In Kent we are lucky to be surrounded by places and locations steeped in history and natural beauty, why not go out and explore these places during the autumn this year. To help you choose where to visit first here is a short and sweet list of 8 unmissable locations in Kent which are dying to be photographed and admired.
Canterbury
The only city in our county of Kent and it is a beauty, no? Canterbury is a cathedral city as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is steeped in spiritual and dramatic history. Wander around by foot, explore the cobbled streets and take note of the Tudor buildings that sit so naturally amongst the now modern day living. Discover the riverside, a spectacular sight in any season and one to be enjoyed by everyone. Find out how easy it is to explore Canterbury on foot or bike with our helpful town walking and cycling routes map.
Dungeness
This tiny fishing town is well known for its ‘end of the world’ feeling, located on the southernmost point of Kent. Its wild and desolate landscape is strange and eerie, a scattering of old and modern built houses are placed on the shingle. Existing alongside the old fishing boats. As you walk or cycle into this unique beach wilderness, make sure to explore the lighthouse, discover the vast amount of wildlife that survives here and follow the train tracks to the end of the line. Visit the RSPB Nature Reserve too if you fancy some bird spotting.
Hever Castle
Arguably one of the most beautiful castles in Kent, the season of autumn seems to exaggerate its beauty. Mainly thanks to the huge Boston Ivy that adorns the front of the castle which turns a vivid shade of red as the crisp air of autumn settles in. The castle, once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn is steeped in history but it’s often outside the castle that captures the eye of most people. The 125 acre gardens and the lake are simply stunning, this autumn why not wander around Tudor gardens and relax in the secret grottoes?
Hush Heath Winery
The Hush Heath Estate is a 400 acre family run English winery located in the rolling hills of Staplehurst, home to Balfour Wines. Visiting the estate during any season is a great choice as the estate is filled with beautiful vineyards, apple orchards, wildflower meadows and ancient oak woodlands. Take yourself on a self-guided tour around this estate and enjoy the tranquillity of being right in the heart of the Kent countryside. Pick up a map for free at the reception and start walking…
Bayham Old Abbey
These ruins of an abbey dating back to the 13th century lie near Lamberhurst, set in landscaped grounds, take a walk around this spectacular sight owned by English Heritage. Find the ancient beech tree that has engulfed one of the walls. Be quick though as this site is only open until the end of October. Visit the English Heritage website to find out directions and parking charges.
Lyminge Forest
One of the largest areas of woodland in Kent, Lyminge Forest benefits from five cycle routes of varying length which run through and around the site. The forest is alive with life during any season of the year, autumn brings a whole palette of new colours to the forest, oranges and yellows start to mingle amongst the overbearing pine trees. There are various walking and cycling paths, so grab your coat, shoes and go get lost in these tranquil woods, don’t forget to look for weird and wonderful mushrooms and fungi too!
Directions to Free Car Park – Drive along Stone Street (B2068) towards Canterbury from Hythe. Take the right hand turn just after the Six Mile Garage. Continue straight until you arrive at the car park on the right.
Aylseford
A small village on the River Medway about 4 miles from Maidstone. What this small village lacks in size it more than makes up for with its picturesque biscuit box landscape. If you are feeling ambitious then you can follow the Aylseford Rail Trail, a 11.4km circular route starting and finishing in this village. Visit the Explore Kent website to download a detailed copy and map of the route.
Whitstable
Ahh Whitstable, a seaside town full of character around every corner. This town has an authentic feel thanks to its fishing industry. The local speciality is oysters, which have been harvested from the local waters for over 2,000 years. The town even hosts its own Whitstable Oyster Festival in the summer, unfortunately this year is was cancelled, but it’s normally a must do event in the summer! Visit the working fishing harbour and market and grab something to eat or drink, whilst wandering along the beach promenade, smelling the fresh sea air, and fish. Visit the Explore Kent Whitstable Beach page to help plan your day out to Whitstable or if you fancy it, tackle the 7 mile Canterbury to Whitstable Crab and Winkle Way cycle route.
Click on the images below for them to enlarge so you can admire them in all their beauty!
