Kent

Kent, the Garden of England, combines chalk-white cliffs, sandy bays and orchard-dotted countryside within easy reach of London. Our guides cover the county's best beaches, including dog-friendly shores, plus a strong run of hidden gems for solo travellers and underrated spots the crowds miss. From the famous white cliffs and seaside towns to quiet inland villages, Kent balances classic coastal days with lesser-known corners. It's a rewarding county whether you're after a bracing beach walk or a slower, off-the-beaten-track wander.

Best Beaches in Kent

Kent's coast runs right around from the chalk bays of Thanet at Epple and Dumpton Gap to the shingle of Romney Marsh, taking in Shellness and Minnis Bay.

Best Hidden Gems in Kent

For two thousand years Kent has faced the Continent, and its hidden gems tell of defence: Reculver's Roman fort, an old sound mirror and the Kingsgate sea arch.

Best Places to Visit in Kent

Below Kent's white cliffs and North Downs, the best places to visit mix the Abbot's Cliff Sound Mirror, Samphire Hoe Beach and the Walpole Tidal Pool.

Dog-Friendly Beaches in Kent

Kent runs from Romney Marsh shingle at Dungeness to the chalk of Kingsgate Bay and Samphire Hoe, giving a dog open ground and room to roam on eight beaches.

Solo Hidden Gems in Kent

Kent rewards the solo traveller with quiet hidden gems, from Ramsgate Tunnels and Fort Amherst to Old Soar Manor and the marshes of RSPB Cliffe Pools.

Underrated Hidden Gems in Kent

Kent is a county most think they know, yet underrated gems like Fort Amherst, Grain Tower Battery and Cliffe Fort sit quietly among its old coastal defences.

Are there dog-friendly beaches in Kent?

Yes, Kent has sandy bays and shingle shores, several of them dog-friendly. Our guides pick the best beaches for a day out and flag dog-welcoming stretches, though many popular sands enforce seasonal dog bans between May and September, so check before you travel.

What are the best hidden gems in Kent?

Beyond the famous white cliffs and seaside towns, Kent hides quiet villages, coastal viewpoints and lesser-known corners. Our hidden gems guides, including solo-travel and underrated picks, steer you to peaceful spots that the day-trip crowds tend to miss.

What are the best places to visit in Kent?

Highlights range from the white cliffs and historic coastal towns to orchard-filled countryside and gardens. Our places-to-visit guide gathers the county's standouts, easily reached from London and ideal for both classic seaside days and slower inland wanders.