Some of the very best adventures start at home, which is why we asked you, our beloved readers, to share what places in the Garden of England make your curiosity bloom. So, without further ado, let’s see what places in Kent have spellbound you...

Art lovers won't want to miss the stained-glass windows at All Saint's Church. Art lovers won't want to miss the stained-glass windows at All Saint's Church. (Image: S. Douglas)

The Kent Life team recommends... All Saints' Church, Tudeley

Art lovers won’t want to miss the stained-glass windows at All Saint’s Church, Tudeley, near Tonbridge, created by the artist Marc Chagall between 1967 and 1985 in memory of local girl Sarah d’Avigdor Goldsmith, who died aged just 21 in a sailing accident. Commissioned by her mother, their beauty changes with the light, each window full of ethereal colour and detail.

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest, Goudhurst

A must-visit this botanical garden comes highly recommended by @dearhousediary, @salluseal.art and Angela Christian. The pinetum contains over 12,000 specimens of trees and is an idyllic location for family walks, mountain biking or an afternoon picnic. It’s an awe-inspiring place perfect for taking a break, escaping weekly stresses and getting back in touch with nature.

Broadstairs

A popular choice for several of our readers including Instagram community Broadstairs Official and boutique holiday home rental company Beautiful Broadstairs. Now of course, we could accuse them of being biased but with its stunning sandy beaches, fantastic walks and amazing places to eat and drink, we can’t disagree that this is a destination worthy of making the list.

Brogdale Farm, Faversham

Set in beautiful orchards on the edges of Faversham, there’s lots to see and do here. Visit the historic gauge miniature railway, take part in tours by the National Fruit Collection, and PYO fruit, and explore various creative workshops. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for events and parties taking place throughout the seasons. A chocolate-making night, complete with cocktails, sounds just the ticket to us!

Orlando Bloom shares a love for Canterbury. Orlando Bloom shares a love for Canterbury. (Image: Getty)

Celebrity commended...Canterbury

Canterbury holds a special place in Abby Found’s heart as it’s where she met her husband, and for photographer Wayne (@799sphotos) it’s the variety of people that make it so intriguing. Actor Orlando Bloom shares a love for the city, having been born and bred here. He credits local venues like Marlowe Theatre for boosting his confidence as an actor, and on return trips loves visiting the beloved Mexican restaurant, Cafe des Amis.

Castle Farm, Sevenoaks

According to lifestyle and wellness coach Vinita (@cravingsandcauliflowers) Castle Farm’s lavender fields are just as beautiful as their apple orchards. In summer, they’re awash with colour and scent, and teeming with life. Our editor Katy Pearson agrees. It’s a great place for families to explore, satiate their curiosity and learn more about the fascinating family-run farm. Call by the farm shop to discover lots of goodies and stunning local produce.

Changeling Theatre, various Kent venues

This professional touring theatre company are best known for their bold and imaginative open-air productions. They’ve performed at some of Kent’s best venues including Margate Beach, Calverley Grounds and Biddenden Vineyards. In this year’s summer tour, witness their adaptation of William Shakespeare’s Henry V and their re-interpretation of Noël Coward's masterpiece comedy, Present Laughter. After all, all the world’s a stage!

From the history books...Chartwell, Westerham

A connoisseur of Kent views, Shimmering Moon Photography is astounded by the breathtaking countryside vistas surrounding Chartwell. Once home to Sir Winston Churchill, there’s much history to be unpacked here. Enjoy exploring the house and the rose garden designed by Lady Churchill and gain insight into one of the most iconic minds of the 20th century, in a location he found immensely inspiring.

Chilham

The definition of a postcard cover village. A stroll of Chilham’s streets will make it seem as though you’ve stepped back in time. Steep narrow lanes lead to the gorgeous Chilham square with lovely timber-framed Tudor Houses en route. The 16th-century church and impressive Chilham Castle should also make the list of places to go, not least because of the astounding views they offer across the Stour Valley.

Cobham

Family-run pub, The Darnley Arms couldn’t be prouder of the place they call home, loving it for its local community store, lively cricket club, and nearby golf course. Food and beverage marketplace, foodprepped, also recommends a visit to the restored 18th-century mausoleum set in a peaceful, ancient wood pasture. It’s one of only a few remaining in the UK. You may even spot a golden deer as you roam.

Cobtree Manor Park, Maidstone

Set within 50 acres and on the old Maidstone Zoo site, the park has a mature arboretum of about 160 tree species, a flowering meadow and seasonal ponds. Listen out for woodpeckers and keep your eyes peeled for rabbits and squirrels. Venture through The Trails with Tails stone sculpture trail, featuring pieces by local sculptor Jason Mulligan to learn about the park’s history and the travels of Sir Garrard’s menagerie.

Coldred

A stunning destination located in the Dover district, Coldred is a beautiful ancient village home to a warm community and the St Pancras Church, a grade I listed building. After your travels, recuperate with a pint of local real ale at the Carpenter’s Arms, an 18th-century pub offering glorious views of the village green and duck pond.

Let Cranbrook Museum surprise you! Let Cranbrook Museum surprise you! (Image: Anna Lambert)

The Kent Life team recommends...Cranbrook Museum

Looking for the chance to potter around one of those museums jam-packed with every sort of object, from hop-picking devices to Victorian kitchenware, paintings by a group of local 19th-century artists known as The Cranbrook Colony to an extraordinary natural history collection? Let Cranbrook Museum – housed in what was once a pair of pretty old cottages – surprise you. The sheer breadth of its collection certainly surprised us, and we’d defy anyone not to find something of interest there.

Celebrity commended...Deal

This appeared on reader’s recommended hotspots several times for its lovely promenade, independent shops, castles, beach and restaurants. Enjoy a cliffside walk soaking up the views and call by the market on a Saturday – it's said to be one of the best in the area! Perhaps best of all, is that while being a lively town, it’s not often overrun by tourists. Bake-off and Mighty Boosh star, Noel Fielding, is rumoured to have bought a house in the area.

Devil’s Kneading Trough, Wye

Suggested by the East Kent Flower Company, the Devil’s Kneading Trough is one of the most well-known steep dry valleys of the North Downs, offering panoramic views across the Kentish Weald to Romney Marsh and as far as the English Channel. Make the most of the scenery by taking the Wye Downs Walk, though be warned it can present some challenges! Though it’s worth it to spy the Wye Crown cut into the chalk of the hills, which was created in 1902 to celebrate the coronation of King Edward VII.

Dover Castle

Photographer Philip Holyer reckons he’s visited Dover Castle over 200 times in his life and still manages to see something new every time. With so much history and pretty landscapes to take in, it’s certainly a rather magical place to enter. The secret wartime tunnels beneath the castle which became a headquarters and hospital during WWII, are a thrilling highlight to add during your visit.

Good old-fashioned seaside fun is what you'll find at Margate's Dreamland.Good old-fashioned seaside fun is what you'll find at Margate's Dreamland. (Image: Visit Kent)

The Kent Life team recommends...Dreamland, Margate

Good old-fashioned seaside fun is what you’ll find in (buckets and) spades at Margate’s Dreamland, with its vintage-inspired and retro rides – simply roll up, buy your tokens and off you go. Whether they fancy a spin on the carousel, a round of crazy golf, a meander around the maze or a trip on the scenic railway, children of all ages will be entertained – and they’ve even got candyfloss, too!

Dungeness

Photographer Colin Menniss adores rediscovering the Garden of England with his camera and admires Dungeness ‘because it’s so different to people’s expectations.’ Its shingle beach is one of the largest expanses in Europe and is called Britain’s only desert. The interesting terrain and the area’s quirky buildings and disused tracks create a rather unique location to explore.

Eastgate House, Rochester

Eastgate House is the place to go if you’re after something a little special, especially at Christmas. The 16/17th-century townhouse is one of Rochester’s most distinctive sights. Visitors can tour the rooms and discover the carefully restored, original features, all while learning about the stories of its past inhabitants over the centuries.

Faversham is a shimmering jewel in Kent's crown.Faversham is a shimmering jewel in Kent's crown. (Image: Getty)

Celebrity commended...Faversham

Lotty’s Flowers think Faversham is a shimmering jewel in Kent’s crown. In 2022, it was listed as one of Muddy Stilettos’ best places to live and it’s had no shortage of celebrity fans. Singer-songwriter Bob Geldof has lived in the market town since the 80s and Isaac Hempstead Wright who played Game of Thrones’ Bran Stark studied at Faversham’s Queen Elizabeth Grammar School. He’s known to enjoy the area and visits regularly.

Folkestone Harbour

On a sunny day, the views across Folkestone Harbour are truly a sight to behold. Since restorations, the harbour arm has become a thriving centre for delightful food, drink and entertainment. Why not also call by the warren and beach to partake in some fossil hunting? Yet these aren’t only the stars of the town, as Shaun of the Dead actress Jessica Hynes is a proud resident. In 2020 she took on a mammoth challenge, swimming between Hythe and Folkestone, raising money for the Folkestone Community Hub.

Franciscan Gardens, Canterbury

Work was undertaken in 2000 to restore these prior friary gardens to their former glory. Today the space is a tranquil getaway, emanating how the Franciscans would have seen it, and complete with a chapel, cloister garth and cutting gardens. It’s tended for by Eastbridge Hospital who continue to develop the garden by reinvesting the income the charity generates to help preserve this treasured ancient monument.

Frankie’s Farm Shop, Staplehurst

Passionate about the community and serving fresh homemade food, owners Frankie and Marcel Franke welcome everyone with a warm, friendly smile. They opened the farm shop in 2012, extending it with their new restaurant in 2023 and are well known for their fresh baked cakes, scrumptious coffee and hearty brunch. For the skilled team at the award-winning Remedi Medispa it’s well worth a try!

Goodnestone Park

The Goodnestone Park Gardens cover 15 acres of the estate and throughout the seasons are a haven for nature lovers, from the woodland garden to the arboretum and walled garden laced with ivy and moss. Delicious dishes are served in the Old Dairy Cafe, which has been converted from one of the estate’s original dairies and still contains many of the building’s original features.

Take the written word...Guildhall Museum, Rochester

As recommended by Sarah Belsom. Here you can learn about the rich history of the Medway area, from its Roman origins to the present day. In the new permanent gallery, The Making of Mr Dickens, you can discover more about the legendary author’s childhood and his journey to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated writers.

Spend an afternoon fossil hunting for shark teeth at Herne Bay. Spend an afternoon fossil hunting for shark teeth at Herne Bay. (Image: Getty)

The Kent Life team recommends... Herne Bay

This is one of my favourite spots, not only for the spectacular seascape but because my partner is an avid shark fan – yes, such a thing does exist! They’re his favourite animals, and so an afternoon of fossil hunting to spy a shark tooth is a lot of fun. The Beltinge fish bed is usually the best hunting spot. Some of the teeth found here are estimated to be over 50 million years old.

Hever Castle

Still as beautiful as the day of construction though the castle is just shy of its 800th birthday. It was once home to Anne Boleyn and the venue can also make you lose your head – though for far better reasons! Work to beat the maze or enjoy a quiet afternoon basking in the lake walk’s scenery. Turn the day into a blissful getaway by booking a room in a wing of the castle or rest up in the five-star gold-rated holiday cottage.

Hythe

Home of the world’s oldest working pier train, it’s a unique way to travel and absorb the sights of this romantic market town. The area is steeped in maritime history and the view of the boats from the marina is breathtaking. It’s perfect to explore by bike, as reader Wendy Hughes knows. She recommends giving the cycle route from Hythe to Deal a go!

Ightam Mote, Sevenoaks

An outstanding medieval manor hidden away in a secluded Kent valley. The building is made from Kentish ragstone and great Wealden Oaks, and within its walls and the land beyond is a great many stories to unfurl. Tucked among the estate’s 14 acres of serene gardens are orchards, water features, lakes and woodland. It’s great for reviving the senses and getting back to nature.

An author’s muse...Isle of Thanet

Vanessa, the individual behind Thanet Open Water Swim Coach, couldn’t shout any louder about her love for the isle if she tried. She finds the gorgeous bays and beaches heaven for outdoor swimming. Charles Dickens once owned a holiday residence on the Isle of Thanet, and some of the locations and characters featured in his greatest works were inspired by the county’s scenery.

Jeskyns Community Woodland, near Cobham

Who let the dogs out? Family and newborn photographer, Through Bracken and Brambles Photography, thoroughly recommends a visit to Jeskyns Community Woodland. Contained in its 360 acres are newly planted woodland, meadows, children’s play areas and a dog activity trail. It’s an amazing place for pups and little ones where you can stop by the Fairy and Elf Village, take the dog for a paddle or gaze upward and watch skylarks dance.

Kent and East Sussex Railway, Tenterden

All aboard! KESR was the first light passenger railway in Britain in the early 20th century and is one of the country’s most beloved heritage lines. Visitors can enjoy an authentic steam and diesel-powered rail experience through the stunning Rother Valley. Spend quality time as a family in one of the old-fashioned compartments, travelling back in time and appreciating some of Kent’s best views.

Kings Wood, near Ashford

Walk beneath a canopy of mixed conifers and broadleaf trees. There’s a network of horse-riding routes on offer and numerous walking trails to ensure if you go down to the woods today, you can be sure of many pleasant surprises. As a fun treat for the kids, you could plan a Teddy Bear’s Picnic to take along to refuel after a day of adventuring.

Knole Park, Sevenoaks

‘There are lots of nice places in Kent, but I’d go with Knole Park and a nice pub lunch in one of the many surrounding great pubs,’ shares photographer Michael Williams. Local father Danny Chappell couldn’t agree more. It’s a firm favourite among the Kent Life team members too, largely because of the park’s famous fallow deer, the tree-lined avenues and the opportunity to snap some amazing photos!

Lenham

For Peta Ware, his birthplace Lenham is one of his favourite Kentish hangouts. It’s well known for great eateries including The Square Fish Cafe and The Bow Window Café. This picturesque, charming village holds all the romanticised notions that spring to mind when imagining a traditional British village and tucked away in the square is the stylish Dog and Bear Hotel, an idyllic bolthole for a rural retreat.

Taken from a musician’s song sheet...Maidstone

Considered the beating heart of Kent, there’s plenty to see and do around Maidstone including visiting award-winning vineyards, meeting a 2700-year-old Egyptian mummy and indulging in some serious retail therapy. Music legend David Bowie once called the town home, and it was here where he joined his second band The Manish Boys. There are plaques throughout the town centre demonstrating the importance they played in his historic music career.

Celebrity commended...Margate Caves

Once a long-forgotten secret, the caves were dug as a chalk mine in the 18th century before being rediscovered and restored as a tourist attraction. They’re one of many gems that attract thousands of tourists to the town annually, including stars Lily Allen and Olivia Coleman. Design expert Joel Bird, from BBC’s Your Garden Made Perfect, resides in the town and has reported moving here has helped him recapture the magic he enjoyed on family holidays when younger.

Minnis Bay, Birchington

Imagine an evening of stargazing on the bay, taking in Kent’s bright, beautiful skies. Try visiting in the golden hour as the blazing sun sets on the horizon and shines over the clear water. Views like that remind you how magical the world can be. Reader Gary-Jan Flexon also recommends dining at Minnis Bay Bar and Brasserie where you can tuck into delectable classic British cuisine on the terrace while making the most of the scenery.

Mote Park Water Sports, Maidstone

Activity is the name of the game! From paddleboarding, kayaking, raft-building, sailing, and canoeing to pedalo hire and row boats there’s plenty of lake fun and adventures for all ages to enjoy. Recommended by local business, Onpointe Pilates, Mote Park Water Sports is always a hive of activity. Open seven days a week, any day is a good one to take to the water!

Mount Ephraim Gardens, Faversham

Set deep in the heart of rural Kent, this privately owned family home boasts 10 acres of Edwardian gardens that await your perusal. Become enchanted by the terraces of fragrant roses, the unusual topiaries, the bewitching water garden and the glorious grass maze. The country house has been home to the Dawes family since 1695 and today the gardens are lovingly tended to provide an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.

Paddle Cabin, East Kent

The home of adventure in Kent, The Paddle Cabin offers everything from paddleboarding lessons, hire, adventures and events on the River Medway to socials, workshops, and multi-day exploits. Learn new skills and try thrilling new experiences. It’s the perfect place for those who feel most alive when out on the water, in the wild or connecting with nature.

Quex Park, Birchington

Independent family business, Nelson Were loves Quex Park, and it’s easy to tell why. There are amazing wares and workshops to discover in the craft village and families can have fun in the farm park, playing adventure golf or walking one of the friendly alpacas. The Farmers Shop and Restaurant serves stunning local produce in its butchery, deli and bakery. The cuisine alone is worth the visit.

Reculver Bay

A serene spot, ideal for observing the striking Reculver Towers. This shingle/pebble beach is a lovely picnic spot and it’s well worth stopping by the visitor centre to learn more about the 12th century towers. Our coastal paths are arguably one of our county’s best features, and the Reculver Walk is no different. The three-and-a-half-mile route will take you along Saxon Shore Way where you can observe how the coastline has evolved over the ages.

Taken from the history books...Restoration House, Rochester

Local digital creator, Robin Bourner cast his vote for this individual city mansion which takes its name from the stay of King Charles II on the eve of the Restoration. The Satis House, the home of Miss Havisham in Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations, was based on Restoration House. If this claim to fame isn’t enough to spark your inner curiosity, the mansion’s fascinating decorative scheme, resplendent gardens and rich history certainly will be.

River Himalayan Gardens, Sevenoaks

If you’ve got itchy feet and are searching for somewhere to let your spirit roam, River Himalayan Gardens is the place. Surprises line the garden path from the famous walled garden to the wild jungle and fern-carpeted rock garden. The grand terraces and summer house make a great reading or picnic spot, with the surrounding pastoral scenes serving as an inspiring backdrop. If you hunt hard enough you may even find the secret swing.

Samphire Hoe, Dover

Did you know Samphire Hoe is named after the wild rock samphire that was once collected from the cliffs and served as a side dish? The 30-hectare nature reserve never fails to impress, providing a stunning location for walking and wildlife spotting. There’s an abundance of flora to appreciate including thousands of orchids, rock sea lavender, buddleia and more. A protected landscape, it’s one of the greatest places to witness the drama and ethereal beauty of the White Cliffs.

Scotney Castle, Tunbridge Wells

Travel photographer Laura (@lauragoingplaces) loves discovering amazing locations and the views on offer at Scotney Castle certainly captured the attention of her camera lens. The ruined medieval castle and moat is like a vision from a fairytale. You can trail through hillsides, explore the heather-thatched icehouse and stroll through woodland glades, unearthing history, romance and the wild beauty of the area with every step.

Seasalter Beach, near Whitstable

Property specialist Mellony Morgan recommends the wild and windswept beach in Seasalter near The Sportsman pub. She says: ‘At certain moments whilst walking towards Faversham at this time of year, you feel transported back to 100 years ago, and Charles Dickens could be writing about it.’ It’s a lovely place to walk at dusk, especially on a balmy summer evening. There’s also a sailing and water ski club close by for any thrill seekers looking to bring a little adrenaline to the afternoon.

Shell Grotto, Margate

This idiosyncratic landmark was discovered completely by chance in 1835 and has been the subject of many debates regarding its origins ever since. One thing we know for sure is just how beautiful the grotto’s curved chalk walls are. Adorned in 4.6 million shells, they form a kaleidoscope of patterns and mosaics that’s truly unlike anything you’ve seen before. While much about this mysterious place remains shrouded, one thing all visitors can agree on is the importance of preserving this gorgeous distinctive formation.

Shipwright Arms Pub, Faversham

It’s always good to have a good pub up your sleeve to take guests when they come to stay. For Suzanne E Chapman, Shipwright’s Arms rings the bell. Well over 300 years old, the Inn was once known for serving pirates and smugglers, as well as providing a pit stop for sailors and fishermen. Now, they proudly serve local real ales and hearty pub grub. It feels like a home away from home, ideal for catching up with loved ones and spending quality time together.

Celebrity commended...St Margaret's-at-Cliffe

Instagrammer @littlelionandme suggested St Margaret's is worth looking up when hunting for new Kentish locations to check out. You’ll experience what an authentic Kentish village has to offer, and when the tide is out, it’s fun to head down to the bay and compete at skimming stones. British-Australian actress, Miriam Margolyes who played Professor Sprout in the Harry Potter series, owns a home in the area! Writer Ian Fleming also once called the town home. His James Bond novel Moonraker is mainly based in St Margaret's.

The royal seal of approval...Teapot Island, Yalding

This may be one island we don’t mind being stranded on! Their amazing collection of over 8,500 teapots is the largest in England, has won two Guinness World Records and was visited by King Charles and Queen Camilla. The museum contains thousands of amazing pieces, including a three-metre-tall German wishing well teapot and cup. The on-site bistro-style cafe is well known for its cream teas and scones, which are baked daily and include real Cornish clotted cream and homemade jam.

The Forge, Dungate

It’s never fun to leave a man behind or in this case, a pup, when planning an adventure, which is perhaps partly why The Forge is such a beloved holiday destination, as it provides a truly dog-friendly vacation. Stay in the converted 16th-century blacksmith forge that exudes character and warmth with its exposed timbers and oak flooring. Reminiscent of times gone by, this enchanting accommodation is ideal for couples who love holidaying with their dog.

Let the TV be your guide...The Historic Dockyard, Chatham

Did you know that whilst on a visit to Kent Ed Sheeran filmed a music video for his Subtract album here? Of course, The Historic Dockyard is no stranger to fame. It remains home to three historic warships and has featured in several scenes in BBC’s Call the Midwife. The show’s official location tour is being held at the dock until October. Explore the dock’s various collections to discover more about its involvement with shipping over the last 400 years. It’s a great place for curiosity to flourish!

The Mount Vineyard, Sevenoaks

A mountain of expectations is what all guests at The Mount should arrive with, and they will all most certainly be met and exceeded! This perfect hideaway settled on the slopes of the Darent Valley, serves stunning food and wine in their courtyard restaurant and boasts a variety of gorgeous locations to explore. It’s a special place where your troubles simply slip away beneath the sun’s golden rays, as you sample delightful Kentish wine and learn more about local viticulture.

The Pantiles, Tunbridge Wells

Art school, The Ceramic Studio and Imogen, founder of The Little Organising company both adore The Pantiles in Tunbridge Wells, though Imogen admits she may be a little biased as she’s from there. Still, we’d agree it’s a great day out. There are marvellous coffee shops, cafes, boutiques, galleries and restaurants, and the gorgeous architecture offers an additional wow factor.

Celebrity commended...Tunbridge Wells

A vibrant corner of Kent, and the abode of several impressive historic estates and breathtaking gardens, there’s never a dull moment in Tunbridge Wells. Comic legend Bob Mortimer is now a resident of the town. It’s joked that he moved here after touring various spots to discover the best place for a car nap, and it turned out the car park near Tunbridge Wells Cineworld was the perfect location!

Vinters Valley Nature Reserve, Maidstone

A local wildlife oasis that’s been transformed under the love and care of the community. Amid the lakes, marshland and grasses there’s a bounty of life to be explored and enjoyed, from the kingfishers along the stream to the songbirds that make the woods come alive. In summer, butterflies dance through the wildflowers and the buzz of the insects fills the air, creating the perfect setting for a family walk or to enjoy a rare moment of alone time.

Receives the royal blessing...Walmer Castle Gardens, Deal

We know it’s another castle, but there are just so many amazing ones throughout the county – we wonder how long it would take to visit them all? For artist Maria Underwood and Kent mum Vicky Brown, Walmer is their favourite. It was often visited and stayed in by the late Queen, the Queen Mother and of course, the corgis. Each element of the castle and gardens is bathed in history, allowing guests a peek into a bygone era.

Westgate Bay, Westgate-on-Sea

Though originally from Lancashire, Abby Found, moved to Kent for work in early 2001 and never left. She loves the county she now calls home and whilst she has many favourite spots, Westgate Bay sits at the top of her list. The long stretch of beach is ideal for sandcastle building, rock pooling, dipping your toes in the sea and living out days reminiscent of childhood seaside holidays.

White Cliffs of Dover

Holding a special place in the hearts of UK residents, The White Cliffs are often seen as a Kent insignia, representing peace and hope. This beloved national landmark has stirred great awe in many of its visitors and even in some creatives including Shakespeare and Rudyard Kipling. What you may not know is they also hide a myriad of tunnels, which are certainly not for the faint of heart. However, if you’re daring enough to brave it, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Whitstable's famous for its stunning harbour and delicious oysters. Whitstable's famous for its stunning harbour and delicious oysters. (Image: Getty)

Celebrity commended...Whitstable

Helping to discover more special local places one paw at a time is Dog Friendly Kent, who are experts at finding the best dog-friendly locations to visit. For them, Whitstable takes the top spot, with its stunning harbour, famous oysters and foraging opportunities. It has something for everyone. Whitstable’s also somewhat of a magnet for celebrities including Anna Friel, Holly Willoughby, Tom Hardy, Johnny Depp and David Beckham.

 

Wildwood Trust, Herne Bay

Lisa Stockman, owner of The Wine Bar in Herne Bay loves taking the family to Wildwood Kent. ‘It’s affordable for families and you can take a picnic as there’s loads of outdoor seating. My grandchildren love going whether it’s cold or warm. There’s something for everyone. It’s conservation at its best!’ The discovery park features over 200 native British animals and is set on 40 acres of ancient woodland. In one of their animal experiences, you can go behind the scenes to interact with and learn more about the animals. It’s a truly unforgettable day.

Wingham

Close to Canterbury and part of the parish of Dover, Wingham village lies along an ancient coastal road from Richborough to London. A settlement at Wingham has existed since the Stone Age, but it's far from stuck in the dark ages. Our editor's favourite spot in town is the Dog at Wingham.

One of the oldest pubs in Kent, (dating back to the 13th century) it has won many an award (Front of House Team of the Year at the 2021 Damm Top 50 Gastropubs awards; Best in Kent pub two years in a row; a TripAdvisor hidden gem in the 2023 Travellers’ Choice awards) and it’s the super friendly team – as well as the food – that makes it a real must-visit. Plus did we mention it has eight individually styled, en-suite luxury guestrooms - including a family suite complete with bunk beds?