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Why we love Kent

From retro rollercoasters to seafood festivals and cutting edge art galleries, the ‘Garden of England’ is meant for discovery. 

Just a short hop from London takes you to Margate, home of the Turner Contemporary gallery and Dreamland theme park. Tuck into delicious oysters in Whitstable or try bohemian Ramsgate for a weekend away. Relax among the candy-coloured beach huts of Broadstairs, or bring the past to life in the surrounds of Dover Castle, Leeds Castle or Canterbury Cathedral. Alternatively, sample sparkling wines on vineyard tours or explore Kent’s Heritage Coast — voted one of the world’s top regions to visit by Lonely Planet.

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Whitstable Oyster Festival

Discover this festival in Whitstable in July, which ranks among the best for foodies. Taste Whitstable’s world-famous oysters, and be sure to wander its beach, browse its pastel-painted shops and check out the thriving arts scene while you’re here.

Find out more about the  Whitstable Oyster Festival

Dreamland Margate

Jurassic Coast

Visit Margate’s refurbished seaside amusement park, home to a Grade II listed, wooden rollercoaster. There’s a packed events calendar too, which includes the Margate Pride festival.

Learn more about Dreamland

rockin.goodtimes

Shell Grotto

Buried under the streets of Margate, discover this mysterious collection of more than four million shells, tightly packed into the walls of underground passageways.

Find out more about the Shell Grotto

Things to do in Kent

Fresh oysters, stand-up comedy and live music, right beside the beach. Is there a more perfect summer scene?

VisitBritain/Rod Edwards

The Shell Grotto

Decorated with an incredible 4.6 million shells, this spectacular underground hideaway has to be seen to be believed.

Turner Contemporary

This cutting-edge modern gallery sits right on Margate’s beach, featuring famous artists and new talents alike.

James Newton

Dover Castle

With jousting tournaments, secret wartime tunnels and a medieval palace, Dover Castle brings Britain's history to life.

billie_the_kid_071

Spend a memorable day out at the famous Dreamland amusement park in Margate, on the Kent coast.

Joss Bay Surf School

Get your board at the ready in Joss Bay, Broadstairs and try a spot of surfing or stand-up paddle boarding on the Kent coast.

Copper Rivet Distillery

Take a tour of Kent’s artisan brewery, Copper Rivet Distillery, in Chatham’s historic Dockyard.

Stark (1 Michelin star)

Take a culinary journey at Stark in Broadstairs and enjoy Kent’s finest food at this Michelin-starred restaurant.

Key and Quill

Chapel Down Winery

Explore the stunning Chapel Down Winery in Tenterden, Kent and taste English wine at its best.

VisitBritain/Stuart Harper

Broadstairs Food Festival

Celebrate local food and drink at the popular Broadstairs Food Festival, in the beautiful Kent seaside town.

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Hever Castle

Walk in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn in her childhood home of Hever Castle in Kent.

justsofestival

Call the Midwife Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Nurse Trixie with a Call The Midwife Official Location Tour of Chatham’s Historic Dockyard, where it was filmed.

Neal Street Productions

Leeds Castle

History comes to life at Leeds Castle, one of Kent’s most popular attractions. Tour the castle, explore the grounds and enjoy its maze.

VisitBritain/Ben Selway

Margate Pride

Join the parade and party at Margate Pride, as the Kent coast is lit up in rainbow colours.

Canterbury Festival

Head to Canterbury for its vibrant three-week festival of music, events, talks and science in the historic heart of Kent.

Black Deer Festival

Celebrate all things Americana and sing along to country music's finest.

Caitlin Mogridge/ Black Deer Festival

Visit the medieval deer park and magnificent Knole, one of Britain’s finest stately homes.

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Canterbury Cathedral

From the assassination of Thomas Becket to the dissolution of the monastery by Henry VIII, discover Canterbury Cathedral’s part in British history.

Bluewater Shopping Centre

Head to Bluewater – Kent’s most famous shopping centre – for stores, restaurants and much, much more.

Hangloose, Bluewater

Angela’s of Margate

Enjoy a low-impact meal at renowned sustainable restaurant, Angela’s of Margate.

Angelas Of Margate

Mrs Knotts Tearoom at South Foreland Lighthouse

Walk back in time along the white cliffs of Dover and stop in at Mrs Knotts Tearoom at South Foreland Lighthouse.

National Trust Images/Solent News and Photography Agency

Featured things to do

Explore Kent’s vineyards

Enjoy a tour and tasting in the lush surroundings of one of Kent’s wineries or vineyards, renowned for their still and sparkling wines.

Feel the love at Margate Pride Festival

Join in a celebration of love with this programme of summer events, including a festival in Dreamland, followed by a parade and an incredible town-wide after party.

Soak up some culture at Canterbury Festival

Dive into a two-week extravaganza of the arts. Expect an eclectic mix of opera, folk, jazz and classical, alongside circus, theatre, cabaret and visual arts.

Catch an exhibition at Turner Contemporary

This cutting-edge gallery on Margate beach was one of the driving forces behind the town’s vibrant regeneration. It hosts an ever-changing line-up of exhibitions and workshops that embody the town's creative spirit.

Places to stay in Kent

Home to the Turner Contemporary, Dreamland and the surreal Shell Grotto, this seaside town is packed with experiences, plus plenty of eateries to get your teeth into.

The walled city of Canterbury is more like a relaxed town. Explore the 11th-century Canterbury cathedral, as well as its many bars and restaurants.

With its chalk cliffs and beautiful winding streets, the port of Sandwich features medieval gems and a riverboat service along the River Stour, perfect for taking in the Kent countryside.

Explore nearby

A quirky seaside city filled with diverse cuisine, vintage shopping and adrenaline fuelled adventure.

VisitBritain/i360

An unmissable destination for travellers, London is a melting pot of history, culture and green spaces.

VisitBritain/Hazel Parreno

A perfect blend of nature and urban living. Colchester, Essex, was made to be explored.

Indre @Colchesterstreets

Getting to Kent

Kent’s closest airports are two of the UK’s biggest international hubs, London Gatwick and London Heathrow . The journey time from both takes up to two hours by car or train, depending on which part of Kent you need to reach. 

Kent is well connected to London by rail, with Southeastern offering services from London Bridge, Charing Cross, London Waterloo East, and Victoria. From London St Pancras International, the High Speed One train reaches Kent in less than 40 minutes.

Getting around

A vast network of roads, paths and train lines run across the county, making travel easy and leaving you with plenty of time to experience Kent’s cities, coast and countryside.

Buses serve routes across Kent. Check out Arriva and Stagecoach for the most frequently run services.

Most train services in Kent are operated by Southeastern , with the exception of local trains which are operated by Southern. You can use National Rail Enquiries for tickets and route planners.

Kent is a cyclist’s paradise . From bike tours, such as the heritage-led Col’s Kent Bike Tours, to the newly-opened Cantii Way or a host of other trails, cycling is a great way to experience what Kent has to offer.

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Kent for top insider tips and travel inspiration

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Best days out in kent.

The best days out in Kent. Top visitor attractions and places to go. Ideas and inspiration for family days out, what’s on and where to go. Explore enchanting gardens and mysterious castles. Encounter animal parks, steam trains, amazing maritime heritage. Kent has something for everyone.

Half Term and Halloween

Kids attractions, evening events, ‘climb the corona’ tour at canterbury cathedral.

19th August to 13th September

Canterbury Cathedral

Salute to the ‘40s

14th September to 15th September

The Historic Dockyard Chatham

Autumn Craft Fair at Hever Castle

12th September to 15th September

Hever Castle and Gardens

Heritage Open Days September 2024 at Canterbury Cathedral

6th September to 15th September

Medieval Falconry at Dover Castle

21st September to 22nd September

Dover Castle

Crown & Coronation at Canterbury Cathedral

24th September to 28th September

Autumn Propagation – Crafty Cuttings and Saving Seeds

29th September

The Powell Cotton Museum, Quex House and Gardens

Foraging Walks at Brogdale

12th April to 30th September

Brogdale Collections

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Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England)

15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England)

In the far southeast of England , you could say there are two Kents.

There’s the soft rural Kent of posh towns, National Trust houses and quaint villages, and then coastal Kent, fortified to defend the entranceway to England but also adapted for seaside fun in the 19th century.

In rural Kent, the county lives up to its nickname the “Garden of England” for its verdant countryside of hop farms and orchards, and florid villages with pastoral scenes of duck ponds, pubs, village greens and Norman churches.

Something in the Kent countryside that you won’t see anywhere else are “oast houses”, barns and houses on hop farms with conical roofs capped by a white vent to draw in air and dry the hops that would be stored on the upper floor.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Kent :

1. Canterbury

As beautiful as it is significant, Canterbury is a university crammed with history.

It is the seat of the British Isles’ first diocese, founded in the 6th century.

The Archbishop of Canterbury remains one of the most influential public figures in England.

The magnificent Norman and gothic cathedral is the showpiece of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was the scene of one of the pivotal moments in English medieval history: The murder of the Archbishop Thomas Beckett by supporters of King Henry II at the altar in 1170. There’s much to keep you enthralled in Canterbury, whether it’s Roman mosaics, the ruins of the castle and abbey, the city walls or the bulky Westgate, the biggest medieval city gate in England.

This town has always been the entranceway to the British Isles from continental Europe, and is the main ferry port for crossings from France and Belgium.

Approaching from the water, the first thing you see are those exalted white chalk cliffs.

On land you can take a memorable walk along the grassy cliff-tops, on a route that will get you to Kingsdown eight miles away.

As the closest port to France, the town needed to be fortified, and Dover Castle took its current form in the 12th century, during the reign of Henry II. There’s an overwhelming amount of history on this site from the Roman Lighthouse (one of England’s oldest buildings), to the 18th century artillery emplacements and the secret Second World War tunnels.

3. Ramsgate

As with six other beaches within a brief drive, Ramsgate Sands is a Blue Flag beach traced by a promenade and cliffs.

When the weather’s good there’s all the nostalgic treats of an English seaside resort, and in winter and autumn it’s a brooding scene for invigorating walks.

Ramsgate has the distinction of being the only Royal Harbour, and this is best seen from the long piers that protect it from the open sea and give it an almost-Mediterranean accent on the hottest days in summer.

Also a must is a descent into the Ramsgate Tunnels, deep air-raid shelters dug for the Second World War and now open for tours.

4. Broadstairs

With the advent of steam power and railways in the 19th century Londoners were able to get to Broadstairs in a matter of hours, and they came for the sea air and seven bays of inviting golden sand.

Charles Dickens chose Broadstairs for his holidays and wrote David Copperfield at Bleak House on the cliff above Viking Bay and with views of the North Foreland chalk headland.

On sunny days Broadstairs is still the Thanet’s best option for a day at the seaside, thanks to its historic high street with independent shops and the retro charm of old-school holiday amenities like beach huts, a bandstand and 50s-style ice cream parlours.

5. Sandwich

Like Dover, Sandwich was one of the Cinque Ports, a confederation of five medieval towns on the Kent and Sussex coast that cooperated for trade and defence.

And there are lots of hints about Sandwich’s history around the town today, like gates from the old town fortifications, two stunning almshouses and a handful of pubs that have been serving customers for hundreds of years.

Rural ways of life in days gone by are explained at the White Mill, a windmill built in the 1700s and fully restored.

And a few minutes outside the town is Richborough Castle, a ruined but compelling Roman and Saxon fortress and the mooted landing site for the Claudian Invasion in AD 43.

6. Rochester

If you’re familiar with the early chapters of Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations then you’ll feel like you’ve read about the muddy Medway River, even if the author never mentioned it by name.

Dickens grew up close by in Chatham and moved back to Gad’s Hill Place, a mansion just outside Rochester later in life, where he passed away.

But Rochester has more going for it; the castle has a 12th-century keep with walls and towers that are almost complete despite their great age.

It’s a breathtaking sight, equalled by the Norman and Gothic Rochester Cathedral, which was built in the 11th century but is the seat of a diocese that goes right back to 604, making it the second-oldest in England after Canterbury.

Around a meander in the Medway, Chatham is a town soaked with naval history.

From 1567 to the 1980s the Royal Navy Dockyard was here, and is now conserved as the Chatham Historic Dockyard.

If you’re inspired by the age of sail the dockyard will blow your mind, not just because of heritage ships that you can board, like HMS Gannet, but for facilities such as the Grade I-listed ropery, a 364-metre-long building that still produces rope commercially.

A nice complement to the dockyard is Fort Amherst, constructed in 1756 to protect the dockyard in case of a French invasion.

8. Royal Tunbridge Wells

In the High Weald, a long ridge of craggy sandstone, Royal Tunbridge Wells is a moneyed town welcoming wealthy guests and residents since the 1600s, when they first arrived for the curative waters.

That sandstone geology is clear in the strange rock formations, Wellington Rocks on Tunbridge Common, and the sheer High Rocks just outside the town.

There are gardens in distinguished estates to idle in, like the house-less Dunorlan Park, Calverly Grounds and Scotney Castle, all as stately as you’d hope.

The local landscapes are out of a picture book,  all hop farms, duck ponds, village greens, pub gardens and oast houses.

9. Sevenoaks

Just outside the M25, Sevenoaks is Kent’s first tourist destination for people travelling from London, and in turn has many residents who work in London.

Right in the north downs the local countryside is dappled with pretty villages like Otford and Shoreham, and the abundance of woodland gives you plenty of choices for walks.

But the main landmark is Knole House, a National Trust property and one of England’s most revered stately homes.

It’s a marvellous gabled 15th and 16th century building in four square kilometres of forest and open parkland where deer herds graze.

The house is huge considering its age, with more than 300 rooms and seven courtyards.

There’s much to love about the seafront at Deal, with rows of whitewashed cottages and grander, flat-fronted houses from the 17th and 18th century.

You can cut down little lanes with old gaslights and find English seaside staples like chippies and shops selling rock candy.

There’s also military history in the town, at Deal Castle, a Tudor 16th-century artillery fort with 66 firing positions and a low profile to make it less of a target.

Walmer Castle, further south has a similar outline and was built in the same period during the rule of Henry VIII. The pebble beach goes on for miles, running in front of the neighbouring towns of Walmer and Kingsdown, and has a belt of heathland behind where wild fennel grows by the beachfront track.

11. Whitstable

Whitstable is a seaside town full of character and with an authentic feel created by its fishing industry.

The local speciality is oysters, which have been harvested in the local waters for 2,000 years.

This activity took a bit of a hit in the post-war years, but has bounced back and is honoured every July at the Whitstable Oyster Festival.

Integral to any visit should be an amble around the working fishing harbour and market, and to get a table at one of the superb fish restaurants in the town.

Pebble beaches are also on either side of the harbour, and the Old Neptune that rare thing: A pub directly on the beach.

12. Folkestone

An offbeat relic from Folkestone’s seaside glory days is the Leas Lift, a short funicular railway transporting you from the seafront to the promenade atop the Leas cliff and installed in 1885. It’s a fixture of the town, and is maintained by a local non-profit organisation.

You can see as far as France from the Leas Promenade on a clear day, and the area at the bottom is the Lower Leas Coastal Park, including the beach with its colourful painted huts.

If you have a thing for Georgian and Victorian architecture you’ll adore Folkestone’s many whitewashed townhouses.

And the Creative Quarter is a quaint cobblestone street home to more than 100 artists, with galleries, studios and independent shops and cafes.

13. Aylesford

If for nothing else you should come this village outside Maidstone for the view from the south bank of the Medway, where the 14th-century bridge spans the river and is framed by rows of tall brick and timber houses and the tower of St.

Peter and Paul’s Church.

On the high street you’ll pass medieval almshouses and the beautiful George House, which was once an inn serving horse-drawn coach travellers.

Aylesford Priory, also known as the Friars, is unique in that it is was bought back by the Carmelites in the 1940s, 400 years after the  monasteries were dissolved.

The peaceful grounds are free and always open, and you can also have tea and cake at the tearooms seven days a week.

14. Tenterden

A well to-do country town, Tenterden is a pretty slice of rural England, with a medieval church, a sweet little high street, old pubs, and is even on the Kent & East Sussex steam railway.

In the vicinity you can go for a tour at a brewery or cider press and even see a winery in action.

In the village of Small Hythe, close to Tenterden  is Smallhythe Place, a charming 15th or 16th-century half-timbered house.

The property is now managed by the National Trust and was home to the Victorian actor Ellen Terry for almost 30 years.

Some of her possession are shown inside, like a letter from Oscar Wilde, a monocle belonging to Sir Arthur Sullivan and stage costumes from her career.

15. Ashford

At the centre of the county, people come to Ashford from the villages and towns around for its shopping.

The Ashford Designer Outlet is probably the most famous destination here, with big reductions on luxury fashion brands.

Ashford is also at a nexus point between England and France, as this is the last stop for the Eurostar before it crosses the channel or terminates in London at St. Pancras.

Minutes from Ashford  you have the sublime Godinton House, a gabled Jacobean stately home in flower gardens and with a treasured collection of porcelain.

And for walks, the Kent Downs are just north of Ashford, and you can easily get onto long distance paths like the Stour Valley Walk and the North Downs Way.

15 Best Places to Visit in Kent (England):

• Broadstairs
• Royal Tunbridge Wells

The Harbour Arm

The Old High Street

Fishermans Beach Hythe

Romney Marsh

Rolling countryside

Beautiful beaches

Incredible Artwork

Visit folkestone and hythe, welcome to folkestone, hythe & romney marsh....

...there’s simply no other place like it. Breath-taking beauty, stunning shorelines and creative communities make our corner of the Kentish coast one of the most exciting places to explore. 

This is a landscape full of surprises and brimming with adventure. From the cobbled streets of Folkestone to the eerie wilderness at Dungeness (the UK's only desert), our district has plenty to offer every taste and budget. One visit will never be enough!

You can immerse yourself in the incredible culture of Folkestone's famous Creative Quarter and spend your time exploring the bustling harbour arm , spotting public artworks and enjoying tantalising food and drink from some of the region's most exciting producers. 

For a great family day out, climb aboard the miniature trains on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway or experience an African safari in the Garden of England at the award-winning Port Lympne Reserve . For a darker taste of the past, visit the fascinating collection of more than 1,000 skulls in the ossuary at St Leonard’s Church in Hythe or see the imposing Martello Towers constructed to defend our coast during the Napoleonic war.

Or simply spend a day, a weekend or longer enjoying the incredible beaches along Kent's heritage coast or immersed in rural beauty of the North Downs and evocative Romney Marsh. 

Stay in a cosy cottage, a four-star hotel or a holiday park by the sea. And with great transport connections via road, rail or sea, getting here is easier than you think. There’s so much waiting for you, so what are you waiting for?

For more inspiration and to access a range of special offers visit experiencefh.co.uk

Inspirational ideas

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Get Your Culture Fix in Folkestone

Visitor Information Service

Folkestone Town Council, The Town Hall, 1 – 2 Guildhall Street, Folkestone, CT20 1DY 01303 257946              [email protected]

© Mo Peerbacus/Alamy

Kent isn’t described as the garden of England for nothing. Within its sea-lined borders you’ll find a fragrant landscape of gentle hills, fertile farmland, cultivated country estates and fruit-laden orchards. It could also be described as the beer garden of England as it produces the world-renowned Kent hops and some of the country’s finest ales and wines from its numerous vineyards. At its heart is spellbinding Canterbury, crowned by its enthralling cathedral. You’ll also find beautiful coastal stretches dotted with beach towns and villages, from old-school Broadstairs to gentrified Whitstable and the aesthetically challenged port town of Dover.

Best Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

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Turner Contemporary

Turner Contemporary is a blockbuster art gallery, bolted together on the site of the seafront guesthouse where master painter JMW Turner used to stay…

Down House, on the edge of the quaint Kent village of Downe, was Charles Darwin's home from 1842 until his death in 1882. It was here that he developed…

Dover Castle

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Kent and beyond.

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Explore the world in one easy stop.

Get ready for total cultural immersion. 138 spoken languages. Over 12 countries reflected in global bites. A true sports town. And all just 19 miles south of Seattle, at nearly half the price.

Seattle Thunderbirds

Watch the pucks fly.

Cheer on the local hockey team right in downtown Kent. The Thunderbirds reached the final championship game in 2021-22. Find more chilly thrills with the Seattle Kraken, the NHL’s newest team, playing at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena.

San Juan Islands

Make memories on the water.

Soak in the fresh-air therapy of Washington’s islands. The marine breeze on our beloved ferry rides will clear your mind for a slower pace of shopping, organic fare, history and stunning views.

Mount Rainier National Park

Drive to paradise.

Get up close to the state’s most recognizable peak. Mount Rainier National Park is 14,411 feet of natural wonder: trails, scenic views, snowshoeing, horseback rides and wildlife.

Sparkle in the Emerald City

Don’t miss the quirky landmarks: fish tossing at Pike Place Market, Fremont troll, Museum of Pop Culture, the gum wall, the underground tour, the once-futuristic Space Needle. Count the coffee shops along the way.

Live Entertainment

Accesso showare center, stage a night out.

Choose from top-notch concerts, family shows and cultural programs that fill the ShoWare calendar. Affordable prices and close-up seats offer fans a memorable experience for Seattle Thunderbirds hockey and Tacoma Stars soccer matches.

Seattle Sports

Sporting events, see your favorite pro teams.

Catch the action of Seattle’s big-league sports teams. Football, baseball, soccer, hockey and women’s basketball games are all a short train trip or bus ride from Kent.

Woodinville Wine Country

Raise a glass.

Wander Woodinville Wine Country, about 30 minutes from Kent. Four districts are home to 120 wineries, supplied by grapes that thrive in Washington’s climate. If wine’s not your thing, the districts include craft breweries, cideries and distilleries.

Meet the art and the animals

Join the culture club in the Tacoma Museum District, with six museums within walking distance. Enjoy live music when national tours stop at the Tacoma Dome. Scenery surrounds visitors from the waterfront to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.

Kent Valley Loop Trails

Refresh with a trek on the trails.

Grab comfy shoes and spend 20 minutes or a couple hours exploring this scenic trail system. Bike, walk or jog the paved routes along grassy fields, picnic areas, downtown access and the Green River.

Step Outside the Boundaries

Make kent your basecamp.

Fun day trips await in any direction: water, mountains and landmarks you’ve always wanted for a selfie.

Looking to Venture Farther from Basecamp? Easy.

Kent is less than three hours north of Portland and three hours south of the Canadian border.

From Kent to...

• Seattle 35 minutes
• Mount Rainier National Park 1.5 hours
• Portland, OR 2.75 hours
• Vancouver, BC 3 hours
• Tri-Cities 3.5 hours
• Coeur d’Alene, ID 5 hours
• San Francisco, CA 13.5 hours

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Unexpected fun in kent, wash.: ideas for families, couples, besties.

If your summer travel traditions need a refresh, consider the unexpected fun of Kent, Washington! Whether you’re visiting with your family, your partner or your besties, Kent is full of ways to make this summer memorable. Here are tips to launch your trip to Kent, Washington: For Families Sliding, skating, building, snacking … your family will find lots to do …

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Visit Canterbury

Welcome to canterbury.

There is nowhere quite like Canterbury.  Our medieval walled city has been hosting visitors for more than 1,000 years, so a warm welcome for any 'pilgrim' is guaranteed.

This autumn embrace the beauty of the changing seasons and the splendour of our ancient city and stretching coastline. W ind your way through our cobbled streets, drink in the historic sights, shop at  a huge mix of independent and high street retailers, and relax in award-winning restaurants, breweries and cafes. There's space for outdoor dining while the weather remains warm, and plenty of places to get cosy with a hot chocolate or glass of sparkling wine and watch the world go by.

We're just under 1 hour’s train journey from London with Southeastern trains , and moments away from the stunning Kentish countryside - perfect for misty walks and woodland adventures, embracing the beauty of the Garden of England . 

The coastal towns of Whitstable and Herne Bay are on our doorstep offering sweeping sea views and quintessential seaside town charm, not to mention the sensational seafood all year round.

If you're looking at a great UK break or a longer escape in a medieval yet modern destination with beautiful views , outstanding shopping, and great local food and drink...then Canterbury is waiting for you.

We can't wait to show you around.

Need some inspiration?

24 Hours in Canterbury

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Start planning your journey

Getting to and around Canterbury couldn't be easier. 

Just under 1 hour from central London by direct high speed Southeastern train services , with two train stations serving the rest of Kent and the south east region. 

The M2 motorway allows a quick journey from London or the Port of Dover, and there are ample bus and coach services to the coast and countryside every day. 

You can even walk or cycle through idyllic Kentish countryside to Canterbury as thousands of pilgrims from across Europe have done for thousands of years. 

Plan your journey HERE

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You are here: Places To Visit > Deal

Tel: 01304 201066

Quaint, quirky and one of the most charming coastal towns in Kent, Deal in White Cliffs Country is steeped in history.  See a fantastic range of maritime exhibits at Deal Museum , the Timeball Tower Museum or explore one of the historic castles in Deal  and Walmer . 

Take a leisurely stroll along the pier and look back at a view that has hardly changed in a century.  Discover Deal’s history and explore the maze of narrow streets and alleyways, renowned for smuggling during the 18th century.  

On Walmer seafront is the newly opened Roman Landings Adventure Golf , enjoy interactive fun with water features, rafts and historic themed holes.

Head to Betteshanger Park, located between Deal and Sandwich, and experience exhilarating off-road driving in Swincars.  Whilst here visit the newly opened Kent Mining Museum , telling the story of the Kent Coalfields.

There’s a wealth of great places to eat, sample the culinary delights available from Deal Pier Kitchen or try fresh, locally caught fish at one of Deal’s waterfront bistros or cosy eateries tucked away in the town centre.

If you love the Arts, you'll love Deal! Soak up the vibe of Deal's arts scene as you browse the art galleries and exhibitions.  Enjoy an array of events including Deal’s Festival of Music & the Arts, a popular two-week festival showcasing everything from street music to opera.

You’ve plenty of choice when it comes to accommodation in Deal from The Rose , a chic boutique-style hotel full of artistic charm in the town centre to the refurbished 18th century Clarendon Hotel on Deal’s seafront with views over the English Channel.  

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Medway Culture Fest 24

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Welcome to medway beyond your greatest  expectations.

Medway is bursting with so many things to see and do. From fantastic festivals and events to unique experiences for days out or a short-break, there are more reasons than ever to discover everything we have to offer.

2024 is a big year for Medway! 40 years ago, the Medway African and Caribbean Association was formed, and we saw the start of the former Royal Dockyard regeneration, turning it into a thriving heritage site, university campus, and community we see today. In celebration, Medway Culture Fest 24 will provide a year-long programme of cultural activities and events.

There's no arguing that Rochester's magnificent cathedral and imposing castle that dominates the Medway skyline are on the must-see list when exploring the area. But are you aware of Medway's heritage attractions to visit? From Eastgate House, an amazing Tudor mansion, discovering the works of Charles Dickens at the ' Making of Mr. Dickens' exhibition at the Guildhall Museum , to our arts and cultural offer across our galleries and theatres. Medway's military and maritime past can be discovered at The Historic Dockyard Chatham , Fort Amherst and at t he Royal Engineers Museum - Kent’s largest military museum and one of the most important military collections in the UK.

Whether it's dining in a restaurant, exploring the heritage attractions, or catching a show at the theatre , you will find it here.

Make sure to follow our social media channels on Instagram and   Facebook - and make sure to tag us in your stunning photos and share your wonderful experiences using #VisitMedway and  #MustVisitMedway

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Discover Ashford, a vibrant town just 38 minutes from London on the High speed train , making it an innovative town with an exciting, contemporary feel.  Experience the delights of our country town of Tenterden and enjoy the rural charm of our historic villages. SEE  glorious gardens, heritage railways, amazing animals, experience designer shopping and FIND  hidden gems. Vineyards abound, producing award winning wines, raise a glass and TASTE the wealth of our local produce, we're a must for foodies.  Outdoor pursuits are plentiful, TRY  walking, cycling and golf. 

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The fresh sea air fizzes with energy in Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate . Here seaside kitsch is cool and everything from ice cream parlours to boutiques has a hip, retro vibe. On the Isle of Thanet you’ll discover an iconic amusement park, a thriving arts and culture scene plus delicious food and drink.

It’s a place to be playful. Ride a vintage rollercoaster, build sandcastles, surf. On the Isle of Thanet 16 sandy beaches and bays and a string of pretty villages link Georgian and Victorian resorts. Here boldness and vision have given classic seaside heritage a new lease of life.

Close to London and the channel ports, the resorts are ideal for a day trip, a relaxing short break or a longer fun-filled holiday at the coast.

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Become a Delta flight attendant: Apply now and learn more at information sessions across the country

Delta’s talent team and flight attendants will visit Connecticut, Florida, Minnesota, New Jersey and Washington throughout the coming weeks to answer aspiring flight attendants’ questions about the role, the application process and work schedules, along with benefits like travel opportunities, the lifestyle of a Delta flight attendant and more.  

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Your Hotel Is on Strike. What Should You Do?

With hotel chains and union members locked in a dispute over wages and working conditions, strikes could continue to disrupt travel in major U.S. destinations. Here’s what to know.

By Derek M. Norman

Over the busy Labor Day weekend, at least 10,000 unionized front-desk workers, housekeepers and other employees at dozens of hotel properties across the country walked off the job after failing to come to an agreement in contract negotiations.

The mostly two- and three-day strikes affected some Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Fairmont hotels in nine destinations, including Baltimore; Boston; Greenwich, Conn.; Honolulu; Kauai, Hawaii; San Diego; San Francisco; San Jose, Calif.; and Seattle.

With members of the UNITE HERE union at Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Omni properties across the country still engaged in contentious talks over wages and working conditions, rolling strikes could possibly disrupt travel plans for months to come.

Hotels chains say they plan to keep affected properties open, perhaps with modified services. But they may not always notify travelers that a strike is happening, so inquire ahead of time, or you may be surprised to find a spirited picket line in front of your hotel when you arrive.

Here’s what else you need to know.

There’s a strike at the hotel where I have a reservation. What should I do?

First, call the hotel and ask to speak to a manager to confirm that a strike is taking place there. UNITE HERE has also created a website, FairHotel.org , that offers an updated map of which properties are experiencing labor disputes. Ask the manager which services are being affected by the strike, and ask about the hotel’s cancellation policy.

Then decide if you still want to stay at the hotel.

Besides weighing the effect on services, consider your feelings about the dispute itself, said Bjorn Hanson, an adjunct professor at the New York University Jonathan M. Tisch Center of Hospitality. Some travelers like to support the business and keep their reservation at the property, Dr. Hanson said. Others prefer to support the striking workers by not crossing a picket line.

If you choose not to stay at the affected hotel, he said, you should first book new accommodations and then call your original hotel as soon as possible to cancel.

In the case of past strikes, Dr. Hanson said, “Individual hotels have some discretion, but the hotel company policy was: Whatever our cancellation policy is, is the policy we will maintain during the strike. So at the very least, that is what the regular, average traveler should keep in mind and plan around,” he said.

The cancellation policy at Hilton , Hyatt , Marriott and Omni hotels generally depends on your specific rate and dates of your stay, so you’ll need to look up your reservation on their app or website.

Will my hotel stay open during the strike?

In general, hotels say they are prepared to operate without disruption.

Representatives for Hyatt, Hilton and Omni all said that they had contingency plans to minimize any strikes’ impact on hotel operations. Marriott did not respond to request for comment.

While the chains would not reveal details of those plans, they are likely to use nonunion employees, Dr. Hanson said. They might also, for example, substitute a grab-and-go buffet for table service. And outside contractors may be hired to perform services that hotel staff would typically perform.

During another recent major hotel strike, last summer in Los Angeles, thousands of hotel workers walked off the job just as travelers were gearing up for the Fourth of July. That first strike was resolved after three days . Sporadic walkouts at other properties throughout the summer affected housekeeping services for some guests and caused disruptions after event organizers canceled events .

What are the sticking points in the talks?

Hotel workers are calling for higher wages, as well as the reversal of Covid-era staffing and service cuts. Housekeepers at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor , for example, are asking for a raise to $20 an hour from $16.20 now.

During the pandemic, the union said, many hotels cut staffing and guest services like daily housekeeping and room service , which caused some workers to lose income and also created a heavier workload for the remaining employees.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the number of hotel properties that were on strike as of Sunday afternoon. It was 24, not more than 25.

How we handle corrections

Derek M. Norman is a senior news assistant for the International section of The Times. More about Derek M. Norman

Itineraries

So, you have narrowed it down to Kent for your next weekend away and now it’s time to start planning what part of Kent you will be visiting. Here is where Visit Kent step in to help, with help from each districts council we have put together our guide on how to spend 48 hours here in Kent.

From a local’s insight to the top places for lunch, to a range of activities to suit everyone’s budget. A getaway to Kent has never been so easy. So, grab a tea and bring your diary, it’s time to start planning!

Don’t forget whilst you visit to tag us in your picture using #VisitKent