Kent is known as the Garden of England – famous for its delicious local produce, growing wine scene, and the places that roll all of these into one. And while we love the landscapes of this glorious county, we're here today to share the spots beyond the garden which really take our breath away. From one of the world's oldest religious buildings to royal homes and sensational views – we’ve rounded up some of the most iconic places to visit in Kent. Trust us, you've not explored Kent until you've checked off every spot on this bucket list!
Canterbury Cathedral
Built almost one thousand years ago, Canterbury Cathedral is the most visited attraction in Kent, and there’s good reason too. With a rich history, a visit to Canterbury and the local area is not complete without a visit to marvel over the lofty views, beautiful stained glass windows and substantial crypt. You might even bump into the head of the Anglican church – The Archbishop Justin Welby!
UNESCO Heritage Sites
As well as the magnificent Cathedral, Canterbury is also home to two other World UNESCO Heritage Sites - St Augustine's Abbey and St Martin's Church, the oldest church in England! The former sits just outside the city walls, the remains of an Abbey from AD 597, where you can enjoy an audio tour, VR experience, and experience the abbey as it once was used.
Kent Cricket
Home to Kent Cricket, The historic Spitfire Ground in Canterbury is another of Kent's biggest icons, as the very place where Kent's first recorded cricket match was hosted in 1705! Today the ground swings into action with fantastic T20 matches in June and July, sure to bring excitement for the whole family, and home matches offering the chance for cricket lovers to see the county team step up to the stumps. While their calendar of big events throughout the year, including live music and fireworks, will bowl over even the non-cricket lovers.
Rochester Cathedral
Sitting on its current site since 604AD, the cathedral in Rochester is the second oldest in the UK with its current architecture, including the nave and facade added in 1080. Once you step inside, marvel at the recently refurbished Crypt, Vestry and Chapter Library or step outside to the gardens and discover the ruins of the monastery which was closed in 1540.
Hever Castle
Challenging the Cathedrals for age, Hever Castle has a history almost as full, as it is just shy of 800 years old old. Most famous for being the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, today the castle has plenty to explore, whether it be the maze, Italian Garden or simply taking in the beauty of the castle and its moat – and if you get sleepy on your way around, there’s even Tudor bedrooms to spend the night.
Royal exploring and living in Hever
Leeds Castle
‘The loveliest castle in the world’ is a phrase used to describe Leeds Castle quite often - pay it a visit and you'll soon see why! Sitting on an island in the middle of a lake, a castle has existed on the site since 1119 and has Royal connections including Edward I and Henry VIII. Most recently, the castle was owned by Lady Bailie who had a number of high-profile parties and decorated the interior to today’s spectacular standard. Be sure to get a punt around the water to see the best views!
800 years of history in Leeds Castle
Dover Castle
Although the two castles above have an aristocratic past, Dover Castle has more of a military history. Standing as Kent and England’s first line of defence since the 11th century, you can easily spend a full day here exploring and living life like King Henry II, with costumed characters and regular re-enactments. Although if you fancy your history a little more recent, there’s the Secret Wartime Tunnels which were military headquarters and underground hospital during WWII. And now, when arriving with Good Journey, you can help the planet and your wallet as visitors save on entry when getting there car free.
Discover the Key to England
Walmer Castle
At Walmer Castle, you’ll enjoy the eight acres of award-winning gardens, magnificent interiors of the castle that was commissioned by King Henry VIII himself, and little explorers will love the play trail through the woodland, with its climbing nets, wobbly bridge and wildlife sculptures. And for the first time ever, the private apartment of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports will be open to the public at Walmer Castle. Often visited and stayed in by Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, corgis in tow and furnishings specially brought in for her arrival, you can witness first-hand a bygone era. Come along and tour some of the apartment, including the sitting, dining and master bedroom, all bathed in history.
(c) Matty Graham
Historic Dockyard Chatham
Moving away from castles and royalty, Chatham Dockyard was the most complete dockyard from the ‘age of sail’ in the world. Once sitting at over 400 acres, the dockyard is today a little smaller, however it still houses three historic warships, a WWII destroyer and a submarine last used in 1990. It is however not just about visiting naval ships, as there is a calendar of events throughout the year to keep everyone entertained including television set tours and art exhibitions.
Create a historic day out at the Dockyard
Shepherd Neame Brewery & Visitor Centre
One of the most well-known businesses across the South East is Shepherd Neame. Synonymous with your favourite local pub or pint, the drinks producer has been local to Faversham in Kent for over 300 years. Proudly independent and family run, Shepherd Neame hosts tours around their brewing facilities from smelling the hops to tasting the final product, it’s a day to really get into the Kentish spirit!
Taste testing at Britain’s oldest brewer
Chartwell
It was the home of one of the world’s most iconic leaders, so it’s only right that Chartwell made our list. A much-loved family home, Chartwell is said to have truly inspired Sir Winston Churchill, who famously noted that a day away from it was a day wasted! Judge this for yourself as you discover a home packed with mementoes of the leader’s private life, from books and pictures, to a studio containing the largest collection of his paintings. Tour the house, discover a real bomb crater in the rolling grounds and seek out the brand-new tree house for the perfect family day out.
Dreamland
A vintage amusement park dating back 100 years, this seaside sensation in Margate is a favourite across the generations. It all began with the Scenic Railway, the oldest wooden roller coaster in the UK and the centrepiece of the park! Take a trip and you’ll see a lot’s changed in 100 years, with plenty more thrill and chill rides, live entertainment, art installations and a retro roller disco. So strap on your skates, sip a pint in the Cinque Ports Pub and enjoy sea views from up high at this Kent icon.
Fun and thrills
Chapel Down
One of the best-known vineyards in the country, the Chapel Down winery rests at the edge of the Kent countryside in the town of Tenterden. As a supplier to Downing Street, it’s safe to say their wines have long been a favourite, so a tour of the rolling vineyard, winery and elegant tasting room is an absolute must for wine lovers.
Sip and sample
