Kent Staycation 2021 | Page 14

TOWN
looking for a great day out , will be enthralled by this town that captures some of the UK ’ s most important naval history . Visitors can explore three of the museum ships , including a submarine and the HMS Cavalier , which tells the heroic story of World War II and the vital part it played in achieving victory . Slightly downriver from the Historic Dockyard , sits another naval defence , in the form of the Elizabethan artillery fort , Upnor Castle . Jutting out on top of the River Medway , visitors can wander down the alluringly pretty , cobbled street of Upnor before they reach the castle ; a perfect spot for those wanting to capture a quintessential shot of a historic Kentish village .
Another quintessentially Kentish location is that of Tenterden , near Ashford . Known as the ‘ Jewel of the Weald ’ this town , which sits nestled in Kent ’ s tranquil countryside , offers visitors a sample of everything ; from beautiful architecture and buildings , to fascinating history and great shopping – Tenterden is an excellent town for anyone to explore . Hosting a variety of boutique clothes shops , alluring craft shops and independent gift shops , Tenterden will keep visitors occupied for hours until they are ready to settle down to lunch or dinner at one of the many places to eat in the area , which include awardwinning restaurants , The Woolpack Inn and The Swan at Chapel Down .
Perhaps one of the most famous towns in Kent , Royal Tunbridge Wells will have visitors yearning for more time to spend in our beautiful county . With its picture-perfect Pantiles sitting in the historic heart of the town , explorers of Tunbridge Wells can enjoy a glass of wine or cup of coffee outside one of the cute cafes , trendy bars or inviting bistros that line the area . Those wanting more of a meal , and a fine dining experience to remember , can indulge in more of the town ’ s splendour at Thackeray ’ s Restaurant , which resides in a historic building that was once home to the Victorian British novelist , William Thackery . With lots more to discover in this affluent spa town , visitors can even row a pedalo around Dunorlan Park ’ s boating lake ; visit nearby Scotney Castle – which rises from the lake like something from a fairytale – or pick up a self-guided trail map from the Guildhall Museum and while-away an entire weekend reliving the town ’ s surprising past .
Upnor Castle , Rochester
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