The Swale area of north Kent has the longest stretch of coastline in the county and we have always known that it is part of Kent’s stunning heritage coastline which is an incredibly special destination delivering unforgettable experiences for tourists from all over the globe. But now you don’t just have to take our word for it! Global travel authority Lonely Planet have placed Kent at number four on their highly anticipated and revered list of the world’s best regions to visit - ‘Best in Travel 2022’.
The list defines the top 10 hottest countries, cities, and regions to visit next year, for the ultimate in must-have travel experiences. Recognising Kent’s Heritage Coast’s unique combination of history, heritage and iconic natural landscapes, Lonely Planet have given our glorious coastline their official stamp of approval as the only UK destination to feature within this year’s illustrious round-up. Already recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Kent’s Heritage Coast is home to stunning sandy beaches, iconic cliff faces, a thriving cultural and creative scene, heritage hotspots, and an exciting, rolling programme of events.
Be inspired by Faversham, visit and experience the welcome in a town steeped in heritage and surrounded by Kent's beautiful countryside. Visit Britain's oldest brewery - Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre and Brewery Tours or go Walking With History in Faversham with a tour guide from the Fleur de Lis Heritage Centre. Eat, drink and find that something special on a visit to the creek at Standard Quay.
Explore, relax and recharge in nature on the Isle of Sheppey on Elmley Nature Reserve. Discover beautiful beaches along the rugged Kent coastline, where you can also uncover what was an ancient tropical paradise on the Isle of Sheppey for yourselves by locating fossils as old as 52-48 million years. Take a boat trip from The Swale at Queenborough Harbour with Jetstream Tours or aboard the X-Pilot to the Maunsell Forts in the Thames Estuary. Check out the significant maritime and aviation history on the Isle of Sheppey at Blue Town Heritage Centre, Eastchurch Aviation Museum, Minster Gatehouse Museum and Rose Street Cottage of Curiosities.
Visit Sittingbourne and stay in a home away from home with a varied choice of accommodation. Rediscover the town with it's new leisure offer, cinema, restaurants and a high street with a perfect mix of independent and well-known retailers. With the old Roman road (A2 Watling Street) travelling through the town, it has historic links and stories to tell of those who have travelled from the coast to London. Find out more about the barge making and the coastal trade that helped make Sittingbourne the town it is today at Sittingbourne Heritage Museum and The Heritage Hub. Follow the restoration of the Raybel barge and see it for yourself on project open days.
Search for accommodation options and explore Kent's Heritage Coast from the Swale area of north Kent.
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