12 Best Places to Visit in Kent: Top Things to Do in the Garden of England
Kent is one of the best counties in England for a short break, with medieval castles, historic towns, dramatic coastline, beautiful gardens and fascinating historic sites. From Canterbury Cathedral and Dover Castle to the White Cliffs of Dover and the unusual landscape of Dungeness, there are plenty of places to visit in Kent.
I’ve lived in the southeast of England for more than three decades and have explored Kent extensively. In this guide, I’ll take you to 12 of the best places to visit in Kent, including some of the county’s best-known attractions as well as a few more unusual destinations.
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Best Places to Visit in Kent at a Glance
| No. | Place to Visit | What to See and Do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canterbury | Explore the cathedral, historic streets and punting on the river. |
| 2 | Hever Castle | Discover Anne Boleyn’s childhood home, Tudor history and beautiful gardens. |
| 3 | White Cliffs of Dover | Enjoy spectacular coastal scenery, walking trails and wildlife. |
| 4 | Chatham Historic Dockyard | Explore historic ships, maritime museums and filming locations for Call the Midwife. |
| 5 | Leeds Castle | Visit the picturesque castle, explore its grounds and discover its royal history. |
| 6 | Rochester | Follow in Charles Dickens’s footsteps and explore the castle, cathedral and historic High Street. |
| 7 | Dover Castle | Discover medieval fortifications, wartime tunnels and centuries of military history. |
| 8 | Historic Hythe and its Ossuary | See the remarkable medieval bone collection and explore this historic Cinque Port. |
| 9 | Shepherd Neame Brewery, Faversham | Learn about traditional brewing and Kent’s long association with beer. |
| 10 | Sissinghurst Castle Garden | Wander through Vita Sackville-West’s celebrated garden rooms. |
| 11 | Sandwich | Explore medieval streets, historic buildings and the town’s Cinque Ports heritage. |
| 12 | Dungeness | Discover a unique shingle landscape, unusual wildlife and striking coastal scenery. |
1. Explore Canterbury – Cathedral, Pilgrims and Punting
While the 1400-year-old cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, dominates the city, Canterbury has many other attractions.
Still, let’s start with the cathedral, established in 579AD, because it has played a central role in English history for centuries. This was where King Henry II’s knights murdered Archbishop Thomas Becket, establishing it as a major place of pilgrimage. More recently (in 2015) it was the site of the ordination of the first female Anglican bishop.
Today, the cathedral is a Grade 1 listed building, along with much of the rest of the complex. Visitors can view the spectacular artwork held within the cathedral or listen to one of the regular concerts held here. Of course, the cathedral is mainly a place of worship where all are invited to join services.
Canterbury’s UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises three places. As well as the cathedral, the cluster includes St Martin’s Church, the oldest continuously used church in the English-speaking world. The third structure is St Augustine’s Abbey, founded in 598 AD by the Apostle of England himself.
Pro Tip: Buy a Canterbury World Heritage Pass, which covers all three sites.
After seeing these three sites, there’s still more to do in Canterbury. Canterbury inspired the oldest book in English literature, Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Visitors can take an immersive journey back to the world of The Summoner and The Wife of Bath at the Canterbury Tales Experience.
Alternatively, wander Canterbury’s medieval streets, or punt along the River Stroud. Canterbury has something for everyone.
2. Hever Castle – Anne Boleyn’s Childhood Home
Surrounded by a picturesque moat and 125 acres of gardens, Hever is a fairy tale castle offering a journey through 700 years of history.
Originally built in the 13th century as a defensive country house, Hever Castle is best known as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the ill-fated second wife of Henry VIII. In the early 20th century, American millionaire William Waldorf Astor restored the castle. His work transformed Hever into the romantic vision visitors admire today. Winston Churchill was a frequent visitor and one of his paintings can be seen in the Inner Hall.
Inside, you’ll find richly panelled rooms, Tudor portraits, and a fascinating collection of historical artefacts. These include prayer books said to have belonged to Anne herself. Outside, the award-winning gardens are a highlight. Don’t miss the Italian Garden, the Tudor Garden, and the serene lake walk.
3. Walk the White Cliffs of Dover
“There’ll be bluebirds over the White Cliffs of Dover.” The words made famous during the Second World War by forces’ sweetheart Vera Lynn still resonate today. The White Cliffs of Dover are synonymous with England and have long symbolised homecoming for those returning from Europe.
Managed by the National Trust, the White Cliffs of Dover offer beautiful coastal walks and, on a clear day, views across the English Channel to France. There are walking routes of varying lengths and difficulty, so you can choose a walk to suit your time and fitness. Download a route map from the National Trust website before setting off.
If you have limited mobility, there’s an accessible path of around 400 metres to a viewpoint overlooking the cliffs and sea. It has a staggered incline and places to rest along the way, although the slope and surface may be challenging for some wheelchair users. Check the National Trust’s accessibility advice before visiting.
For a different perspective on the area’s history, descend into Fan Bay Deep Shelter, a complex of Second World War tunnels built to protect troops serving the nearby gun battery. You’ll need a hard hat and head torch, provided as part of the guided tour.
Alternatively, follow the coastal path to South Foreland Lighthouse, where Michael Faraday’s experiments helped develop electric lighting and Guglielmo Marconi carried out pioneering wireless telegraphy experiments. The lighthouse also offers wonderful views across the Channel.
Whether you come for the scenery, the wartime history or a bracing coastal walk, the White Cliffs of Dover are one of the most memorable places to visit in Kent.
4. Climb Aboard at the Chatham Historic Dockyard
If you’re interested in Britain’s maritime history, the Historic Dockyard Chatham is one of the best places to visit in Kent. For over 400 years, this was a major centre of shipbuilding and repair, producing vessels that helped Britain establish its naval power around the world.
Today, this remarkable historic site covers 80 acres and is packed with things to see and do. You can step aboard HMS Cavalier, a Second World War destroyer, explore HMS Gannet, a Victorian naval sloop, and descend into HM Submarine Ocelot, a Cold War submarine. The galleries show how ships were built, what life was like for the workers, and the dockyard’s role in British history.
One of the highlights is the historic Ropery, where craftsmen have made ropes for ships since 1618. Watching traditional rope-making techniques brings the dockyard’s industrial heritage to life.
Fans of the BBC series Call the Midwife have another reason to visit. The dockyard’s historic streets and buildings have served as filming locations for the popular period drama. Dedicated Call the Midwife tours allow visitors to explore locations used in the series, making this a particularly appealing stop for fans. Check the official Historic Dockyard Chatham website for tour dates, availability and booking details.
Allow several hours to explore, and consider setting aside most of a day if you want to visit the ships and galleries without rushing. Comfortable footwear is advisable, as the site is extensive and some historic surfaces and ship interiors can be uneven or difficult to navigate. If you have mobility concerns, check the dockyard’s accessibility information before visiting.
Pro tip: Buy your ticket online in advance. When I visited, it cost more because I hadn’t booked online beforehand. Check the official website for current ticket prices, opening dates and accessibility information before you travel.
5. Visit Leeds Castle – One of the Most Romantic Castles in England
Often described as one of the most romantic castles in England, Leeds Castle sits on islands in a lake, surrounded by beautiful countryside. It makes an immediate impression, but its appeal goes beyond its picturesque setting: the castle has a history stretching back almost 1,000 years.
Despite its name, Leeds Castle has no connection with the city in northeast England. The name is thought to derive from the Old English word Esledes, meaning a slope. By the time the Domesday Book was compiled in 1086, a manor already stood on the site.
Over the centuries, Leeds Castle was home to six medieval queens of England. Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife, also lived here, although her status as queen is erased when Henry divorced her.
Today, there is much more to Leeds Castle than its history. You can explore the beautiful gardens, lose yourself in the maze, play golf on the surrounding course or visit the unusual Dog Collar Museum. If you want to extend your visit, you can even book an overnight stay in the castle’s historic accommodation. Book well ahead if you have your heart set on staying, as rooms can be in high demand.
6. Visit Historic Rochester and Follow in Dickens’ Footsteps
No guide to the best places to visit in Kent would be complete without Rochester. This charming riverside town boasts a rich history and literary heritage, with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a character that makes you feel you are stepping into a living storybook.
Dominating the skyline is Rochester Castle, one of the finest surviving examples of a Norman keep in England. Built in the twelfth century, its imposing stone tower has witnessed sieges and centuries of turbulent history. You can explore the castle ruins and, when access permits, climb the keep for sweeping views across the town and the River Medway.
Just a short stroll away stands Rochester Cathedral, whose origins date back to AD 604. Although one of England’s oldest cathedrals, much of the building you see today dates from the Norman and medieval periods. Even if you’re not interested in religious history, its architecture and peaceful interior make it worth a visit.
Rochester and Charles Dickens
Rochester is famous for its connection to Charles Dickens, who lived in Kent as a child and took ideas from the town and countryside. Rochester features in several of his works, including Great Expectations and The Pickwick Papers. Walk along the historic High Street, browse its independent shops and look out for the buildings connected with the author and his stories.
Restoration House is a fascinating stop. This beautiful Elizabethan mansion is thought to have inspired Satis House, Miss Havisham’s decaying home in Great Expectations. The house is normally open to visitors on selected days during the season, so check opening arrangements before planning your visit.
For an overnight stay with literary connections, consider the Royal Victoria and Bull Hotel on Rochester High Street. The historic inn is heavily associated with Dickens. It appeared in Great Expectations as The Blue Boar Inn and features in The Pickwick Papers. According to local history, it was renamed after Queen Victoria stayed there in 1836.
Rochester is compact enough to explore on foot, making it an enjoyable day trip. Allow time to wander the High Street, visit the castle and cathedral, and stop at one of the traditional pubs or cafes.
If you’re visiting Rochester in December, try to go during Rochester’s annual Dickensian Christmas Festival. The historic High Street comes alive with costumed characters, street performers, musicians and carol singers, creating the atmosphere of a Victorian Christmas. Celebrating Rochester’s connections with Charles Dickens, the festival often features festive entertainment and a Christmas market in the castle grounds. It can get very busy, so check the Visit Medway website for confirmed dates and programme details before travelling.
7. Explore Dover Castle – 2000 Years of History
Dover Castle’s position on the famous white cliffs has long been recognised for its strategic and defensive importance, and this has driven an incredibly varied history, all of which can be seen by visitors today.
The 1800-year-old Faro, or Roman Lighthouse, is one of only 3 remaining in the entire Roman Empire. It sits next to a thousand-year-old Anglo-Saxon church, St Mary in Castro, which is still in use today. Visitors can then move forward in time to the 12th-century castle built by Henry II. The French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars drove further improvements to the defences in the 18th Century, and Dover Castle served as a World War I fire command post. World War II saw Dover Castle play a significant role in Dunkirk and later became a Cold War nuclear bunker.
8. Explore Historic Hythe and its Ossuary
Imagine stepping beneath a quiet medieval church to find thousands of human bones carefully arranged along its walls. I discovered Hythe’s remarkable ossuary by accident while exploring England’s ancient Cinque Ports. I spent a fascinating hour with the curator, who explained how researchers could tell how some of the people had met their end. This extraordinary collection makes the ossuary one of Kent’s most unusual historical attractions, and a compelling reason to visit the often-overlooked coastal town of Hythe.
Beneath St Leonard’s Church lie the skulls and long bones of an estimated 2,000 people, many dating from the medieval period. The collection offers a fascinating, if macabre, glimpse into the past and is one of only two surviving medieval ossuaries of its kind in England.
Hythe has plenty more to discover beyond its bones. The town was one of the original Cinque Ports, a group of coastal communities that provided ships and sailors to the Crown in return for special privileges. Its medieval link with the sea has declined over the centuries as the coastline has changed. Today, Hythe is no longer the busy port it once was, but the town retains considerable historic character.
Take time to explore St Leonard’s Church, parts of which date back to the early medieval period, before strolling along the Royal Military Canal. Constructed in the early nineteenth century to defend against a potential French invasion, the canal is now a pleasant place for a walk by the water. Hythe also has independent shops, cafes and a seafront, making it easy to combine history with a relaxed coastal visit.
If you enjoy unusual historical sites, Hythe deserves a place on your Kent itinerary. Check the St Leonard’s Church website for current opening arrangements before visiting. The ossuary is only open in summer months and even then, access may be limited.
9. Visit Shepherd Neame Brewery in Faversham
Kent is synonymous with beer brewing, and one of the county’s most distinctive sights is the traditional Oast House. These unusual buildings, with their round or square towers topped by conical roofs, were once used to dry hops before adding them to beer. Their special roof cowls helped move hot air through the kilns. The white or weather-boarded walls have become a symbol of Kent’s countryside.
Learn about Kent’s brewing history by visiting Shepherd Neame in Faversham. It is Britain’s oldest brewer, with a history going back to 1698. Visitors can join guided tours at the brewery’s visitor centre to explore traditional brewing methods, view the historic buildings, and find out how hops and other ingredients become beer.
Of course, a brewery tour wouldn’t be complete without the opportunity to sample some beer. It’s a great way to learn about one of Kent’s best-known traditions while exploring Faversham, a historic market town with plenty of character. Don’t forget to leave the car at home!
10. Visit Sissinghurst Castle Garden
If you love gardens, Sissinghurst Castle Garden is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kent. They were created by writer Vita Sackville-West and her husband, diplomat Harold Nicolson. The gardens combine romantic planting, intimate spaces and carefully designed colour schemes within the ruins of a historic Elizabethan manor house.
Sackville-West began transforming the neglected estate in the 1930s, working with Nicolson to create a series of distinct garden rooms. Each has its own feel, with clipped hedges, twisting paths, roses, flower beds, and views bordered by brick walls and ancient structures. The well-known White Garden, planted mainly with white blooms and silver-grey leaves, stands out and has inspired gardeners globally.
One of the pleasures of visiting Sissinghurst is discovering how the gardens change with the seasons. In spring, bulbs and fresh growth appear; summer adds colour and fragrance to the borders; autumn brings colourful leaves and a quieter mood. The gardens are not the only attraction: you can also explore the remains of the Elizabethan house. Climb the old tower to see the Kent countryside and discover the lives of Sackville-West and Nicolson.
Now cared for by the National Trust, Sissinghurst is popular, so it’s smart to book ahead, mainly during the busiest gardening times. Some paths and lawns are uneven, and there are steps in places. Visitors with limited mobility should check the National Trust’s accessibility details before coming.
Allow several hours to enjoy the gardens at a leisurely pace. Sissinghurst offers a peaceful retreat in Kent, whether you love gardening or just want to enjoy the countryside. Before you visit, check the National Trust website for opening times, tickets, and booking info.
11. Explore the Medieval Town of Sandwich
If you want to step back in time, Sandwich is one of the most rewarding historic towns to visit in Kent. Once an important medieval port, it retains a maze of narrow streets, timber-framed buildings, ancient churches and remnants of its old town walls. Today, the sea has retreated, leaving Sandwich a peaceful town on the River Stour, but its history is still visible at every turn.
Sandwich was one of the original Cinque Ports, a confederation of five coastal ports formed in medieval England. The name comes from the Norman French for ‘five ports’: Hastings, New Romney, Hythe, Dover and Sandwich. The ports provided ships and sailors for the king’s service in exchange for special privileges from the Crown. Although the organisation later expanded to include associated towns, these five formed its original core. When the harbour silted up and the coastline changed, Sandwich became less important as a port, leaving behind ancient streets you can still walk today.
Take a stroll along the High Street and the lanes branching off it to admire the town’s medieval and Tudor architecture. Look out for the Barbican, a historic gateway near the River Stour, and the remains of the old town defences. The Guildhall Museum is another worthwhile stop, with displays covering Sandwich’s history and its role as a Cinque Port. Check opening times before visiting.
Was the Sandwich Invented in Sandwich?
And what about the sandwich? The story goes that the popular snack takes its name from John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, an eighteenth-century politician and keen card player. According to the tale, he asked for meat to be served between slices of bread so he could eat without leaving the card table. His companions began ordering the same as Sandwich, and the name stuck. Is the story true? We’ll never now, but the connection has made the town’s name famous around the world.
Sandwich is also a pleasant place to slow down over lunch or a coffee (perhaps even have a sandwich)! Independent shops, traditional pubs and cafes make it easy to spend a few relaxed hours wandering without a rigid itinerary.
If you have more time, the nearby Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve offers coastal habitats, birdwatching and walking opportunities.
Allow at least half a day to explore the town on foot, longer if you want to visit its museums or walk in the surrounding countryside. Sandwich’s maritime past and historic centre make it a lovely place to include on any Kent itinerary.
12. Discover the Strange Landscape of Dungeness
A desert? In England? Well, not quite. Although Dungeness is often described as a desert, the Met Office debunked that myth in 2015. It is, however, one of the largest expanses of shingle in Europe, creating a landscape unlike almost anywhere else in Britain.
Dungeness’s unusual geology has produced a remarkable variety of habitats. Many of them are protected for their ecological importance. Unusual plants and wildlife live among the sparse vegetation and shingle, while the wetlands nearby bring in lots of birds.
If you like birdwatching, the RSPB Dungeness nature reserve is a great place to visit. It has hides and trails where you can see wildlife all year round.
The landscape itself is strangely compelling. The vast shingle beach stretches towards the horizon, with fishing boats resting on the stones and around 100 buildings scattered across the peninsula, including distinctive weatherboarded beach houses. A combination of open skies, sparse vegetation and isolated buildings gives Dungeness an eerie, almost otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a wonderful place for photography if you enjoy stark landscapes and unusual scenery.
Look out for the two lighthouses, one of which remains operational, as well as the imposing Dungeness nuclear power station. The contrast between the traditional fishing boats, distinctive beach houses and industrial structures is part of what makes this place so fascinating.
Despite its remoteness, there are a few places to eat and drink. You can stop at one of the local pubs or visit a nearby fish and chip shop. The End of the Line pub is particularly memorable for its location beside the terminus of the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway. This narrow-gauge steam railway runs from Hythe through the Romney Marsh countryside to Dungeness, and is itself one of the best thing to do in Kent.
Dungeness is not a conventional seaside destination, with sandy beaches and rows of shops. Its appeal lies in the solitude, wildlife and unusual landscape. If you want to discover a very different side of Kent, this remote corner of the county is well worth exploring.
Final Thoughts on Kent
From magnificent castles and medieval towns to dramatic white cliffs and the unusual landscape of Dungeness, Kent has something to suit almost every traveller. Whether you’re fascinated by Tudor history, want to follow in Charles Dickens’ footsteps, enjoy beautiful gardens or prefer exploring the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to visit the Garden of England.
You don’t have to see everything in one trip, either. A weekend could be spent exploring Canterbury and Dover, while three or four days would give you time to add a castle, a historic town or a coastal walk. With a week to spare, you could explore more of Kent’s countryside, gardens and quieter corners at a leisurely pace.
What I particularly like about Kent is its variety. You can spend the morning exploring a medieval castle, enjoy lunch in a historic market town and finish the day watching the sun set over the English Channel. Venture to Dungeness and you’ll discover a side of England that feels a world away from the familiar tourist trail.
Fancy exploring more of southeast England? If you’ve enjoyed discovering the best places to visit in Kent, why not head next door to Essex? From historic towns and fascinating heritage sites to charming coastal villages and beautiful countryside, there’s plenty to discover. Read my guide to the Best Things to Do in Essex to plan your next adventure.
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