COUNTRY
COUNTRY
Lovingly referred to as ‘ The Garden of England ’, no matter the season , Kent has something to offer all the senses . Whether it is the sweet smell of blossom in the spring , rolling patchwork fields glittering yellow , green and gold in summer , the taste of fresh fruit in the autumn , or the quintessential villages that offer a cosy hearth in the winter ; the Kent countryside can be enjoyed every day of the year .
ook closely and you will find sprawling footpaths
Land cycle routes that etch their way through woodlands , across valleys and over hillsides . The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will take walkers through a variety of enchanting landscapes , complete with dramatic views , a wealth of history and biodiverse habitats teeming with wildlife . Here , walkers can tread the footsteps of ancient pilgrims made famous by Chaucer ’ s Canterbury Tales when they visit the route , ‘ The Pilgrim ’ s Way ’. Dotted with historic landmarks such as the ancient Kit ’ s Coty House and White Horse Stone , right through to more recent history with the Chalk Cross at Lenham carved into the hillside to commemorate fallen soldiers in World War I , this path will fascinate all ages of nature and history lovers alike .
Kent is also famous for its meandering rivers and vast open lakes drawn from its beloved coastline . Bewl Water near Lamberhurst , is yet another area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , laying claim to the largest stretch of inland water in the South East . With plenty of water activities to take part in , this is a great day out for families or for those wanting a scenic walk around the reservoir . Whilst Kent ’ s rivers such as The River Stour , also provide a great source of entertainment for visitors . Whether you are looking to have fun on the water , delve deeper into the depths of the county ’ s history or want to seek out rare birds and plant life on the marshes , The Stour Valley Walk will give you access to some of the most beautiful areas of the Kent Countryside across its 58-mile span .
Known for its orchards and fields of hops that spread across the landscape , a trip to Kent would not be complete without a visit to a country pub . You don ’ t have to be a foodie to feel spoiled for choice when it comes to selecting where you want to sample a Kentish beer or cider and eat your locally sourced Sunday roast . The Compasses Inn at Crundale – No 8 in The Top 50 Gastropubs – and the The Sportsman in Seasalter near Whitstable – who have held a Michelin Star since 2008 – offer mouth-watering menus that make use of their local surroundings . Sourcing their produce from nearby farms , game estates and fishermen , these two exceptional Kent country pubs will give you a truly delicious taste of what the county has to offer .
2021 will not only see the reopening of pubs and restaurants but also other attractions such as castles , zoos and gardens : of which Kent has plenty . Walmer Castle boasts eight acres of award-winning gardens
45