Slow down your pace, take a break from your ever-growing to-do list, and maybe even embark on a digital detox as you head outside to connect with Kent’s natural wonders. Breathe in the fresh air, take a moment to appreciate the epic seas and skies and free yourself to relax and grow into the beautiful places and spaces of the Kentish countryside.
Kent’s beaches, greenery and sweeping skies are going to make the perfect backdrop for your next rural retreat. Having just been globally recognised as Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ with a huge focus on both conservation and sustainability, Kent is leading the charge with its forward-thinking tourism offer and passion for the protection of its greatest natural assets. From the rugged coastlines to the rolling hills, the sights are enough on their own to take your breath away - but combined with the huge range of sustainable outdoor experiences and activities on offer, you have everything you need for a truly unique and eco-friendly getaway.
If it’s bracing walks, quintessential pubs, beach strolls and ancient woodland you’re after, Kent has all these things in spades - but if you fancy something a little different, an experience to truly remember, then check out our list of ten natural experiences in Kent and get ready to get outside and get stuck in!
Sustainable, mindful, even meditative, Kent’s new eco experiences will leave you on a natural high, feeling refreshed, restored and connected.
Rest your mind with a soothing meditation session in the stunning surroundings of Owlettes National Trust property in Gravesham which was once the home of great British architect Sir Herbert Baker. Local meditation practitioners Vedic Meditation are running the outdoor sessions and workshops teaching daily meditation techniques to help participants reduce stress, improve sleep, normalise blood pressure and increase their creativity. With the historic manor house as your backdrop and picture- perfect grounds to enjoy, relaxation is just a breath away.
Take a break from scrolling and swiping and turn those fingers green instead at Blooming Green, a delightful project in Maidstone growing English cut flowers, running floristry workshops and offering tours to keen gardeners and horticulture lovers. Also hosting open days and pick-your-own events, the beautiful plot is always a special sight to behold. A brand-new experience on offer this year gives visitors the opportunity to craft something truly unique and beautiful from natural materials grown by Blooming Green and hop bines from farms in Kent – a relaxing, creative and mindful way to while away a few hours.
Relax, engage and reconnect with your surroundings and yourself at ‘Into the Wild’ at Moat Farm– a wild, conservation farm near Ashford protecting our great British countryside. Treating visitors to a nostalgic habitat that shows off nature as it used to be - an enduring haven teeming with abundant and exceptional wildlife – the site is a rare and special treat. From butterflies to bats, owls to orchids the farm is buzzing with life and activity - you may also see Long-horn cattle, Tamworth pigs and Romney sheep during your site safari or walking trail. A whole host of unique back-to-nature experiences are on offer here from foraging for supper and campfire cook-ups, to scavenger hunts and safaris exploring the ancient woods and wonderfully wild landscapes.
Escape to hidden gem The Mount Vineyard in the glorious Kent countryside near Sevenoaks for sun-dappled strolls in the beautiful vineyards, tutored wine tastings and a range of tasty gastro experiences. Try a selection of award-winning sparkling wines at an informal wine tasting before dining al fresco in their picturesque garden restaurant where the knowledgeable staff will help you pair the perfect wines with your local sharing platters or stone baked pizzas. You can even pick up a prepared picnic hamper to enjoy amongst the vines with stunning countryside views. The perfect quintessential experience for wine and food lovers alike!
Head to Dover for a fascinating foodie day that’ll see you learning all about the area’s natural bounty whilst foraging for coastal ingredients to cook up a fantastic feast. The Wild Kitchen’s experiences will really get those taste buds dancing and are the perfect activity for groups of friends keen to get outside and try something natural and unique. Experience days include the ‘Tour de Forage’ that starts with a relaxing cycle ride along the Kentish coastline where you will gather wild mussels, oysters and edible seaweed, ready to create some culinary magic. Enjoy epic sea views, a satisfying meal and a well-earned rest to complete your coastal adventure!
Whether you’re an experienced oyster afficionado, or you’ve just always wanted to give them a try, you won’t beat the world-famous Whitstable Oyster Company to deliver an exceptional experience. This popular seafood restaurant offers some of the very best oysters, fish and seafood around complimented by a stunning beachside location and views of their oyster grounds. Their A La Carte seafood menu is simply cooked to perfection and it’s easy to see why visitors flock to the quaint seaside town to sample these local delicacies. Brand-new for this year, the restaurant now runs fascinating tours of the oyster beds so that guests can learn all about the processes behind bringing these delicious dishes to the table.
The Balfour Hush Heath Estate near Tonbridge is a living, breathing exhibition of some of Kent’s finest flora and fauna. Barn owls, fallow deer and buzzards roam amongst other indigenous insects and animals who have all made their home in the sprawling grounds which are open to public exploration alongside the estate’s award-winning vineyard and winery tours. Why not keep things simple as you explore the ancient oak woodland which is teaming with wonderful wildlife or stroll the sun-kissed vines before settling down for a picnic in one of the stunning wildflower meadows? Peaceful and restorative nature at its finest.
Right at the heart of environmental conservation in Kent is The Wildwood Trust just outside of Canterbury. Year-round the park is open to visitors to see and learn about rare animals including bears, lynx and bison as they peruse the park. They also operate a diverse range of animal encounter experiences - and some conservation courses such as Dormouse Handling and Surveying, Badger Ecology, a Mammal Identification Weekend and even a session for Spider Identification! Fascinating and in-depth workshops to really sink your teeth into as you get up close and personal with Kent’s wildest creatures and habitats.
If you fancy getting away with the girls for a well-deserved retreat, The Female Fit Club in Thanet is offering dedicated women’s wellbeing retreats with a tranquil seaside setting. An opportunity for women to get away and to prioritise their own mental and physical wellbeing, the short breaks include an overnight stay, access to fitness classes, yoga, meditation, wellbeing talks, and bracing coastal walks. Put yourself first and take some real time to relax, reconnect and restore.
Coming soon to Hook Green in Kent is a wonderful new wildlife-watching experience focussed on the natural world of Old English woodland combined with the cultural history of the village. Hook Green is rich in cultural landmarks and home to Bayham Abbey ruins, the Bayham Estate, and the Lamberhurst Iron Working Furnace which saw bombing and plane crashes during the battle of Britain. It’s also home to acres upon acres of ancient woodland which have been under conservation to promote biodiversity and recreation and will soon be enjoyed by visitors keen to bird and animal-watch from the hides. Wildlife watchers take note and watch this space for more details soon!
