Featured

Discover the ideal Kentish staycation for you

Laying claim to a whopping 350 miles of glorious coastline and more Blue Flag beaches than any other county in the entire country, the variety of different environments to be discovered across the Garden of England is nothing short of staggering. A combination of vast, lush countryside, wide open coastline, and very individual towns and cities that pulse with diversity and excitement, seek and you will find whatever floats your holiday boat in Kent – better still, apply a little bit of planning to your staycation and mix coast, countryside and city living across one brilliant break. 

With a 19-mile-long coastline wrapping around Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate, Thanet is undoubtedly the jewel in Kent’s coastal crown while Folkestone’s creative scene is thriving and raffish Deal has an edgy charm about it anchored down by a truly beautiful seafront. Swap coast for country with a jaunt along the 153-mile long North Downs Way, following in the footsteps of pilgrims past over hills and grassland, through valleys and ancient woodland and along Kent’s iconic White Cliffs. And finally, when you’ve had your fill of fresh air and tranquility, why not dip into the astonishing history of Canterbury, or the quaint cobbled streets of Sandwich and Tunbridge Wells that pave the way to a booming social scene. 

The possibilities for a hugely fulfilling staycation exploring the many faces of Kent are seemingly endless…which is as exciting as the holiday you’ll have.

Coast 

Coastguard Lookout, Dungeness

© Peter Marlow

Once a radar station, if you are looking for an individual stay then you have found it here. Sea views and just seconds away from the beach, this is idyllic.

https://www.mulberrycottages.com/cottage/holiday-cottages-in-kent/84210-coastguard-lookout/

 

Walpole Bay Hotel, Margate

Unusually, the Walpole Bay Hotel is also a museum, making it a truly fascinating (and relaxing) place to stay when in Margate.

www.walpolebayhotel.co.uk

 

Wards Hotel, Folkestone

Friendly, relaxed and promising to make your stay in Folkestone memorable for all the right reasons, Wards Hotel is a great choice for couples and families alike.

www.wardshotel.co.uk

 

Bay Tree Hotel, Broadstairs

A luxury hotel in Broadstairs that includes a restaurant and has dramatic views across the Kentish coastline; ideally located for local exploring.

www.baytreebroadstairs.co.uk

 

The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Ramsgate

For the very best views it has to be the clifftop Pegwell Bay Hotel. It is a beautiful place to stay with a mouthwatering menu to boot.

www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk

 

Crescent Turner Hotel, Margate

Each of the 16 rooms is individually designed, making this a unique place to stay. Look out over the magnificent Margate Sands and feel at peace.

www.crescentturner.co.uk

 

The Bell Hotel, Ramsgate

Roll-top baths and four-poster beds are what made this gorgeous seaside hotel so special, plus there is a restaurant offering exquisite food and drink.

www.bellhotelsandwich.co.uk

 

The Reading Rooms, Margate

What was once a Georgian townhouse is now a stunning boutique hotel. Each room covers one floor of the property in vibrant Margate.

www.thereadingroomsmargate.co.uk

 

The Palms, Hythe

This modern house is the perfect base for exploring Hythe. With a sun deck for warm days and a wood burner for colder ones, it has everything in one attractive place.

www.thepalmshythe.co.uk

 

Rocksalt, Folkestone

Egyptian cotton sheets on antique beds make this a very special place to stay, and since you can eat in the hugely popular Rocksalt restaurant, your visit to Folkestone is complete.

www.rocksaltfolkestone.co.uk

 

Sands Hotel, Margate

This hotel has been completely restored and offers unparalleled views across Margate Main Sands. An ideal place to relax and unwind on the coast.

www.sandshotelmargate.co.uk

 

The View Hotel, Folkestone

If you’ve heard of Folkestone, you’ve heard of The Leas as it’s where you want to be when in town. The View Hotel puts you there.

www.viewhotelfolkestone.co.uk

 

Albion House, Ramsgate

A luxurious, boutique seaside hotel, Albion House has a rich history dating back to 1791. It has views out across the fabulous Royal Harbour.

https://albionhouseramsgate.co.uk/

 

The Marine Hotel, Whitstable

Most of the rooms in this wonderful hotel have sea views and many have balconies so you can enjoy those views in comfort.

www.marinewhitstable.co.uk

 

Dover Marina, Dover

Opulent and grand with fine dining by Marco Pierre White, the Dover Marina is the ideal base for exploring vibrant Dover.

www.dovermarinahotel.co.uk

 

Stonihoe, Dungeness

For something different, why not stay in this converted railway carriage? Right by the sea, it includes a wood burner and is located in a nature reserve.

www.bramleyandteal.co.uk/cottages/stonihoe

 

The Yarrow Hotel, Broadstairs

Beautiful rooms, a spa and sauna, a mouthwatering menu in the onsite restaurant and just eight minutes from the beach – what more could you need?

www.yarrowhotel.co.uk

 

Driftwood Beach House, Whitstable

If you want a gorgeous place to stay with a hot tub on your own private terrace, Driftwood Beach House is your dream come true.

www.whitstablebedandbreakfast.co.uk

 

Royal Harbour Hotel, Ramsgate

A hotel with a view this amazing out over the harbour of Ramsgate is a special one indeed. A bonus is the incredible restaurant.

www.royalharbourhotel.co.uk

 

Botany Bay Hotel, Broadstairs

The Botany Bay Hotel is stylish and elegant. Its rooms are spacious and luxurious, offering in most cases a view out over the bay itself.

www.botanybayhotel.co.uk

 

Stade Court Hotel, Hythe

This hotel really stands out, and is seen as a landmark in Hythe. It’s not just the rooms that look out over the Channel, the restaurant does too.

www.stadecourthotel.co.uk

 

Dover Ramada, Dover / Leaf Hotel Dover

With spacious, comfortable rooms, the Leaf Hotel is a luxurious choice. Eat at the Olive Tree Restaurant for an even better experience.

www.leafhoteldover.co.uk

 

The Royal Hotel, Deal

Period features combine effortlessly with modern design to create this most luxurious of hotels that sits overlooking the sea.

www.theroyalhotel.com

 

Blue Beach House, Seasalter

With direct access to the beach from your front door, this quirky beach hut is a unique and luxurious treat.

www.whitstablecottagecompany.com/cottages/blue-beach-house

 

The Burlington Hotel, Folkestone

Each room at this gorgeous Victorian seaside hotel is stylish and classic, brimming with elegance.

www.theburlingtonhotel.com

 

The White Cliffs Bunkhouse, Dover

Quirky and unusual, this white weatherboarded building contains some gorgeous rooms; one includes a four-poster bed…there is a room to match any taste.

www.thewhitecliffs.com

 

Cliftonville Townhouse, Margate

Full of character and charm yet very modern and stylish, thoughtful little touches include flowers in your room – this is a stunning place to stay.

www.cliftonvilletownhouse.com

 

Fog Signal Building, Dungeness

Dramatic coastlines and a truly unique and private place to stay, the Fog Signal Building delivers history and romance aplenty.

https://hostunusual.com/categories/host-unusual/fog-signal-building

 

The Crescent Victoria, Margate

Rest and relaxation are the first priority at this incredible hotel with stunning views out across Margate and the coast. Its cocktail bar has to be tried.

www.crescentvictoria.co.uk

 

The Front Rooms, Whitstable

Not only is this a stunning boutique bed and breakfast, but there is also an attached art gallery to enjoy – cool and contemporary, this is Whitstable in hotel form.

www.thefrontrooms.co.uk

 

10 to 12, Folkestone

Just 100 metres from the famous Folkestone Leas, this bed and breakfast offers a real home from home and includes a pub in the basement.

www.10to12folkestone.co.uk

 

The Devonhurst, Broadstairs

Each room has its own personal style and each one offers exceptional comfort and has all the amenities you could need for a wonderful stay at the coast.

www.devonhurst.co.uk

 

Lodesman Cottage, Broadstairs

Could there be anything more quintessentially coastal than enjoying a stay next to a real lighthouse? Lodesman Cottage is the place to do just that.

www.coolstays.com/property/lodesman-cottage/18001

 

Country

 

Port Lympne Hotel, Lympne

Imagine waking up to the sounds of the wild just as though you are on safari, but shrouded in luxury and comfort – that’s the Port Lympne Hotel.

www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/short-breaks/port-lympne-hotel/

 

Sappington Granary, Canterbury

There aren’t many romantic boltholes as lovingly cared for as this. It is a luxury getaway for two situated amongst gorgeous Kent countryside.

www.mulberrycottages.com/cottage/holiday-cottages-in-kent/492238-sappington-granary

 

Darling Buds Farm, Pluckley

Stay in the iconic building that featured in the classic television show The Darling Buds of May.

www.darlingbudsfarm.co.uk

 

Hever Hotel, Hever

Excellent food, beautiful rooms, just moments from Hever Castle and attentive staff to help you during your stay – you could ask for nothing more.

www.heverhotel.co.uk

 

The Strawberry Shepherd’s Hut, Stone-in-Oxney

Beautifully restored and with many original features, this hut is a place where the real world can’t touch you – switch off the WiFi and indulge in the peace and quiet.

https://www.waypostfarmglamping.co.uk/shepherdshut

 

Alkham Court, Alkham

Arrive to a welcome drink and a slice of homemade cake then settle into your wonderful room that includes fresh flowers, a Nespresso machine and plenty more besides.

www.alkhamcourt.co.uk

 

Solley Farm House, Worth

Set within a village conservation area, this lovely farmhouse is somewhere you can truly kick back and relax. Breakfast is included, as is a turndown service that includes chocolates.

www.solleyfarmhouse.co.uk

 

Kits Coty Glamping, Aylesford

Choose the quirky shepherd’s hut or one of the impressively decked out glamping bell tents, and you’ll get to enjoy nature at its finest.

www.kitscotyglamping.co.uk

 

Romany Dreams, Alkham

Try this gypsy caravan bed-and-breakfast experience in the rolling countryside of the Alkham Valley for something memorable and completely unique.

www.romanydreams.com

 

London Beach Country Hotel & Spa, Tenterden

This adult only getaway is a seriously tranquil place to be and comes complete with relaxing spa and onsite golf course.

www.londonbeach.com

 

Brands Hatch Place, Fawkham

This hotel is a grand Georgian mansion close to Brands Hatch but tucked away in the countryside. The attached spa offers luxury treatments.

www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/brandshatchplace

 

Becketts Bed and Breakfast, Cowden

Becketts Bed and Breakfast offers a true countryside retreat to any guest choosing to stay there. Antique four-poster beds and plenty of beams add to the homely atmosphere.

www.becketts-bandb.co.uk

 

Weald of Kent Golf Course and Hotel, Headcorn

Enjoy a round of golf in beautiful surroundings, a sumptuous meal in a highly regarded restaurant and then sleep soundly in a comfortable hotel room.

www.weald-of-kent.co.uk

 

The Outbuilding Appledore, Appledore

An architect-designed, incredibly chic luxury self-catering holiday home in the pretty village of Appledore – perfect for a romantic bolthole, or a cosy family retreat.

www.theoutbuildingappledore.com

 

Rowhill Grange, Wilmington

Rowhill Grange is a luxury hotel and spa set in magnificent gardens. Close to Dartford and the M25, it is a country retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

www.alexanderhotels.co.uk/rowhill-grange

 

Chilham Castle, Chilham

If you can’t choose between staying in a castle or a tent, why not combine the two ideas with glamping at Chilham Castle?

www.chilham-castle.co.uk

 

Starborough Manor, Marsh Green

Luxurious, comfortable rooms that are all individually decorated, Egyptian cotton sheets and large fluffy towels all add up to a wonderful night’s stay.

www.starboroughmanor.co.uk

 

Elmley Nature Reserve, Sheerness

Find your ideal hideaway on the Kent marshes when you stay in one of the individually designed huts which are truly unique and completely out of the way.

www.elmleynaturereserve.co.uk

 

Stone Green Farm, Mersham

Feel completely at home at Stone Green Farm. Set in iconic Kent countryside, you can enjoy sumptuous rooms and a sitting room especially for guests too.

www.stonegreenfarm.co.uk

 

The Studio at Double Dance, Ightham

Have all the luxuries and amenities you could need to enjoy your stay in Kent including White Company towels, a guest garden and more.

www.doubledance.co.uk

 

Wilderness Bed and Breakfast, Headcorn

The gorgeous rooms are all located in the garden and fully self-contained. Breakfast can be enjoyed from a hamper delivered to your room on select days.

www.wildernessbandb.co.uk

 

The Enchanted Faraway Tree, Blean

Stay in a grownup treehouse that has a glass roof for stargazing, a hot tub for relaxing and is surrounded by nature.

www.quirkyaccom.com/the-enchanted-faraway-tree

 

Thurnham Keep, Thurnham

A snooker room, croquet lawn, tennis courts and an outside pool all add to the feeling of sophistication and elegance that comes from staying in this grand Edwardian house.

www.thurnhamkeep.co.uk

 

Frasers, Egerton

This award-winning hotel sits in the heart of the Kent countryside, offering four-poster beds, Jacuzzis, and comfortable robes and slippers.

www.frasersegerton.co.uk

 

Battel Hall, Maidstone

This 14th-century manor house with free access to the grounds of Leeds Castle is utterly magnificent. Live like a Lord or Lady in sheer opulence.

www.mulberrycottages.com/cottage/holiday-cottages-in-kent/529185-battel-hall/

 

The Marquis At Alkham, Alkham

If you are looking for views from your overnight stay in Kent, this restaurant with luxury rooms is certainly the place to go as it’s located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk

 

Hempstead House, Sittingbourne

Hempstead House is a hotel and spa that includes a fine dining restaurant making it the ideal combination of relaxation, comfort and luxury.

www.hempsteadhouse.co.uk

 

Iffin Farmhouse, Canterbury

Canterbury city centre might be busy, but the rolling farmland around it is quiet and serene, and includes the wonderful Iffin Farmhouse to stay in.

www.iffin.co.uk

 

Frith Farmhouse Cottages, Otterden

Four gorgeous cottages, each individually decorated, are available here. Added touches include Elemis toiletries and a locally sourced welcome pack, plus a heated indoor pool.

www.frithfarmhouse.co.uk

 

Elvey Farm, Pluckley

Choose from a variety of well-appointed rooms. One comes with a hot tub in the ‘secret garden’ and another is located in a real oast house. Or why not try your hand at glamping if you prefer?

www.elveyfarm.co.uk

 

Green Farm Barn, Shadoxhurst 

This restored 19th-century barn offers high quality accommodation so you can enjoy the wellness retreats at Green Farm Barn from your own home-from-home abode.

www.greenfarmkent.co.uk

 

Leeds Castle, Maidstone

Leeds Castle is known as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’, so why wouldn’t you want to stay overnight there? In the summer there are glamping tents for added exciting choice.

www.leeds-castle.com

 

Hever Castle, Hever

The childhood home of Anne Boleyn offers luxury accommodation as well as being a fabulous day out for the entire family.

www.hevercastle.co.uk

 

The Milk House, Sissinghurst

Look out of the window after a great night’s sleep at The Milk House and you’ll see rolling countryside and orchards – it’s as Kentish as it gets and includes a sumptuous breakfast.

www.themilkhouse.co.uk

 

Town

 

SandiLodge, Sandwich

Situated in the heart of historic Sandwich is this gorgeous property. It is designed to be modern and industrial, but also has a lovely walled garden.

www.mulberrycottages.com/cottage/holiday-cottages-in-kent/520517-sandilodge

 

The Crown Inn, Chislehurst

Traditional charm with all the modern conveniences you could need for a stay with gorgeous views over Chislehurst Common and delicious food served in the attached restaurant.

www.crownchislehurst.co.uk

 

The Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

Enjoyed by the young Princess Victoria, The Royal Wells Hotel is stylish, elegant and just a short stroll from the centre of Tunbridge Wells.

www.royalwells.co.uk

 

Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, Canterbury

Imagine waking up to a view of the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral after a luxurious night’s sleep… At the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge that’s exactly what you can do.

www.canterburycathedrallodge.org

 

The Mount Edgcumbe, Tunbridge Wells

Six boutique bedrooms, all individually designed and decorated, give you the most elegant of lavish overnight stays.

www.themountedgcumbe.com

 

Donnington Manor Hotel, Sevenoaks

Located just outside of Sevenoaks town in the village of Dunton Green, Donnington Manor is all about luxury and style.

www.donningtonmanorhotel.co.uk

 

The George Hotel, Cranbrook

Cranbrook is a unique town full of boutique shops and restaurants, and The George is a stunning hotel full of character located right at its heart.

www.thegeorgehotelkent.co.uk

 

The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells

With a reputation for style and elegance, The Spa Hotel is set in 14 acres of stunning grounds close to the centre of Tunbridge Wells.

www.spahotel.co.uk

 

The Salutation, Sandwich

Just beyond the walls of this gorgeous hotel lies historic Sandwich. Inside you’ll find afternoon tea, sumptuous rooms and exceptional customer service.

www.the-salutation.com

 

The Falstaff, Canterbury

People have been staying at the Falstaff for over 600 years; it is located in the centre of Canterbury, close to all attractions, and has a wonderfully historic look and feel.

www.thefalstaffincanterbury.com

 

The Hadlow Tower, Tonbridge

If you’ve ever wanted to stay in a fairytale castle, this is your chance. This 50-metre-high Gothic tower is a unique and beautiful place to stay.

www.thehadlowtower.co.uk

 

One Warwick Park, Tunbridge Wells 

One Warwick Park incorporates modern design and exquisite architecture. Just moments away from The Pantiles, One Warwick Park is the ideal town getaway.

www.onewarwickpark.co.uk

 

Bear’s Well, Deal

Located in the heart of Deal but tucked away in a secluded spot, the Bear’s Well exudes quality and luxury from each of its spacious, light bedrooms.

www.bearswell.co.uk

 

Salomons, Tunbridge Wells

Rooms that are comfortable and well appointed just a few moments away from Tunbridge Wells. Salomons is a picturesque place to stay.

www.salomons-estate.com

 

Beacon Hall House, Benenden

With its own pool and tennis courts, set in stunning gardens, and with homemade breakfast every morning, Beacon Hall House is an idyllic place to stay.

www.beaconhallhouse.co.uk

 

Love Lane, Canterbury

Numbers 13 and 15 Love Lane are Victorian cottages that have been renovated to be modern and stylish. Supremely comfortable, they are in the heart of Canterbury.

www.7longport.co.uk/love-lane

 

St Andrews Apartments, Maidstone

A luxury home from home, each of these stunning apartments offers a large balcony and ensuite bathrooms. Perfect for groups of up to eight people.

www.standrews-apartments.co.uk

 

The Arthouse, Canterbury

Once a Victorian firehouse, The Arthouse offers boutique, unique accommodation in Canterbury. Two bedrooms make it ideal for a family or group.

www.arthousebandb.com

 

Hotel du Vin, Tunbridge Wells

A Grade II-listed sandstone mansion in Tunbridge Wells, the Hotel du Vin sounds as exciting as it is and it looks wonderful too. Deep baths and comfy beds make it a delight.

www.hotelduvin.com/locations/tunbridge-wells

 

The White Lion, Tenterden

This idyllic country pub with rooms is placed firmly in the centre of historic Tenterden, offering the perfect base for town and country exploration.

www.whiteliontenterden.com

 

Shaw Grange, Ashford

Shaw Grange is a luxury bed and breakfast specialising in making people feel completely at home in the most perfect of surroundings close to Ashford town centre.

www.shawgrange.co.uk

 

Bell Hotel, Sandwich

Four-poster beds and a river view, this historical building is a magnificent place to stay, plus there is a pub and excellent restaurant on site.

www.bellhotelsandwich.co.uk

 

No. 64 At The Joiners, West Malling

No. 64 oozes luxury from the moment you walk through the door; Volcanic limestone baths, elegant French design, and all located in West Malling’s attractive centre.

www.no64thejoiners.co.uk

 

The Little Silver Country Hotel, Tenterden

Located just two miles from gorgeous Tenterden town centre, this is a friendly place to stay where you can enjoy luxury and fine food.

www.little-silver.co.uk

 

The Relish, Folkestone

Enter The Relish and you can chill out and relax in total luxury and very stylish rooms right in the heart of vibrant Folkestone.

www.hotelrelish.co.uk

 

The Queen’s Inn, Hawkhurst

Each room in this stunning hotel and pub is individually designed making your stay as unique as you want it to be. Champagne and flowers can be organised too.

www.thequeensinnhawkhurst.co.uk

 

The Bull’s Head, Chislehurst

Quirky, unique, modern, friendly… The Bull’s Head is all of these things and provides exceptional accommodation in luxurious rooms.

www.thebullsheadhotel.co.uk

 

Pretty Maid Guest House, Sevenoaks

A luxury bed and breakfast near Sevenoaks that offers its guests a home-from-home experience with added luxury touches.

www.prettymaidhouse.com

 

Cloth Hall Oast, Cranbrook

If you are looking for accommodation that lets you step back in time, this is it. Traditional and cosy, there is even a heated swimming pool to enjoy.

www.clothhalloast.co.uk

 

West House Apartments, Canterbury

Comprising of four different apartments – The Studio, The Loft, The Roof Terrace and The Courtyard – in one gorgeous location: the vibrant St Dunstans area of Canterbury.

https://escape-uk.co/west-houses

 

Lamberden Cottage, Cranbrook

Located close to Cranbrook and Tenterden in Kent and Rye in East Sussex, Lamberden Cottage gives you the farmhouse feel with home cooked breakfasts made with local produce.

www.lamberdencottage.co.uk

 

The Dog & Bear Hotel, Maidstone

This beautiful 17th-century hotel close to Leeds Castle includes four-poster beds and large fireplaces in its immaculate rooms.

www.dogandbearlenham.co.uk

 

ABode, Canterbury

Close to everything Canterbury has to offer, ABode has rooms called Enviable, Most Enviable and Fabulous, as well as a classy champagne bar serving cocktails.

www.abodecanterbury.co.uk

 

Previous post

Summer Fun for Everyone in Kent

Next post

Spotlight on Westerham