A quick guide to days out just a short drive from London.
In our latest edition of Quick Trips we are exploring Kent. From windswept beach days to scenic country walks or culture filled town centres there is something for everyone in the Garden of England!
Romney Marsh - Approx. 2 hour drive
Romney Marsh is steeped in history and the perfect destination to explore the kent countryside and coastline. Dymchurch beach boasts 3 miles of beautiful sandy beach. The tides come right in at High tide and the new sea wall, built in 2011 perfectly frames this idyllic beach and is the perfect place for picnics or to eat fish and chips when the tide is high. There are also another 3 beaches on the marsh, another two sandy options - Greatstone and St Mary's Bay and a shingle beach at Dungeness.
Speaking of Dungeness, a quick trip along the coastline from Dymchurch you will find the power stations and two lighthouses nestled in a stark shingle desert. The power station has an excellent visitor centre and you can climb to the top of the old lighthouse.
Surrounded by history you will see the iconic Martello towers overlooking the beach at Dymchurch there are also 14 medieval churches scattered across the local countryside.
There are also bustling high streets brimming with cafes, amusements and your typical beachside shops selling buckets and spades and all the trimmings you need to build lots of sandcastles on the beach.
And of course, if you are visiting you cannot fail to take a trip on the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch railway. Park the car in Dymhurch and jump on this iconic Kent attraction all the way to Dungeness!
On top of all the above there are plenty of activities to take part in such as fishing, cycling, bird watching and golf.
Canterbury - Approx. 1.5 Hours
If you are looking for an Instagramable day out then Canterbury is the one for you. There are plenty of quirky and interesting photo opportunities in this historic Kent town!
A must see is the Cathedral, with 1500 years of tales you can't help but be amazed by this magnificant building as you walk in the footsteps of famous people from history.
In the high street you will find picturesque tea rooms and buildings of all shapes and sizes (get your camera ready) all nestled in with some of your favourite well known high street shops.
Take a visit to The Canterbury Tales for a comedic view into historic England and that primary school field trip feeling.
Outside of the main town you will find Howletts Wild Animal Park, a great day out where you can see many special animals that are all looked after and often bred to be released back into the wild in their natural habitat!
Dover - Approx. 2 hours
The most iconic landmarks of Britain is just a couple of hours drive from London and is a must on anybody's bucket list.
The Whitecliffs create a beautiful backdrop for long walks and beachy days. You can walk along the top of the iconic cliffs and there is plenty to see as you make your way along the clearly marked footpaths. With excellent views out to sea and overlooking the harbour as you come back into the town, it really is a must visit destination.
Back inland you will find the historic Dover Castle. Built high on the hill this incredible fortress is a must see and often has themes and events on to bring the castle back to life. There is also access to secret wartime tunnels from inside the castle. These historic passages will amaze you as you walk in the footsteps of those that kept the country going behind the scenes during the war.
Ashford - Approx. 1.5 Hours
With country parks and historic houses such as Godinton House and Gardens, Ashford should be on your list of things to do in Kent.
The biggest attraction to Ashford though, is the McArthur Glen Designer Outlet. With many well know designer shops located here you can enjoy up to 60% off the retail prices. There are also cafes, restaurants and a children's adventure playground.
Another must see is the Curious Brewery. You will have a unique dining experience with local produce and overlooking the brewing process for their craft ales made right there in the brewery. Just remember to treat the designated driver to an extra dessert!
Sevenoaks - Approx. 1 Hour
This chocolate box Kentish town is the perfect day trip away from London.
A busy high street boasts lots of shops and cafes as well as pubs and well known restaurants for you to while away the hours in.
You can also visit Knole House an historic Jacobean mansion nestled in acres of Kent countryside. The land boasts it's own wild deer herd who are not shy and will happily roam around you as you explore the gardens.
Nearby you also have historic Ightam Mote or the town of Tonbridge with it's iconic castle, busy high street and beautiful river and park.
