Days Out to Enjoy in Kent

Kent is among the most beautiful places in the country, with a pleasing mixture of small-town charm, rolling countryside, and convenient access from the capital. There’s no shortage of stately homes, cathedrals, and charming little pubs to visit – so what better place could there be for a summertime excursion?

Once the Covid-19 situation has settled down a little and some semblance of order has been restored, the first places we’re likely to be able to visit will be the domestic locations. So, why not start planning now? Let’s take a look at some of the fantastic day-trip destinations in offer in Kent.

Sevenoaks

In Sevenoaks, there’s no shortage of gardens, parks, and other locations that look their most spectacular in summer. Pay a visit to Emmett’s Garden, and then to the Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve. Crowning the whole place is Knole, which sits right at the heart of a medieval deer park. Knole has been around for six centuries, and open to the public for four, and it remains one of the county’s most attractive draws. The building itself is currently closed to the public, but the National Trust still encourage the public to use the grounds for outdoor exercise, while still observing social distancing measures. There are trains to Sevenoaks running frequently from the capital, making this an accessible destination as well as a picturesque one.

Canterbury

Canterbury, of course, is the home of the Church of England, and it’s built around one of the country’s most impressive cathedrals, and its largest. The building first came to be in 597, having been founded by St Augustine, and it’s been steadily rebuilt over the years.

There’s more to this part of the country that Christianity, however. Right around the corner from the cathedral you’ll find the quaint and picturesque town centre, with its mixture of wattle and daub Tudor buildings and its thriving outdoor dining scene.

Canterbury can be accessed via train, or via the M2, which starts from junction 2 of the M25.

Maidstone

Maidstone is another small town with its share of gorgeous attractions. Perhaps the most eye-catching of them is the confusingly-named Leeds Castle, which comes with extensive grounds, including a beautifully-kept maze and grotto, and seasonal falconry displays including owls, vultures and hawks.

 If you’d prefer to keep things outdoors, then there’s an alternative in the form of Mote Park, which incorporates its share of woodland and beautiful lakes. In town there’s Maidstone Museum, where you’ll be able to explore fine art and natural history, with a focus on the local area.

The quickest way to Maidstone is via the M20, which is just one junction away from the M2, at junction 3 of the M25.

This post was in partnership with Thames Link Railway.