Are you always the designated driver when it comes to driving to attractions or accommodations or even food and beverage places? Why not be the one relaxing and enjoy a glass of wine and travel by Southeastern or by foot, or even if you're feeling like you need some exercise too - dust off your bike and head on out to the easily accessible places. Plus, all new this year, your car-free breaks can even save you money!
Marvellous Maidstone!
Jump onboard the Kentish Lady River Cruises! Just a short distance from the train station makes these three different types of cruises easy to access. After spending your day out on the water why not take a stroll over to the Old Boat Cafe where you could settle down for lunch or refreshments, which is locally produced, with a lovely view. In the evening, why not pick up your bike and ride along the River Park Trail covering the Allington Lock to Teston Country Park. Now time to chill after all the exercise! Visit the Lockmeadow Entertainment Complex where you can go to Hollywood Bowl, or sit back and relax in the Odeon Lux Cinema and stroll through the popular Love Food hall.
Cultural Getaway with Battle of Britain Memorial
Everyone likes to have a walk along the coast, and the clifftop route leading out of Folkestone is accessible to anyone heading towards the Battle of Britain Memorial. Not eager to walk over? Then why not take a short bus journey on the number 102 bus route from Folkestone train stain, as this is an attraction you do not want to miss out on this year. Offering plenty to see and do, including a café with one of Kent’s best views out over the clifftops an on a sunny clear day you might even be able to spot France – making this an ideal spot for a stop – off coastal hike! After finishing in Capel Le Ferne head back into Folkestone town and have a look a stroll to Folkestone Harbour Arm and the outstanding Folkestone Artworks.
Vineyard Escapes
Are you always made to be the driver when going to a vineyard with friends or family? Why not all take part and have a driving free break which we massively encourage with wine tasting! With easy access by train to Ashford International and a short 15-minute taxi from the station why not kick back and relax with a glass (or two) of wine with friends or family. Why not make a weekend of it, get off the train at Ashford, go by taxi to Gusbourne winery for some lunch and a few drinks then head on to Biddenden for a tour and tasting! Then head on back to Ashford to stay at Ashford Hampton by Hilton which is just outside the station. If you still have time in the day to explore some more, not far from the station is Ashford Designer Outlet where you could enjoy a spot of lunch or dinner and then have a look around the shops.
Discover Deal
Take a train into Deal and explore the quirky shops and relaxing bars/pubs. Why not head on out and cycle to Solley’s Ice Cream Parlour which is part of the ‘Pier to Parlour’ cycling trail that runs on a circular route through Deal. Not into cycling? Take a stroll down to Deal pier first and then finish your trip at Solley’s for a well-deserved ice cream before heading to The Royal Hotel in Deal to rest. Or head on over to Dover during the day and take a stroll along the clifftops for a spot of lunch at the lighthouse with a gorgeous view before heading back to Deal.
Deals at Dover Castle
Secret Wartime Tunnels, the Great Tower, a Roman Lighthouse and much more can all be found at Dover Castle...so why not hop on board and make the trip this year, getting ready for a day out that you'll never forget along the Kentish coastline. Until March 2024, the team at the castle are pairing up with Good Journey to get you 20% off your ticket when you travel car-free...so grab your bikes, pop on the bus, or whisk away on the train, and we'll see you there!
Historic Rochester
Let the train take the strain… Rochester rail station is in the heart of Rochester where there are loads of heritage attractions, restaurants and history waiting to be discovered. After getting off the train why not head on down and join in on a free guided walking tour with a local guide from the City of Rochester society? Or take part in the Rochester Quiz trail? Or take a short train journey over to Chatham Marina and enjoy eating out with a gorgeous view then end the day with a relaxing and comfortable stay at The Ship and Trades.
Explore Canterbury
Just a short walk from Canterbury West or East station is the stunning Canterbury town with restaurants, pubs and shops along the way. Discover Canterbury Cathedral and the picturesque views of the River Stour on a river boat tour, then take a stop at one of the local cafes for a break. Still got time in your day? Take a quick bus ride to Whitstable beach take a long walk along the prominade enjoying your fish and chips in the sunset. Then head on back to Canterbury and take a rest at the Ebury Hotel or at the Travelodge.
Dog Friendly Isle of Thanet
Accommodation
Everybody loves a holiday but can never find anywhere to take their furry friends with them! From Walpole Bay Hotel to Botany Bay Hotel to Royal Harbour Hotel to even Birchington Vale Holiday Park we have you covered with many hotels in Thanet way allowing you to enjoy your holiday/staycation with your pets! These are all easily accessed by train and then a short walk from the train station making your journey driving and stress free.
Attractions
Thinking of heading to Isle of Thanet and exploring the beaches with your pets? Why not do something a little bit different either before or after such as Strokes Adventure Golf (on leads), St Peters Village Tour (on leads), River Running Boat Tours or even visit Minster Abbey (welcome outside but not in the Abbey or Chapel)! We have many other attractions in other parts of Thanet way for you and your furry friends to enjoy that are just minutes from the train station.
Food/Drink
After all the walking and running around you and your dog might be feeling slightly parched and hungry! Why not head on over to Café G in Margate where there is dog ice cream available! Or head on over to Wyatt and Jones in Broadstairs where dogs are permitted in the top part of the restaurant. Not going to be in Margate or Broadstairs? Then head on over to Italianate Glasshouse and Tea Rooms where dogs are welcome to enjoy a relaxed and chilled environment but must be on leads. If you are out in Minnis Bay then head over to The Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie where dogs are welcome outside on the covered decking and upstairs in the bar/ and event space. There are many places in Thanet that allow you to bring your pets that are not too far away from the train stations!
Dog Friendly Beaches
Now that summer is on its way and the weather is picking up why not head on down to Margate, Broadstairs or Ramsgate beaches with your furry friend/friends? Let your dog’s run around and let off some steam by taking a wander down just minutes away from the train station. Between 1st May and 30th September there are some small restrictions in place but there are still places that you can take your dogs to throughout the year. Don't let this stop you from taking pictures of your dog enjoying themselves in the sunshine!
Feeling inspired? It's time to book up your break...