Kent: the Garden of England, gateway to the continent and home to some of the most desirable areas to live in the country. The county is celebrated for its lush countryside, impressive white cliffs, and historic towns. Residents and visitors will most likely be familiar with popular tourist hotspots like Canterbury Cathedral and Leeds Castle, but beyond these lie a wealth of hidden treasures and quirky experiences that many may miss. If you're looking to go off the beaten track, escape the crowds and discover a more authentic, lesser-known side of Kent, here are five unique things to do that will give you a fresh perspective on this glorious county.
Coldrum Long Burrow
Location: North Downs
We’ve all heard of Stonehenge, but this ancient Neolithic burial site, also known as the Coldrum Stones, was built 1,000 years before its Wiltshire newcomer. The site is just below the Pilgrims Way at the foot of the North Downs. The ruins are around 5,000 years old, and as such, it took experts a while to figure out how the monument once looked, but there has been some impressive reimagining of its original form.
In Neolithic times, this site will have been part of a series of rectangular prehistoric monuments thought to be collective tombs. Built out of earth and some 50 local sarsen stones, the rectangular tomb was enclosed by kerb-stones which are still visible today. A stone chamber at the eastern end will have been where human remains were ceremoniously placed, pointing to what would have been a huge feat of engineering to cut, transport and place the stones.
Coldrum Stones is a strangely atmospheric spot and certainly worth a trip. With the North Downs shadowing the site, taking in one of the many walks is the perfect way to make a day of it.
Elmley Nature Reserve
Location: Isle of Sheppey
Situated on the Isle of Sheppey, Elmley Nature Reserve is the place that ‘reconnects you with nature’ and the only national reserve in the UK where you can actually stay overnight. Here you’ll find eco-friendly shepherd’s huts, safari tents, and even converted barns with panoramic views across the wetlands to make you feel one with nature.
Daytime is for exploring the 3,300-acre reserve teeming with wading birds, hares, owls, and wildflowers. By night, relax under a sky full of stars with only the sounds of the birds around you. The food offering adds some lovely touches, with breakfast hampers delivered to your hut and a wood-fired menu available in the warmer months. With a range of wellness treatments also on offer, Elmley Nature Reserve is a truly idyllic place to relax and it can genuinely feel like it’s a secret between you and the surrounding wildlife and open skies.
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
Location: Canterbury
If you’re visiting Canterbury, the award-winning Beaney House of Art and Knowledge is well worth a stop over. This little-known attraction in a building of some architectural note, serves as an Art Gallery, Library and Visitor Information Centre situated in the heart of the historic city. Its rich educational offer, fascinating art exhibitions and changing programme of special events means there is always something to suit most tastes, with knowledgeable staff at hand to satisfy one's curiosity.
Cycle the Crab and Winkle Way
Location: Canterbury – Whitstable
The Crab and Winkle Way offers a glorious alternative to exploring this delightful slice of Kent on two wheels. This seven-mile cycle route connects the historic city of Canterbury with the charming seaside town of Whitstable, following the route of one of the world’s oldest railway lines.
As you make your way through sleepy villages, ancient woodland, and open countryside, you’ll pass sculptures, hidden picnic spots, and wildlife havens. There is also a highly recommended option to take a slight detour at Tyler Hill to find Clowes Wood. This lesser-known beauty spot is great for a quiet stroll and spotting roaming deer.
The route is mostly off-road, perfectly suited for families, yet peaceful enough to feel like a proper escape. Once you reach Whitstable, why not reward yourself with some fresh oysters, a glass of something chilled and the obligatory paddle in the sea.
The Resting Place of Pocahontas
Location: Gravesend
Who knew the famous Native American Princess has an indelible connection to a town in Northwest Kent? The story goes back four centuries ago, when after spending a year in England, the princess became seriously ill just offshore from the Kentish town of Gravesend and sadly died while on her journey home to Virginia in 1617. Marking her final resting place, in a garden of a rather unassuming church in Gravesend stands a monument to one of the most iconic women and a visceral symbol of peace.
The story? Four centuries ago, after spending a year in England, she became seriously ill just offshore from Gravesend and sadly died while on her journey home to Virginia in 1617.
The haunting life-size bronze sculpture is a replica of one sculpted by William Ordway Partridge in 1913, with the original standing in the city of Jamestown, Virginia, USA – once the homeland of the Powhatan people and their princess, Pocahontas. This copy was donated as a gift to the people of Gravesend in 1958 by the then Virginia governor and is well worth taking a few moments to visit and reflect back 400 years.
Rich in history, nature, and charm, and a step off the well-trodden tourist trail, Kent is unearthing more gems than many other interesting counties. Whether you’re delving into ancient history, cycling historic railways, or falling asleep to the sounds of the marshlands, Kent has a quiet magic waiting to be discovered.
