Kent Coast & the Historic Cinque Ports

SANDWICH,

WALMER CASTLE & GARDENS & DOVER (FULL DAY): We begin our day in Sandwich, one of the original five Cinque Ports in Kent. Today it is a Conservation Town boasting one of the best-preserved medieval centres in England, with a large number of surviving Medieval and Georgian buildings and a charming quayside flanked by Medieval buildings including the Barbican, Tollbridge and Fishergate. We also visit the historic Walmer Castle & Gardens (with admission included). Perched on the picturesque Kent coastline, this English Heritage site was built during the reign of King Henry VIII and is still the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Later, we return to our hotel via Dover, famous for its iconic White Cliffs and the only one of the original Cinque Ports which remains a working port today.

FOLKESTONE

(FULL DAY): In the quaint regenerated streets of Folkestone, you will discover cutting-edge art in its unique Creative Quarter, where you can explore pastel-painted studio-galleries and indulge in quirky stores, laid-back bars, and chic eateries. The mile-long cliff-top promenade of The Leas is also a short stroll away, offering sea views to France. It's easy to see why this lovely town has been home to many famous people including HG Wells, who once lived and worked here.

HYTHE, ROMNEY,

RYE & HASTINGS (FULL DAY): Travel first to Hythe, one of Kent's first Cinque Ports where fine medieval buildings and a Victorian promenade help retain a nostalgic feel. We continue via Romney, originally a seaport but now over a mile inland and medieval Rye, now an antiques centre considered one of the best-preserved of the ancient Cinque Ports with its quaint cobbled streets and smuggler's inns. Our main stop of today is in the seaside resort of Hastings, location for the popular TV series, Foyles War, it lies between the Sussex Weald and the English Channel. The famous Battle of Hastings took place a few miles north of the town and in ancient times it was one of the important Cinque Ports that defended the South Coast with local men and ships providing fleets in pre-navy times.