Kent has been a godsend for me this summer. With limited ability for travel, I’ve still been able to enjoy a delightful mixture of small-town charm and rolling countryside, all within a short train journey from London.
There’s no shortage of beaches, stately homes, cathedrals, and cosy pubs to visit – so what better place could there be for a staycation? Let’s take a look at some of the superb destinations the county of Kent has to offer.
1. Canterbury
Few cities epitomise the quaint British character of cobbled streets and historic buildings quite like Canterbury. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city was immortalised in literature with Geoffrey Chaucer’s iconic 14th-century book The Canterbury Tales. But Harry Potter fans might prefer to know that some streets resemble quirky Diagon’s Alley, especially the one that’s home to the Crooked House.
Eat and drink: It’s all about the seafood so I recommend ordering Lobster Thermidor and mussels at Chapman’s Seafood Bar & Brasserie, or for a more low-key affair there are plenty of great pubs with beer gardens to visit including the delightfully named Unicorn Inn.
Attractions: Canterbury has plenty of attractions, but don’t miss the Cathedral, Westgate Gardens and a scenic stroll around the canal and array of unique half-timbered buildings.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Canterbury
Further reading: A guide to Canterbury – Best things to see & do.
2. Whitstable
Only six miles outside of Canterbury is the lovely seaside town of Whitstable. Famous for its freshly served oysters, it has become a mecca for lovers of these slippery delicacies. Whitstable’s seafront is lined with pretty pastel-coloured houses and beach huts, great coffee shops and sun-trapping beer gardens.
Eat and drink: It’s all about the oysters! Head to the buzzing harbour area and grab a plate of rock oysters from one of the stalls. Or for somewhere inside with seating, pay a visit to Whitstable Oyster Company. If you’re not a fan of oysters then you won’t be disappointed by the fish and chips – a true British seaside dish.
Attractions: Visit Whitstable Castle and enjoy time out for afternoon tea. Head to the beach and spot the oystercatchers during low tide. Don’t forget to visit the shops for souvenirs – nothing says a day at the seaside better candy and fudge.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Whitstable
Further reading: The seaside town of Whitstable – an oyster lovers’ paradise.
3. Dover
Dover is a funny town I admit, it’s certainly not the prettiest place on this list, but it has two very big attractions – Dover Castle and the brilliant White Cliffs of Dover. Known for its port, most people pass just through en route to France, but it’s more than just a town to pass through, the best thing about visiting Dover is the nature that surrounds it.
Eat and drink: I had the best meal of summer at Cullins Yard, a harbour restaurant known by locals for its excellent seafood and quirky maritime interior. It has bags of charm and the mussels and fish and chips are a must. My only advice is to arrive hungry.
Attractions: Dover Castle is one of the great historic structures of English heritage. It has been used, occupied and developed over nearly 2000 years, packed full of history, stories and things to see. Don’t miss the tower for incredible views across Dover and the English Channel. Dover is an excellent starting point for many lovely coastal walks – I recommend the 10-mile walk from Dover to Deal.
Further reading: Walking from Dover to Deal – a stunning coastal route.
4. Deal
When you think of quaint, little English towns, Deal epitomises all that – it’s incredibly pretty and right by the sea too! Think of cobbled streets, narrow lanes, lovely coffee shops and well-turned out restaurants.
Eat and drink: Although small, much of what makes Deal special are the bars and restaurants. You’re spoilt for choice, but it does get busy on the weekend with locals and tourists who enjoy dining out so I recommend booking. If you’re looking to treat yourself head to Victuals & Co or there’s Frog & Scot, both are considered among the best in town.
What to stay overnight? I recommend staying in Deal as opposed to Dover because it is super charming with a loverly selection of restaurants → Check hotels in Deal
Attractions: Visit Deal Castle, built under the order of King Henry VIII. Stroll around and admire the pretty shops and buildings, then head to the beach front and listen to the peaceful sound of the sea.
5. Sandwich
Who doesn’t want to visit Sandwich purely based on its name? Sandwich is similar to Deal – another quaint town right by the sea, but its medieval architecture makes it even more striking. Located only a stone’s throw away from each other, you could easy visit both in one day.
Eat and drink: The Hop and Huffkin creates comfort dishes from local Kentish produce alongside local ales and wines.
Attractions: Walkers and nature should soak up the scenery and wildlife at the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve. Admire the medieval – Middle Ages architecture, including the 16th-century bastion, with its chequered work, was part of the town defences and guarded the bridge over the River Stour, a reminder of a time when Sandwich was a major port.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Sandwich
6. Dungeness
While visiting Dungeness, enter Derek Jarman’s Home and its wonderful garden which has such a unique and dreamy quality. It is made up from sculptural forms made from the stones and rusted iron relics found on the stretches of beachland along the Dungeness coastline in front of his home. The plants there grow half wild and abundantly, which feels like a little bit of magic considering the coastal winds and the salty air.
Whittle away the hours by walking along the flat, wide and quiet pebble beach. The old bits of rusted machinery, the abandoned boats, the factories in the background all create a particular atmosphere which feels quietly cinematic – perhaps that’s one of the things that drew Jarman to Dungeness.
Engage in detailed looking, the colours and the shapes of the stones, the textures of the sea plants, the shifting shapes on the horizon.
Eat and drink: There’s also a nice little hut on the way to the lighthouse that sells delish seafood.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Dungeness
7. Margate
Margate has become popular in recent years – it’s cheap, commutable to London, and by the sea. As a result, Margate has transformed over the last few years into Kent’s capital of cool. Dubbed “Shoreditch on sea”, it’s now home to hip cafes, boutique shops and a growing arts scene, all framed by the craggy whitewashed cliffs of the southeast coast.
Eat and drink: For a quintessential British seaside experience, grab yourself a portion of fish and chips and enjoy them by the sea. If you’re on a health-kick take a seat at Buoy and Oyster for fresh seafood.
Attractions: The town’s quirkiest attraction is the Shell Grotto, and art lovers should visit the Turner Gallery, the best contemporary art museum Kent has to offer. If you’re taking the kids, get yourselves to Dreamland Amusement Park. Then there’s the beach… look out for Antony Gormley’s statue titled Another Time.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Margate
8. Royal Tunbridge Wells
Nestled amidst the scenic countryside of Kent and bordering the East Sussex, Royal Tunbridge Wells exudes charm and elegance. This historic spa town boasts an enchanting blend of Victorian architecture, lush green spaces, and a thriving cultural scene.
Attractions: The picturesque Pantiles area, with its colonnaded walkways beckons visitors to explore its boutique stores, vintage markets and picturesque square. Calverley Grounds offers a serene oasis for leisurely strolls, while Dunorlan Park enchants with its tranquil lakes and gardens. Immerse yourself in history by visiting landmarks such as the elegant Chalybeate Spring, which drew royalty and society figures in the past. For something a little quirky, stroll down Frog Lane and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for all the little ornamental frogs that humorously appear on the floor, walls, and window sills!
Travel a bit further afield, and visit Scotney Castle, and Bayham Old Abbey.
Want to stay overnight? → Check hotels in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Are you planning a staycation in Kent?
For things to do in Kent, check out → Best places to visit in Kent
If you’re still looking for more day trips from London, I have more ideas for you! Read → London Day Trips That You Will Love
2 Responses
Why not Folkestone? Do much lovier than Dover or Margate!!
Oops, sorry about the delayed reply. I must have missed this comment when you posted. I haven’t managed to get to Folkestone yet, but I’m sure I’ll add it to the list when I do. I’ve heard great things!