With 350 miles of beautiful coastline to show off, acres of rolling landscapes to enjoy, centuries of history to unlock, and plenty of fresh local produce to serve up, it’s simply in our nature to throw open the doors and share everything we love about our glorious Garden of England.
From foodie welcomes and page-turning historical stories, to some of the most spectacular countryside just beyond the garden gate, these Kent gems are naturally some of the best destinations around. Be inspired by Canterbury’s cobbled streets and centuries’ old tales, venture on a Stagecoach day out taking in the Thanet coastline from a unique viewpoint on their open top bus, travel from Roman rule to World War II with English Heritage and get ready to celebrate in style in Tonbridge & Malling.
Better yet, with high speed train links direct from London, not to mention great connectivity by the wider Stagecoach bus network and train across the county, getting here and getting around couldn't be easier, or greener!
Oh, we’ve got a lot of stories here in Kent. Heard of the murder of an Archbishop…by a king? That was right here in Canterbury Cathedral. The arrival and departure of Romans in Britain? That was at Richborough Roman Fort. Curious to know more? Allow us to take you through the ages on Canterbury’s cobbled streets, share the marvel that is Dover Castle perched high on the White Cliffs of Dover, where the new experience Dover Castle Under Siege has just opened, visit the beautiful 700-year old Ightham Mote manor house near Tonbridge, or hear about Walmer Castle’s incredible residents who have ranged from the Duke of Wellington (yes, his boots are still there), to the Queen Mother, on an epic journey into Kent’s past.
Here in Kent, we’re gearing up to celebrate and you’re invited. From thrill seeking giant inflatable obstacle courses to Big Summer Weekends, Tonbridge has become the centre for an event-led day out! Along the riverside in Tonbridge, there'll be the River Walk Music evenings, full of live music and street food and drink - expect lots of jazz and blues to pop and funk! On the last weekend in August, there'll be the Big Summer Weekend, which promises excitement - including the Tonbridge Food and Drink Festival with over 70 stalls, and the famous Dragon Boat Tournament on the 1st September! So, take a look, mark those calendars and prepare to celebrate.
Kent has six stunning blue flag beaches, so it shouldn't really be a surprise when we say we love our outdoors in Kent! To really savour the stunning east Kent coastline, which you've all no doubt seen already (if not, do go ahead and search online for Broadstairs or Stone Bay and add it to your must-visit list!) we would recommend taking the number 69 open top circular route that Stagecoach runs throughout the summer. This unique viewpoint of the Kent coastline will take you through the towns of Ramsgate, Broadstairs and along the beautiful chalky and sandy coast, getting that sea air in your hair.
We've spoken about the history of Kent, but Canterbury has all that and more to share! With the Cathedral, Westgate Towers and Gardens and the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, you'll be spoilt for choice on what you want to learn about. Fresh from our market garden, here in Kent, we are proud of our local producers and foodie heritage, and with some of the finest wine producers in the country, Canterbury is a haven! Visit Simpsons just outside the city or stay in the city walls and sample wine from across the county at Corkk.
