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England’s oldest county is packed with more historic monuments and enticing castles than any other county in the land.
Hever Castle
The castle dates back to the 13th century and was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn. The castle houses historic 16th century Tudor portraits, furniture and tapestries. Other artefacts include two magnificent Books of Hours (prayer books), both signed and inscribed by Anne Boleyn. Costumed figures of Henry VIII and his six wives add to the atmosphere in the Long Gallery.
Canterbury Cathedral
St Augustine, sent by Pope Gregory the Great, arrived in 597AD as a missionary and became the first archbishop, establishing his seat (or 'Cathedra’) in Canterbury. In 1170 Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered in the cathedral and ever since thousands of pilgrims, as told most famously in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, have flocked to the city.
Knole, Sevenoaks
Knole’s fascinating links with kings, queens and nobility, as well as its literary connections with Vita Sackville-West and her friend Virginia Woolf, make this one of the most intriguing houses in England. Thirteen state rooms are laid out much as they were in the 18th century. They hold royal Stuart furniture and paintings by Gainsborough, Van Dyck and Reynolds as well as many 17th century tapestries. The house is in the centre of Kent’s last remaining deer park.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/knole
Leeds Castle
Leeds is known as 'the loveliest castle in the world’ and has been home to royalty, lords and ladies for almost 900 years. It has a special blend of history, glorious gardens, attractions and a full programme of special events. From Friday, August 12 to Sunday, August 14, families can enjoy children’s theatre with the enchanting tale of Snow White. Take a picnic, go in fancy dress and join the parade during the interval.
Penshurt Place & Gardens
Penshurst Place has been described as 'the grandest and most perfectly preserved example of a fortified manor house in all England’. It was once owned by Henry VIII, who used it as his hunting lodge while reputedly courting Anne Boleyn. Since 1552 it has been owned by the Sidney family. Until Sunday, September 4, find out what Regency children did for fun and have a go at games from the past.
Rochester Cathedral
The cathedral is England’s second oldest, having been founded in 604AD by Bishop Justus. The present building dates back to the work of the French monk, Gundulf, in 1080. The glorious Norman architecture of the nave, parts of the crypt, as well as one of the finest Romanesque facades in England, make this an inspirational place to visit. The cathedral also boasts John the Baptist’s fresco.
South Foreland Lighthouse
This distinctive, historic landmark with unrivalled views is well worth the walk along the White Cliffs. The building has a fascinating tale to tell: a beacon of safety guiding ships past the infamous Goodwin Sands; the first lighthouse powered by electricity and the site of the first international radio transmission.
Upnor Castle, near Rochester
Set in tranquil grounds in the heart of a riverside village, this rare example of an Elizabethan artillery fort was begun in 1559 and redeveloped in 1599, to protect warships moored at Chatham Dockyard. Despite a brave attempt, it entirely failed to do so in 1667, when the Dutch sailed past it to burn the English fleet at anchor.
Walmer Castle, near Deal
Built during the reign of King Henry VIII, Walmer Castle is one of the most fascinating visitor attractions in the South East. Originally designed as part of a chain of coastal artillery defences it evolved into the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. The Duke of Wellington held the post for 23 years and enjoyed his time spent at the castle and in more recent years the Queen Mother made regular visits to the castle.
Greatstone Sound Mirrors
Peta Godden shared her experience of Greatstone Sound Mirrors: "I visited the Sound Mirrors on a guided walk which is the only way to see them close up. Our guide was very knowledgeable and made a cold, wet afternoon very interesting. The Sound Mirrors are Scheduled Ancient Monuments and are very impressive when viewed so close. A piece of history that hopefully will be preserved for a long time."
