First time visitor’s guide to Kent

Kent is a must-see area of England. I might be a bit biased having been born and raised in the South East, but if you take a look around my home county you will be amazed at the wealth of history, the beauty of the landscape and activities for all the family to enjoy. Here is my guide for any first time visitor to the Garden of England including things to do, places to go and where to stay.

Lullingstone Roman Villa

If you’re interested in learning about Kent’s history then the Lullingstone Roman Villa makes for a great day out. The well presented Villa is a fantastic example of the Roman presence in Britain with mosaics and its own baths. Kids can enjoy dressing up as a Roman while grown-ups can marvel at the preserved everyday items the Roman family left behind (and someone who unfortunately stayed!)

Canterbury Cathedral

One of the oldest and most famous Christian structures in England, Canterbury Cathedral is a must see for anyone visiting the South East. Boasting stunning Gothic Romanesque architecture the Cathedral forms part of a World Heritage Site and is famous for being the place where Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in 1170.

Howletts Wild Animal Park

Founded in 1957 by John Aspinall near Canterbury, Howletts Wild Animal Park is a 90 acre adventure in beautiful ancient parkland featuring more than 400 animals from around the world. Stars of the park include Kent’s only giant anteater as well as rhinos, elephants, gorillas and lemurs. Marvel at the menagerie and join in the fun at the treetop challenge! Howletts is a real family favourite. For a great family launch pad stay at Haven Allhallows which is perfectly placed for exploring Kent.

Bluewater Shopping Center

For retail therapy look no further than Bluewater. With a large Showcase cinema with an IMAX, new events space, over 300 stores and more than 60 restaurants Bluewater is the shoppers heaven. Browse all manner of shops from clothing, electronics, cosmetics and home wears catch the latest flick and enjoy your choice of cuisine from around the world.

Chislehurst Caves

Take the chance to explore the caves at Chislehurst made up of a labyrinth of manmade tunnels covering over six hectares, 30m underground.  Originally chalk mines supplying brick-making for the building of London and flint for tinderboxes and flintlock guns of years ago, the Chislehurst Caves have had many purposes including shelter during World War II. I recommend taking a tour to discover more about this underground maze.

Kent Downs

Perfect for anyone who enjoys walking, cycling or horse riding the Kent Downs is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty boasting stunning views of the Kentish countryside. The Kent Downs are the eastern half of the North Downs and stretch from the London/Surrey borders to the White Cliffs of Dover. From charcoal to chalk cliffs, orchids to orchards and views to valleys, each corner turned has something different to explore for all the family. Find the perfect accommodation along the journey here.

Diggerland

Yes that’s right, Kent has its own theme park where you can ride and drive diggers! Children and adults (yes!) are encouraged to ride, drive and operate diggers, dumpers and other full- size construction machinery. If you have a head for heights try the lofty views from the Skyshuttle, try some excitement on the off-road Groundshuttle, or have a go on the Dodgems and Go-Karts!

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

For a bit of nautical history visit the Chatham Dockyard, a maritime museum on part of the site of the former royal/naval dockyard. It is home to 3 historic warships, a working ropery (where ropes are made), museum galleries and hundreds of compelling stories collected over the years. I recommend the tour of the ropery which includes seeing the impressive ¼ mile long ropewalk – where rope is still made commercially today, and you get to make your own!

Leeds Castle

I have to admit that I am rather fond of Leeds Castle, in fact my husband and I did consider it as a wedding venue before we settled on something a bit more quirky. This elegant and impressive castle has a complex history including having been: owned by 6 medieval queens, a home for Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a Jacobean country house, a Georgian mansion and an elegant early 20th century retreat for the influential and famous! One of my favourite things about Leeds Castle is their stunning black swans which can be found bobbing about in the moat. For more than a day trip take a look at the castle’s accommodation options.

Dickens World

Charles Dickens lived in Kent’s Medway for almost 20 years, absorbing the area’s architecture, character and colour and bringing it to fictional life in some of his best-known work. Travel back to Dickens’ era with an interactive guided tour through atmospheric streets, courtyards and alleyways of the Victorian England at Dickens World! If you are visiting Kent in early June then do go along to the Dickens Festival which takes place in Rochester Town Centre. From costumed parades and street acts to competitions, readings and a fair this is a real celebration of English literature and Victorian intrigue.

Whitstable

Whitstable is a seaside town on the north coast of Kent well known for its oysters, which have been collected in the area since Roman times and are celebrated at the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival. Visit the beach where sunbathing, swimming and water sports are popular. If you’re looking for some traditional dancing then visit on May Day which is celebrated with the annual Jack-in-the-Green parade, a fair at Whitstable Castle and a maypole dance by local schoolchildren overlooking the sea. For a lovely family trip to the seaside Whitstable is worth a visit!

I hope you have found this guide helpful and I’d love to hear your stories of visiting Kent in the comments below!