There is no wonder that Kent in known as “The Garden of England.” Within its sea-lined borders you will find a fragrant beautiful landscape with gentle hills, fruit-filled orchards and desirable country estates. Kent is well-known for its local beers as it produces the world-renowned Kent hops and some of the county’s finest ales and wines from its vineyards. Not to mention Canterbury and its outstanding cathedral, many beautiful countryside villages and plenty of seaside towns. Kent really does have something to offer everyone and is an excellent choice for your coach holiday.
Dover Castle
Visit the most iconic of all English fortresses commanding the gateway to the realm for 9 centuries. Here you can climb the Great Tower and experience castle life and discover the history from the area. You can venture down to the wartime tunnels and see the old underground hospital and get a real sense of how it would have been during the war. The castle is a great place for families and adults alike. There are stunning views here from the top of the White Cliffs of Dover.
Canterbury
Made famous by Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, the university city boasts some of England’s finest medieval architecture, including one of its oldest Cathedrals. Canterbury Cathedral houses the famous Shrine of the medieval archbishop Thomas Beckett. It is absolutely stunning inside and not to be missed. Whilst here you can also take a river cruise around the city and see the beautiful sites from the water with a guide who will let you know about the history of Canterbury. Take a picnic to make it a little extra special. Canterbury hosts many large name shops but it does have plenty of boutique stores hidden down the cobbled backstreets, amongst many nice pubs for you to enjoy.
Chapel Down
For those of you who enjoy your wine take a trip to the Chapel Down Vineyard just outside Tenterden. Here you can go on an escorted tour around the vineyard learning how they make their wine, not to mention you get a tasting session afterwards. Chapel Down has a great on site shop where you can purchase your favourites to take home too. There is a beautiful a la carte restaurant in the grounds but if you fancy something less fancy take a trip into Tenterden and experience an afternoon tea in a pretty village.
Wye
Wye is a quaint village situated a few miles from the town of Ashford. Wye is a beautiful village that puts you instantly in the gorgeous Kent countryside. There are 3 lovely pubs in the village. Try the Tickled Trout in the summer where you can sit outside down by the river. This is a perfect location to relax and enjoy your time away. Wye gives hosts to the stunning Wye Downs where you can experience many walks by following the local and well signposted public footpaths. You can walk up to the iconic Crown and Devils Kneading Trough and experience fabulous views as far as the eye can see here.
Whitstable
For those of you who enjoy the seaside take a trip as part of your holiday down to Whitstable, a beautiful seaside town. Whitstable is well- known for its Oyster Festival over the summer and it’s definitely worth a visit. The beaches are lovely and you can stroll up to the slopes at Tankerton amongst the beautifully kept beach huts. From the promenade you can see many wind turbines in the ocean. This is a beautiful place for sunsets and sunrises. If it takes your fancy you can hire a fisherman’s hut to stay in situated right on the sea front but excellently located very close to the town. The town itself has an amazing fish and chip shops and exceptional boutique shops and a very friendly feel.
Margate and Dreamland
For a different seaside experience visit Margate. It is well known for its beautiful sandy beach. Near the Harbour arm stone pier, the modern Tate Contemporary Art Gallery has its rotating exhibitions for you to enjoy. For those of you with children in your party whilst here take a trip to the recently revamped Dreamland. Dreamland is an amusement park and entertainment centre based on a traditional English seaside funfair.
Leeds Castle
Known as the loveliest castle in the world, take a trip to Leeds Castle whilst in Kent. Here you can discover 900 years of history and explore 500 acres of beautiful parkland and Gardens. Not to mention all the wildlife that you’ll find in the castle grounds. The whole family will enjoy it here; the maze, the grotto, amazing falconry displays, punting on the moat and the huge adventure playground. The castle hosts many different events all year round so to be sure to check their website before visiting.
Chartwell
Chartwell is a lovely country house near the town of Westerham in Kent. For over forty years it was the home of Winston Churchill. This is a delightful place for a days visit.