Get off the beaten track to discover the county’s best kept secrets

Canterbury Historic River Tours

This 40-minute tour will take you on a journey like no other; be chauffeured by extraordinarily talented individuals who are extremely knowledgeable about the history of the different buildings but at the same time add a very humorous touch to the journey. The tour starts at Kings Bridge and makes its way around the city’s peaceful backwaters before arriving back at the Ducking Stool.

www.canterburyrivertours.co.uk

Chiddingstone Castle

A tranquil and exciting treasure set in 35 acres of beautiful grounds. It houses stunning Egyptian and Buddhist artefacts, magnificent Japanese armour and beautiful Jacobean paintings. For a fun and educational family day out, visit during one of their many events when you can discover Samurai warriors, Egyptian tombs and enjoy nature trials around the grounds.

www.chiddingstonecastle.org.uk

Down House, Downe

The home of Charles Darwin holds a unique place in the history of science. See where Darwin’s studies began and where he wrote On the Origin of Species. Enjoy a walk through the recently restored gardens – Darwin’s Outdoor Laboratory – and follow in his footsteps along his famous 'thinking path’, the Sandwalk. Also take time to marvel at the array of orchids and carnivorous plants on display and witness a hive of activity in the bee observatory.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/home-of-charles-darwin-down-house

Finchcocks Musical Museum, Goudhurst

This stunning Georgian manor set in a beautiful garden, surrounded by parkland, houses more than 100 historical keyboard instruments, of which more than 40 are in full working order. This is truly a living museum with informal entertaining demonstrations of the instruments for all visitors, which are as appealing to the non-musician as they are to the specialist. Concerts and events throughout the year.

www.finchcocks.co.uk

Marle Place Gardens & Gallery, Brenchley

This is a privately owned Wealden garden, with 10 acres of formal planting and many more acres of woodland and orchard. It is a plantsman and artist’s garden, featuring a Victorian gazebo, Edwardian rockery and walled fragrant garden. A restored 19th century greenhouse with orchid collection, mosaic terrace and ornamental pond add to the interest as does a gallery which houses exhibitions by contemporary painters, sculptors, potters and makers, on show and for sale.

www.marleplace.co.uk

Powell-Cotton Museum, Quex House and Gardens, Birchington

A fine regency country house with the added attraction of a world-class private museum. Collections include stunning objects and animals from Africa and Asia, weaponry, cannon, local archaeology, rare Chinese and European porcelain. There are also superb, accessible gardens. Also at Quex Park you will find a craft centre, falconry, children’s indoor play area and Quex Barn indoor farmers’ market with restaurant.

www.quexmuseum.org

The Secret Gardens of Sandwich

Experience the breathtaking scenery as you walk around the calm and serene Lutyens- designed gardens. After 25 years of lying neglected, the Secret Gardens have undergone a remarkable transformation in the last four years to restore them to their original beauty.

www.the-secretgardens.co.uk

South Foreland Lighthouse, Dover

This distinctive, historic landmark with unrivalled views is well worth the walk along the White Cliffs. It was the site of Faraday’s work in pioneering the use of electricity in lighthouses, and was the first to display an electrically powered signal. A mykent.co.uk explorer, Neil Anthony, describes it as “an important landmark and simply great to view in all weather conditions at all times of the year.”

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-southforelandlighthouse

Tonbridge boasts Kent’s best example of a Motte-and-Bailey Gatehouse. Yet its glory lies not only in what can be seen. Its story is interwoven with that of kings and archbishops, tyrants and heroes, murderers and mercenaries who, on this ancient site and inside the weathered stone walls, have helped write 900 years of English history.

www.tonbridgecastle.org

Originally built as part of a chain of coastal artillery defences during the reign of King Henry VIII, the castle evolved into the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. The Duke of Wellington held the post for 23 years and in recent years the Queen Mother made regular visits to the castle. Along with the fascinating history at the castle there are also magnificent gardens, a woodland walk and some excellent bird-spotting opportunities.

www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/walmer-castle-and-garden