options, including buses, trains, and coaches.
Where to Go Next from Kent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Kent is conveniently located, making it easy to explore nearby destinations. Here are a few options:
- London: The UK’s capital is just a short train ride away from Kent, with plenty of attractions to see and things to do.
- Sussex: This neighboring county has many historic towns and attractions, including Brighton, Hastings, and Eastbourne.
- France: Kent is just a short ferry ride away from the coast of France, making it possible to explore another country during your visit.
Conclusion
Kent is a unique and stunning destination that offers visitors a chance to experience the best of England’s countryside and coastal communities. So whether you’re looking to explore historic landmarks, relax on the beach, or sample the local food and drink, Kent is the perfect place to visit.
