Kent
White Cliffs and Hops
Kent because of its abundance of orchards and hop gardens is traditionally known as "The Garden of England". The county of Kent stretches from the straits of Dover in the south, to London in the north along the edge of the Thames. The name Kent is believed to be of British Celtic origin and was known in Old English as Cent, Cent lond or Centrice. Outhouses can still be seen today amid the hop fields.
The white cliffs of Dover are synonymous with the county as is the cathedral of Canterbury which is the oldest in England and the most famous the world over for its association with Thomas Becket it is still a place of pilgrimage the beautiful cathedral and surrounding buildings are wonderful to explore. It is the seat of the archbishop of Canterbury the church of England’s most senior cleric.
The proximity of Kent to mainland Europe has meant it has often been in the front line of several invasions and conflicts from the romans, Vikings, Danes and Normans The most recent and famous being the battle of Britain that was fought in the skies over Kent. The county motto Invicta which means undefeated is sometimes seen as ironic.
Kent’s ports and dockyards have been instrumental in the growth and defense of Britain. The Dockyards at Chatham which supplied the navy with warships for centuries can be visited, other historic places include Dover and Leeds castles. In the mid16th century French speaking Huguenot’s fleeing religious persecution settled in Canterbury their lovely house can still be seen near the high street. Canterbury has UNESCO world heritage status due to its importance as a center of Christianity.
Despite its proximity to London and being in the commuter belt the county has two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty: the North Downs and The High Weald.
Other destinations worth visiting are Rochester, Tonbridge wells, Sissinghurst, and Scotney castle.
Towns in Kent
| Canterbury | Ramsgate | Royal Tunbridge Wells |
| Wickhambreaux | Rochester | Tenterden |
| Margate | Whitstable | Broadstairs |
| Sandwich | Wingham |
Activities in Kent
Castle and Gardens
Sissinghurst - Sissinghurst Castle and Gardens
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