Kent Staycation 2020 | Page 28

TOWN: DAYS OUT ATTRACTIONS CONTINUED Red House, Bexleyheath Rochester Castle, Rochester Significant arts and crafts building, dating back to 1860, by famous designers, Phillip Webb and William Morris that is now part of the National Trust Collection. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/red-house Fine 113 feet tall Castle, featuring a Norman tower and stood on the bank of the River Medway. This English Heritage property offers a year-round calendar of events. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ rochester-castle Upnor Castle, Rochester Stunning Elizabethan artillery fort located on the River Medway dating back to 1559. Now part of the English Heritage collection and offering regular family events and an outdoor theatre. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/upnor- castle Salomons Estate, Tunbridge Wells Rochester Cathedral, Rochester Tonbridge Castle, Tonbridge Share in the elegance and romance of the Victorian era at the stunning mansion set in 36 acres of rolling gardens parklands and woods. Enjoy events, weddings or stay the night and enjoy food in the pub and dining rooms. www.salomons-estate.com Stunning Cathedral set in the heart of the city and home to Christian worship since AD604. Visitors are welcome for worship, to take in the architecture or to enjoy the music. www.rochestercathedral.org History comes alive at Tonbridge Castle. See and hear what it was like to live over 700 years ago as interactive displays and life sized figures display the sights and sounds of this 13th Century castle. www.tonbridgecastle.org SHOPPING Whitefriars Shopping Centre, Canterbury Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe Premier shopping in East Kent’s largest shopping centre, with a pedestrianised precinct packed full of favourite high street brands, popular restaurants and ample parking. www.whitefriars.co.uk The ultimate shopping and leisure experience with over 300 stores, over 50 bars and restaurants and leisure activities with over 13,000 free parking spaces. www.bluewater.co.uk The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells County Square Shopping Centre, Ashford Whether on the look-out for that perfect outfit or after some everyday essentials, indulge in some relaxed retail therapy in the 50+ shops, cafés and restaurants. www.countysquareshoppingcentre.com With over 70 independent shops and eateries, The Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells is a shopper’s dream. Immerse yourself in the 400-year history as you stroll the colonnaded walkway. www.thepantiles.com Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington Hempstead Valley Shopping Centre, Gillingham McArthur Glen Ashford Designer Outlet, Ashford Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells A vibrant and exciting shopping experience in the heart of Orpington with over 200 stores ranging from independent retailers to large high street chains. www.thewalnutsshoppingcentre.com Welcoming and popular shopping experience, offering over 50 stores as well as popular restaurant chains, in the heart of Gillingham. www.hempsteadvalley.com Mostly covered shopping centre boasting over 110 stores, including a three-floor Fenwick’s department store, that also offers a host of seasonal events and activities. www.royalvictoriaplace.com Discover the world’s most iconic brands at up to 70% less. Offering a mix of fashion and homeware brands, ultimate designer must-haves and high street fashion favourites, with new shops, food piazza, and interactive children’s play area following a recent, extensive expansion project. www.mcarthurglen.com/en/outlets/uk/designer- outlet-ashford/ Bligh’s Meadow, Sevenoaks Popular outdoor shopping centre in the heart of Sevenoaks. Home to over 35 shops as well as a selection of cafes and restaurants, and also hosts a weekly market. www.blighsmeadow.com 28