Touring holidays in Kent

We think Kent is a bit of an underrated gem. You can enjoy coastal views, seaside towns, beautiful rural landscapes and a fantastic amount of history all in one holiday. It’s just as attractive as Devon and yet doesn’t seem to pull in the crowds in quite the same manner. It’s slightly old fashioned in a charming way and yet offers a vibrant food scene. Kent is known as the Garden of England, and for good reason! There are ancient orchards, market gardens and grazing livestock. There’s some great fish, a fair few local farm shops dotted around and vineyards to visit.

With some interesting new boutique hotels and a few castle stays, a tailor made touring itinerary here offers a colourful mix. There’s artist’s favourite Whitstable, full of unusual boutiques and fresh oysters on the beach, lovely Margate with the Turner Contemporary and Broadstairs with its many sandy bays. The maritime history of the coast offers much to explore, including a series of old cinque ports and some spectacular castles in Dover and Deal. The town of Sandwich was recently declared ‘the most complete medieval town in England’ with more listed buildings per head than in any other town.

Inland, Canterbury offers a different type of history, with all its associations of pilgrims and Chaucer. Several stunning castles and a handful of wonderful gardens, along with ancient villages and glorious downs make this a wonderful area to explore.