The Best Things to Do in Kent | Sykes Holiday Cottages

Use our guide to discover the best things to do in Kent

The picturesque county of Kent offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors seeking both natural beauty and a county rich in history. With a breathtaking coastline and an abundance of countryside, there are countless things to do in Kent to keep everyone entertained!

Kent Attractions

With its charming countryside and stunning coastline, Kent is a UK destination that caters to everyone in the family. One thing to do in Kent is visit the incredible White Cliffs of Dover. Marvel at this iconic landmark, stretching for eight miles around the town of Dover; the coastal paths along the clifftop make for a great walk with the family, including the dog. With fantastic views over the English Channel, you may even spot France on a good day!

Another must-visit Kent attraction is in the city of Canterbury; pay a visit to the famous Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest Christian structures in England. Afterwards, you can enjoy a walk through Canterbury’s cobbled streets where you can stop in a selection of quaint shops and inviting cafés and restaurants.

Explore the history of this fantastic county with historic sites such as Dover Castle and Leeds Castle, founded in the 11th century. Dover Castle stands tall over the White Cliffs and has been of defensive significance throughout the years; the castle even played a strong part in the Second World War. The present structure of Leeds Castle mostly dates back to the early 19th century, but a castle has existed on the land since 857. You can look forward to a full day out with so much to see and explore, from the castle itself to the grounds, including a maze and grotto, along with adventure golf.

Other Fun Things to Do in Kent

Be sure to head to the seaside with iconic towns like Margate and Ramsgate, offering an abundance of seaside charm. Enjoy a walk along the beach, try out some classic seaside amusements, or why not enjoy a delightful ice cream along the seafront. Situated in Ramsgate is the UK’s largest network of civilian wartime tunnels, where you can join a number of tours; or, if you’re feeling brave enough you can even stay overnight and get ready to experience what it was like staying here during the air raids of the Second World War.

Continue reading to find more exciting things to do in Kent; there’s something for everyone…

Canterbury Cathedral

Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most iconic and oldest Christian structures in England. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cathedral was founded in 597 AD by St. Augustine and is the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury. With its soaring spires and stunning stained glass windows, Canterbury Cathedral remains a masterpiece of medieval architecture.
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Dover Castle

Often referred as the “Key to England”, Dover Castle is a historic fortress established in the 12th century which stands tall above the white cliffs and a commanding view of the English Channel. In the last century, the castle played a key role in the Dunkirk evacuation, known as Operation Dynamo in WW2.
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Hever Castle and Gardens

Once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, the second wife of King Henry VIII, Hever Castle is a picturesque and historically rich estate located in the heart of the Kent countryside. The stunning 125 acre gardens surround the castle, with highlights including the tranquil Rose Garden. Experience this 14th Century castle and find out more about the important figures in UK history that lived and visited Hever Castle.
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Leeds Castle

Often described as “the loveliest castle in the world,” Leeds Castle has a history stretching back over 900 years and today, it welcomes visitors to explore its stunning interiors, serene gardens and fascinating exhibits, a perfect day out location for the whole family.
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Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne Safari Park offers visitors a fantastic visitor experience. Spread across 600 acres of rolling countryside, the park is home to over 900 animals and a breeding sanctuary for rare and endangered animals.
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Image Credits: Bex Walton - CC BY-SA 2.0

Ramsgate Tunnels

Head to this fascinating network of underground passages with a lot of history to explore. Ramsgate Tunnels found a new purpose during World War II as an extensive air-raid shelter, they provided safety for up to 60,000 residents in the town during bombing raids. Head to this unique heritage site and explore a little gem of history.
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Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway

Want to find an attraction that allows you to see the Kent countryside and coastline, then head on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR). Known as “Kent’s Mainline in Miniature”, these one-third full size steam & diesel locomotives travel 13.5 miles from Hythe to Dungeness, offering the perfect day out for families and railway enthusiasts.
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Image Credits: Barney Moss - CC BY-SA 2.0

The Shell Grotto

Located in the coastal town of Margate, the Shell Grotto is a mysterious underground chamber adorned with millions of intricately arranged seashells. The chamber was discovered in 1835, but who built the chamber is still unknown. Marvel at the stunning array of patterns and symbols, this is a captivating destination that you won’t want to miss.
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Westgate Gardens

Located in the heart of Canterbury and centered around the River Stour, Westgate Gardens feature manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds, the perfect place for leisurely strolls along the riverside walkway, or to just sit and take in the spectacular range of colours in the historic city of Canterbury.
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White Cliffs of Dover

Surely, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the UK, the White Cliffs of Dover stretches along the southeastern coastline of Kent and rise up to 350 feet above the English Channel. Managed today by the National Trust, head along a number of the clifftop trails and take in the panoramic views along this stunning coastline.
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