Historical Kent

Kent has a rich history, dating back thousands of years to ancient Celtic tribes who inhabited South East England. The prestigious title, Garden of England, was apparently bestowed on Kent some 400 years ago when Henry VIII tried a bowl of Kentish Cherries and was utterly delighted with the flavour sensation. 

It’s one of the oldest counties in England, with 17000 listed buildings. Kent is also an important maritime county with its historic dockyards, cinque ports, sea defences and Royal Navy connections. And of course, it’s famous for its oast houses, medieval villages, stunning castles, the finest stately homes and significant religious sites including the mother church of Anglican Christianity. 

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Kent is also proud to be a home country to many legendary figures from various creative backgrounds throughout the centuries. The Garden of England inspired many greatest artists and writers in the world’s history, such as Charles Dickens who lived and worked in North Kent and was very fond of Kentish walks and whose links have been celebrated in Rochester during Christmas for over 30 years now, JMW Turner whose favourite seaside town of Margate is now home to internationally renowned Turner Contemporary Gallery and of course not to forget Christopher Marlow Canterbury – born Elizabethan tragedian.