For the Outdoors Type A stunning variety of landscapes await the visitor to Kent, from the eerie Romney Marshes that were once entirely under water to the rolling splendour of the High Weald. There is a wealth of nature reserves for walking and wildlife spotting  - from badgers to butterflies and owls to otters.

The natural beauty is enhanced by vineyards, orchards and enchanting gardens – Kent was an inspiration to some of most famous garden designers through the ages.

Walking links

Historic Kent ‘Kent’ is the oldest recorded place name in Britain and has a colourful history stretching back to prehistoric times. The world’s oldest known Bronze age seagoing boat – around 3,550 years old – was found between Dover and Folkestone in 1992 and is now on display at Dover Museum. Nearby, Julius Caesar landed at Walmer in 55 BC, starting the Roman conquest of Britain – “he came, he saw, he conquered” - which lasted until the fifth century.

Religious life in England has centred on Canterbury for at least fourteen hundred years. The magnificent cathedral in the heart of the city is an inspirational attraction and has played host to some of England’s most important historical events. Also in Canterbury, St Augustine’s Abbey was founded in 598 following his successful mission to Kent to reintroduce Christianity to the English.

Kent has more castles and historic houses than any other English county. From the Norman Dover Castle, which is also the site of Pharos, the Roman lighthouse on the White Cliffs to the romantic Leeds Castle – the home of six medieval queens. Then there's 13th century Hever Castle, childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's second wife.

Kent has many remarkable houses and stately homes too, from the 15^th century house at Knole to Chartwell, the retreat of Sir Winston Churchill. The famous and the infamous have all left their impression on this fascinating county. 

Art and Culture

Kent has a wealth of cultural attractions and events, from its historical literary connections to contemporary music festivals, ensuring that whatever your cultural interests, you’ll find that the county has so much to offer.

Every summer Leeds Castle hosts spectacular music and theatre festivals in its grounds near Maidstone. 2003 is the 25th anniversary of open air concerts at Leeds and the organisers will be pulling out all the stops, with firework displays and flypasts by Spitfires.

Kent has a rich history of literary connections, including some of the greats – Geoffrey Chaucher, Christopher Marlowe, Charles Dickens, Edith Nesbit (author of ‘The Railway Children’ and ‘The Treasure Seekers’) and Jane Austin (who was a frequent visitor to Goodnestone Park, near Canterbury).

Events in Kent

Eating Out

A rich and fertile county Kent abounds with fresh produce and culinary delights from the sea and field.  Traditional fare can be sampled in snug country pubs or fine international dishes can be sampled in haute cuisine restaurants.  The county also features a great selection of places to buy fresh and organic produce, from individual suppliers to the only farmer’s market in the UK open six days a week. Kentish Fares

A meal at a traditional pub is a great way to enjoy your free time, and Kent abounds with historic or quirky pubs, both in the towns and in rural locations.

All text & images courtesy of Kent Tourism Alliance