The Kent Tourist - Things To Do in Kent

Discover the enchanting beauty of Kent, The Garden of England, where history meets vibrant attractions.

Explore Kent and read our articles to discover the best things to do in South East England, including Canterbury, Deal, Folkestone, Whitstable, Sevenoaks and many more Kent towns and villages.

Explore Kent ➔

Discover the Best Attractions in Kent

Kent is home to some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks and heritage sites. Popular attractions include:

Explore our full Things to Do in Kent hub for even more inspiration.

Explore Kent’s Towns and Villages

From coastal charm to historic market towns, Kent is full of unique destinations to explore:

  • Deal – a historic seaside town with a Tudor castle and lively food scene.

  • Whitstable – famous for oysters, beaches, and coastal walks.

  • Canterbury – steeped in medieval history with cobbled streets and the iconic cathedral.

  • Folkestone – a vibrant town with a creative quarter and popular harbour arm.

  • Sevenoaks – surrounded by stately homes, gardens, and country parks.

See all our Kent travel guides for detailed tips on each town and village.

Food and Drink in Kent

Known as the Garden of England, Kent is full of vineyards, hop farms, and food producers. Discover:

  • Traditional pubs serving local ales and hearty dishes.

  • Award-winning vineyards producing sparkling wines.

  • Independent cafés, seaside restaurants, and fine dining options.

Read our Kent food & drink guides for the best places to eat and drink.

Latest Articles from The Kent Tourist

Stay up to date with our newest guides, itineraries, and articles:

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Kent

What is Kent famous for?
Kent is known as the “Garden of England”, famous for its rolling countryside, orchards, vineyards, and coastline. It’s home to Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, the White Cliffs of Dover, and seaside towns like Whitstable and Margate.
Is Kent nice to visit?
Yes — Kent is one of England’s most picturesque and varied counties, offering everything from historic cities and castles to beaches, countryside walks, and award-winning vineyards. It’s ideal for couples, families, and day-trippers alike.
What are the best things to do in Kent?
Popular things to do include exploring Canterbury’s historic city, visiting Dover Castle, relaxing on Whitstable and Broadstairs beaches, discovering Hever Castle, and walking the Kent Downs National Landscape.
How to spend a day in Kent?
Start in Canterbury to explore the cathedral and medieval streets, enjoy lunch in a countryside pub, then head to Whitstable or Deal for seaside views and fresh oysters before returning to London. Everything is easily reachable in a single day by train or car.
Can you do Canterbury in a day?
Yes — Canterbury is compact and perfect for a day trip. You can visit Canterbury Cathedral, stroll along the River Stour, explore the old town and shops, and enjoy dinner in one of its many restaurants before heading back.
Is Whitstable worth visiting?
Absolutely. Whitstable is one of Kent’s most popular seaside towns, famous for its oysters, colourful beach huts, independent shops, and relaxed coastal charm. It’s ideal for weekend breaks or day trips from London.
Is Kent cheaper than London?
In general, yes. Accommodation, food, and travel in Kent are usually more affordable than in London, making it a great choice for visitors who want scenic escapes and local experiences without the high city costs.
Where is the prettiest part of Kent?
Kent is full of beauty spots, but favourites include the Kent Downs National Landscape, White Cliffs of Dover, Leeds Castle, Hever Castle gardens, and coastal towns like Deal, Whitstable, and Broadstairs.
How do I get to Kent from London?
Kent is less than an hour from London by train from St Pancras, Victoria, or Charing Cross. You can also travel by car via the M2, M20, or A2, or take a coach from London Victoria Coach Station to major towns across Kent.
What is the best time of year to visit Kent?
Kent is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for gardens and coastlines, autumn for countryside walks and harvest events, and winter for cosy pubs, Christmas markets, and festive castle events.
Where should I stay when visiting Kent?
Kent offers everything from luxury hotels and seaside B&Bs to country cottages. Popular bases include Canterbury for culture, Whitstable for coastal charm, Tunbridge Wells for spa breaks, and Deal for seaside tranquillity.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Kent?
Yes — Kent is packed with family attractions including Port Lympne Safari Park, Howletts Wild Animal Park, Leeds Castle, Diggerland, and Dreamland Margate. Many venues also run seasonal family events.
Can I visit Kent from Europe or overseas?
Absolutely. Kent is one of the most accessible UK regions from Europe. You can travel via the Eurotunnel from Calais to Folkestone, ferry from Dover, or fly into nearby London Gatwick or Heathrow airports.
Is Kent good for walking and outdoor activities?
Kent is perfect for walkers and nature lovers. Explore the North Downs Way, White Cliffs of Dover, and Kent Downs National Landscape, or enjoy cycling routes, vineyards, and country parks across the county.

Discover the Beauty of Kent

Welcome to The Kent Tourist, your go-to guide for exploring the beautiful Garden of England. Discover the best tourist attractions, hidden gems, and free activities across Kent, from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover to charming seaside towns and historic castles.

At The Kent Tourist, we are passionate about showcasing the rich heritage and vibrant culture of Kent whether it’s Sevenoaks, Whitstable, Folkestone, Ashford, Faversham, Herne Bay, Dungeness and beyond. From the best local pubs to fun things to do for families, we provide insights into what makes Kent truly special.