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Things to Do in Kent

Things to Do in Kent

Kent Southeast England, England Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Kent's varied terrain is perfect for exploring on foot, by bike, or on the water.

Hiking & Trekking

North Downs Way

This long-distance footpath (153 miles) traverses the Kent Downs AONB and has stunning views.

White Cliffs Country Trails

Various routes along the iconic White Cliffs of Dover feature breathtaking coastal vistas.

Greensand Way

Another long-distance path that winds through the Kent Weald, displaying picturesque villages.

Water Sports & Adrenaline

  • Sailing, Kayaking, Paddleboarding: Equipment rental is often available at coastal towns (Whitstable, Folkestone) or Bewl Water.
  • Swimming: Designated beaches (Margate Main Sands, Viking Bay) are popular, with lifeguards often present.
  • Mountain Biking: Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest has dedicated trails for various skill levels.
  • High Ropes Courses: Go Ape at Bedgebury Forest features treetop adventure courses.

Birdwatching

  • Kent's coastlines and wetlands are important for migratory birds.
  • Visit RSPB Dungeness on the Romney Marsh.
  • Explore Elmley National Nature Reserve on the Isle of Sheppey.
  • These sites have a wide variety of life.

Wildlife Parks

  • Howletts Wild Animal Park (near Canterbury).
  • Port Lympne Reserve (near Ashford) for unique safari experiences.
  • Conservation-focused parks.
  • Home to various endangered species.

Diggerland Kent

  • A unique theme park for driving and operating real construction machinery.
  • Includes diggers, dumpers, and more.
  • A hit with families and anyone with an inner child.
  • An unusual and exciting experience.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions and wear appropriate gear for outdoor activities. Respect nature and stay on marked paths for your safety.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Kent's rich culture through hands-on experiences and shows.

Learning & Creating

  • Cookery Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Kentish dishes or use local produce.
  • Art & Craft Workshops: Check local community centers or independent art galleries.
  • Vineyard Tours: Many Kent vineyards offer tours explaining winemaking and tasting sessions.
  • Brewery Tours: Shepherd Neame Brewery in Faversham for traditional brewing insight.

Arts & Heritage

Theater & Live Music

The Marlowe Theatre (Canterbury) and Orchard Theatre (Dartford) are venues for major shows.

Cathedral Services

Attend Evensong or other services at Canterbury or Rochester Cathedral for a spiritual and architectural experience.

Community Events

Engage with local businesses, attend village fetes and cultivators' markets for a genuine taste of community life.

Canterbury Festival

A multi-arts gala in autumn featuring music, theatre, dance, and literary events.

Faversham Hop Festival

Lively celebration of hop-picking tradition with music, beer, and Morris dancing in September.

Whitstable Oyster Festival

Major annual event in July celebrating famous oysters with parades, food stalls, and entertainment.

Relaxation & Wellness

Unwind and rejuvenate in Kent’s peaceful settings.

Spa & Retreats

  • Luxury Hotels: Eastwell Manor (Ashford) or The Hythe Imperial have extensive spa facilities.
  • Yoga & Meditation: Smaller, independent centers in rural settings may offer retreats.
  • Public Pools: Public swimming pools are in most larger towns.
  • Beach Access: Some coastal hotels feature outdoor pools or beachfront access.

Evening Entertainment

Live Music Venues

Many traditional pubs across Kent feature regular live music nights, ranging from folk to jazz and rock.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Mainly concentrated in larger towns and cities like Canterbury, Maidstone, and Ashford.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

Canterbury city center, Royal Tunbridge Wells (sophisticated nightlife), and Rochester (historic pubs).

Theater & Performance Spaces

Marlowe Theatre Canterbury

Kent's premier theatre, a venue for national touring productions, musicals, and plays.

Orchard Theatre Dartford

Another large venue for touring shows and major performances.

Local Arts Centers

Many towns have community theatres or arts centers putting on local productions.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs in Kent.

Local Markets

  • The Goods Shed (Canterbury): An indoor farmers' market and food hall with artisan cuisine and restaurants.
  • Local Farmers' Markets: Regularly held in many towns (Faversham, Cranbrook, Whitstable) to purchase directly from producers.
  • Antiques and Flea Markets: Look for these in various towns for special items.
  • Vineyard Shops: Many vineyards have shops selling their wines and local products.

Boutique & Artisan

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Coastal towns like Whitstable and Margate are good places to find independent artisan workshops selling handcrafted items.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Royal Tunbridge Wells (The Pantiles and High Street) and Canterbury for a range of independent boutiques and high-end shops.

Rural Craft Centers

Some rural areas have small craft centers or individual artists' studios where it's possible to purchase unique items.

Local Food & Drink

  • Kentish wine (especially sparkling wine).
  • Local ciders and beers.
  • Apple juice, jams, and chutneys.
  • Kentish fudge and Gypsy Tarts.

Unique Crafts

  • Hand-made products inspired by Kent's landscapes.
  • Pottery, paintings, and jewelry.
  • Coastal-themed souvenirs.
  • Artisan creations from local communities.

Books & Hops

  • Books about Kentish history or its famous gardens.
  • Works by authors with strong Kent connections (Chaucer, Dickens).
  • Small bags of dried hops or hop-related products.
  • Literary and agricultural mementos.

Shipping & Customs Information

Shipping Purchases
  • If purchasing large or numerous items, inquire about shipping options from the vendor.
  • Be aware of your home country's customs regulations for importing food, alcohol, or other goods.
  • Keep receipts for customs declarations to avoid issues upon re-entry.
Ethical Shopping
  • Support the local economy by searching for local producers at farmers' markets.
  • Look for fair trade certifications where applicable.
  • Prioritize independent shops over large chains for unique purchases.

Souvenir Shopping Tip

Many attractions have gift shops. Purchasing souvenirs directly from the sites you visit supports their upkeep and gives a tangible memory of your experience.

Activity Planning Summary

Prioritize Your Interests

  • Outdoor adventures like hiking, cycling, or water sports.
  • Cultural immersion through workshops, performances, and festivals.
  • Relaxation and wellness activities including spa treatments or quiet retreats.
  • Shopping for local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs.

Practical Considerations

  • Many rural activities benefit from with a car for ease of travel.
  • Check availability by season for specific activities and events.
  • Book popular tours and workshops in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Weather can influence outdoor plans; have backup options.
Things to Do in Kent. Activities, Experiences, Adventures