The county is home to some of the nation's oldest and traditional vineyards and has a fantastic collection of bars dotted along its beautiful coast and countryside. We pick out 10 of the top spots to chill out and enjoy a glass wine.

ABode, Canterbury - Michael Caines Champagne and Cocktail Bar

Located in the heart of Canterbury but away from the hustle and bustle of the shops, Michael Caines' Champagne and Cocktail Bar is one of the city's most fashionable places to enjoy a tipple or two. Take time out to enjoy the extensive choice of champagnes and wines served by the glass or bottle.

www.michaelcaines.com

Take a free guided walk around Kent's oldest commercial vineyard to see how the 10 different varieties of grapes are expertly nurtured to form Biddenden's distinctive red, rose and sparkling wine. Relax in the small, charming cafe in the vineyard shop and treat yourself to a bottle of your favourite wine to enjoy in the comfort of your own home after a free tasting session.

www.biddendenvineyards.com

Chapel Down Vineyard, Tenterden

Indulge in a deluxe visiting experience at Britain's leading winemaker, complete with samples of the award-winning wines and a delicious three-course meal at Richard Phillips' restaurant on the veranda, overlooking Tenterden's picturesque landscape. Chapel Down's original vineyard tours and tastings also provide a great value cultural day out.

www.englishwinesgroup.com

Creative Quarter, Folkestone

Experience the fascinating and creative regeneration of this modern harbour town by relaxing with a glass of wine at one of the latest trendy bars or after a mouth-watering meal at the exclusive Mark Sargeant Rocksalt restaurant, all providing a tranquil and informal atmosphere with breathtaking views over the harbour and seafront.

www.creativequarterfolkestone.com

Penshurst Place

The Garden Tea Room, which is set in the formal gardens of the beautifully picturesque Penshurst Place, has recently been refurbished and serves exceptional local wines and champagne, encouraging visitors to relax and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere of the gardens. Check out the Weald of Kent Craft Show yearly each September, providing tastings of the county's top wines.

www.penshurstplace.com

Quex Barn

Events like the Quex Craft Fayre in Birchington offer an excuse to enjoy a refreshing glass of wine. There are delicious barbecues, food stands and appetizing snacks on offer. The Quex Barn restaurant is fully licensed and supplies an excellent selection of wines with traditional lunches at sensible prices.

www.quexpark.co.uk

Shepherd Neame pubs and beer gardens

As Britain's oldest brewer, Shepherd Neame is nationally renowned for its distinctive and expertly produced ales. It offers a vast selection of traditional pubs and hotels with excellent beer gardens situated throughout the county, and their wine and spirit company, Todd's, provides a fantastic range of unique wines from all areas of the globe.

www.shepherdneame.co.uk

Secret Garden, Ashford

One of Kent's hidden gems, the Secret Garden is hidden away in delightful Mersham-le-Hatch yet is only minutes from the centre of Ashford. Take time out in the wonderful gardens while indulging in a glass of local wine accompanied by a first-class three-course meal or afternoon tea in the restaurant.

www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

Turner Contemporary at sunset

Wind down with a refreshing glass of wine accompanied by the Turner's seasonal menu or spoil yourself with a sparkling afternoon tea by the sea. Relax in the modern restaurant with breathtaking views as you watch the colours of the changing sky in the water and take advantage of an extensive wine list, which includes fine local wines and champagne.

www.turnercontemporary.org

Whitstable Harbour

This famous fishing and harbour town offers fine eateries and bars along its seafront, all of which serve delicious wines with distinctive tastes that perfectly complement Whitstable's famous oyster dishes. The recently reopened Pearson's Arms by Richard Phillips is only a pebble's throw from the sea and a wonderful haven. Karol Steele on www.mykent.co.uk describes Whitstable as "a place of stunning scenery, awe-inspiring sunsets and great pubs".

www.whitstableharbour.org