As Kent takes its rightful place as Europe's top family holiday destination, we take a look at the rest of the best - and their local equivalents.

1. County Kerry, Ireland v Thanet

With its emerald green hills and rugged coastline, County Kerry certainly has a lot to offer. But then so does Thanet. Just look at Botany Bay, Broadstairs.

2. The Black Forest, Germany v Blean Woods

Er, ok. So Blean Woods lacks the fairy tale castles, impenetrable pine forests and world-renowned ham, but if it's peaceful strolls on a summer's evening, followe by a few pints in a nearby pub, Blean is a strong contender.

3. Budapest, Hungary v Rochester and Strood

It's one of the world's most beautiful cities, split in twain by the mighty River Danube, with Buda on west bank and larger Pest on the east. It sounds very much like Rochester and Strood.

4. Vorarlberg, Austria v the North Downs

The mountains and valleys of Vorarlberg attract hikers from across Europe, but have any of them tried the North Downs? With views across Kent and useful signs pointing the way to the nearest village pub, it's worth considering. And the hills are far less steep.

5. Aland Archipelago, Finland v The Isle of Sheppey

The mere existence of Leysdown means there is really no competition between these two. Certainly the Aland Archipelago is considerably less muddy, and it may well have more than 6,500 islands scattered across the marvelously clear waters of the Archipelago Sea, but does it have a choice of arcades? It does not.

6. Ibiza v The Casino Rooms, Rochester

Better parking. Literally, there's a massive car park right next door, which obviously makes The Casino Rooms a far more convenient choice.

7. Normandy, France v Dover

Normandy probably has better food. That we'll concede. But the coastline is a pale imitation of Dover's white cliffs.

8. Skomer and Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales v St Margaret's Bay

If it's wide, unspoilt beaches you're looking for, St Margaret's Bay can give anywhere a run for its money, even this Welsh beauty spot. Admittedly it's not quite as wide. And it's a bit pebbly in places.

9. Bohinj, Slovenia v Bewl Water

You can barely tell the difference between Bewl Water and Bohinij, generally agreed to be among Europe's most beautiful lakes.