Historic Cities, Towns & Dockyards - Kent

Thursday

Depart from Henley we travel to Kent, arriving during the afternoon at the Bridgewood Manor for our 4-night stay.

Friday

After breakfast we will visit the historic city of Rochester, known for its connections to Charles Dickens and its cathedral, the second oldest foundation in England. Next we head for nearby Chatham, where we visit the fascinating Historic Naval Dockyard, a vast treasure trove of all things nautical. Here we enjoy the official Call the Midwife Tour. This popular TV series has captured hearts of millions of TV viewers over the years with our exciting tour introducing you to some of the props, costumes, and sets, all lead by a costumed midwife! After you have free time to explore the dockyard at leisure.

Saturday

Todays excursion take us first via the picture postcard village of Chilham, with its many half-timbered houses and castle, often the location for TV programmes and films. Later, we continue to historic Canterbury. The city is dominated by the magnificent Cathedral, now a World Heritage Site, and the city is centre being very compact, is best explored on foot or by horse drawn carriage.

Sunday

This morning we enjoy a visit to award-winning Chapel Down Vineyard & Winery where a guided tour and tasting session is included. We then head into historic Tenterden, a charming town with an attractive tree-lined High Street and interesting shops. There will be some free time here before we continue to magnificent Leeds Castle, renowned as the home of Henry VIII's first wife. Catherine of Aragon, and justly described as 'the loveliest castle in the world' with over 1000 years of history.

Monday

Departing our hotel we head to Royal Tunbridge Wells. This historic spa town has welcomed visitors for over 400 years. Browse among the chic independent shops of the colonnaded Pantiles and the High Street, with buzzy cafes and bars, before returning home during late afternoon.