Called ‘the garden of England,’ Kent is a beautiful county offering pristine countryside and quaint towns. Conveniently accessible from London, this exquisite corner of the country is ready and waiting to be discovered. If you’re stuck for what to do in Kent, take a look at our guide for some of the top attractions.
Margate
Margate is England’s original seaside town. With good weather and sandy beaches, it isn’t hard to see why it has been popular with British holidaymakers for hundreds of years. Margate boasts a wide variety of attractions, storied pubs, and quaint shops. You can visit Dreamland, a refurbished amusement park hosting one of oldest roller coasters in the UK. Explore the mysterious Shell Grotto, a one-of-a-kind wonder featuring intricate patterns of millions of shells. Or catch a show in the Tom Thumb, one of the world’s smallest theatres. There’s something for everyone here at this historic seaside destination.
Port Lympne Wildlife Park
Your very own safari experience right on the Kent coast. Port Lympne is a 600-acre wildlife park filled with some of the world’s most amazing animals. Get face to face with lions, rhinos, gorillas, and more as you explore this incredible reserve. With over 800 animals, 15 acres of landscaped gardens, and even a dinosaur exhibition that allows you to step back in time, Port Lympne makes for an exciting and fulfilling day out. It’s never been a better time to get your taste of the savannah right here in the garden of England.
Leeds Castle
Called the loveliest castle in the world, Leeds Castle sits in the heart of Kent. The site has been used since the 9th century and a stone castle was built following the Norman Conquest in 1066. It has been a royal palace, home to six medieval queens, and was famously renovated by Henry the Eighth. Leeds Castle has been lovingly maintained so you can experience this beautiful representation of English history yourself. Tour the historic halls of the old castle and the immaculately kept Culpeper Gardens. With history, scenery, exciting experiences, and more, Leeds Castle is the perfect place for any weekend visit or family day out.
Bewl water
Perfect for an outdoor adventure, Bewl Water hosts a range of incredible activity to keep you busy as the weather gets warmer. The park boasts 800 acres of scenic pathways and woodland surrounding the largest body of open water in the southeast of England. Enjoy water sports, cycle, visit the aqua park and more, all in the scenic Kent countryside. Alternatively, you can relax by the water to enjoy a spot of fishing or sit back for some refreshment in the waterfront café. Bewl Water is conveniently accessible just off the A21 and offers a range of activities for the whole family.
Canterbury Cathedral
Canterbury Cathedral is regarded as England’s first cathedral. Founded in the sixth century it is over 1,400 years old and has been at the centre of some of the most momentous changes in English history. It is even recognised at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, indicating it has ‘outstanding universal value’. The burial place of royalty and saints and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the cathedral is a living monument to the history of this country. It is also still active as a place of worship, hosting services and Lenten pilgrimages to this day. To experience a world-renowned historical site right on your doorstep, be sure to visit the cathedral on your trip to Canterbury.
If you’re looking to visit any attractions in Kent, consider a hired coach from City Circle for your transport. Our professional drivers and modern fleet can get you to and around this attractive county with ease. You can reach our London office on 0203 883 6922 or at go@citycircleuk.com and our Edinburgh office on 0131 608 4242 or at edi@citycircleuk.com.