Kent
The Garden of England
Filled with orchards and vineyards, Kent has been known as The Garden of England for centuries. Beautiful in each season, the south-east county has a variety of landscapes, from quintessentially English seaside towns to Tudor country estates. With towns such as Canterbury, Margate and Tenterden all with their own unique quirks, there’s no wonder Kent is one of the top ten counties in England. We love Kent so much that we’ve nestled our first seaside property into the southern coastline in Deal. See what you can explore while staying at The Boatman’s Reading Rooms.
The Boatman's Reading Rooms
As with all Quince homes, The Boatman’s Reading Rooms has been carefully created with our guests in mind. Designed over three levels, this seaside, pastel hued home is a traditional Georgian property with a prime position on Deal's seafront.
Our cherry picked locations
Aside from selecting the perfect holiday home, we know how timely it is to find the best spots in a new location. Whether you’re looking to get off the beaten track or visit that Instagram worthy spot, we’ve picked out our favourite things to do, places to see and the finest places to eat and drink in the county.
Canterbury - This medieval walled city is not a site to be missed. The iconic cathedral has plenty to explore and discover with tours and even fun trails and historic hunts for your little ones. Visitors can also be guided through the journey of Geoffrey Chaucer’s life with a costumed conductor.
MoreDungeness, it's bizarrely beautiful. It's a tiny fishing village at the southernmost point in Kent, with a backdrop of a nuclear power station. The nature of the landscape means its an oasis of wildflower meadows and wildlife. Walk around the Nature Reserve and it would be rude not to visit the Snack Shack for an alfresco lunch of the catch of the day.
MoreChapel Down - While visiting Kent why not get lost in England’s leading wine producer, Chapel Down. Make sure you book onto a vineyard tour where you can enjoy a cold glass of their award winning sparkling wine.
MoreHome to, arguably, the best Prime Minister Britain had, Sir Winston Churchill, Chartwell stands proud in the Kent countryside. Now owned by the National Trust, visitors can explore the rooms that remain just as they were when Churchill lived and loved there. With pictures, books and special memories exhibited, Chartwell gives a meaningful insight into British history.
MoreKent is your Oyster - With nearly 350 miles of Kent being coastal, it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and seaside towns in England. Fancy an oyster? With Margate, Whitstable and of course, Deal, there is a variety of seafood for visitors to enjoy.
Adventure awaits - Get butterflies in your tummy as you explore Port Lympne, Kent’s largest wildlife park. Home to 900 animals across 75 species, Port Lympne works in conjunction with The Aspinall Foundation and together they have released more than 70 gorillas back to the wild and their released gorillas have given birth to over 35 wild babies.
MoreFit for a King - King Henry VIII had roots in Kent his whole life. With Hever Castle being the setting of his courtship with Anne Boleyn, and later honeymooning on the Isle of Sheppey, we can see why he fell in love with Kent. Henry VIII also used Penshurst Place as his hunting lodge where he first visited as a guest of the Duke of Buckingham and later purchased it for himself. Image From Instagram (@hever_castle)
MoreTurner Contemporary located in Margate is one of the UK's leading contemporary art galleries. Showcasing exhibitions and galleries throughout the year, and with free entry, it's always worth a look. Looking out to sea you might also see one of a series of one hundred, solid cast-iron figures by Antony Gormley that explore the experience of being human.
MoreCanterbury - This medieval walled city is not a site to be missed. The iconic cathedral has plenty to explore and discover with tours and even fun trails and historic hunts for your little ones. Visitors can also be guided through the journey of Geoffrey Chaucer’s life with a costumed conductor.
MoreDungeness, it's bizarrely beautiful. It's a tiny fishing village at the southernmost point in Kent, with a backdrop of a nuclear power station. The nature of the landscape means its an oasis of wildflower meadows and wildlife. Walk around the Nature Reserve and it would be rude not to visit the Snack Shack for an alfresco lunch of the catch of the day.
MoreChapel Down - While visiting Kent why not get lost in England’s leading wine producer, Chapel Down. Make sure you book onto a vineyard tour where you can enjoy a cold glass of their award winning sparkling wine.
MoreHome to, arguably, the best Prime Minister Britain had, Sir Winston Churchill, Chartwell stands proud in the Kent countryside. Now owned by the National Trust, visitors can explore the rooms that remain just as they were when Churchill lived and loved there. With pictures, books and special memories exhibited, Chartwell gives a meaningful insight into British history.
MoreKent is your Oyster - With nearly 350 miles of Kent being coastal, it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches and seaside towns in England. Fancy an oyster? With Margate, Whitstable and of course, Deal, there is a variety of seafood for visitors to enjoy.
Adventure awaits - Get butterflies in your tummy as you explore Port Lympne, Kent’s largest wildlife park. Home to 900 animals across 75 species, Port Lympne works in conjunction with The Aspinall Foundation and together they have released more than 70 gorillas back to the wild and their released gorillas have given birth to over 35 wild babies.
MoreFit for a King - King Henry VIII had roots in Kent his whole life. With Hever Castle being the setting of his courtship with Anne Boleyn, and later honeymooning on the Isle of Sheppey, we can see why he fell in love with Kent. Henry VIII also used Penshurst Place as his hunting lodge where he first visited as a guest of the Duke of Buckingham and later purchased it for himself. Image From Instagram (@hever_castle)
MoreTurner Contemporary located in Margate is one of the UK's leading contemporary art galleries. Showcasing exhibitions and galleries throughout the year, and with free entry, it's always worth a look. Looking out to sea you might also see one of a series of one hundred, solid cast-iron figures by Antony Gormley that explore the experience of being human.
MoreCanterbury - This medieval walled city is not a site to be missed. The iconic cathedral has plenty to explore and discover with tours and even fun trails and historic hunts for your little ones. Visitors can also be guided through the journey of Geoffrey Chaucer’s life with a costumed conductor.
MoreDungeness, it's bizarrely beautiful. It's a tiny fishing village at the southernmost point in Kent, with a backdrop of a nuclear power station. The nature of the landscape means its an oasis of wildflower meadows and wildlife. Walk around the Nature Reserve and it would be rude not to visit the Snack Shack for an alfresco lunch of the catch of the day.
MoreChapel Down - While visiting Kent why not get lost in England’s leading wine producer, Chapel Down. Make sure you book onto a vineyard tour where you can enjoy a cold glass of their award winning sparkling wine.
More
The White Cliffs of Dover
Experience this circular coastal walk that is 5.8km in length and perfect for hiking, running and walking. Come rain or shine, the views are spectacular and on a clear day you can even see across to France. Although, make sure you keep your children and dogs close- it’s terrifyingly high! Once well and truly windswept stop at the Zetland Arms in Kingsdown for a well deserved break.
Family days out in Kent
Groombridge Place – Get lost in the mythical world that will enchant your families and excite the child within you. Explore the treetops on the boardwalk with birds of prey and even a pirate ship for your tiny adventurers. Our favourite part is hopping onto the canal boat to rest those little tired legs.
Explore the countryside with Country Bikes and enjoy the extra oomph from the e-bikes. Cycle around some of Kent’s most idyllic villages and stop at Balfour Winery to sample a glass or two of the local produce, it would be rude not too! Nibble while you sip and enjoy a seasonal sharing platter from the Balfour Estate, with delicious, local produce of seafood, cheese, charcuterie. And of course all is served with Quince jam.
With vineyards spotted all around Kent you will struggle to find your favourite, explore what Kent wines have to offer via winegardenofengland.co.uk
A holiday for everyone
We get it. Trying to find activities for every age is challenging. We’ve been there, done that, and have found our favourite places to visit that the whole family will enjoy.
Dreamland
It really wouldn't be a trip to the Kent coast without a visit to Dreamland in Margate. Dreamland is known to be the UK's oldest amusement park dating back to the 1870's. With plenty of rides for the thrill seekers in your family to an abundance of traditional and more contemporary food and drink stalls, you can easily spend the day here.
Pottery Painting
What better than a keepsake to take back home after a staycation? As we all know, the British weather isn't always on our side. This indoor activity is ideal for all ages. However, parents, we'd suggest upgrading to the Pottery and Prosecco package.
Faversham
Faversham is known for its antiques and vintage selection, with a regular Saturday market within the town centre each weekend. Upstairs Downstairs offers antiques and collectables in the heart of Faversham, Kent. With gadgets and gizmos, whosits and whatsits galore, you can always find something in this treasure trove.
Bettshanger Park
If you’re looking to keep the kids entertained then make sure you visit Betteshanger Park, a day trip just a short drive away from Deal’s seafront. Whether your tackling the obstacle courses, fossil hunting or trying your hand at archery there's plenty to keep the kids occupied.
Cycling and Canoeing at Bewl Water
The reservoir is ideal for families to enjoy water based sports like canoeing and cycling. The cycle route is not for the faint hearted and can take around 2-3 hours to complete. However, the lake taxi is on call if you get half way and want to come back! With services to hire canoes and bicycles, you'll need to put your feet up after a full day of activities!
Scotney Castle
We know what it's like taking the whole family to a National Trust property to visit. Scotney Castle is one of the most family friendly of the lot in Kent as you can let your children roam free and enjoy the moated castle, hidden paths and natural play areas.
Dreamland
It really wouldn't be a trip to the Kent coast without a visit to Dreamland in Margate. Dreamland is known to be the UK's oldest amusement park dating back to the 1870's. With plenty of rides for the thrill seekers in your family to an abundance of traditional and more contemporary food and drink stalls, you can easily spend the day here.
Pottery Painting
What better than a keepsake to take back home after a staycation? As we all know, the British weather isn't always on our side. This indoor activity is ideal for all ages. However, parents, we'd suggest upgrading to the Pottery and Prosecco package.
Faversham
Faversham is known for its antiques and vintage selection, with a regular Saturday market within the town centre each weekend. Upstairs Downstairs offers antiques and collectables in the heart of Faversham, Kent. With gadgets and gizmos, whosits and whatsits galore, you can always find something in this treasure trove.
Bettshanger Park
If you’re looking to keep the kids entertained then make sure you visit Betteshanger Park, a day trip just a short drive away from Deal’s seafront. Whether your tackling the obstacle courses, fossil hunting or trying your hand at archery there's plenty to keep the kids occupied.
Cycling and Canoeing at Bewl Water
The reservoir is ideal for families to enjoy water based sports like canoeing and cycling. The cycle route is not for the faint hearted and can take around 2-3 hours to complete. However, the lake taxi is on call if you get half way and want to come back! With services to hire canoes and bicycles, you'll need to put your feet up after a full day of activities!
Scotney Castle
We know what it's like taking the whole family to a National Trust property to visit. Scotney Castle is one of the most family friendly of the lot in Kent as you can let your children roam free and enjoy the moated castle, hidden paths and natural play areas.
Dreamland
It really wouldn't be a trip to the Kent coast without a visit to Dreamland in Margate. Dreamland is known to be the UK's oldest amusement park dating back to the 1870's. With plenty of rides for the thrill seekers in your family to an abundance of traditional and more contemporary food and drink stalls, you can easily spend the day here.
Pottery Painting
What better than a keepsake to take back home after a staycation? As we all know, the British weather isn't always on our side. This indoor activity is ideal for all ages. However, parents, we'd suggest upgrading to the Pottery and Prosecco package.
Fancy a stay?
Visit The Boatmans Reading roomsRestaurants and pubs in Kent
The Small Holding is headed up by Green Michelin Star chef, Will Devlin. With a key focus on sustainability and connecting the land to table, The Small Holding in Kilndown only uses ingredients that they have grown, foraged or sourced locally. Make sure you try The Lunch Menu, and if you're looking to push the boat out, the wine flight never goes amiss.
VisitSoak Kent in as you use every sense. Oversee the stunning views, smell the sea salt, hear and feel the breeze and taste the Kent coast. Rocksalt is on the coast of Folkestone where you can choose from casual dining or more formal seating with some of the best seafood in the South East of England.
VisitPositioned in England’s smallest town, Fordwich, The Fordwich Arms offers a Michelin starred menu in Kent. Enjoy Kentish delights from venison all the way to the iconic Fordwich Arms Snickers. Image Award Winning.
VisitSynonymous with Oysters, Whitstable has been a pilgrimage for fish lovers for years. Pearson’s Arms has a selection of delightful fruit of the sea from mussels to meatballs there’s something for every taste. With a 3 course set menu during the week, there is no reason to skip out on this gem. Image From Pearson's Arms: Seaside Pub In Whitstable
VisitIntroducing sophisticated and refined dining within an informal setting at The Poet at Matfield. Snuggled within the Kent countryside, let the experience wash over you with a set menu or go off-piste and choose from the variety on the a la carte menu. Along with their remarkable food, The Poet at Matfield offers a selection of fine wines, unique cocktails and over 70 craft gins.
VisitA little slice of Naples along the north coast of Kent, Herne Bay. A Casa Mia offers guests a truly authentic experience from their home made pizza dough to their fresh clams in the signature Spaghetti alle vongole.
VisitWith the help of local suppliers in Hythe, chef Allister chooses each ingredient highlighting quality, design and season. Creating tasting menus for guests to delight in, Hide and Fox have hand selected wine pairings for each selection, whether it’s 5 or 8 courses.
VisitFrom grain to garden. The Pig at Bridge has a selection of home grown produce whipped up and whisked into delicious dishes for every guest to explore. Located on the outskirts of Canterbury, THE PIG at Bridge is one not to miss.
VisitA burger that stays in your memory until you have it again. Notorious BRG in Canterbury have a variety of burgers for everyone, from chicken burgers, vegan burgers and even one with mac and cheese in...yes really! This is definitely one not to miss when visiting Kent.
VisitLocated in the heart of Kent’s countryside, and Henry VIII’s home, is The Bottle House Inn. On the corner of country roads is this 15th Century Free House where there are local draft beers and home brewed liquors and a menu of pub classics. Image From The Bottle House Inn
VisitThe Small Holding is headed up by Green Michelin Star chef, Will Devlin. With a key focus on sustainability and connecting the land to table, The Small Holding in Kilndown only uses ingredients that they have grown, foraged or sourced locally. Make sure you try The Lunch Menu, and if you're looking to push the boat out, the wine flight never goes amiss.
VisitSoak Kent in as you use every sense. Oversee the stunning views, smell the sea salt, hear and feel the breeze and taste the Kent coast. Rocksalt is on the coast of Folkestone where you can choose from casual dining or more formal seating with some of the best seafood in the South East of England.
VisitPositioned in England’s smallest town, Fordwich, The Fordwich Arms offers a Michelin starred menu in Kent. Enjoy Kentish delights from venison all the way to the iconic Fordwich Arms Snickers. Image Award Winning.
VisitSynonymous with Oysters, Whitstable has been a pilgrimage for fish lovers for years. Pearson’s Arms has a selection of delightful fruit of the sea from mussels to meatballs there’s something for every taste. With a 3 course set menu during the week, there is no reason to skip out on this gem. Image From Pearson's Arms: Seaside Pub In Whitstable
VisitIntroducing sophisticated and refined dining within an informal setting at The Poet at Matfield. Snuggled within the Kent countryside, let the experience wash over you with a set menu or go off-piste and choose from the variety on the a la carte menu. Along with their remarkable food, The Poet at Matfield offers a selection of fine wines, unique cocktails and over 70 craft gins.
VisitA little slice of Naples along the north coast of Kent, Herne Bay. A Casa Mia offers guests a truly authentic experience from their home made pizza dough to their fresh clams in the signature Spaghetti alle vongole.
VisitWith the help of local suppliers in Hythe, chef Allister chooses each ingredient highlighting quality, design and season. Creating tasting menus for guests to delight in, Hide and Fox have hand selected wine pairings for each selection, whether it’s 5 or 8 courses.
VisitFrom grain to garden. The Pig at Bridge has a selection of home grown produce whipped up and whisked into delicious dishes for every guest to explore. Located on the outskirts of Canterbury, THE PIG at Bridge is one not to miss.
VisitA burger that stays in your memory until you have it again. Notorious BRG in Canterbury have a variety of burgers for everyone, from chicken burgers, vegan burgers and even one with mac and cheese in...yes really! This is definitely one not to miss when visiting Kent.
VisitLocated in the heart of Kent’s countryside, and Henry VIII’s home, is The Bottle House Inn. On the corner of country roads is this 15th Century Free House where there are local draft beers and home brewed liquors and a menu of pub classics. Image From The Bottle House Inn
VisitThe Small Holding is headed up by Green Michelin Star chef, Will Devlin. With a key focus on sustainability and connecting the land to table, The Small Holding in Kilndown only uses ingredients that they have grown, foraged or sourced locally. Make sure you try The Lunch Menu, and if you're looking to push the boat out, the wine flight never goes amiss.
VisitSoak Kent in as you use every sense. Oversee the stunning views, smell the sea salt, hear and feel the breeze and taste the Kent coast. Rocksalt is on the coast of Folkestone where you can choose from casual dining or more formal seating with some of the best seafood in the South East of England.
VisitPositioned in England’s smallest town, Fordwich, The Fordwich Arms offers a Michelin starred menu in Kent. Enjoy Kentish delights from venison all the way to the iconic Fordwich Arms Snickers. Image Award Winning.
Visit
Properties with pedigree
At Quince we know that a getaway isn’t seriously complete without the most important member of the family. No pet peeves wanted, just pure happiness and fun-filled days that your pooches will love too. We provide clean dog bowls for your four legged friends, one less thing for you to remember. There is space for two, very well behaved pups in each of our properties, just get in touch and let us know!
