DAYSOUT
DOVER CASTLE
© English Heritage
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. Riverside Charm in Faversham History runs deep in Faversham, where every street whispers stories. Spend your morning exploring Faversham Market( held Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), or plan to visit on the 1st Sunday of the month to browse the wares at Faversham Antiques & Vintage Market, then wander the streets lined with timbered architecture, antique shops and independent coffee spots. Take a brewery tour at Shepherd Neame, Britain’ s oldest brewer, before enjoying canal-side Italian dining at local favourite, Papa Bianco. Perfect for lovers of slow strolls and Kentish character.
8. Steam, Scenery & Strawberries in Tenterden Step back in time aboard the Kent & East Sussex Railway, where vintage steam trains chug through countryside from Tenterden to Bodiam Castle. Before you ride, stroll Tenterden’ s postcard-pretty high street, lined with independent shops and cafés. Stop for lunch at Montalbano, for Italian hospitality and some rather delicious homemade gelato or The Woolpack Inn, affectionately known as The Woolly, for pub classics and a crisp glass of Balfour, then hop aboard for a magical journey. Visit in late spring or summer for a detour to a nearby pick-your-own strawberry farm.
9. Wye Downs & Wine: A Hike with a High Note For walkers, the Wye Downs are a dream. Begin your day with a circular route taking in the Devil’ s Kneading Trough – a dramatic natural amphitheatre offering one of the county’ s best views. After your hike, reward yourself with a tasting at Simpsons Wine Estate, or unwind with tea, cake or a loaded toastie at cycle-pitstop The Hub. Just a short train ride from Ashford, this is a rural recharge without the long drive and perfect for cycling adventures, too.
10. Riverside Ruins & Rooftops in Tonbridge An underrated gem, Tonbridge delivers a scenic mix of history, riverside walking and rooftop dining. A perfect blend of mellow and modern, start with your early morning coffee fix courtesy at 65mm Coffee, a cosy and welcoming spot by the river curated by coffee aficionados David and Jade. Explore Tonbridge Castle and its impressive gatehouse before strolling the Medway towpath or hiring a rowing boat in summer, before quenching your exploring thirst with a choice from one of the biggest ranges of beer and European ales in the South courtesy of Fuggles Beer Cafe. Don’ t miss dinner or cocktails at Verdigris, a rooftop bar and restaurant with views over the water and castle. iK’ S TOP TIPS FOR ONE-DAY ADVENTURE SUCCESS
START EARLY – most places are best enjoyed before the crowds arrive.
PACK FOR ALL WEATHER – a raincoat and sunhat may both come in handy.
USE RAIL WHERE POSSIBLE – many of these locations are well served by Southeastern routes( see Off The Beaten Track over the page for more inspiration!).
BOOK IN ADVANCE – especially for vineyard tastings, punting and popular dining spots. www. insidekent. co. uk • 41