Kent Accommodation Guide
Kent is one of the most beautiful counties to visit in Southern England. The county is commonly referred to as the ‘Garden of England’, a name given to it by King Henry VIII after he sampled some fresh cherries that had been grown in the county. The production of fruit continues to be a major industry in Kent and it still famously supplies Strawberries to the annual Wimbledon tennis championships.
The county of Kent get is name from an ancient Celtic tribe who inhabited South East England. At one point their lands all of modern day Kent and also parts of Surrey, Sussex and Greater London. After the Roman invasion, the Romans referred to the people who inhabited the area as Cantii or Cantiaci and the area became known as Cantium. Kent is a literal evolution of that name.
Following the withdrawal of the Romans, Kent became one of the first territories in Britain to be settled by Germanic tribes, most notably the Jutes. Although the borders of Kent have moved over the centuries, today Kent shares a boundary with Greater London to the north-west, with East Sussex to the South-West and also Essex (along the River Thames Estuary). Kent is also connected to France and mainland Europe.
The White Cliffs of Dover are perhaps Kent’s most famous natural landmark. They became a symbol of home coming during the World War II as the white cliffs were often the first thing air force crews saw when returning home after flying missions over Europe. Today they offer stunning views across the English Channel towards France which is just 22 miles away.
Key Facts Of Kent
- County Town: Maidstone
- Land Area: 3,736 km2 (1,442 square miles)
- Population: 1,846,478 (2019)
- Average Temperature: (Summer 21 °C)
- Days Of Rain: Dry for 162 days a year
Best Attractions In Kent
Chatham Historic Dockyard: Chatham Historic Dockyard is one of Europe’s leading maritime museums and arguably the best-preserved dockyard from the age of sail. The museum is located on the 18th-century part of the old dockyard and includes many fascinating ships and buildings including a working rope factory.
Tunbridge Wells: Tunbridge Wells is one of only three towns in Britain to receive ‘Royal’ status. Royal Tunbridge Wells, as it is known, was granted its official regal title in 1909 by King Edward VII. This special recognition was made in lieu of the town’s special royal connection since the Stuart dynasty.
Hythe: Hythe is a coastal market town near Folkestone on the south coast of Kent. In Old English language the word Hythe or Hithe means haven or landing place. Hithe is a beautiful place to visit and has an exceptional beach and picturesque yacht marina.
Canterbury Cathedral: Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in England and is more than 1,400 years old. Building work started here in 597 AD and the cathedral features a Romanesque crypt and also medieval stained glass windows.
Leeds Castle: Leeds Castle is one of the most iconic castles in England and is beautifully preserved. Over the years the castle has been a place of refuge for many future Queens of England including Eleanor of Castile, Margaret of France, Catherine of Aragon and future queen Elizabeth I. Given its history, it has become known as the ‘Ladies’ Castle’ due to its role in providing protection for som many future Queens.
Best Accommodation In Kent
Hop House (Sittingbourne): No stay in Kent is complete without a visit to an Oast House, a bespoke building often found in Kent that was built specifically for drying hops. Hop House in the Hamlet of Oad Street (close to Sittingbourne) is a fantastic holiday house in a converted oast house! Sleeping 14 people across 7 bedrooms (some with curved walls) this is a perfect choice for a family get together.
Battel Hall (Leeds): Situated in the pretty village of Leeds near Hollingbourne, Battel Hall is situated within the grounds of the famous Leeds Castle Estate. This lavish 14th century manor house provides luxurious accommodation for 10 people across 5 bedrooms and is one of the most impressive and unique properties on the Stay In Britain website.
The Artists House (Herne Bay): If you are looking for an uber modern holiday house with stunning views of the Kent coast, this could be the perfect accommodation choice for you! This incredible house holiday house sleeps 5 people across 2 bedrooms and has been featured in both the Guardian and the Independent newspapers!
The Canterbury Barn: This amazing converted barn features 7 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms and also includes a hot tub for soothing those aching muscles after a long day of sightseeing! Canterbury Castle is less than one mile away and Canterbury Cathedral is only 1.3 miles away.
Lympne Castle Cottages: Located in the picturesque grounds of Lympne Castle, there are four holiday properties available to rent here. There are two cottages that will sleep up to four people each and one further cottage that will sleep up to six people. In addition, there is another first floor apartment that will sleep up to six people. Lympne is only 5 minutes from the beautiful cinque port town of Hythe and only 5 miles away from the Channel tunnel.
Great Higham Barn & Cottages: This collection of holiday homes include a converted barn, a former oast house and a cottage. The barn is our favourite! It has 9 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms plus a fabulous wooden clad hot tub overlooking woodland. Leeds Castle is just 9 miles away whereas Canterbury is 14 miles away.
Goss Hall: Goss Hall is a manor house set nestled in quiet countryside and is an ideal location to explore Kent being both near Canterbury and Sandwich. Surrounded by 3.5 acres of picturesque gardens including a lake and stream, this is the place for you if you like fishing! Dogs are welcome for a small additional fee.
Bluebell Byre: With high vaulted ceilings, exposed beams and cosy wood burning stove, Bluebell Brye provides a truly tranquil setting for your next holiday in Kent. There is also a well stocked fishing lake – perfect for a short angling holiday!
Stay In Britain is the ultimate guide to places to stay and things to do in Great Britain. Whether you are looking for a luxury self-catering cottage, a cheap B&B for a weekend stay, a short break in a caravan park or a business-friendly hotel in the Kent area, we have everything you need. Enjoy your stay in Britain!
