Destination Local attractions
Whatever your interest, Kent is full of exciting attractions for everyone. Listed below are a handful of our favourites. For a more comprehensive listing click here
Sandwich
Step back in time and explore one of the original Cinque Ports. Wander through the unspoilt medieval streets, where there are more half timbered houses than any other street in England or follow the historic town trail, much of it running alongside the River Stour. Traditions linger too: listen out for the tolling of the curfew bell every night at 8pm. The Secret Gardens of Sandwich provide fragrance, tranquillity, a Lutyens house and Gertrude Jekyll design . The English Heritage site at Sandwich : Richborough is perhaps the most symbolically important of all Roman sites in Britain, witnessing both the beginning and almost the end of Roman rule here. Explore the huge stone walls which mark the site of this Saxon Shore fortress and take a look at the fascinating museum.
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Or why not take the Sandwich River Boat which runs Regular traditional type boat trips or river tours from Sandwich to the Roman Fort at Richbrough, short rides staying near the town. Mini cruises up river can go as far as Fordwich. Weekly and in summer daily trips down river towards the sea looking at the wildlife with a very good chance of seeing Seals. For details see website below.
Canterbury Cathedral
Pilgrims and visitors have made their way to Canterbury Cathedral since the Middle Ages. It remains one of the most visited places in the country, and, just as important, a living community. Visitors have always been made welcome, in the ancient tradition of Benedictine hospitality. We continue the tradition, warmly inviting everyone to share with us the beauty and the unique atmosphere of one of the great holy places of Christendom.
Dover Castle
For a great family day out in Kent visit Dover Castle, open all year round! Immerse yourself in our dramatic new visitor experience, Operation Dynamo: Rescue from Dunkirk, open now to visitors.
Deal Castle
For a fascinating day out on the Kent coast look no further than Deal Castle. Built by the order of King Henry VIII it is one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England, and among the earliest and most elaborate of a chain of coastal forts, which also includes Calshot, Camber, Walmer and Pendennis Castles. If you enjoy cycling, a pleasant cycle path links Deal and Walmer Castles along the beachfront.
Port Lympne Zoo
Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, nestled in the Kent countryside, offers an exciting day out in Kent filled with discovery for the entire family. Set in 600 acres, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park offers a treat for everyone.
Howletts Zoo
Howletts Wild Animal Park: a 90 acre adventure in beautiful ancient parkland in Kent that's an ideal day out for the entire family. Howletts is the Wild Animal Park with surprises around all corners. From glass fronted tiger enclosures offering a close encounter with the biggest of cats to gorillas, clouded leopards, monkeys, and hundreds of rare and endangered species from around the world.
Westwood Cross
Westwood Cross is a shopping centre in Westwood in Thanet, Kent. It is circled by Broadstairs, Margate and Ramsgate. Westwood Cross main shopping centre consists of an open pedestrianised arcade occupied mostly by High Street shops and restaurants. There is also a multi-screen cinema and casino.
Shepherd Neame Brewery Tours
From the Visitor Centre, set in a beautifully-restored medieval hall house, you can join an award-winning guided tour and go behind the scenes at this busy working brewery to discover how history and heritage are combined with modern technology to produce our range of Kentish Ales and speciality lagers.
Leeds Castle
Combining a blend of heritage and history with 500 acres of beautiful parkland, Leeds Castle in Kent is the perfect backdrop to your day out. Bring the whole family to Leeds Castle with your Key to the Castle ticket and journey through 900 years of captivating history. Open all year round, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Dreamland
Where else in the UK can you clamber aboard a host of stylishly restored, recreated and retro-fitted rides and amusements from the Golden Age of British seaside hols? There's brilliant retro rides and amusements where vintage cool holds hands with modern design. Dreamland reopened in June 2015.
Turner Contemporary Gallery
Turner Contemporary is a gallery in Margate, delivering world-class exhibitions of contemporary and historical art, events and activities. Admission is free.
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