An introduction to Kent
Kent, EnglandŐs oldest county, is alive with its exciting past;
visit Canterbury with ChaucerŐs pilgrims, follow Dickens to his
favourite haunts in Rochester or pursue the maritime adventures
that have shaped Kent from Roman invasion to World War II.
Unlock the private world of Winston
Churchill at his beloved home,
Chartwell, unravel royal romances at
Leeds and Hever Castles or discover
what sparks a genius at Down
House, the home of Charles Darwin.
KentŐs gardens are rightly worldrenowned
and there are over 180
to choose from. Visitors can admire
the deep-rooted tradition in the
formal walled garden at Penshurst
Place, or the spring bluebells at
Goodnestone Park Gardens.
The rich variety of KentŐs landscapes
makes it ideal for the outdoor
enthusiast with attractions such
as the White Cliffs or some golf at
one of KentŐs 90-plus courses, many
of which are of ÔLinksŐ standard,
including two that have hosted the
British Open. Over 4,000 miles of
footpaths criss-cross Kent and many
are through protected countryside.
At Bedgebury, The National Pinetum
and Forest, near Tunbridge Wells
visitors can experience not only a
world-class conifer collection but
some of the best cycling, mountain
biking, riding and active play
facilities in South East England.
Kent offers clean, family-friendly,
sand and pebble beaches. Blue Flag
and award-winners can all be found
all around the county. There are 15
sandy beaches and bays along the
Thanet coast, encompassing the
popular resorts of Margate,
Broadstairs and Ramsgate, the
latter of which has a famous
colony of seals. Surfers head to
Joss Bay while kite surfing is
available at Whitstable. Visitors
can also enjoy the Edwardian
elegance of Folkestone.
A visit is not complete without
savouring the authentic tastes of
the county. Visitors can lunch on
fresh fare at CanterburyŐs The Goods
Shed, EnglandŐs only six-days-aweek
farmers market or linger
over a glass of handcrafted ale from
BritainŐs oldest brewer, Shepherd
Neame. Kent is home to several
Michelin-starred restaurants and
dishes as diverse as local marsh
lamb or oysters can be enjoyed in
the weaverŐs cottage setting of The
West House, Biddenden.
Transport connections make Kent
an accessible location for a weekend
away, business meeting or short
stop before heading to the continent.
For more information visit
www.visitkent.co.uk