It’s almost that time of the year. The time when your cosy coats come off the coat hooks and those all-important winter accessories come out of the wardrobe for another year. The time when gloves aren’t the only thing warming your hands, but the warmth from a hot chocolate loaded with marshmallows and cream (just the way it should be!) Oh, and chocolate sprinkles, of course.
In case you hadn’t guessed it, we’re talking about winter! Now, whether winter is your favourite season and you love all things, dare we say it…Christmas, or you’re obsessed with summer and the warmer months, you can’t really deny that just a teeny tiny bit of winter brings you joy, just a little? Because we are almost certain Kent has got just the views you need to capture, that are most definitely Insta worthy. Just remember to bring your camera and click away!
Photo Credit: Britain on View
Hever Castle
As we all know, Kent is enriched in deep history and is home to some beautiful historic castles, including the likes of Hever. Heading here on a cooler day and wandering the grounds of its autumnal displays can be the perfect chance to capture its colourful aura and witness the castle wrapped in a blanket of vivid autumn colours. With the autumn leaves falling and the castle in the background coated in shades of red, orange and yellow, we can most definitely picture an Instagrammble moment here at Hever Castle.
Photo Credit: Thanet District Council
Thanet’s Winter Skies
You can only see amazing sunsets and sunrises in summer, right? Well if you think that you couldn’t be more wrong! In fact, Thanet is quite well known for its popular spots to witness the sky's magical colours. Whether that’s first thing in the morning and you’re starting your day with a coffee as the sun rises over Ramsgate Royal Harbour, or you’re off for an evening stroll along the beach to watch the fiery sky settle down for the night. Either way, be sure to capture that sky, as you never know, it may just be the sunrise or sunset of the year.
Ramsgate Illuminations
Speaking of beautiful sights in Thanet, we’ve got something else you need to see this winter. The Ramsgate Illuminations light up the harbour, with a beautifully decorated Christmas display. The twinkling lights reflect in the water, making that all important Insta snap a must when you go to visit! So, if you’re looking for a unique way to see some Christmas lights this year, then Ramsgate Illuminations is where you want to be.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Trust
Our next Instagrammable spot is the Battle of Britain Memorial. Here you’ll find some picture perfect locations including, the airman at the heart of the Memorial, the black granite of the Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall and the sheer grace of the replica Spitfire and Hurricane. You’ll also find a full-sized, stainless-steel sculpture of a downed Luftwaffe Stuka dive-bomber and the Spitfire wing-shaped architecture of The Wing visitor centre, offering endless possibilities for you to snap away with plenty of Instagrammable opportunities at this tribute to the Few.
North Downs Way
There’s no denying that the North Downs Way has Instagrammable views all year round, but exploring this National Trail in the autumn and winter months is a must. Hunt for those walking boots and begin your journey to discovering the beautiful views and spectacular scenery as you pass through villages and glorious countryside from across the South East of England and Kent’s AONB. Discover Kent’s history and stunning coast painted in autumnal and winter colours… And don’t forget that all important camera!
Gusbourne Vineyard
Ever seen a vineyard covered in a blanket of snow? Well, now you have! But wouldn’t seeing the real thing be just the picture of the year?! Yes, we know there’s no guarantee we will get snow this year (it is England after all) but imagine capturing something similar! Maybe on a bright autumn day with colourful crispy leaves covering the grounds, now wouldn’t that make a stunning shot too? From October to December, why not opt for one of their Wine Lunches. We hear this makes a great spot to capture those must see winter views across the estate.
Photo Credit: Explore Kent
The White Cliffs Country
Ahh, the pretty sights of the White Cliffs Country. From a spectacular walk along the White Cliffs of Dover where you can experience breath-taking, unmissable views, to the many miles of Kent’s coastline where you can take a winter stroll along one of our beaches. There’s history to discover at the likes of Dover, Deal and Walmer Castle where you can explore their beautiful gardens. In the month of December you can discover a magical world of illumination at the Enchanted Walmer events, without forgetting the Christmas Light Switch-On at Dover Winter Light-up event. Oh so many things to keep you occupied in the winter months, just remember to capture the memories!
Howletts and Port Lympne
You might just find yourself walking in a winter wonderland at one the Aspinall Foundation Parks’ this winter, and we can assure you the views are absolutely Insta worthy. Both Howletts and Port Lympne are a great way to enjoy the outdoors on a crisp winter day, whether that’s with the family or a special partner. The parks’ woodland walks, grand panoramic views and acres of beautiful gardens offer the perfect chance to soak up the atmosphere of this enchanting season and we haven’t even mentioned the animals yet! Just imagine snapshots of your favourite wild animals against the wintery backdrops of the park, Instagrammable? We think so!
Rochester Christmas Market
First one to spot a Christmas market with a stunning backdrop of a castle. Well, that must be Rochester of course! The Christmas market here is situated in the beautiful grounds of Rochester Castle gardens, perfectly placed for an Instagrammable shot, as the gardens are lit up by a rainbow of colours. Something else you may want to know is Rochester Dickensian Festival is where you can capture some great shots too. The first weekend of December brings Victorian festivities, where you can experience street entertainment, readings, song and dance.
Lockmeadow Entertainment Complex
So, how to spot those beautiful Instagrammable views and keep the little ones entertained at the same time? Well, we might just have something. The Lockmeadow Entertainment Complex is the start of the trail to which you will find some stunning views. From the complex, head towards the river and stand on the Millennium footbridge, to see views both up and down the river. You can then wander downstream toward the tow path where you’ll find the old timber loading dock, making the perfect backdrop of the ancient Archbishop’s Palace. Oh yes, before we forget, we did mention there is something to keep your little ones entertained, so you’ll be pleased to hear that there is 10 pin bowling, Odeon Luxe Cinema, Gravity Trampolining and Love Food with all its variety of taste and choices from around the globe, located within the complex.
National Trust
Kent’s National Trust properties and natural landscape are definitely up there with some of the most Instagrammable places you can capture in Kent. From the autumnal views of colourful pumpkins at the grounds of Chartwell’s Walled Garden to the dazzling display of colours at Emmetts Garden where you can’t miss the Katsura or 'burnt toffee' tree where each autumn the foliage gives off an aroma of candyfloss! On a romantic walk through the ruins of the medieval Scotney Castle, with a backdrop of crystal like snow or crisp autumn leaves. We can picture an Instagrammable moment here, can’t you? If you’ve got little ones who want to come a long, then why not head to the top of the Gatehouse Tower at Knole followed by a selfie with the BFG at their pictures exhibition, running from 13 Oct - 23 Dec.
