DAYSOUT
BLUE PLAQUE JOURNEYS
EXPLORE KENT ’ S RICH HERITAGE … ONE BLUE PLAQUE AT A TIME
A county of remarkable tales , pinnacle events and witness to many a notable visitor , it comes as no surprise that Kent is home to hundreds of blue plaques that proudly display clues to the colourful past and people of our towns and villages .
Taking inspiration from the official blue plaque scheme dating back to 1866 in London , currently led by English Heritage , local communities have since established their own plaques to celebrate Kent ’ s most famous and exceptional stories - from the visits of musical heroes to remembering the inspiring women who campaigned tirelessly for change . Here are the top Kent blue plaques to visit on your next heritage exploration .
CANTERBURY
The city of Canterbury is steeped in centuries of historical events and fascinating inhabitants . Throughout its meandering cobblestone streets , ramblers can expect to stumble upon numerous blue plaques - many of which are recent additions following the brilliant project of The Canterbury Society in 2020 as they set out to add an impressive collection to the city ’ s walls .
Upon entrance to the Canterbury Roman Museum , set around the remains of an original Roman Town House on Butchery Lane , find the plaque of Audrey Williams , a pioneering archeologist who after her scholarship at Oxford and vital excavation of ancient monuments , led the first excavation of the Canterbury Roman House which uncovered an awe-inspiring pavement and underfloor heating system - both of which are displayed in the museum today .
Passing the cathedral and towards the outskirts of the town centre on St Radigunds Street , sits Count Louis Zborowski ’ s old workshop , a British racing driver , automobile engineer and creator of iconic cars the ‘ Chitty-Bang-Bangs ’, known for giving inspiration to the work of writer DEAL
Ian Fleming and his famous children ’ s tome , Chitty Chitty Bang Bang : The Magical Car .
Just outside of bustling Canterbury , at Church Hill House in the village of Harbledown , is the plaque of Britain ’ s first professional female writer , Aphra Behn , which was placed to celebrate Aphra ’ s career , first as a travelling spy before before becoming an incredibly successful playwright , poet , translator and fiction writer .
canterburysociety . org . uk
MAKE A DAY OF IT :
Visit : Interactive learning at Canterbury Roman Museum , admire the imposing architecture of Canterbury Cathedral , enjoy a show at The Marlowe Theatre . Eat & Drink : A fulfilling breakfast at The Refectory Kitchen , divine dining at Sekkoya , and rest and recuperate at ABode Hotel should you want to make a night of it .
MARGATE
A town of the arts , culture and seaside redevelopment , Margate has played host to an abundance of historical figures throughout its praised transformation into a must-visit coastal destination , including monarchs and artists seeking inspiration from its eye-catching coastal landscapes .
Built on the site of the boarding house where the artist stayed during his visits to Margate , the award-winning Turner Contemporary gallery was inspired by the life of Joseph Mallord William Turner or J . M . W . Turner , a celebrated romantic painter , printmaker and watercolourist who was deeply inspired by the seaside town ’ s charm and bright persona . Pairing with a visit to the gallery , plan to stop off at the corner of Love Lane and Hawley Street , where a plaque is placed in memory of his attendance at the former Coleman ’ s School .
For those looking to delve deeper into the fascinating royal past of Margate , in the heart of the vibrant town you ’ ll find the former home of Prince Frederick or ‘ The Grand Old Duke of York ’ who lived for many years on the corner of Duke Street . Only a stone ’ s throw away is the plaque of King George IV in Cecil Square , commemorating the very spot he met his bride , which is now the Margate Public Library .
One for the fans of hit comedy double act Morecambe and Wise , national treasure Eric Morecambe held his wedding reception at popular local pub The Bulls Head , and is lovingly remembered for both his extraordinary comedic career and presence within the local community .
thanet . gov . uk
MAKE A DAY OF IT :
Visit : Unleash your creativity at Turner Contemporary , family fun at Dreamland , playful activities at Lost Island Adventure Golf . Eat & Drink : Delicious coffee and cake at Cliffs , seafood delights at Angela ’ s , savour magical wine pairings at Pomus .
DEAL
Perhaps known for its traditional roots and preserved architecture , Deal ’ s coast has long been a popular destination for history buffs and nature lovers . Passionate about promoting the town ’ s rich past is the Deal Heritage Society , who have adorned many significant buildings with plaques and created a two-and-a quarter mile trail through the quintessential streets for those wishing to discover the intriguing stories .
Along the marina , heading towards Sandown , stopping at the home of J . B . Priestley , who resided there in 1929 while writing his breakthrough novel The Good Companions before embarking to become a respected novelist , playwright , broadcaster and campaigner for social welfare . If following along the trail , shortly after you will land at 9 Golden Street and the plaque
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