A free new visitors' guide has been launched to help tourists and residents find their way around Swale.

When overseas travel became off-limits during the pandemic, families desperate for a break began to look at what Britain - and Swale - had to offer and soon realised there's plenty of beauty spots and bustling venues to discover on the doorstep.

Businesses, and Swale council, have embraced the resurgence of the 'staycation' and have been working hard behind the scenes to ensure the borough is ready for the new holiday season which begins on April 1.

To mark the event, KM Media Group has put together a Visit Swale booklet packed with recommendations for great days out.

It features exclusive guides to the best award-winning beaches, tips on hidden gems to explore and ideas on where to eat and stay.

There is an events calendar, a map and suggestions on how to spend 24 hours on Sheppey, Sittingbourne and Faversham.

KM Editor Denise Eaton said: "Swale is the perfect mix of coast and countryside, showing off the very best of Kent.

"Whether you head to one of Sheppey’s three award-winning beaches, including the golden mile of sand in Leysdown, stroll through Sittingbourne’s stunning country parks, or explore the pretty medieval market town of Faversham, there are plenty of places to admire and enjoy either alone, with a group of friends or a family gathering."

History buffs are well catered for with a list of fascinating museums, including details of Kent’s historic market town which is home to the oldest brewery in Britain.

Denise added: "Even on rainy days, Swale is bursting with indoor pools, amusement arcades, bowling alleys and cinemas to keep the whole family entertained.

"Whatever the weather, Swale has plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered."

There have been 18,000 copies of the 48-page glossy guide, which is sponsored by Swale council and Jimmy G's, printed. They are available from selected supermarkets, holiday parks, restaurants, pubs, cafes and Visitor Information Centres.

To keep up to date with everything happening in Swale, pick up a copy of the Sheerness Times Guardian, Sittingbourne News or Faversham News or click onto Kent Online to view Visit Swale.