Kent

About Kent

Kent isn’t described as the garden of England for nothing. Within its sea-lined borders you’ll find a fragrant landscape of gentle hills, fertile farmland, cultivated country estates and fruit-laden orchards. It could also be described as the beer garden of England as it produces the world-renowned Kent hops and some of the country’s finest ales and wines from its numerous vineyards.

Places to visit

At the heart of Kent is spellbinding Canterbury, crowned by its enthralling cathedral. You’ll also find beautiful coastal stretches dotted with beach towns and villages, from Broadstairs to Whitstable and the port town of Dover.

Canterbury Cathedral is a truly extraordinary place with an absorbing history.

This Gothic cathedral, the highlight of the city’s World Heritage Sites, is southeast England’s top tourist attraction as well as a place of worship. The cathedral is an overwhelming edifice crammed with enthralling stories, arresting architecture and a very real and enduring sense of spirituality.

Dover Castle features unmissable secret wartime tunnels and the Great Tower, but the huge area it sprawls across has a lot of other interesting sights, so allow at least three hours for your visit, more if you stand to admire the views across the Channel to France.

Social Events

There are plenty of clubs and bars in the city, including Steinbeck & Shaw,and Club Chemistry which is the largest club in the city. Check out the historic alleys for a variety of bars and pubs.

Alberrys is one of the oldest and most established bars, located in the heart of Canterbury!

For over 30 years the bar has welcomed the city’s inhabitants and visitors alike with its unique ambience and surroundings. Bar 6 is perfect for any occasion, whether that be a night out on the town, a few drinks over lunch or somewhere to watch live sports.

Bramley’s is Canterbury’s most unique cocktail bar. Enjoy the cocktails, vintage decor, live music and friendly staff. The 1920s speakeasy, transports you back to the prohibition, making your night even more magical.

Food

Eating well in Kent isn’t difficult, especially if you choose eateries which use the county’s superb, home-grown produce. Soft fruit, oysters, seafood and unusual sides such as samphire (sea grass) and kale are what the county does well.

Named after the 15th-century Canterbury Tale and open since 1963, The Wife of Bath was re-galvanised with a grande dash of Northern Spanish influence in 2016, making it a unique location for you to eat at.

The West House in Biddenden, which has its own Michelin star, is a quaint family friendly restaurant which offers up food made from local ingredients. Offering lunch and dinner menus, the restaurant is a great way to spend a relaxed evening.

Shopping

Head to Whitefriars shopping centre for high-street fashion and big name stores. If you enjoy visiting more independent shops and boutiques, nearby there is Westgate and King’s mile. These shops are great for shopping, crafts and more.

Transport

Stagecoach’s Unibus service can get you to the University of Kent from Canterbury city centre efficiently and easily.

For just £30 a year, you can save up to 1/3 on rail travel with a National Rail 16-25 rail card. And, if you want to save even more, for just £70, you can buy a three-year rail card which will last you your entire University experience!

The National Express 270 coach service runs to and from Gatwick Airport eight times a day.

National Express also run other airport transfers between various Kent towns and Heathrow, Stanstead and Luton Airports.

Did you know?

You can progress from an NCUK qualification to study a UK degree in Kent? The University of Kent accepts students who have studied an NCUK qualification, so start your journey with NCUK today!

Click the button below to apply with NCUK now!