insideKENT Magazine Issue 174 - October 2026 | Page 84

GUIDE
© VisitKent
SHEPHERD NEAME BREWERY

Faversham isn’ t any ordinary Kentish town; it is, in fact, the county’ s oldest market town. With its earliest records dating back to the Domesday Book, its history stretches back to pre-Roman times, when it was already a thriving centre of trade.

Most notably, the town’ s fame grew over the following centuries through its production of gunpowder( fiery indeed!), which was manufactured here for use in a number of famous battles including Trafalgar and Waterloo. Once recognised as the centre of the nation’ s explosive industry, Faversham’ s industrial past sits in stark contrast to the picturesque scene we see today.
The town is surrounded by a landscape rich in wildlife, with the Oare Marshes Nature Reserve to the north providing vital wetland for wading and wildfowl birds. To the south, the rolling landscape of the North Downs adds another layer to Faversham’ s rural charm.
Back in the town centre, Faversham is an enchanting destination. Independent boutiques, medieval buildings and historic pubs line its streets, while the Market Place remains at the heart of the town, where timber-framed buildings border the square. Faversham’ s charm, it seems, is endless.
“ Faversham is a rare gem- just a train ride from London, yet proudly rooted in its market town heritage. I love its independent spirit, characterful pubs, medieval streets and endless opportunities to wander. From the Victorian station to Abbey Street, The Anchor and the marshes beyond, it is quite simply the perfect walking town.”
STEFANO CUOMO, CEO, MACKNADE

Top

Picks
TOP ATTRACTION MACKNADE Proudly at the forefront of Kent’ s food and drink scene for over 175 years, Macknade is the South East’ s leading food hall, delicatessen, butchery and café, showcasing the very best of high-quality Kentish produce.
TOP EATS POSILLIPO An authentic taste of Italian cuisine, Posillipo offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, with breathtaking views across the tidal channel of Faversham Creek. Using only the finest and freshest ingredients, indulge in delicious seafood and homemade pasta.
TOP HERITAGE SHEPHERD NEAME Britain’ s oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame has been part of Faversham for more than three centuries, dating back to the 16th century. Join a guided tour to see brewing in action, enjoy a tutored tasting and visit the on-site brewery shop.
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