A Coastal Weekend in Kent
Lonely Planet voted Kent’s heritage coastline as the 4th best region to visit in the world.
Being both born and raised in Kent, we love our county and especially love the Kent coastline! So we’ve curated the perfect weekend with the iconic natural landscape in mind. Visiting 3 Kent towns, Dover, Deal, and Sandwich while indulging in history, wildlife, and the charming coastal towns themselves.
DAY 1
MORNING: SANDWICH
Sandwich has the impressive title of being the most complete medieval town in England.
Nestled along the River Stour, it boasts a rich history that dates back to the Roman times. This charming town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful half-timbered houses, and picturesque river.
The town is believed to be the birthplace of the beloved sandwich. The classic lunchtime meal was named after John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich, an 18th-century English aristocrat.
Visitors can explore an array of quaint tearooms, traditional pubs, and gourmet restaurants. We’d suggest having breakfast at The Waiting Room. Opened in 1922, the building was originally used as a waiting room and ticket office, hence the Cafe’s name. Wander around the bunting-lined streets, walk along the river, and window shop the boutiques and gift shops.
Have a peaceful morning surrounded by wildlife at the Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Trust.
The Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Trust (SBBOT) is a renowned organization dedicated to the conservation and study of birds in Kent. Established in 1962, the trust has been a pivotal force in bird monitoring, research, and education for decades. By offering nature walks, workshops, and educational programs, at the SBBOT you can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for birds and their diverse habitats.
Visiting the information center then head to The Scrape where you’ll find 2 bird hides overlooking a large pond. We saw so many species of bird in a short amount of time but our favorite was the photogenic Snipe!
lunch: deal
Along the Kent coastline, you’ll find the charming town of Deal. With a bustling high street adorned with an array of independent boutiques, art galleries, and pubs, the narrow streets are lined with pastel-painted Georgian townhouses adorned with flowers. Not to forget the wide pebbled beach that stretches the length of the town and beyond. Deal offers a perfect blend of quaint coastal town allure and vibrant cultural experiences.
Head to Deal Pier Kitchen, the small, glass-walled restaurant that sits at the end of the local landmark. With 360° sea views, the restaurant is the perfect place for lunch or a yummy slice of cake.
Deal is a 15-minute drive from the Sandwich Observatory
AFTERNOON: WALMER CASTLE
Walmer Castle and Gardens is an artillery fort constructed in 1540. Built on the orders of Henry VIII in response to threats of invasion from Europe, the fort was part of the King’s device program to protect against invasion from the French and the Holy Roman Empire.
The Tudor fortress has since turned into a seaside retreat for politicians, aristocrats, and royalty. Residents include the Duke of Wellington, Winston Churchill, and Queen Elizabeth’s mother.
The building is surrounded by around 8 acres of award-winning gardens and woodland. Explore the castle, stroll through the grounds, and have a coffee at the rooftop cafe which looks out to sea.
Walmer Castle is just a 5-minute drive or 30-minute seafront walk from Deal Town
EVENING: DINNER + HOTEL
For a special dinner and night away treat yourself to a stay at the Updown Farmhouse. This beautiful 17th-century former farmhouse now provides a tranquil escape in Kent, with a charming restaurant and rooms.
The conservatory restaurant, a former stable, is the main attraction. Surrounded by the manicured garden, opposite the farmhouse, it’s a foodie’s dream. This rustic oasis is made up of exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and an alfresco feel with an open-roof kitchen. With an ivy-covered ceiling, enjoy the seasonal, monthly-changing menu which is Kent-style with an Italian twist.
Accommodation on offer includes rooms in the main Farmhouse and 2 cosy cottages set on the grounds of the estate.
Updown Farmhouse is a 15-minute drive from Walmer Castle and Deal
Here are all of your hotel options for Kent
DAY 2
Morning: Dover
After a relaxed breakfast among the surrounding foliage at Updown Farmhouse, head to the town of Dover.
Sitting atop the iconic White Cliffs of Dover is the historical gem, Dover Castle. Probably one of the most famous Castles in the whole of the UK, this magnificent fortress transports visitors back in time. Known as the “Key to England” due to its strategic vantage point and defensive significance throughout history.
With origins dating back to the 11th century, Dover Castle holds centuries of secrets and tales within its well-preserved walls. Stepping inside, You’re greeted by medieval architecture, views of the English Channel, and a maze of underground tunnels that served as a military command center during World War II.
From the Great Tower to the Roman lighthouse, each corner of Dover Castle tells a different story, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in England's rich, historic past.
Dover Castle is a 15-minute drive from Updown Farmhouse
AFTERNOON & LUNCH: LIGHTHOUSE & cliff walk
From Dover Castle walk along the famous White Cliffs of Dover.
Lonely Planet rated Kent’s heritage coastline at number 4 on the list of the world’s best places to visit. By far the most iconic part of the Kent coastline is the White Cliffs of Dover. These rolling chalk clifftops sit opposite France, with only 20 miles between both countries, you can even see France on a clear day.
Take a walk to the South Foreland Lighthouse, built in 1846. Overlooking the English Channel, this lighthouse played a key role in the development of wireless communication and electricity, and was the first lighthouse in the world to display an electric light! You can take a tour of the landmark, climb to the top, learn what it took to be a lighthouse keeper and watch the Victorian clockwork mechanism that makes the lighthouse work.
Have a very British afternoon tea at Mrs Knott’s tearoom. The 1950s cafe sits at the bottom of the lighthouse and offers cakes and refreshments. Sit on the outside benches with the Kent countryside behind you and the calm sea in front.
After your visit to the Lighthouse and cafe, take the picturesque walk back to Dover Castle along the white cliffs.
You can walk from Dover Castle, or to make it slightly shorter park in the National Trust White Cliffs visitors centre and walk from there. This walk is around 2 miles each way. There is no direct car access to the lighthouse so it’s best to walk from the clifftops
AFTERNOON: Saint Margarets Bay
To end your Kent weekend of adventure, enjoy your afternoon relaxing on the beach. You can’t visit Kent's coastal towns and not indulge in some beach time!
With a spectacular backdrop of white chalk cliffs, Saint Margarets Bay is a sheltered, shingle beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy the sea views, the sound of the waves, and the multicoloured beach huts. Cool down with ice cream from the kiosk and take a walk below the cliffs.
Saint Margarets Bay is just a 10-minute drive from Dover Castle
DINNER: THE COASTGUARD PUB
The Coastguard Pub sits right behind Saint Margaret’s Bay, tucked next to the White Cliffs, and overlooks the sea. Inspired by maritime heritage and lighthouse-style stripes, this historic seaside pub has kept watch for over 300 years.
Have dinner and a pint on the veranda while listening to the waves of the sea.
PIN FOR LATER
We hope this article has been helpful for your trip to Kent! If you have any questions or recommendations please let us know in the comments!
This trip was in partnership with our local tourism board Visit Kent. Head to Visit Kent or @visitkent for more inspo for your next visit.
