TOWN
TOWN
Lose yourself down winding streets that beckon curiosity , paved with ancient stones and cast in the shadows of towering cathedrals with spires that spike the heavens . Crooked doorways and bulging frontages spill out onto the streets as they have done for centuries , evolving with the people that call these Kentish towns and cities home . Whether you ’ re shopping , eating , learning or simply exploring , let the charming towns of Kent inspire you with their own unique personalities , ready to capture your heart and mind .
roud home to a plethora of thriving locations , Kent
Pmasters a captivating blend of rural charm and cosmopolitan sophistication when it comes to the county ’ s urban areas . History has played a crucial role in the evolution of these towns , resulting in each one embodying a distinctive character . One such example is the city of Canterbury . Today , visitors can follow in the footsteps of Chaucer ’ s pilgrims to marvel at the ancient city walls that guard the jewel in Canterbury ’ s crown : Canterbury Cathedral . With awe-inspiring architecture and sheer imposing scale that transfixes onlookers from miles around , the landmark of the cathedral with its delightful grounds is perhaps the best place to start when exploring this diverse city . Step outside the famed Cathedral Gate and delve into a charming world awash with artisan shops , cute cafés and trendy restaurants that line the historic high street and King ’ s Mile , or venture into the sympathetically modernised Whitefriars Shopping Centre which houses plenty of popular retailers including the glossy Fenwicks department store .
Another historic location frequented by kings and queens of old is the town of Rochester which sits proudly astride the River Medway . Although Rochester ’ s most significant historic landmarks are its neighbouring cathedral and medieval castle , the city has links to a character that defines more recent English history , treasured British author Charles Dickens . Like Canterbury , this lively town is brimming with awardwinning restaurants , bars and independent shops that sit side by side along its ancient high street . A street which influenced some of Dickens ’ greatest works , visitors can learn more about Rochester ’ s role in his life at one of the many museums and exhibitions that honour the town ’ s heritage .
A contrast to Canterbury and Rochester comes in the beloved form of the much younger Kentish town of Royal Tunbridge Wells . Despite its difference in age , this elegant oasis still boasts a raffish sense of history to be marvelled at , alongside an abundance of inviting eateries , independent shops and divine restaurants . Surrounded by achingly beautiful countryside , it is easy to see why a long line of royalty , including Queen Victoria , were so much in adoration of this spa town that it eventually earned its ‘ Royal ’ prefix . Visit the buzzy colonnaded Pantiles , a lovely shaded walk overhung in places with an original 18th-century ‘ musick balcony ’. From here , enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of wine at a trendy bistro before exploring the rest of this pictureperfect Georgian gem .
As Kent ’ s county town , Maidstone lies at the very heart of The Garden of England . Framing this vibrant place which is full of independent restaurants , bistros and boutique shops , are pretty orchards and hop gardens that sprawl over lush countryside - a beautiful backdrop juxtaposed against the town ’ s eclectic hustle and bustle . With a rich history , meandering rivers and a location which lends itself to being a vibrant destination for many travelling between the coast and London , Maidstone is yet another location for visitors to Kent to be enthralled by .
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