OUTDOORSINKENT
PLANES , TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES CONT .
With history around every corner and beautiful scenery , this excursion includes informative commentary . Once through Farleigh Lock , the countryside opens up to reveal wildlife of all varieties including birds such as kingfishers , herons , swans , cormorants , geese and ducks , so remember to keep a watchful eye out and bring your camera ! The catamaran-style vessel has a fully licensed bar and onboard toilet facilities , its ground level decks also provide easy access for a limited number of standard wheelchairs . Private charter of The Kentish Lady is also available for special occasions such as weddings and social functions .
Another one of Kent ’ s iconic rivers includes the River Stour that runs through the centre of the ancient City of Canterbury . When in the town , there are several companies that take to the river ’ s gently flowing water , offering informative tours and a view of the city that can not be seen on foot . Canterbury Punting Company is a wonderful way to do just this , especially in the summer sunshine when a cooling trip down the river might be just what you need , from the comfort of a classic handbuilt punt . Canterbury Historic River Tours has been rowing and touring the stour since 1932 , telling tourists the tales of the witches ’ ducking stool , Greyfriars Island , Blackfriars ’ Monastery , the 16th-century Old Weavers ’ House , the prestigious King ’ s School , the Marlowe Theatre and more – all of which you will see on your cruise . After your trip and with all your newfound knowledge safely stored in your mind , why not indulge in a lovely Sunday lunch at the Old Weavers itself , now an acclaimed restaurant , where you will continue to absorb all the history and character of this ancient city and its enthralling past .
The River Stour continues to flow out of the city and into the beautiful countryside that sits between Canterbury and the Isle of Thanet . For those wanting to see this part of the river , take a trip to Grove Ferry where you will find Grove Ferry River Trips . A green ( in both colour and action ), environmentally friendly electric-powered boat will take you quietly and sedately on a river cruise along the Kentish Stour , managed by the skipper who will occasionally break the peace to enhance the trip with anecdotes of history that are relevant to your location on the river . As you pass through areas of outstanding beauty out of reach to others on foot or by car , enjoy the quiet , fume-free boat , the fresh air and the tranquillity of these serene surroundings that teem with wildlife – especially in the summer . Upon your return , we recommend you visit The Grove Pub and Inn , which is also the mooring location , for cold Kentish ales , a delicious supper as the sun sets , or a hearty pub lunch in the afternoon sun .
With water and air pretty much covered , those who wish to explore Kent on the ground can do so too in just as exciting and unique ways . One of Kent ’ s top tourist attractions and popular with visitors from around the world is the Romney , Hythe and Dymchurch Railway . Since 1927 , the Romney , Hythe and Dymchurch Railway has been an integral part of the landscape of Kent ’ s surreal and vast Romney Marsh . Known as ‘ Kent ’ s Mainline in Miniature ’, the much admired one-third full size steam and diesel locomotives have powered their way along the 13.5 miles of track from the Cinque Port town of Hythe terminating in Dungeness , a National Nature Reserve . With four stations in between , all within walking distance of one of Kent ’ s wondrous beaches including the golden sands of Dymchurch , this railway will provide you with an opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of Kent . An absolute must for summer .
ROMNEY , HYTHE AND DYMCHURCH RAILWAY
© Graham Gillson
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