An Introduction to Kent

Kent is situated at the south east of England, and is framed by a distinctive, historical coastline and nestling amongst quintessential English countryside you’ll find one of the Country’s greatest cities - Canterbury - offering a wonderful blend of heritage, culture and tradition.

Canterbury has been a significant player in England's history since its beginnings as the Roman settlement of Duovernum. It was to Canterbury that Augustine came in AD597, sent from Rome to bring Christianity to England. Ruins of the abbey he founded, now an English Heritage site, stand just outside the city walls in Longport. Along with the cathedral and England's oldest parish church of St Martin, St Augustine's Abbey makes up the city's World Heritage Site

Stretching along the historical coastline is a wonderful mix of traditional seaside resorts such as Ramsgate & Folkestone with their Regency and Victorian elegance. So why not relax on the beach or stroll along the famous White Cliffs at Dover with their spectacular views across the channel - you can even see France on a clear day

The Heart of Kent is English countryside at its best. A landscape of rolling hills and wooded valleys, orchards and vineyards, splendid castles, gardens and many historic houses.

In fact it has more castles, stately home and gardens open to the public than any other region in Britain. To name but a few, Tonbridge Castle, set in an attractive river setting, stands guard over the town, whilst the world famous Leeds Castle rises from two small islands in a lake amidst parkland which was landscaped by Capability Brown. And for those of you that love gardens, the ruins of a 14th century moated castle form the backdrop for one of England’s most romantic gardens of all, Scotney Castle Garden.

The Heart of Kent countryside surrounds the 5 historic towns of Maidstone, Sevenoaks, Ashford, Tonbridge and Royal Tunbridge Wells, so once you have explored the beautiful countryside why not take a trip to town! Each town is distinctive and offers you a truly memorable experience. There are also many special events taking place throughout the year, so whenever you visit there is always something different to do. Why not come along to the Maidstone River Festival or enjoy one of the many street festivals or outdoor concerts in the area.

The area of Medway - the historic capital of Maritime Kent - is situated midway between London and the Channel Ports. It’s an ideal short break destination offering a relaxing and enriching experience.

Whether you browse the speciality shops in Rochester’s Victorian High Street, take in majestic Rochester Cathedral, or visit The Historic Dockyard, Chatham - where over 400 years of naval history are brought vividly back to life - you’ll go away both informed and refreshed.

Alternatively, why not relax and watch the world go by on a river cruise aboard Britain’s last surviving paddle steamer, the Kingswear Castle, taking in the breathtaking views of Upnor Castle and village.

Swale - incorporating Sittingbourne, Faversham and the Isle of Sheppey - has lots to offer visitors. With a strong maritime feel from the creeks of Milton and Faversham, and the award winning beaches of the Isle of Sheppey, Swale is a popular holiday destination. If your interests lie in historic homes and gardens, museums, walking, cycling or leisure, Swale has something for you.

The area of Gravesham can be found on the western edge of Maritime Kent. Its major town, Gravesend, combines the attractions of an historic town beside the River Thames with outstanding countryside and attractive villages on the slopes of the North Downs.

Visit the home of Charles Dickens at Higham or the Elizabethan Cobham Hall. In Gravesend discover the final resting place of Pocahontas and browse the Chantry Heritage Centre and New Tavern Fort with their association with General Gordon.

Dartford is an historic market town which boasts Holy Trinity Church with its medieval mural and Henry VIIIs Royal Manor Gatehouse. The Orchard Theatre and Mick Jagger Centre are leading arts venues. Twice weekly markets in the town centre complement the ultimate shopping experience at Bluewater and to the south are beautiful and very ancient rural parishes.