This summer, forget your passport and enjoy a spectacular staycation in Kent. Voted the top destination in Europe for families by Lonely Planet, our home county offers everything you could possibly want from a great summer holiday (without the airport security stress), from culture-filled city escapes to get-away-from-it-all rural retreats.

Thanks to Southeastern’s high speed rail links, we are just a quick train journey from London – making us the perfect place to host visiting friends and family for a short or long break. Our golden sands, glistening vineyards and glorious architecture will make them feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

This month, insideKENT has teamed up with Visit Kent to bring you nine first-rate reasons to wave goodbye to summer holiday hassle, and enjoy a stress-free staycation at home this season.

1. You will like to be beside this seaside…

Looking for sand, sea and sunshine, and sunsets to die for? Head straight to the shores of Viking Bay, Broadstairs, for your day(s) at the beach this year. Bring the family for fun on the water, and enjoy a programme of funky festivals all season.

Don’t miss out on: The beautiful, historic seaside town of Broadstairs comes alive with song and dance from 11th to 18th August as one of the best folk festivals in the country takes place on the seafront.

2. It’s worth a punt…

Head to hip yet historic Canterbury for your dose of city culture. Wander the cobbled streets, dance in boho bars, wonder at the Canterbury Cathedral, and laze on the stunning River Stour in your own personal punt.

Don’t miss out on: The historical happenings at the second annual Canterbury Medieval Pageant on 8th July.

3. Send your kids to the tower…

Uncover ancient stories, take in breathtaking sea views, and let the little ones run wild and free with an epic trip back in time at Dover Castle. This historic site begs to be explored, and is a treat for all ages.

Don’t miss out on: Experience the gruesome side of Medieval England at Dover Castle’s Peasant Life event from 29th to 30th July, taking you into the heart of the working classes.

4. Fall in love…

You and your loved one won’t be able to resist the charms of Kent’s creative coastline, with Folkestone and its famous public artworks to delight you. Wander the streets in search of them all, and rub shoulders with awe-inspiring artists when the Folkestone Triennial festival returns this September.

Don’t miss out on: Your chance to enjoy a rare peek behind the scenes of Folkestone’s artistic Creative Quarter when their Open Quarter event arrives from the 16th to 18th June.

5. Our Tudor isn’t mock…

We don’t need a BBC film crew to spruce up our scenery; a glimpse of Anne Boleyn’s idyllic childhood home Hever Castle on a misty morning is enough to make you lose your head. You can even book an overnight stay here (swoon!).

Don’t miss out on: The fantastic floral festivities of the castle’s annual garden event Hever in Bloom get underway between 26th June and 2nd July.

6. Invaders Welcome (especially the Dutch)

Exciting Medway has had so many international visitors over the years, although some were feistier than others… This summer the district commemorates 350 years since the Battle of Medway with a summer-long programme of spectacular festivities, so get your fix of maritime drama in Medway.

Don’t miss out on: From the 8th June enjoy a spectacular array of events, exhibitions and cultural activities including a pageant on the river, a permanent exhibition at Upnor Castle, activities at The Historic Dockyard Chatham, and a fiery finale on the river to commemorate the anniversary.

7. Marseille? Non, c’est Ramsgate

Enjoy a slice of the Med without the long journey or an eye-watering bill for a glass of vino. You can indulge in the waterside café culture of Ramsgate’s very own Riviera. Arty, boho, beautiful, this little slice of Thanet coastline is a joy to behold.

Don’t miss out on: 9 days of music, shows, outdoor arts, exhibitions, workshops, walks and talks at the remarkable Ramsgate Festival from the 22nd July to 30th July.

8. Fancy a paddle with your pint?

That post-work beer will taste better while drinking in the sights and scents of the Garden of England. Britain’s oldest brewer Shepherd Neame has a staggering range of unique pubs across the county, from waterfront pubs to old-world wine bars.

Don’t miss out on: A delicious evening at the Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre with their Beer & Food Matching Evening on 1st July.

9. All of this and more is achingly easy to reach with Southeastern’s fantastic rail links.

Ditch the car and instead opt for the scenic route as you hop on a Southeastern train to your chosen destination. With multiple ticket offers and deals to choose from on their website, you’ll be enjoying the fruits of The Garden of England in no time (without even needing to switch on that Sat Nav!).

Beaches, beauty, battles and beer – it doesn’t get better than that. Book your train ticket today, and start your summer journey around Kent.

For more inspiration and ideas throughout the summer season, head to www.visitkent.co.uk.