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Where to Stay in Kent

Where to Stay in Kent

Kent Southeast England, England Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in Kent

Popular Lodging Choices

  • Hotels

    Full spectrum, from budget chains (Premier Inn, Travelodge) to luxury estates (Eastwell Manor).

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) / Guesthouses

    Popular, personal stays, often run by locals. Range from cozy to luxurious, breakfast included.

  • Self-Catering Cottages & Apartments

    Ideal for longer stays, families, or groups. Find options via Booking.com, Agoda, or Vrbo.

  • Holiday Parks

    Large resorts, especially along the coast, offering caravans, lodges, pools, and entertainment.

Unique Kentish Stays

  • Oast Houses

    Converted hop-drying kilns with distinct circular rooms, unique to Kent.

  • Historic Properties

    Exclusive overnight stays in castles like Leeds Castle's Maiden's Tower.

  • Pubs with Rooms

    Traditional English pubs offering convenient and atmospheric stays.

  • Camping & Glamping

    Numerous campsites and luxurious glamping options for outdoor comfort.

Neighborhoods for Your Stay

Each area has a distinct character and set of advantages.

Canterbury

Highlights
  • Central for East Kent exploration.
  • Wide range of dining and shopping.
  • Walkable city center.
  • Excellent cultural attractions.
Things to Note
  • Can get busy with tourists.
  • Parking is challenging and expensive.
  • Petty crime precautions apply.
  • Often higher prices.

Dover

Highlights
  • Access to Dover Castle & White Cliffs.
  • Direct for ferry connections to France.
  • Stunning seaside walks.
  • Historic port town atmosphere.
Things to Note
  • Town center less tourist-focused.
  • Accommodation is functional.
  • Usual port area precautions.
  • Transit hub can feel less charming.

Royal Tunbridge Wells

Highlights
  • Elegant, upscale Georgian spa town.
  • Excellent dining and boutique shops.
  • Good base for West Kent.
  • Very safe.
Things to Note
  • Could be more costly.
  • Busy at peak times.
  • Requires planning for leaving your car.
  • Not directly coastal.

Coastal vs. Rural Stays

Coastal Towns (Whitstable, Margate)

Beaches, fresh seafood, independent shops, and a relaxed atmosphere. Can be very busy on summer weekends.

Rural Kent (Cranbrook, Tenterden)

Serene escapes, walking/cycling trails, traditional village life. Car is typically needed due to limited public transport.

Booking Your Stay

Smart booking helps you secure your preferred accommodation at a reasonable price.

When to Book

  • High Season (June-August & Bank Holidays): Book at least 3-6 months ahead. Popular properties get reserved quickly.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months ahead for more choice and deals.
  • Low Season (November-March): A few weeks to a month ahead is typically sufficient, except holidays.
  • Price Fluctuations: Highest prices in summer and school vacations. Lower rates in more peaceful winter months.

Where to Book & What to Check

  • Major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com have wide selections. Explore IHG Hotels.
  • Self-Catering Specialists: For cottages and apartments, use Sykes Cottages, Original Cottages, or Vrbo. For unique exchange stays, consider TrustedHousesitters.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Always check policies carefully. Many online bookings have flexible cancellation.
  • Negotiation Customs: Generally not customary for walk-in rates in the UK. Prices are typically fixed.

Loyalty Programs & Direct Booking

Chain Hotels
  • Book directly through the hotel's official website.
  • They often have loyalty program benefits.
  • Look for best rate guarantees.
  • Consistent quality and reliability.
Independent B&Bs
  • Many have their own websites.
  • Can also find them via Tripadvisor.
  • Booking direct sometimes results in better rates.
  • Personalized service and local insights.

Consider Your Priorities

Location

City center for convenience or rural for tranquility.

Amenities

Spa, pool, restaurant, or self-catering facilities.

Budget

From hostels and budget chains to luxury estates.

Recommended Stays

Suggested accommodations for various traveler types and interests.

Budget Options

YHA Canterbury Hostel

Clean, comfortable dormitory-style and private rooms in a central location.

  • Ideal for solo travelers.
  • Good for small groups.
  • Dependable, affordable rooms.
  • Central location.
Premier Inn / Travelodge

Reliable budget hotel chains found in major towns (Maidstone, Ashford, Canterbury, Dover).

  • Consistent quality.
  • Often good value.
  • Widespread presence.
  • Functional and convenient.

Mid-range Options

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge

Rooms within the Cathedral Precincts, offering unparalleled views.

  • Unique experience.
  • Unparalleled views.
  • Central location.
  • Historic setting.
The Tunbridge Wells Hotel

Charming stay in a historical setting on The Pantiles.

  • Sophisticated atmosphere.
  • Excellent dining options nearby.
  • Boutique shops.
  • Elegant architecture.

Luxury Stays

  • The Pig at Bridge Place (Bridge)

    Popular 'restaurant with rooms' known for locally sourced food and stylish country house vibe.

  • Leeds Castle Maiden's Tower (near Maidstone)

    Exclusive, luxurious B&B rooms within the castle grounds for a truly memorable historical stay.

  • Eastwell Manor (Ashford)

    Luxurious spa hotel experience in a grand estate setting.

  • The Corner House (Canterbury)

    Boutique B&B experience with a renowned restaurant.

Specific Traveler Needs

  • Family-Friendly

    Self-catering cottages have space and kitchen facilities. Holiday parks offer amenities like pools and entertainment suitable for children.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations

    B&Bs have a welcoming and personal atmosphere. Hostels like YHA Canterbury present opportunities to meet other travelers.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Self-catering cottages or apartments are the best choice, giving comforts of home and financial benefits on meals.

  • Properties with Cultural Significance

    Canterbury Cathedral Lodge (UNESCO site), Leeds Castle Maiden's Tower, and The Falstaff Hotel (15th-century coaching inn) give historical stays.

Exceptional Stays

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge

Stay within the hallowed grounds of an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Unparalleled views.
  • Unique experience.
  • Central location.
  • Historical immersion.
Leeds Castle Maiden's Tower

Experience a night within the impressive grounds of one of England'its most renowned castles.

  • Truly memorable stay.
  • Exclusive access.
  • Luxury accommodations.
  • Deep historical connection.

Cultural Significance

The Falstaff Hotel Canterbury

A charming 15th-century coaching inn, stay rich in history.

Pubs with Rooms Rural Kent

Many historic pubs in countryside locations offer traditional English hospitality.

Oast House Conversions

Unique converted hop-drying kilns offering distinct architectural charm.