Kent – The Garden of England – Kent’s the kind of place that seems to have a bit of everything tucked into one county—rolling countryside, historic cities, seaside charm, lively market towns, and easy links into London. Often dubbed the Garden of England, and with good reason, it’s bursting with orchards, vineyards, hop gardens and winding country lanes. But don’t be fooled by the name—it’s not all sleepy villages and farm gates. There’s a lot going on behind the hedgerows, from bustling town centres to ancient castles, coastal art scenes, and family-friendly attractions that make it as much a day-tripper’s dream as it is a proper place to call home.
Canterbury steals the spotlight when it comes to history. With its grand cathedral, cobbled streets and medieval buildings leaning at quirky angles, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Pilgrims have been making their way here for centuries, and it still draws visitors in droves. But scratch the surface and you’ll find towns like Faversham, rich in maritime history and local breweries, or Rochester, packed with Dickensian charm and overlooked by its imposing castle. Tunbridge Wells brings spa town elegance, while Sevenoaks, Maidstone and Ashford each offer their own mix of culture, shopping, green spaces and family life.
The countryside’s always just around the corner. The Kent Downs, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offers footpaths and viewpoints that stretch across patchwork hills and deep valleys. Whether you’re after a decent pub walk, a scenic cycle, or just a bit of quiet among the trees, it’s all there for the taking. Villages like Chilham, Wye and Hollingbourne are perfect for a stroll, while Knole Park near Sevenoaks or Leeds Castle near Maidstone offer a bigger day out, complete with deer herds, historic buildings and manicured grounds.
Down on the coast, you’ve got a whole stretch of variety. The white cliffs of Dover are iconic, but further along you’ve got seaside towns each with their own flavour. Whitstable’s arty and laid-back, known for its oysters and independent shops. Margate’s had a bit of a cultural revival, blending old-school fun with galleries and vintage charm. Deal and Broadstairs still hold that traditional British seaside feel, with colourful beach huts and a slower pace. There’s space to breathe here, but always something to discover just round the bend.
Getting around is a breeze. High-speed trains from Ashford, Canterbury and Folkestone can get you into London in under an hour, while the M20, M2 and A2 keep road links strong. The Channel Tunnel and ferry ports make Europe surprisingly close, and there are regular services to London airports too. Despite its proximity to the capital, Kent manages to hold on to its own pace and character.
It’s a county that doesn’t try too hard to impress. It just does its thing—quietly proud, rich in layers, and full of hidden gems whether you’re new in town or have called it home all your life. From coast to countryside, it’s somewhere you can slow down without ever feeling left behind.
