Best Places to Visit in Kent for Free
Kent is more than the Garden of England, it’s a hub of activity and fun - with plenty of free things to do. It’s home to an array of beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and charming villages and if you're looking for fun, cultural, or scenic places to visit without spending a penny, Kent has plenty to offer.
From ancient castles to stunning parks, here are some of the best free attractions in Kent.
1. Knole Park, Sevenoaks
Address: Sevenoaks, TN15 0RP
Nearest Station: Sevenoaks Station (15-minute walk)
Knole Park is a vast 1,000-acre deer park surrounding Knole House, one of England’s largest historic homes. While entry to Knole House itself requires a fee, the park is free to explore. Visitors can enjoy walking trails through ancient woodlands, open parkland, and past the famous deer herd that roam the grounds. Knole Park is also rich in history, with the surrounding landscape virtually unchanged for centuries, making it a great place for history and nature lovers alike.
The Kent Tourist tip: Knole Park in Sevenoaks is a perfect free destination for those seeking a blend of nature and history. The expansive park offers wildlife encounters and beautiful walks, making it an ideal spot for a day out in Kent.
Knole Park, Sevenoaks
2. Canterbury Cathedral Grounds
Nearest Station: Canterbury East Station (10-minute walk)
Although entrance to Canterbury Cathedral itself requires a ticket, visitors can wander freely around the cathedral grounds and enjoy the stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area is steeped in history, as Canterbury Cathedral has been the centre of English Christianity since the 6th century. The Cathedral Precincts are filled with charming old buildings, medieval walls, and peaceful gardens.
The Kent Tourist tip: Enjoy a budget-friendly day out in Canterbury by exploring the historic cathedral grounds for free. With beautiful gardens and ancient architecture, it's one of Kent’s must-visit destinations.
3. The White Cliffs of Dover
Nearest Station: Dover Priory Station (5-minute drive or 30-minute walk)
The White Cliffs of Dover are one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks and offer breathtaking coastal views. The cliffs stretch for miles, providing numerous walking paths that allow visitors to take in the beauty of the English Channel. On clear days, you can even see France! With dramatic views, fresh sea air, and fascinating World War II history, this is one of the best free attractions in Kent.
The Kent Tourist tip: The White Cliffs of Dover are not only a natural wonder but also a historic site with hidden wartime tunnels. A visit here offers stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature, all for free.
The White Cliffs of Dover, Kent
4. Rochester Castle Gardens
Address: Castle Hill, Rochester, ME1 1SW
Nearest Station: Rochester Station (5-minute walk)
While entry to Rochester Castle itself comes with a fee, the surrounding gardens are free to explore. Overlooking the River Medway, the Rochester Castle Gardens offer fantastic views of the castle and the cathedral, as well as a peaceful place to relax and take in the historic atmosphere. The castle is one of the best-preserved Norman fortresses in England, and the gardens are often used for local events and festivals.
The Kent Tourist tip: Rochester Castle Gardens provide a tranquil setting for a free day out, perfect for picnicking, taking in the historic views, or exploring the charming town of Rochester.
5. Dungeness Beach
Nearest Station: Appledore Station (15-minute drive)
Dungeness is a unique and atmospheric coastal area in Kent, unlike any other beach in the UK. Famous for its vast shingle expanse, the beach is also home to quirky fishermen’s huts, a historic lighthouse, and the iconic Dungeness Nuclear Power Station. It’s a haven for photographers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts, with a designated nature reserve nearby. Visitors can also see the old steam railway that runs close to the beach. There’s also the New Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway to watch as the small locomotives zoom across the Kent coastline
The Kent Tourist tip: Dungeness Beach offers a distinctive landscape and eerie beauty that make it a must-visit for free. It’s a fantastic spot for walking, photography, and discovering Kent’s unusual coastal charm.
Dungeness Beach, Kent
6. Shorne Woods Country Park
Address: Brewers Road, Gravesend, DA12 3HX
Nearest Station: Higham Station (5-minute drive)
Shorne Woods Country Park is a beautiful green space with more than 300 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and meadows to explore. With well-marked walking trails, picnic areas, and a sensory garden, this park is perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Kent. There’s also a visitor centre offering information on the local wildlife, but entry to the park and its walking routes is completely free.
The Kent Tourist tip: Shorne Woods Country Park is a great place for outdoor activities, with free entry and scenic trails that cater to walkers of all abilities. It's an ideal spot for a free day out with nature in Kent.
7. Herne Bay Beach and Pier
Address: Central Parade, Herne Bay, CT6 5JN
Nearest Station: Herne Bay Station (10-minute walk)
A traditional seaside town, Herne Bay offers a beautiful sandy beach, a scenic promenade, and a charming pier, all of which are free to explore. The pier is home to colourful beach huts, local market stalls, and family-friendly activities. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views across the Thames Estuary, and the coastal air is refreshing year-round. The town also has various green spaces and a clock tower, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
The Kent Tourist tip: A short drive away from the beautiful town of Whitstable, Herne Bay’s seaside charm, free beach access, and historic pier make it an excellent destination for families and visitors looking for a classic British beach day without breaking the bank.
