Each day began with a tumbler of spring water followed by a ‘ promenade ’ on The Pantiles , or a sojourn to a coffee house to hear the most up-to-date gossip , then off to church at the nearby Chapel of Ease , King Charles the Martyr . Live your summer day following in suit of this tradition by paying a visit to these places and enjoy a coffee from The Black Dog , who also serve up brilliant breakfasts . For those wanting more of a meal during the day , or even an elegant afternoon tea to reflect the Georgian character of this town visit The Ivy . Expect swanky interiors in iconic Ivy style ; the perfect setting to enjoy modern British fare in the form of everything from roast dinners to that special afternoon tea complete with Champagne and strawberries – a must for summer in Kent .
For visitors that want to embrace an active lifestyle , pay a visit to Fitness Superstore . This place is packed with fitness equipment ranging from exercise bikes , rowing machines , cross trainers , treadmills and multi-gyms , all of which are set up for you to try . There is something for everybody , whether you are a beginner or a personal trainer – and also something to suit all budgets . The expert and friendly team are always at hand to offer advice and guide you through the vast array of equipment on display .
For our ancestors in the 18th century , a day in Tunbridge Wells would finish with betting , dancing , a musical soiree , or an ostentatious ball , but we suggest you keep it a little more classy and visit one of the town ’ s acclaimed restaurants such as Thackereys . An exquisite restaurant free from pretension , while being steeped in charm and history , this building was once the residence of author
William Makepeace Thackeray and is more than 300 years old . Although an architectural work of art , it ’ s the food that takes all the glory here . Head chef , Patrick Hill , uses his immense knowledge , passion and creativity to craft ever-changing seasonal menus to inspire and delight all tastes and will be using the best of Kentish summer produce on his current menu .
Perhaps Kent ’ s most well-known historic city is Canterbury . With picturesque streets , plenty of leafy green parks and gardens , plus the cool waters of the River Stour running right through its heart , Canterbury is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a real Kentish summer . The ancient stones of Canterbury Cathedral are certain to provide immediate coolness away from the sun ’ s rays while transporting you back
through the centuries and to a medieval past when this magnificent monument was built . Follow in the footsteps of Chaucer ’ s pilgrims that inspired The Canterbury Tales and pay homage to Saint Thomas O ’ Becket at the place he was martyred . Marvel at the beauty of the stained-glass windows as the summer light pours through them and take in the ancient tombstones complete with life-size statues of those that lay beneath them including the Black Prince . If you are wanting an outdoor historical marvel to visit , then take a trip to St Augustine ’ s Abbey , where you can explore the tranquil ruins and discover the rebirth of Christianity in Kent after the departure of the Romans . The abbey is also the perfect place to walk your dog , or enjoy a family picnic in the summer sunshine .
THE BLACK DOG
THE IVY
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