The premier website for SE England - visit Kent today!
Kent is a county for all seasons in which you can relax, explore and enjoy. It is ideally suited for both a day out or a longer stay and contains some of the best visitor attractions in England. Whether yo want fun for the younger members of the family, enchanting gardens, mysterious castles, fascinating museums, animal parks, steam trains, outdoor activities, historic houses or maritime heritage, Kent has something for you.
For more information about Kent, its coastline, countryside, towns and cities you can order your Free Kent Visitor Guide by calling +44(0) 1271 366 020 or by visiting Kent Tourism. The website also features a range of downloadable e-brochures covering a range of interests.
Further information about individual attractions on this page can be found at Kent Attractions.
| Some of the best places of interest for visitors to Kent ... but there are many more! | |
|---|---|
| Chislehurst Caves Chislehurst BR7 5NB Tel: (020) 8467 3264 www.chislehurstcaves.co.uk |
Miles of mystery and history beneath your feet. Grab a lantern and get ready for an amazing adventure! Visit the caves and your whole family can travel back in time as you explore the maze of passageways deep beneath Chislehurst. During a 45 minute guided tour you'll see the tunnels made famous as a shelter during World War II, the Caves church, Druid alter, haunted pool and much more! Open Wednesday to Sunday (daily during school holidays), the guided tours leave hourly between 10am and 4pm. Café, gift shop, free car/coach park. |
| Danson House Bexleyheath DA6 8HL Tel: (020) 8303 6699 info@dansonhouse.com |
The most significant building at risk in London in 1995, now restored for the nation and open to the public for the first time in thirty years. One of Sir Robert Taylor's finest villas, built in 1760s for Sir John Boyd, with additions by Sir William Chambers. Pre-booking recommended. Shop and refreshments available. Situated off the A2, 10 mins from the M25. |
| Hall Place & Gardens Bexley DA5 1PQ Tel: (01322) 526 574 sue@touristinfohallplace.com |
Built for Lord Mayor of London Sir John Champneys during the reign of King Henry VIII in 1537, Hall Place and its award winning gardens now play host to exhibitions and events throughout the year. There is a shop, art galleries, tourist information centre, nursery and tearoom. Entry by donation, except events days. Situated on the A2 tourist route into London, 5 mins from the M25. |
| The Guildhall Museum High Street, Rochester ME1 1PY Tel (01634) 848 717 guildhall.museum@medway.gov.uk |
A fascinating treasure trove of Medway's colourful history. Highlights include the ornate 17th century Guildhall Chamber, the Hulks Experience and the Dickens Discovery Room. Authentic objects and modern technology enliven a visit to one of Kent's most popular museums. Open every day, 10am-4.30pm. Last admission 4pm. In Chatham the Brook Pumping Station provides an insight into 20th century archaeology. Open Tuesday 7.30pm-9.30pm and Saturday 9.30am-4pm. Admission to both is free. |
| Rochester Castle Rochester ME1 1SW Tel (01634) 402 276 visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk www.medway.gov.uk/tourism |
One of the best-preserved and finest examples of Norman architecture in England. Dramatic views across the River Medway can be seen from its great keep, one of the tallest in the country! Visitors can now explore Rochester castle as it was during the medieval period via a computer simulated virtual reality tour, situated at the Visitor Information Centre in Rochester High Street. Open daily (except Christmas/New Year) -check for times and admission prices & special events. |
| Restoration House & Garden Rochester ME1 1RF Tel (01634) 848 520 www.restorationhouse.co.uk |
Ancient city mansion, privately owned, with beautiful interiors including early paintwork "run-up" for visit of Charles II on eve of restoration. Dickens inspired to create Miss Havisham here. Fine collection of English furniture and pictures. "Interiors of rare historical resonance and poetry" - Country Life. Charming interlinked walled gardens. "There is no finer pre-Civil War town house than this" - Simon Jenkins, The Times. Open: Thurs & Fri, 10-5pm, 31 May to 28 Sept. and Saturday 2 June. Situated on Crow Lane, just off High Street. |
| The Historic Dockyard Chatham Chatham ME4 4TZ Tel (01634) 823 800 Info Line (01634) 82 3807 www.thedockyard.co.uk |
Spectacular naval heritage site. Attractions include Second World War destroyer HMS Cavalier, submarine Ocelot, magnificent Victorian sloop Gannet, RNLI Lifeboat! Exhibition, working Ropery, Wooden Walls 18th century dockyard adventure, Road to Trafalgar Exhibition and Museum of the Royal Dockyard. |
| Paddle Steamer 'Kingswear Castle' The Historic Dockyard Chatham ME4 4TQ Tel (01634) 827 648 www.pskc.freeserve.co.uk kc@pskc.freeserve.co.uk |
A unique part of Britain's maritime heritage, the award winning coal-fired Paddle Steamer 'Kingswear Castle' offers morning, afternoon, evening and full day cruises from Chatham and Rochester. Watch the steam engine turning the paddles, enjoy a drink in the saloons or relax and watch the scenery glide by. Telephone for the full timetable which includes details of group rates and private hire. |
| Upnor Castle Upper Upnor ME2 4XG Tel (01634) 718 742 visitor.centre@medway.gov.uk www.medway.gov.uk/tourism |
This attractive turreted castle is set in a picturesque village on the River Medway. It was originally built in 1559 as a gun fort on the orders of Queen Elizabeth I to defend her warships at anchor in the reaches of the Medway and Chatham Dockyard. An audio-visual interpretation tells the story of the Dutch raid in graphic detail. Open daily April-October. Please telephone for admission times and prices. |
| Royal Engineers Museum Gillingham ME44UG Tel (01634) 822 839 www.remuseum.org.uk mail@re-museum.co.uk |
This prize-winning Museum covers the world-wide work of the Royal Engineers, in peace and war, from 1066 to the present day. Learn about the first military divers, photographers, surveyors and aviators. See engineering tanks & vehicles, 26 Victoria Crosses, unique gallantry awards from the Falklands War, regalia of 4 Field Marshals, relics of Gordon and Kitchener, a Harrier jump jet, early torpedo and Wellington's battlemap of Waterloo. Open Tues-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat, Sun 11.30am-5pm. Closed Mon & Christmas week. Open Bank Holiday Mondays. Superb venue for small conferences & corporate entertainment. |
| Belmont Nr Faversham ME13 OHH Tel (01795) 890 202 www.belmont-house.org |
Charming 18th century house is set in parkland with extensive gardens and commands stunning views of the rolling Kent countryside. Belmont contains fine paintings, furniture, Indian silverware and the finest and most extensive private collection of clocks and watches in the country. Open April-September, Sat, Sun & BH Mondays, 2pm-5pm; last tour 4pm. Gardens open every day 10am-6pm or dusk if earlier. Teashop. M2, J6 take A251 to Ashford and just before Badlesmere.follow signs to Belmont. |
| Shepherd Neame Brewery Tours Faversham ME137AX Tel (01795) 542 016 tours@shepherd-neame.co.uk www.shepherd-neame.co.uk |
Take a guided tour of Shepherd Neame -Britain's oldest brewer. Start from the newly-refurbished Visitor Centre; see the traditional mash tuns; taste natural mineral water from the brewery's well; try some malted barley; smell locally-grown Kentish hops; see bygone delivery vehicles and step into a recreated cooper's workshop. There's a fascinating tutored tasting of our Kentish ales and speciality lagers. Tours run most days - advance booking recommended. Brewery shop open Monday-Saturday. |
| Mount Ephraim Gardens Faversham ME139TX Tel (01227) 751 496 www.mountephraimgardens.co.uk |
In this enchanting Edwardian garden, terraces of fragrant roses lead to a small lake and woodland area. Mount Ephraim Gardens are home to an extensive collection of spring bulbs, trees and shrubs including rhododendrons, herbaceous varieties, topiary and an extensive Japanese rock garden. New exciting grass maze. Gardens & tea room open Wed/Thurs/Sat/Sun, Easter - end Sept, 1300-1700. Bank Holiday Mons 1100-1700. Craft Centre open Sundays only. Groups by arrangement: contact Mrs L.Dawes. Dogs on lead welcome. Admission: Adults £4, children 5+ £1.00. Signposted from A2 and A299. |
| Wildwood Herne Bay CT6 7LQ Tel (08717) 820 081 www.wildwoodtrust.org info@wildwoodtrust.org |
Visit Wildwood, Kent's unique woodland Discovery Park. Deep in ancient woodlands, come nose to nose with nature. Wildwood reveals the vibrant life of British wildlife. See badgers, otters, beavers, wolves and many more in over 50 natural animal environments. Have fun finding out about the ways of the wood and let the children run free in Treetops adventure playland. Off A291 between Canterbury and Herne Bay. Open from 10am all year round. SPECIAL OFFER: 50p discount per person for up to 4 people. |
| Quex Museum, House & Gardens Birchington CT7 OBH Tel (01843) 842 168 pcmuseum@btconnect.com www.powell.cottonmuseum.co.uk |
Kent's finest Regency-period country mansion houses the world-class collections of the Powell-Cotton family. Spectacular dioramas of African wildlife, along with displays of weaponry, costume, archaeology and Far Eastern cultural artefacts provide a perfect day out for all the family. Beautiful gardens with plant stall, restaurant and giftshop. Free parking. Open mid March-31 October, Sun-Thurs including Bank Holiday Mondays 11am-5pm. Nov-mid March, Sundays only 1pm-3.30pm |
| Howletts &: Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks Info Line (0870) 7504 647 info@howlets.net www.totallywild.net |
Howletts: Set in 90 acres, includes the largest group of western lowland gorillas in captivity in the world and the largest herd of African elephants in the UK. Walk through lemur enclosure New for 2007: Open topped lion-tailed macaque enclosure. Port Lympne: Set in 600 acres, Mansion and gardens. Largest herd of captive-bred black rhinos outside Africa, Indian elephants, Siberian and Indian tigers, barbary lions, plus the world's largest gorillarium "The Palace of the Apes". New African Safari Experience. Open every day except Christmas Day from 10am-6pm. Last admission: summer 4.30pm, winter 3pm. Howletts is at Bekesbourne (off A2 south of Canterbury). Port Lympne is at Lympne nr Hythe (Exit 11, M20, south of Ashford). |
| Canterbury Cathedral Canterbury CT1 2EH Tel (01227) 762862 visits@canterbury-cathedral.org www.canterbury-cathedral.org |
Canterbury has a tradition of visitor welcome that reaches back to the days of medieval pilgrimages. Founded in AD 597, Mother Church of the Anglican Communion, it houses a Romanesque crypt, 12th century quire and some of the oldest and most, beautiful stained glass windows in the country. In 1170 Thomas Becket was murdered in the Cathedral and ever since, the Cathedral has attracted thousands of visitors. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Sun 12.30-2.00, 4.30-5.30 pm. Closures or restrictions for services or special events. |
| The Canterbury Tales Canterbury CT1 2TG Tel (01227) 479 227 www.canterburytales.org.uk info@canterburytales.org.uk |
Step back in time to the middle ages in our stunning reconstruction of 14th century England. Travel from the Tabard Inn in London to St Thomas Becket's shrine in Canterbury with Chaucer's colourful pilgrims and hear their tales of chivalry, romance and horror. Multi-language and special children's commentary available. Open daily. Please telephone for details. |
| Goodnestone Park Gardens Near Wingham, Canterbury CT3 1PL Tel (01304) 840 107 |
In a parkland setting, this 14 acre garden includes two arboretums, woodland area, walled garden with roses, clematis and herbaceous plants. A small parterre was planted in 2000 and a new gravel garden for 2003. Open: Saturday/Sunday noon - 5pm, 21 March - 5 Oct; Weekdays (except Monday/Tuesday) 11 am - 5pm. Admission Adults £4.50, Seniors £4, children 6-16 £1. Parties of 20 and over £4 (self-guided) £6 (guided). Family ticket £8.50. House open by appointment -£3.50. Sorry, no dogs allowed. |
| Dover Castle & the Secret Wartime Tunnels Dover CT16 1HU Tel (01304)211 067 |
Discover 2,000 years of history from the Romans to World War II. Explore the Secret Wartime Tunnels, and take an atmospheric tour deep within the White Cliffs to see the underground hospital, and where Vice Admiral Ramsay and Sir Winston Churchill planned the evacuation of Dunkirk. See the medieval keep with its recreation of the castle in preparation for a visit from Henry VIII. Don't miss the sound and light 1216 Siege Experience', medieval underground works, Roman lighthouse, battlements walk and Princess of Wales's Royal Regimen! Museum. Landtrain, shops and restaurants. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk for details of events, opening times and admission prices. |
| Walmer Castle & Gardens Walmer CT14 7LJ Tel (01304) 364 288 |
Discover the Tudor castle, now a country residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports, and its beautiful gardens, including the Queen Mother's Garden. Former residence of the Duke of Wellington and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. See the room in which Wellington died and the reception rooms in which the Queen Mother entertained. Inclusive audio tour of the castle. Shop, plant sales. Tearoom. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk for details of events, opening times and admission prices. |
| Samphire Hoe Dover Tel (01304) 225 649 www.samphirehoe.com paulholt@whitecliffscountryside.org.uk |
A new piece of England created by Eurotunnel from 4.9 million cubic metres of chalk marl excavated from the Channel Tunnel. The 30-hectare site is situated at the foot of the Dover cliffs and provides a haven for people and wildlife. A popular location for walking, bird watching, fishing and those who enjoy the tranquillity of such a unique country park setting. Signposted from the A20 west of Dover. Open 7am till dusk every day. |
| Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway New Romney TN28 8PL Tel (01797) 362 353 info@rhdr.org.uk www.rhdr.org.uk |
Kent's premier tourist railway, running for 13.5 miles from Hythe to Dungeness lighthouse via Dymchurch and New Romney. Superb one third full size steam and diesel locomotives, comfortable carriages, cafés at Dungeness and New Romney. Gift shops at all principal stations. The Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney and an adventure playground all add up to a great family day out. Open Sundays in January, weekends in February, March and October, daily from Easter - end September. Hythe Station is conveniently situated close to M20 Jet 11. New Romney Station is just off the A259 South Coast Trunk Road. |
| The Old Lighthouse Dungeness TN29 9NB Tel (01797) 32100 info@dungenesslighthouse.com www.dungenesslighthouse.com |
An historic Grade II building, recently celebrating its centenary. Opened with great ceremony by His Royal Majesty the Prince of Wales in 1904 after a 3-year build, it survived two world wars before decommission in 1960. For 56 years it provided a welcome landlight to vessels negotiating the perils of the English Channel. It features in Nickolaus Pevsner's famous 'Buildings of Kent'. Access by A259 or RH&D Railway to Dungeness. Open May/June/Sept Thurs-Sun, daily July/August, weekends in October: 10.30-16.30 last entry. Groups contact us direct. Further details see website. |
| The Rare Breeds Farm Park Woodchurch TN26 3RJ Tel (01233) 861 493 www.rarebreeds.org.uk |
An unbeatable day out, friendly farm animal encounters, 2 giant play barns, woodland adventure course, quiz/Sculpture trail, summer butterfly tunnel and gardens, aerial runways and play fort, animal encounter paddocks, trailer rides, countryside interpretation lodge, walkthrough aviary. M20 J10 - on B2067 between Hamstreet and Woodchurch. Open all year from 10.30 - closed Mondays. October-March. |
| Chapel Down Winery at Tenterden Vineyard Small Hythe TN30 7NG Tel (01580) 766 111 www.englishwinesgroup.com retail@englishwinesgroup.com |
Chapel Down Winery is home to the largest producer of English wines. Our newly refurbished home features a large wine and fine food store selling local and seasonal produce, plus a wine bar & bistro serving the best in English cuisine. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about how we grow vines and make wine. Free wine tasting always available in the shop. Open daily 10am to 8pm. Situated on the B2082, 2.5 miles from Tenterden High Street (A28). |
| Kent & East Sussex Railway Tenterden TN30 6HE Bookings/Enquiries (08706) 006 074 www.kesr.org.uk enquiries@kesr.org.uk |
TENTERDEN - NORTHIAM - BODIAM. Take a magical ride through 10.5 miles of beautiful countryside on the vintage steam trains dating from Victorian times, park free at Northiam and Tenterden, refreshments, railway museum, gift shop, children's play area, special packages for groups, buffet car and disabled facilities on many trains, luxury Dining Car Services - dinners, lunches & teas (booking essential). Corporate entertainment opportunities. |
| Biddenden Vineyards & Cider Works Biddenden TN27 8DF Tel (01580) 291 726 www.biddendenvineyards.com info@biddendenvineyards.co.uk |
Biddenden Vineyards, located 1.5 miles from the old Wealden village of Biddenden, legendary home of the Biddenden Maids, is Kent's oldest commercial vineyard. Enjoy a tranquil walk through 22 acres of vines, visit the winery and shop, containing a 17th century cider press, and sample our fine English wines, Kentish ciders and apple juice. Coaches welcome. Guided tours by arrangement. Tea/ coffee available daily. Open daily, except Sundays in Jan/Feb and from midday 24th December -1st January (inclusive). FREE Admission and Tastings. |
| Leeds Castle Maidstone ME17 1PL Tel (01622) 765 400 www.leeds-castle.com |
Experience 1000 years of history at Leeds Castle. Explore the castle and 500 acres of parkland and woodland walks, watch magnificent falconry displays, see the birds in the aviary, have fun in the maze and underground grotto or spend time relaxing and picnicking in the gardens. Open all year from 10am daily. Always check our website for up-to-date opening times, special closures and event information before you visit. |
| Museum of Kent Life - Cobtree Maidstone ME14 3AU Tel (01622) 763 936 www.museum-kentlife.co.uk enquiries@museum-kentlife.co.uk |
Winner of the 2004 Classic Award this open-air museum is home to an outstanding collection of historic buildings, depicting the changes in life in Kent in the 19th & 20th centuries. These include oast house, granary, barn, hoppers' huts, farmhouse, village hall, cottages and a chapel. Hop, herb and kitchen gardens. Farm animals, children's playground and riverboat service. Licensed tearooms & shop. Open daily: February to early November, 10am-5pm. M20, J6, Follow signs for Aylesford. |
| Garden Organic Yalding Yalding ME18 6EX Tel/Fax (01622) 814 650 www.gardenorganic.org.uk |
Five acres of stunning gardens tracing the history of gardening from medieval times to the present day. Delicious home cooking a speciality. Great shop including our own organic plants. Tours and events. Open 10am-5pm from 31 March to 28 October 2007, Wed to Sun & Bank Holiday Mondays. Adults £4, concessions £3.50, children £1. Six miles south west of Maidstone on B2162. |
| Downderry Nursery Hadlow TN11 9SW Tel (01732)810081 www.downderry-nursery.co.uk info@downderry-nursery.co.uk |
Downderry - a world of lavender at your feet. Set in the peaceful beauty of a walled garden, Downderry is the home of the country's most comprehensive National Plant Collections of lavender and rosemary. Relax among the pastel shades and fill your head with fragrance. A sweetly scented sensual experience. Contact us for details of refreshments, tours and distillation. Open Tues-Sun & Bank Hols 10am-5pm, 1 May-31 October. Tourist signed for 2 miles from A26 North of Hadlow. |
| The Hop Farm Country Park Beltring, near Paddock Wood Tel (01622) 872 068 Fax (01622) 872 630 www.thehopfarm.co.uk info@thehopfarm.co.uk |
An award-winning attraction and event location, the Hop Farm is a great day out for all the family. Attractions include museums and exhibitions, shire horses and animal farm, indoor & outdoor play areas. Special events: Garden Shows, Motoring Pageant, KM War & Peace Show, sporting events and themed holiday weeks. Located on the A228 at Paddock Wood, J2/4 M20 or J5 M25 onto the A21 South.. |
| Finchcocks - Living Museum of Music Goudhurst TN17 1HH Tel (01580)211 702 www.finchcocks.co.uk katrina@finchcocks.co.uk |
The eighteenth century manor of Finchcocks is home to a celebrated collection of historical keyboard instruments, and set in a beautiful garden surrounded by glorious Kentish countryside. Entertaining musical tours whenever the house is open. Open Days: Sundays and BHM from Easter to September. Wednesdays & Thursdays in August: 1400 - 1800hrs. By appointment for groups most days April to October. Special Events: September Festival (weekends); Fairs May & October. Available for receptions. Licensed for Civil Marriages. Off A262. 10 miles from Tunbridge Wells. |
| Bedgebury - National Pinetum & Forest Near Goudhurst TN17 2SL Tel (01580) 211 781 bedgebury@forestry.gsi.gov.uk www.forestry.gov.uk/bedgebury |
Open every day, Bedgebury is the perfect place for healthy outdoor exercise. The National Pinetum offers beautiful walks amongst the conifers. Bedgebury Forest features miles of family cycling, mountain-biking, riding, walking and adventure play for all ages and abilities. The new Visitor Centre has cycle hire, refreshments and showers. Visitor Centre, tea-rooms, cycle franchise and picnic areas. For opening times please telephone or look at the website. Signposted from A21, 10 miles south of Tunbridge Wells. Only £5 per car. |
| Bewl Water Lamberhurst TN3 8JH Tel (01892) 890 661 www.bewl.co.uk |
Spend a day to remember beside the south east's largest lake, a gem of blue set within beautiful Wealden countryside. Picnic areas, passenger boat trips, lakeside walks, educational visits, woodland adventure playground, family restaurant and gift shop, visitor centre with interactive exhibition, events, cycle hire, watersports and flyfishing, conference facilities. Open daily 9am-sunset except Christmas Day. Activities seasonal, phone for details. Coaches by prior booking only. |
| Spa Valley Railway Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QY Tel (01892) 537 715 www.spavalleyrailway.co.uk |
Travel back in time through the beautiful Wealden countryside from Royal Tunbridge Wells, via High Rocks to Groombridge, on the Spa Valley Railway. Steam Trains operate every weekend April to October, plus Bank Holidays, and some weekdays during school holidays. Joint tickets available with Groombridge Place. Regular special events including a "Day out with Thomas". Just off A26, South of Tunbridge Wells town centre. |
| Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 1JN Tel (01892) 554 171 www.tunbridgewells.org |
Come and take a closer look... From storytelling for pre-school children to guided walks for adults, and from contemporary art exhibitions to the world's largest collection of Tunbridge ware, Tunbridge Wells Museum and Art Gallery has something for everyone. And it's all free! Open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-5pm, and Sunday, 10am-4pm. Find us in central Tunbridge Wells, just off the A264. |
| Groombridge Place Gardens & Enchanted Forest Near Tunbridge Wells TN3 9QG Tel (01892) 861 444 www.groombridge.co.uk office@groombridge.co.uk |
Set in 200 acres, Groombridge Place features a series of magnificent, traditional walled gardens -against the backdrop of a 17th century moated manor. In the ancient woodland of the 'Enchanted Forest' there's mystery, innovation and excitement for all ages. Plus birds of prey flying displays and canal boat cruises. Licensed restaurant, picnic area and gift shop. Great value family tickets. Special events. Open daily 31 March-3 November, 10am-5.30pm. Located on B2110, 4 miles south of Tunbridge Wells. |
| Tonbridge Castle Tonbridge TN9 1BG Tel (01732) 770 929 tonbridge.castle@tmbc.gov.uk |
Reputedly England's finest example of a motte and bailey castle with a splendid 13th century gatehouse, Tonbridge Castle is set in landscaped gardens overlooking the River Medway. The site is well interpreted and there are audio tours of the gatehouse, bringing to life the story of kings and archbishops, tyrants and heroes, murderers and mercenaries. Open Mon-Sat 9.00-16.00, Suns & BH 10.30-16.00, closed Christmas &: New Year. Last tours leave one hour before closing. Adults £5.30, concessions £3.30, family ticket (2+2) £15, including audio tour. |
| Penshurst Place & Gardens Near Tonbridge TN11 8DG Tel (01892) 870 307 enquiries@penshurstplace.com www.penshurstplace.com |
Magnificent ancestral home of Viscount De L'lsle set amidst tranquil Tudor Gardens and Parkland. Mediaeval Barons Hall, with 60 ft. high chestnut, beamed roof. State Rooms containing fine collections of furniture, tapestries, portraits and armour. Venture Playground, Toy Museum, Woodland Trail, Tea Room and Shop. Open Weekends from 3 March. Daily from 26 March to 28 Oct. House open 1200-1600. Grounds only 1030-1800. On B2176; follow brown tourist signs from Hildenborough exit on A21. |
| Hever Castle & Gardens EdenbridgeTN8 7NG Tel Information line (01732) 865 224 mail@hevercastle.co.uk www.hevercastle.co.uk |
Romantic 13th century double moated castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. Furnished with beautiful portraits, furniture and tapestries. Spectacular award winning gardens including Italian, Rose and Tudor gardens with yew maze and 'splashing' water maze (open April-Oct, weather permitting), lake. Adventure playground with the Henry VIII Tower maze. Miniature Model Houses exhibition. Licensed restaurants and shops. Open: Daily 1 April-31 October 2007. Gardens open 11am, castle 12 noon. Last admission 5pm. Final exit 6pm. Ring for winter opening times. Situated off the B2026 between Sevenoaks and East Grinstead. Exit M25 J5 or 6. M23 J10. |
| Squerryes Court Westerham TN16 1SJ Tel (01959) 562 345 enquiries@squerryes.co.uk www.squerryes.co.uk |
Experience the warm welcome of this family home, still lived in by the Wardes since 1731. The rooms contain paintings, furniture, tapestries and porcelain collected in the 18th century. The gardens are beautiful all the year with well-planted borders, formal garden, walks and lake. Refreshments & teas served from 11.30am. Open: 1 April - 30 September, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday & BH Mon. Gardens 11.30-Bpm. House 1-5pm. Last entry 4.30pm. |
| Eagle Heights Bird of Prey Centre Eynsford DA4 OJB Tel (01322) 866 466 www.eagleheights.co.uk |
Enjoy the spectacular view across the Darent Valley while being entertained as Eagles, Hawks, Falcons and Vultures are flown in possibly the best displays you will see at 12noon & 3.30pm. Many aviaries are indoors, so you can make the most of your day whatever the weather. Be sure not to miss the meerkats and otters, and our reptile and owl talks. Open: Daily, Mar-Oct 10.30am-5pm. Weekends, Nov-Feb 11 am-4pm. Closed Dec. |
| The Home of Charles Darwin Downe BR6 7JT Tel (01689) 859119 |
Visit Down House and discover the eighteenth century home of Charles Darwin, which remains much as it was when Darwin lived there. The study holds his writing desk, chair and numerous objects connected with his work. The first floor houses an interactive exhibition on his life, research and discoveries. The garden contains many clues to his inspiration. Tearoom and shop. Audio tour included in admission. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk for details of events, opening times and admission prices. |
| Dickens World Chatham Maritime ME4 4LL Tel (08702) 411 415 www.dickensworld.co.uk |
Dickens World is an innovative and exciting new £62 million visitor complex themed around the life, books and times of one of Britain's best loved authors Charles Dickens. Step back in time to Dickensian England to experience the highs and lows of urban life complete with sounds and smells! Offering a unique showcase for one of the world's best loved storytellers, Dickens World will truly offer visitors the 'day out of a lifetime'. Open daily 10am-7pm. |
| Fort Amherst Chatham ME4 4UB Tel (01634) 847 747 www.fortamherst.com |
Fort Amherst is Britain's best surviving example of a Napoleonic Fortress. Its principal purpose was to protect the former Royal Dockyard at Chatham from a land-based attack. Comprising a large gatehouse, tunnel complex, ditches, magazines, barracks, and Civil Defence exhibition, the park-like setting within the fortifications, together with an 1815 re-enactment most summer Sundays, provides a fascinating visit for all the family. |
The county of Kent is well served by both a good road system and excellent public transport. The M2 and M20 motorways give easy access to Kent's heartland, whilst a comprehensive network of smaller trunk and minor roads allow visitors to explore the towns, villages and attractions.
The Southeastern Railway www.southeasternrailway.co.uk operates services throughout Kent using modern air-conditioned trains. For those unable to access the internet, National Rail Enquiries on (08457) 484 950 have all the latest timetables and news.
Bus services within the county are provided by a number of operators, the two major ones are Arriva www.arrivabus.co.uk and Stagecoach www.stagecoachbus.com/eastkent in East Kent. A map showing all of the available routes and services within Kent is available from Kent County Council's public transport department www.kentpublictransport.info.
The International Railway Station at Ashford, the ports of Dover and Ramsgate, Eurotunnel's car shuttle services and airports at Lydd and Mansion all help to bring Kent within easy reach of continental Europe.
For those wishing to take things at a more leisurely pace a network of footpaths and cycle tracks has been provided linking many villages and attractions. There are even opportunities to view the county from horseback! Details of all of these are available from the Tourist Information Centres listed blow.
| Tourist Information Centres in Kent | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| ASHFORD | (01233) 629 165 | BROADSTAIRS | (08702) 646 111 |
| CANTERBURY | (01227) 378 100 | CRANBROOK (Summer Only) | (01580) 712 538 |
| DEAL | (01304) 369 576 | DOVER | (01304) 205 108 |
| EDENBRIDGE | (01732) 868 110 | FAVERSHAM | (01795)534542 |
| FOLKESTONE | (01303) 258 594 | GRAVESEND | (01474) 337 600 |
| HERNE BAY | (01227) 361 911 | HYTHE | (01303) 267 799 |
| MAIDSTONE | (01622) 602 169 | MARGATE | (08702) 646 111 |
| ROCHESTER | (01634) 843 666 | SANDWICH (Summer Only) | (01304) 613 565 |
| SEVENOAKS | (01732) 450 305 | SWANLEY | (01322) 614 660 |
| TENTERDEN (April-October only) | (01580) 763 572 | TONBRIDGE | (01732) 770 929 |
| TUNBRIDGE WELLS | (01892) 515 675 | WHITSTABLE | (01227) 275 482 |
All the above information was correct as per 2007 listings. Anyone planning to visit any of these attractions after this time should check with the venues for changes in prices, opening times, special events and special offers before visiting.