VISITKENT
VISIT KENT : See More in 2024 !
IT ’ S 2024 – OUR YEAR OF YES ! AND WHAT BETTER TO SAY YES TO THAN EXPLORING EVEN MORE OF
EVERYTHING THIS VIBRANT , CULTURED AND EXCEPTIONALLY BEAUTIFUL COUNTY HAS TO SEE AND DO !
From iconic attractions and hundreds of rainy-day ideas to colourful gardens , galleries , foodie experiences and unmissable family days out , The Garden of England has it all … in abundance . Don ’ t let this seemingly endless list of ways to have fun in Kent overwhelm you , however – instead , view the following pages as your itinerary of inspiration ; your to-do of dreams ; your inventory of ideas – all in the spirit of saying yes to seeing more of the incredible county we call home .
Head to the coast
Proudly boasting a staggering 350 miles of glorious coastline , the diversity of coastal environments across the county is nothing short of breathtaking . Notably , Dungeness , situated at the southernmost point in Kent , holds the unique distinction of being Britain ’ s sole officially recognised desert with a natural landscape of shingle , gravel and shells serving as a sanctuary for a fascinating array of rare bird and plant life .
The jewel in Kent ’ s coastal crown , Thanet unfolds along a 19-mile coastline embracing Margate , Broadstairs and Ramsgate - a coastal haven with 15 sandy beaches , six of which proudly bear the Blue Flag distinction , and an additional four with Seaside Awards – a truly impressive feat . Folkestone is a cultural hotspot with a thriving creative scene , epitomising community vibrancy through a collective of independent businesses that have revitalised once empty spaces . Echoing this trendiness is Deal , an edgy Kentish gem recently acclaimed as one of the best places to live in Britain .
Explore our vibrant towns
There is a soul-stirring charm that defines Kent ’ s towns , where ancient streets echo with the footsteps of time and modernity seamlessly intertwines with tradition . From hidden gems tucked away in narrow alleys to the grandeur of bustling market squares , every corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered . Whether you crave the quaint allure of historic architecture , the vibrant pulse of local life , or the resplendence of the county ’ s cathedrals , Kent ’ s towns stand ready to captivate your senses .
Among these gems is the venerable city of Canterbury : a living testament to history where visitors can trace the footsteps of Chaucer ’ s pilgrims and gaze in awe at the city ’ s pièce de résistance , Canterbury Cathedral , a majestic landmark with spellbinding architecture . The next stop for ancient royals travelling from Europe to London would have been the town of Rochester , which proudly graces the banks of the River Medway . Adorned by a medieval castle and neighbouring cathedral , Rochester is steeped in centuries of history . In delightful contrast , the youthful allure of Royal Tunbridge Wells emerges as a beacon of elegance amidst the Kentish landscape . A town heavily influenced by the Georgians , this refined oasis exudes a captivating blend of history and sophistication , drawing patrons into a welcoming embrace of enticing eateries , independent boutiques and divine restaurants .
Recharge in the countryside
Remarkably , the enchanting rural splendour of Kent unfolds within a mere hour ’ s journey from the bustling heart of London . Despite this impressive proximity , Kent maintains an unparalleled sense of local character , adorned with quintessentially English landscapes and the prestigious title of The Garden of England . At the heart of Kent ’ s diverse topography lies an expansive tapestry of lush farming ground harmoniously interwoven with undulating hills . This picturesque canvas is further adorned by quaint woodlands , age-old forests and flat marshes teeming with vibrant wildlife .
A veritable paradise for walkers , Kent unfolds its wonders along the sacred hillside path of the Pilgrims ’ Way and along the breathtaking Greensand Ridge . Every step offers awe-inspiring vistas , with Greensand Ridge providing panoramic views that stretch in all directions . From this elevated region , the River Darent embarks on its northward journey , meandering through nostalgic village tableaus adorned with weatherboard houses , historic churches , welcoming pubs and village greens . A countryside that inspires lyrical poetry , Kent has naturally been the muse for Britain ’ s most revered authors , poets and playwrights . The Romney Marsh , with its flooded meadows and wind-bent trees , captivated Charles Dickens , while the green pastures and manicured lawns of Kent ’ s magnificent country estates found their place in Jane Austen ’ s most cherished novels .
Animal lovers should look no further than the Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation , the Kent Falconry Centre or Wilder Kent Safaris for a captivating journey through the untamed wonders of our nature reserves .
History buffs will be at home exploring the fascinating facts behind some of Kent ’ s most majestic castles including Dover , Scotney and Deal , or discovering the chequered past of atmospheric spots such as the Battle of Britain Memorial , Ramsgate Tunnels , Fort Amherst and The Historic Dockyard Chatham .
Fans of fine food and drink should look no further than a Balfour Winery vineyard tour and wine tasting , Maidstone Distillery , Westwell Wines , Biddenden Vineyards , or a visit to Britain ’ s oldest brewer , Shepherd Neame .
Perhaps all you need for a perfect weekend is to top up on some spring sunshine with a wander around some of Kent ’ s most glorious gardens . If so , Penshurst Place and Gardens , Mount Ephraim Gardens or Walmer Castle and Gardens – amongst so many more – have you covered .
So , come on Kent – say YES to seeing more in 2024 ! www . insidekent . co . uk • 31