The Garden of England

Kent, known as the Garden of England, has a charming countryside with gorgeous green expanses - what better place to study?

Known as the Garden of England, Kent's lush green landscape is famous for its food, drink and incredible wildlife. So if you want to study ecology, environmental studies or science what better place to immerse yourself than the fresh open Kentish countryside?

Whether you fancy sipping on Kent-made wine, gin or beer, scouting out wildlife or simply looking for local places to enjoy some sustainable produce, there are plenty of reasons to choose to study at either the University of Kent or Canterbury Christ Church University in this beautiful corner of the UK. But don't just take our word for it, take a peek at some of our favourite spots in Kent.

And if you're really interested in studying environmental sciences, be sure to check out the range of courses listed below, available at both The University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University.

Don’t forget to check the websites before your visit and plan your adventure!

Bedgebury Pinetum

With 2,500 acres to explore, it's safe to say a day at Bedgebury Pinetum is a day in the heart of nature. Here you can escape deadline stress and try your hand at anything from cycling and horse riding, to winter bird ringing for the chance to get up close and personal to some feathered friends. If you're more into forestry than wildlife, take a look around the Art of Trees outdoor artwork exhibition, showcasing the Bedgebury tree collection and diversity of plant life through art. Bedgebury is also a brilliant place to get out in nature if you have limited mobility. Take the six or two mile trail beneath the forest canopy on their free off road mobility scooter and keep your eyes open for deer, migrating birds and wild flowers.

Knole Park

A designated site of special scientific interest, Knole Park has an abundance of biodiversity. Visit and you'll get to see some extraordinary sights in this picturesque parkland, including a resident herd of Silkar and Fallow deer. Take an amble around and see if you can spot the array of ants which dominate the acidic grassland, or bend a knee to search for dung beetles and the rare Oak Pinhole Borer, found gnawing through Knole’s ancient forest. And if you're really looking to learn, you can always take a peek at the plethora of National Trust treasures in the Conservation Studio. While blind and partially sighted visitors can take sensory tours of the showrooms for a peek back into Knole's rich and royalty-studded past.

Brogdale

You may have realised by now that one of the benefits of studying in Kent is our rolling countryside, and Brogdale Collections is the perfect spot for when you fancy getting away from the books and getting back to nature. With daily orchard tours, you can roam free and discover the range of produce grown here, from succulent strawberries to quince and medlars. Better yet, you can learn some new skills with courses including cider making, pruning and gardening to name a few. Feel refreshed with a trip full of fruit, fresh produce and keep an eye out for the picturesque cherry blossom trees perfect for spicing up your Instagram feed!

Macknade Fine Foods

With a 170 year history of food and farming, it's safe to say this food hall is a favourite in Kent for its range of local produce. Not only that, but with a vision that includes protecting the environment and fighting to lower the consumer impact on society, Macknade has some strong values too. If you take up residence in Kent, we recommend paying them a visit and stock up on a few treats once that student loan comes in. With an award-winning deli, 200 varieties of cheese, a butcher and delectable snacks, we can guarantee you'll find plenty to rival the Supernoodles and baked bean diet.

The Wine Garden of England

Did you know we're home to some of the UK's finest vineyards? Take the tour and discover Biddenden vineyard, which has its own line of fresh ciders, see Chapel Down with its delightfully delicious English sparkling wine (the official wine of Downing Street, no less). Take a look around vast Gusbourne with 14 vineyard sites, uncover the marriage of two cultures which makes the Franco/British sparkling wine at Simpsons unique. Taste luxury at the Hush Heath Estate, with a sip of the sensational gold-medal-winning Rosé and enjoy a tasty tipple at Squerryes where the vines grow on chalk and are steam fed by a mineral rich aquifer. Trust us, it's quite the tour for when the parents come to visit!

Curious Brewery

Thirsting for more? Visit Kent's Curious Brewery in Ashford and experience the hub of the action. Sample some crisp refreshment at the bar and catch a glimpse of how the drinks are made from the restaurant’s window overlooking the brewhouse. Enjoy a vivid taste of the Kentish countryside and dine-in-style amongst the Instagram worthy industrial interior with a classy menu of tempting treats. Just a few paces from Ashford International station, you can experience the lively vibe of London without the lengthy commute from campus.

Samphire Hoe

Tempted to study in Kent yet? Well, there's lots of native wildlife to discover. For a serene walk in the best of nature enjoy rambling at your own pace in amidst the countryside at Samphire Hoe. This serene seaside destination features swathes of long grass teaming with life. With an expanse of 30 hectares, 200 types of plant, 220 species of birds and 30 varieties of butterflies to explore, enjoy walking through the abundance of wildlife and ambling alongside the water.

Looking to do more than sip, sample and wander the glorious countryside and produce of Kent? Whether you're an eco-warrior, lover of all things wildlife or are interested in biological sciences, both the University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University have some fabulous courses that are sure to interest you.

University of Kent

Environmental Social Sciences

Wildlife Conservation

Canterbury Christ Church University