The county of Kent is one of the prettiest in England. Often called “The Garden of England”, Kent is home to rolling hills, rich farmland, country estates and stately homes with beautiful gardens.
This fertile land means that Kent is the official suppler of strawberries to Wimbledon. Each berry must be between 25mm-45mm in diameter and fully red all over.
But there’s more to Kent than strawberries (although they are a very good reason to visit). This corner of the UK is home to ancient woodlands and Royal towns, beautiful villages and historic towns, majestic castles and mysterious caves. It boasts colourful seaside resorts with sandy beaches as well as Dungeness, a shingle beach at the southernmost point in Kent and Britain’s only officially recognised desert.
For nature lovers there are plenty of things to do including exploring the Kent Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
If you’re planning a trip then enjoy this list of the best places to visit in Kent whether you’re travelling solo or bringing along the whole family. Enjoy!
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The best places to go in Kent
Table of Contents
Kent stretches from the London Borough of Bromley right the way down to the coast and, of course, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover. If travelling from London it is easily reached by train, bus or by driving. You definitely have greater flexibility to explore if you drive your own car or hire one.
Whitstable
The seaside town of Whitstable is unquestionably one of the best places to visit in Kent. Located on the north coast, just 5 miles north of Canterbury, this is the place to come for a traditional British beach day out.
This characterful fishing village hugs the northern Kent Coast and is filled with colourful houses, a fun array of independent shops along the high street and some of the best places to eat oysters in England.
The beach may not be sandy (you’ll find shingles instead) but that doesn’t stop visitors spending the day here. Plus, the beach huts, in an assortment of rainbow colours, make for a very pretty backdrop. Tankerton Beach, at the southern end of Whitstable, is a good place to head with kids thanks to its myriad rock pools.
Spend some time exploring Whitstable Harbour while you’re here. Built in 1832 to serve the Canterbury and Whitstable Railway (otherwise known as the Crab and Winkle line), it’s a lively spot with fishing boats sailing in and out. This is a good place to pick up takeaway fish and chips or and ice cream (or, better yet, both!). This is also where you’ll find the Harbour Market.
Away from the water there’s Whitstable Castle and Gardens and the Whitstable Museum and Gallery, home to the INVICTA engine. This steam train was one of the first to be used on the railway, pulling passengers from Whitstable to Canterbury.
Places to stay in Whitstable
Ramsgate
A fun family getaway, Ramsgate is a charming coastal town and resort in the heart of Kent which can be reached from London in around an hour if you jump on the super fast train.
Boasting beautiful sandy beaches (complete with beach-huts and ice cream kiosks), Ramsgate’s jewel in the crown is the spectacular Royal Harbour and Marina and accompanying hilltop views and walks. There are plenty of pubs overlooking the harbour primed for that perfect sunset pint accompanied with the freshest fish and best catch of the day.
Whilst most of Ramsgate seafront is taken up by the marina and a largely industrial port, there are two small beach areas for swimming, sunbathing and family activities. The easiest to access is the Ramsgate Main Sands to the left of the harbour arm with several beachside attractions like children’s amusements.
One of the best free things to do in Ramsgate is to stroll around the harbour and marina at any time of day, looking at all the yachts and vessels (and possibly guess how many millions some of them cost!).
The harbour is also the location for most of the day trips and sea fishing excursions available in Ramsgate. There are a lot of nice places to eat, plus museums and artist studios in the arches along the marina.
Finally, Ramsgate Royal Parade is one of the best cliff top walks and spots to hang out with nice views and several bars and restaurants all with their own alfresco dining areas with views overlooking the port. Cheers!
By Caroline and Neil, CKTravels.com
Places to stay in Ramsgate
Broadstairs
Some of the greatest writers in history have been inspired by the Garden of England including Charles Dickens who spent periods of his life living here.
The seaside town of Broadstairs was his favourite holiday spot and the inspiration for many of his most famous works including David Copperfield, Bleak House and Our English Watering Place. Visit in June and you can enjoy the Broadstairs Dickens Festival.
Broadstairs is one of those charming seaside towns that’s particularly great for families. There are seven sandy beaches to choose from including Central Viking Bay, a horseshoe-shaped bay with tidal pools, children’s rides, beach huts and a surf school.
Botany Bay boats dramatic chalk stacks, soft sand and – when the tide’s out – the chance to look for fossils and explore rock pools. The 200m-long Joss Bay is the best surfing beach in the area.
The town itself is filled with colourful fishermen’s cottages, independent shops and lots of really good food and drink options. Visit the traditional Dickens House Museum, once home to Miss Mary Pearson who inspired Dickens’ character Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield.
It’s also worth taking a cliff-top walk past Bleak House, a Grade II-listed building that sits above Viking Bay. Once known as Fort House, this is where Charles Dickens would holiday, spending many summers writing here.
If you want to continue with a Dickens tour then you should add Gravesend and Medway (so called because of the River Medway) to your Kent itinerary.
Places to stay in Broadstairs
Margate
In many ways, Margate is your traditional British seaside resort. It has the sandy beach, amusement arcades and even a theme park. Yet the Old Town retains a lot of its character and charm, making it a lovely place for both families and couples.
For the younger kids, the main attractions are going to be the beach and Dreamland, the theme park. An amusement ride has actually been in place here since 1880 and the Scenic Railway (a rollercoaster from 1920) is the UK’s oldest working rollercoaster and a Grade-II listed monument. It’s entirely up to you if you trust it!
Margate Main Sands is the best beach – an award winning blue flag beach no less. Remember that this is the North Sea, so can be cold all year. Also, there is a huge tidal range, so the sea can be a bit of a walk to get to.
Other attractions include the Shell Grotto – a 30m tunnel decorate with over 4.5 million shells! Nobody really knows how, when or why it was created – a Margate Mystery!
There are also a couple of museums, an indoor market, adventure golf and the Draper’s Windmill – a working (at times) windmill where you can venture inside to learn about the history and mechanics of the traditional windmills of the area.
Be sure to drive from Margate to Broadstairs along the coast road- it’s one of the UK’s most scenic drives.
By Kathryn, Wandering Bird
Places to stay in Margate
Pluckley
Pluckley, near Ashford, may appear to be a quaint chocolate-box village in the heart of the English countryside, but after dark it becomes a very different place.
During twilight hours this village of just 1000 inhabitants becomes a mecca for all those that have watched Most Haunted and fancy a bit of ghost hunting for themselves. From the spooky sightings of the highwayman at Fright Corner to the continuously screaming man and the sound of ghostly horses hooves clip clopping down Maltman’s Hill, there are no end of spirits to go in search of.
In fact, Pluckey has been named by the Guinness Book of World Records, as Britain’s most haunted village and is reputed to have at least twelve different ghosts that frequent the area.
If you fancy seeking out the apparitions for yourself, The Dering Arms on the edge of the village is the place to start. Once a hunting lodge, and now a pub that welcomes all, including your four-legged friends, this is often where visitors will start their hunt, for this watering hole is also meant to be haunted.
While enjoying your home-cooked meal, see if you can spot the old lady said to often be seen sitting at the bar in Victorian dress. Some have even claimed that she appears so lifelike that they have mistaken her for a real customer.
For those wanting to spend more than just a day exploring, spend a night at Elvey Farm, a small boutique hotel that dates back to the 15th century and is said to be home to its own ghosts.
Pluckey is the place to visit if you fancy doing something different during your trip to Kent.
By Tamason, Travelling Book Junkie
Places to stay in Pluckley
Hever Castle
You’re not short of historic castles to visit in Kent, but easily one of the best to explore is Hever Castle with kids. Not only can you wander around the place where Anne Boleyn spent part of her childhood (with a trail to help entertain kids as you explore), the huge grounds have so many entertainments and outdoor activities that it’s tough to fit them all into one day.
Once you’ve eyed up Anne’s own bed and checked out the portraits of Henry VIII’s wives, the main fun is still to come outside. Watching the jousting is a highlight: if you want a good view, it’s worth getting to the field early, or you can follow the knights, along with Henry VIII and the royal household, down from the castle for some added royal merriment.
If you’re inspired by the knightly arts, there are archery lessons or a chance to create your own crest with some shield painting (sign up early), plus in summer, you can wander the tented village listening to stories, chatting to more armoured warriors and eyeing up Tudor food.
In between, there are two mazes at Hever Castle to explore – both a traditional yew hedge maze, and a more unusual water maze. Dodge the jets and it’s possible to make it to the middle without getting wet, although given the choice, no child is going to resist scampering under the spray so a change of clothes is a bonus.
Not to mention 125 acres of grounds to explore, including the rose garden, Tudor garden, Italian garden and boating on the lake.
By Cathy, MummyTravels.com
Places to stay in Hever
Canterbury
On the Southeast of England, sits Canterbury, one of the most charming cities in England. It is only 60 miles away from London, which makes it an ideal destination for a day trip from London or even a weekend gateway.
This city is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it attracts history and culture lovers from all over the world. Here you can have a relaxing trip while learning about the Roman influence on English culture.
One of the best ways to explore Canterbury is to stroll around the maze of charming cobbled streets and admire the amazing architectures. When in the town centre, it is hard to miss the famous Canterbury Cathedral, which is one of the oldest and most known Christian structures in the country. It was founded in 597, but later in the 11th and 12th century was rebuilt in Gothic style. This place is where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170.
Slightly beyond the city centre, you can find The Church of St Martin, the oldest church in England. The church was used by the Romans during the 4th century and later in the 6th century it was the private chapel of Queen Bertha of Kent. The Cathedral together with St. Martin’s Church and St. Augustine’s Abbey are UNESCO Heritage Sites today.
When it comes to food, Canterbury has plenty to offer. There are many restaurants, cute cafes in the town centre. No matter if you are looking for English food, or international cuisine such as Italian, Indian and Turkish.
However, if you are looking to have good food with a cosy atmosphere, you can head to Old Weavers House. It is located next to the River Stour and it has a beautiful garden. After your lunch, you can go on a boat tour on the river to relax.
By Mansoureh, TravelwithMansoureh.com
Places to stay in Canterbury
Leeds Castle
Leeds Castle is located in Leeds in Kent, just 25 miles from London. It is easy to reach by car or train and makes for a lovely day out in Kent.
It has been called “the loveliest castle in the world” and as you approach the castle along the winding path from the main entrance, you will see why. The fairy tale castle is surrounded by a moat and beautifully kept grounds.
Leeds Castle, built in 1119, has not seen as much battle action as some other castles in England, but that does not make it any less interesting. Having King Henry VIII as one of its residents always makes for a good story.
There is not much left of the original 12th century Norman castle. In fact, the only part remaining is the cellar. This is because the castle has been significantly modified over the centuries. Much of what can be seen today is thanks to King Henry VIII who made Leeds Castle a home with his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and to Sir Richard Smythe who built the Jacobean manor in the 17th century.
There is plenty to keep you busy at Leeds Castle. As well as taking a self-guided or guided tour of the castle, you can explore the maze, watch falconry displays, test your archery skills and maybe catch some special event taking place during school holidays.
If you are visiting with kids, there are a couple of fantastic play areas modelled on the castle – one for 6 years and under and the other for 6 – 14-year-olds.
If you have ever wanted to stay in a castle, they offer B&B accommodation in the castle as well as cottages in the grounds. In the summer months there are knight’s glamping tents which are great fun for families.
Leeds Castle is open all year round, except for Christmas Day, and is one of the best places to visit in Kent.
By Jacs, The Flashpacking Family
Places to stay in Maidstone
Wye
Tucked away in the countryside of Kent is the small village Wye, one of the most picturesque villages in the county. The peaceful and laid back atmosphere of Wye offers a welcome escape from the bustle of city life. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind surrounded by nature.
A patchwork of ∫ surrounds the town with plenty of scenic walking trails to explore. Wye can easily be reached from London by taking the train service to Ashford and then switching trains and getting off at the next stop from there.
A popular thing to do while visiting Wye is taking a walk up to the Memorial Crown viewpoint. The Memorial Crown was installed on the hillside overlooking the town in the year 1902 to commemorate the coronation of King Edward VII. Hiking to the viewpoint will reward you with spectacular countryside views. The walk begins in Wye’s town center and leads you upward along a public footpath, it takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Once you have finished the walk, make your way back into town to enjoy a traditional pub lunch at one of the charming historic pubs that Wye has to offer.
Located on the banks of the Stour River, the beautiful Tickled Trout Pub makes an excellent choice. Walking into this lovely old pub will take you right back in time, there has been a pub standing in that spot for over 400 years! Their outdoor patio is a great place to have lunch on a sunny day. During winter, the roaring fireplace inside the pub makes for a cosy atmosphere to warm up.
By Ann, The Road Is Life
Places to stay in Wye
Chiddingstone Castle
Chiddingstone Castle and Village, sitting in the Weald of Kent in Edenbridge, is one of the best places to visit in Kent. Unlike the neighbouring Kent castles such as Hever and Leeds, this one is lesser-known and therefore doesn’t get crowded with tourists. It’s free entry into the grounds but there is an honesty box for the parking charge.
Chiddingstone Castle started life as a manor house on the outskirts of the village but over time was re-designed to imitate a castle complete with medieval turrets. The final owner of the castle was also an avid private collector of Egyptian and Asian artefacts and bought the castle to display his vast collections, which can be viewed when the castle is open.
In the grounds the open spaces lend themselves to family gatherings and picnics while the beautiful lily-pond allows anglers, with a permit, the chance to enjoy a spot of fishing on a summer’s afternoon. When it gets too hot head to the castle tea-rooms and cool off with a delicious ice-cream.
Children and adults alike will love the small maze with its stunning vistas over the North Downs and also the woodland walk that leads to Chiddingstone Village.
Arriving in the village, owned by the National Trust, is like stepping back in time. The original Tudor fronted buildings have been repurposed for modern day and have history seeping from every brick and timber.
The Post Office was once a shop owned by Anne Boleyn’s father and the tea-rooms date back to the 15th century and serve mouth-watering tea and cakes. Stop for a pint in the Castle Inn and then wander down to the Chiding Stone, from where the castle and village got their name, and learn how the druids used it as a place of worship.
Chiddingstone is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of Kent in all its glory.
By Angela, Where Angie Wanders
Places to stay in Chiddingstone
Ightham Mote
The medieval moated Manor House of Ightham Mote sits in a leafy valley not far from Sevenoaks. Now owned by the National Trust, the building dates back to around 1340 and has been described as “the most complete small medieval Manor House in the country”.
A moat surrounds four sides of the house, which itself is built around an open courtyard. Although the exteriors of the house have changed little over the centuries (any alterations and additions were done in keeping with the original architectural style), the interiors boast an eclectic mishmash of styles including a Jacobean staircase and Gothic windows.
Ightham Mote makes for a great day out. As well as the house itself that sits surrounded by ancient woodland, there are walks, trails and a natural play area with balance beams and stepping stones that’s ideal for entertaining kids.
Knole Park, Sevenoaks
Knole Park is a medieval deer park that covers over 1,000 acres of rolling green land. It is the perfect place for a meandering walk around the beautiful grounds, and the abundant deer roam free through the parkland. There is a delightful cafe within the park, where you can enjoy a drink on the rooftop terrace.
At the heart of the park is Knole House, a National Trust property that has served as a home to archbishops. The house has a strong Tudor history, having previously been a royal property of the Tudor dynasty.
Accordingly, Knole House is a popular filming location for lavish historical films, including The Other Boleyn Girl and the fourth Pirates of the Caribbean movie. Inside the house, visitors can explore the state rooms and galleries, and discover the impressive collection of royal furniture, portraits, and tapestries.
Knole is a great place to visit with kids, who can learn all about the fascinating history of the house. In the summer, the park is an inviting destination for picnics – just be wary of curious deer wanting to join the party! In the winter, it’s a beautiful place to go for a walk and on the rare occasion that it snows, the multitude of hills are ideal for sledging.
Knole Park is one of many things to do in Sevenoaks, a Kentish town that is steeped in history and surrounded by stunning countryside. After a stroll around Knole, the town centre is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. From traditional country pubs to independent cafes and recognisable restaurant chains, there are plenty of options to choose from.
By Jessie, Pocket Wanderings
Places to stay in Sevenoaks
Dover Castle
Dover Castle is actually the largest castle in England and a prominent landmark in Kent. Its clifftop location makes it a beautiful sight to see and a great spot to visit with the entire family.
The castle dates back to the Middle Ages and has been described as the “Key to England” owing to its strategic defensive position. It’s so large that you can easily spend a full day here especially if you opt to take one – or several – of the guided tours available.
Explore the many underground tunnels and see popular attractions like the underground hospital or the great tower. There is even a hidden escape room located in the castle which is a fun activity for kids ages 10 and up.
With slightly older kids you should take some time to learn all about the significance of Dover Castle during the Second World War which is demonstrated with interactive exhibits and light shows. During the weekends you can even watch a firing demonstration of the restored guns that are still fully operational. This is an impressive spectacle and shouldn’t be missed.
You can also visit the oldest lighthouse in the country which sits nearby. It dates back to Roman times and is located next to a small church which has been reconstructed.
With so many things to do and see at Dover Castle you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day. Don’t forget to have a snack at the on-site restaurants and busy some souvenirs to take home.
By Victoria, Guideyourtravel.com
Places to stay in Dover
The White Cliffs of Dover
Towering a mighty 350ft above sea level, the white chalk Cliffs of Dover are easily one of the most famous tourist attractions in Kent. These chalk giants stretch for over 16 miles along the south coast of England and offer a variety of walking trails for all abilities.
The South Foreland Lighthouse trail is one of the most popular trails and an excellent choice if visiting Kent with kids. This gentle 4-mile return route takes you from the National Trust car park to South Foreland Lighthouse and back.
At the lighthouse you’ll find Mrs Knott’s Tea Room. This charming English tea room offers a variety of delicious homemade baked goods if the kids need a bit of incentive to keep going! Or pack a picnic and pick any spot along the cliffs to enjoy lunch with a view.
From atop the White Cliffs, you’ll be offered breathtaking, sweeping views over the azure waters of the English Channel. On a clear day you can even spot France in the distance. Keep your eye open too for the semi-wild Exmoor ponies that are used to graze the chalk grassland here.
A visit to these iconic cliffs also offers some insight into British history. Their strategic location has allowed them to witness many historical events, from the first Stone Age settles to Roman invaders, and more recently the return of rescued soldiers during WWII.
For children 8 and over, there are even tunnels within the cliffs from WW2 that you can visit at Fan Bay Shelter. These offer an incredible insight into the war and provide not only an exciting adventure but an educational one too.
By Sophie and Adam, WeDreamOfTravel.com
Ashford
Ashford is one of the most amazing places to go to in Kent. It’s located next to the River Great Stour and it’s about 61 miles from London. It’s easy to reach if you want to spend one day in Ashford or if you want to go there for a weekend break.
It’s a lively town and there are lots of things to do in Ashford. On place you must visit is Godinton House. Godinton House is a famous building in Kent that belonged to the Toke family for about 500 years.
Built in the Jacobean style, the house is as impressive on the outside as it is inside. One of the best things to see here is a Steinway piano. Besides that, you can learn a lot about the history of the place. While here, make sure to see the beautiful flower-filled formal gardens at Godinton.
Ashford boasts some interesting architecture; on Middle Row, in the old town centre of Ashford, you will find some of the oldest medieval houses in the town. These are half-timbered houses where you can see the timber framing on the outside of the building. They are most common in Germany, but you also find them in Ashford. Many were removed or demolished over time, but there are still some houses left to see.
Ashford is also home to some great museums. One of the best is the Ashford Museum where you can learn about the history of Ashford. There are many interesting exhibits. The museum is located in a building that dates back to the 17th century.
Another popular place to go in Ashford is Victoria Park, the city’s largest and most central park. This is a great place for a relaxing walk, a picnic or cycling. For children, there is also a lot to do here with play areas that are suitable for all ages.
By Dyma, Dymabroad.com
Places to stay in Ashford
Scotney Castle
Scotney Castle is a real heart throb when it comes to a beautiful countryside English estate. The gardens of this wooded estate are romantic to every inch and the castle offers a serene backdrop with stunning scenery around.
The castle has two parts. The old castle, which are the ruins of the old house built on an island in the lake, is surrounded by peaceful wooded gardens. It is perhaps the most instagrammable part of the entire estate with stunning scenery in all directions. The lake is a really nice spot during the summer and autumn with flowers in almost all seasons.
The new part of the estate is a house built in Tudor revival architectural style. It is called the Scotney New Castle.
The estate has a huge area devoted to gardens and woodlands, some 700 hectares of it. It’s a great place for a picnic with the family with plenty of space for kids to run around and explore.
Scotney castle is part of English National Trust, make sure to book a visit in advance to avoid disappointment, it is a busy spot. The nearest town is Royal Tunbridge Wells and the nearest big city is Lamberhurst. It is quite easy to reach to both via train from London and within Kent.
By Ucman, Brown Boy Travels
