Kent is known as “The Garden of England”, and the old adage says that if you can’t grow it in Kent, then you can’t grow it anywhere! However, there is so much more to Kent than its good weather and fine local produce – Kent’s proximity to both London and Europe means that it has a rich history dating back hundreds and hundreds of years. So take some time out of the rat race for a visit to this cultural hotspot, and while you are there, make sure you find time for these attractions.
Hever Castle
Situated between Sevenoaks and East Grinstead, this historic building was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s ill-fated second wife and mother of Elizabeth I. With a history dating back to the 13th century, it is well worth a visit for all those fascinated by Tudor history particularly, and the figures of Henry and his infamous six wives simply add to the atmosphere.
Canterbury Cathedral
There has been a cathedral on the same site in Canterbury since the 6th century, with the current magnificent building standing since the 11th century after being rebuilt following a fire. The history of the site throughout the last 1,400 years is as intricate, fascinating and quite astonishing as the awe-inspiring cathedral itself.
Turner Contemporary
Whilst this new art gallery is only scheduled to open in Spring 2011, the incredible building in Margate is nearing completion and is already iconic. Current art installations and information about the Turner Contemporary project are housed adjacent to the building site, and information about the JMW Turner connection, as well as the organisation’s aims to spearhead regeneration in the area, link the past, present and future.
Shepherd Neame Brewery
Britain’s oldest brewery is based in the medieval market town of Faversham, and is still producing its trademark products today. A tour here takes you through the history of brewing in Faversham, allows you unique insight into a working brewery, and has a handy tasting session at the end (under the guise that you are being “taught”!).
Goodnestone Park Gardens
Built just after the turn of the 18th century, these tranquil and beautifully maintained gardens in between Canterbury, Sandwich and Dover provide a quieter and more peaceful afternoon out compared with some of the other gardens in Kent. It has great literary ties too - when Edward Austen married into the family that owned the park, he moved to a house on the estate and enjoyed frequent visits from his sister Jane. It was after a visit here that she began work on Pride and Prejudice.
Leeds Castle
The history of this incredible castle and its beautiful grounds stretches back to the 12th century. It soon passed into royal hands, but was handed back over to a courtier by Edward VI, and has remained in private ownership since. Leeds Castle makes for a full day out, with the castle itself, the gardens, an aviary, children’s playground, and even a maze. It is a perfect venue for a family excursion.
Wildwood Trust
As an animal park, Wildwood is unique in Kent as it houses only animals native to the area. Visitors can look forward to seeing local wildlife such as beavers, badgers, lynx, and deer, and the park runs talks and feeds to educate and give visitors a chance to get up close and personal.
Hornby Visitor Centre
This newly-opened visitor attraction is a must for anyone who ever owned a Scalextric or a model railway set. Whilst the venue is fairly small in terms of footprint, the collection of miniatures from over the decades is comprehensive, and the history of the company which owns the Hornby and Corgi brands, amongst others, is just as fascinating. Based near Margate, be sure to take your credit card as your inner child will find the gift shop very hard to resist!
Maidstone Museum
Situated in a beautiful Elizabethan manor house, this museum isn’t big but what it lacks in space it more than makes up for in charm. The various wings hold exhibits including a 2,700 year old mummy, archaeological finds from the area dating back 400,000 years, a dinosaur room and a history of Maidstone itself.
Whatever your interests, and irrespective of how long you stay in Kent, rest assured that in addition to tranquillity and beautiful surroundings, there is plenty to do and see in this extraordinary county.
Jacki Gray - I am currently a stay-at-home mother and with experience in retail, publishing and nursery education, my career has spanned different ...
