Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate
A world-class art gallery, gourmet dining and adrenaline-fuelled water sports, plus 15 spectacular beaches and bays - a revitalised corner of Kent awaits. Stunning sea- and sky-scapes famously drew JMW Turner to Margate, characterful Broadstairs was Charles Dickens’ "freshest, freest place", andRamsgate's maritime heritage blends alongside architectural finery with Georgian and Regency squares.
The three towns and surrounding villages are conveniently close, and these days only 75 minutes from central London.
Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay
Visit Canterbury and discover why this beautiful, ancient city is one of the jewels in Kent's crown. The historic city is less than an hour from London by train, and just 10 minutes from the bohemian seaside town of Whitstable, famous for its oysters and shingle beaches. A further two miles east, a few surprises await at the characterful seaside town of Herne Bay.
Rochester, Chatham and Gillingham
Clustered around the River Medway, these towns stand guard over an important gateway, not just to Kent, but to England – and they have the history to prove it. Pus, with an intriguing Charles Dickens connection, a Cathedral at its core and top-notch heritage sites, ensure Rochester, Chatham and Gillingham sit high on Kent's must-see list.
Tunbridge Wells
Situated only 40 minutes from Gatwick airport and one hour from London terminals by train, the historic spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells has welcomed visitors for over 400 years. Set in the heart of the beautiful High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the area is well-known for its world-famous gardens, fairy-tale moated castles and mellow country manors.
Dover, Deal and Sandwich
Connecting the vibrant, bustling port of Dover and its iconic, ruggedly beautiful White Cliffs, with the quaint coastal dwelling of Deal and the medieval Cinque Port of Sandwich, White Cliffs Country is a unique destination. Plus, just a little over an hour from London by train and offering the UK’s shortest ferry crossing from Europe, it's one of Britain’s best-connected destinations.
Ashford and Tenterden
Here thriving market towns and world-class chefs meet history-rich villages, idyllic countryside and superb local vineyards. Just 38 minutes from London on the High speed train, Ashford's exciting, contemporary feel compliments the charming country town of Tenterden, plus with a wealth of vineyards producing award-winning wines, it's a must for foodies.
Maidstone
Kent's county town, Maidstone, lies at the heart of the Garden of England. Here orchards and hop gardens surround romantic villages and must-see heritage sights. As the true event capital of Kent, there's a huge range of events throughout the year, and added to its fantastic rail and road links and central location, Maidstone is the perfect base for a visit to Kent.
Faversham, Isle of Sheppey and Sittingbourne
This area of north Kent is where the countryside meets the sea, offering a chance to discover why Kent is dubbed the Garden of England with blossoming orchards and manor houses in acres of landscaped grounds. Visit Kent’s oldest market town at Faversham, a heritage railway in Sittingbourne and reminders of the royal dockyard heritage of the Isle of Sheppey.
Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks wears its long history well, with its traditional Kentish architecture in its attractive towns and villages; Sevenoaks, Westerham, Edenbridge and Eynsford overflow with atmosphere, vibrant shopping streets, architectural treasures and appealing places to eat and drink, providing a slice of traditional Kent life.
Gravesend
With the maritime town of Gravesend at its heart, the wider area of Gravesham has the Thames riverside, countryside, historic villages and picturesque parishes to enjoy. Uncover links to Cahrles Dickens, the largest Sikh temple in Europe and the final resting place of Pocahontas - all only 24 minutes from London.
Folkestone, Hythe and Romney Marsh
Artistic enclaves, stunning shores, unique histories and expansive wildlife escapes make Folkestone, Hythe & Romney Marsh well worth a visit - and with Kent's Heritage Coast being one of Lonely Planet's Top Regions to visit in 2022, there's never been a better time to explore. Great motorway and rail connections, plus routes from Europe too, make it an easy stop on any itinerary.
Tonbridge and Malling
Look back at old England in Tonbridge and Malling. Idyllic manor houses and a postcard-pretty castle sit in an ancient landscape where woods and fields undulate towards villages and hop farms. Tonbridge also prides itself with some intriguing Jane Austen links to the town, whilst in West Malling, an impressive collection of Blue Plaques celebrates its notable citizens of the past.
