Kent – England’s garden of delights

HEAD just a little way south-east of London to discover castles, moated manors, and perfect gardens and villages. 

The county of Kent acquired the nickname of the Garden of England, a provider of fruit, flowers, and hops. Here are five of its must-see highlights: 

• The Boleyn family home of Hever Castle played its part as the backdrop of Henry VIII’s romance with Anne Boleyn, one of the greatest love affairs in history. See Anne’s bedroom, and take a boat on the lake. 

• Whitstable is known for its oysters and maritime history. Sup a local ale at the Old Neptune pub on the beach and see how the building has stood up to many a storm with its wonky window frames and sloping floor. 

One of Britain’s most striking beaches, Botany Bay is recognized for its tall chalk stacks and stretching sandy shores that Turner captured on canvas. 

Then head to Margate, where you can watch those famous Turner sunsets. 

• Lovers are powerless to resist the romantic allure of Leeds Castle, surrounded by its own reflections in the moat. The interior is an art deco dream. 

•  The 14^th century Scotney Castle (pictured) has acres of woodland to explore, complete with a secluded picnic area. 

Go Holiday news : www.govillasandcottages.co.uk

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Picture Credit: "Hever Castle & cottages over moat". Licenced under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons; "Cliffs at Botany Bay, Kent 3" by Nilfanion - Own work. Licenced under CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons; "Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Kent" by Brian - originally posted to Flickr as Scotney Castle, Lamberhurst, Kent. Licenced under CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons.