Kent (Slow Travel)

Whether you're a walker, cyclist, family, foodie, art lover, or wildlife enthusiast, you'll find plenty to explore in this in-depth guide to both celebrated attractions and lesser-known gems.

Kent's diversity is striking. Embraced by the English Channel, North Sea, and Thames Estuary, the county's 200 km of coastline features some of Britain's finest seaside resorts and maritime walks. British history runs deep here—from Roman ruins at Richborough Fort and Lullingstone Villa to the ramparts of Dover Castle and Napoleonic Martello Towers. Walk in the footsteps of Anne Boleyn, Charles Darwin, and Vita Sackville-West through the castles and country houses where they lived. Visit the Historic Dockyard Chatham, where HMS Victory was built, wander the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, explore Sissinghurst's glorious gardens, or discover thought-provoking public art in revitalised Folkestone. Don't miss Canterbury Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and seat of the Church of England—or the extraordinary shingle beach at Dungeness, home to artist Derek Jarman's Prospect Cottage.

From castles and water sports to beaches and wildlife (including reintroduced European bison), Kent offers something for everyone. You'll even find quirky surprises: the UK's largest collection of ancient human skulls and bones in a Hythe church, and Europe's only crab museum in Margate. Discover it all with Bradt's unique Slow Travel approach.