Nicknamed “The Garden of England” due to its verdant landscapes and fertile farmland, Kent is not just a beautiful county but also a great destination for a romantic getaway.
With scenic coastlines, gorgeous towns, and many interesting historical sites, there are plenty of amazing days out in Kent for couples looking to explore this part of the UK.
For ideas of where to go and what to add to your itinerary, we’ve put together this list of recommendations for the most fun things to do in Kent for couples.
1. Have a day at the beach in Broadstairs
One of the nicest days out in Kent for couples is heading to Broadstairs on a sunny day and enjoying some time at the beach here.
The magnificent horseshoe-shaped Viking Bay in Broadstairs is one of the best beaches in Kent, as well one of the nicest in the UK, with its golden sand offering a perfect location to relax under the sun.
You can also check out some of the local cafes in the seaside town or have some fun in the local amusements.
If you’re interested in literature, it’s also worth checking out the Dickens House Museum located just a short walk from the beach.
Broadstairs is also one of our favourite coastal breaks for couples in the UK, especially because of how serene it is out of season.
If you want to stick to a budget while visiting the town, make sure to check out our list of free things to do in Broadstairs.
2. Visit Canterbury
With it’s impressive cathedral, medieval streets, and picturesque timber-beamed buildings, Canterbury is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the among the best destinations for a romantic weekend away.
Taking a walk around the quiet streets and to the scenic green spaces like Westgate Gardens and Greyfriars Garden is the perfect way to see the city as a couple, and make sure to swing by some of the main sights like Canterbury Cathedral.
You can also book a guided walking tour of Canterbury to learn more about the city and discover its hidden gems with the help of an expert.
If you’re in need of a memorable date night in Canterbury, the Marlowe Theatre is one of the nicest theatres in the UK and a great location for an evening out.
3. Go to Dreamland in Margate
While Broadstairs offers a quieter seaside experience, Margate is another popular destination for a day out at the beach.
Not only does it have a large sandy beach, Margate is also known for hosting Dreamland, an amusement park that aims to capture the vibes of a classic seaside funfair.
With everything from a helter skelter and big wheel to crazy golf and a roller coaster, a trip to Dreamland is one of the most fun things to do in Kent for couples.
4. Explore Leeds Castle
This beautiful moated castle looks like something straight out of a fairytale, and while the name might be confusing, it’s nowhere near Leeds. Instead, a visit here is one of the best things to do in Kent for couples!
With 900 years of history, there’s plenty to discover about this magnificent building. From being a Norman stronghold to acting as a private residence for King Henry VIII and his first wife, Leeds Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Kent for good reason.
Along with the castle, you can have a lot of fun exploring the grounds, making your way through the hedgemaze, and watching falconry displays. You can also take to the water on the Black Swan Ferry.
5. Travel on the Kent and East Sussex Railway
The Kent and East Sussex Railway is a heritage steam railway that runs between Tenterden in Kent and Bodiam in East Sussex, and it provides a great way to step back in time.
Over a distance of 10.5 miles, the line offers scenic views of the picturesque countryside, passing through quaint villages and rolling hills. You can experience the nostalgia of steam travel by riding on beautifully restored vintage carriages pulled by steam locomotives.
With passenger trains on this line originally running between 1900 and 1954, a journey on this steam train feels like a romantic ride back in time.
6. See Bedgebury Pinetum
One of the most romantic days out in Kent for couples is a visit to Bedgebury Pinetum, where you can take a relaxing stroll through the 350 acres of awe-inspiring countryside.
The 12,000 different trees are grown and protected as part of conservation efforts and they include giant redwoods, whose incredible size make this area one of the most unique forests in the UK.
You can walk the various trails through this forest and the valley it inhabits, as well as around the various scenic lakes.
7. Look around Sissinghurst Castle Garden
Close to the town of Cranbrook, Sissinghurst Castle Garden is one of the most beautiful locations in Kent and should be on the itinerary for any couple looking to explore this area of the country.
Now a National Trust property, this incredible building was home to poet and author Vita Sackville-West and her husband Harold Nicholson, who transformed the gardens into what’s now a world-famous attraction.
The series of garden rooms contain unique designs and planting schemes unlike any other, and exploring them is a beautiful way to spend a day, especially when it’s sunny.
8. Relax at Whitstable
Whitstable is among the most popular tourist destinations in Kent, and it offers the perfect place to head to if you’re after a romantic getaway by the sea.
The long Tankerton Beach overlooks the Thames Estuary and has plenty of room to find a quiet spot to yourselves, and the sea is always inviting if you’re looking for a refreshing dip.
Take a walk around the town centre and you’ll find plenty of independent shops, cute cafes, and delicious bakeries which are worth exploring, while the various pubs and bars offer cosy venues in which to relax with a drink.
9. Explore the Isle of Sheppey
One of the most interesting areas of Kent for couples to visit is the Isle of Sheppey, an island off the north coast of the county that’s connected to the mainland via two bridges
Along with containing beautifully peaceful beaches and nature reserves, including Elmley and The Swale, Sheppey has a rich history, being the birthplace of British aviation and the location of the first flight in the country.
You can also explore the several towns and villages on the island, such as the popular holiday destination of Leysdown which contains a beach with plenty of amenities.
10. Visit Chartwell
Formerly the home of Winston Churchill, Chartwell is a National Trust property that offers incredible views of the Weald of Kent as well as its own picturesque gardens to discover.
For couples looking for a longer walk, you can also explore the woodland and trails that are part of the Chartwell estate, which is especially perfect if you’ve got a dog with you.
You can also visit Churchill’s studio and admire the largest collection of his works. They contain landscapes of the area around Chartwell, as well as other locations from his travels, such as Africa and North America.
Things to do in Kent for Couples FAQs
When’s the best time to visit Kent?
For couples wanting to visit Kent, the best time of year to go is out of season to avoid school holidays. May and September are perfect months to go, as it’ll be quiter but also improves the chances of having good weather for when you explore the beaches and countryside around Kent.
What are the top places to visit in Kent?
Canterbury is very much the heart of Kent and is the perfect size those looking for romantic city breaks in the UK.
If you’re interested in a trip to the seaside, Broadstairs should be at the top of your list to visit, whereas Sissinghurst Castle Gardens is one of hte most impressive places to visit in the country.
What are the best free things to do in Kent for couples?
One of the best free things to do in Kent for couples is enjoying a day at the beach. Pick a spot on a sunny day in somewhere like Broadstairs or Margate and you relax, play games in the sand, or even take a dip in the sea.
