Folkestone harbour arm – The Folkestone harbour arm is roughly 30 minutes from the Canterbury campus, it is a vibrant and fun strip of different businesses and restaurants which stretches into the Folkestone Harbour, therefore providing idyllic views of the English Channel alongside a vast collection of different foods and a Champagne bar at the end of the arm!
Canterbury cathedral – Just a short walk from the University, the Cathedral is a Norman-era building with ornate windows and an extremely rich history. Entry for Kent students to the cathedral is free, if you show your student ID. The cathedral offers a wide range of facilities to ensure that each visitor may enjoy its rich history and stunning architecture.
Ashford designer outlet– The Ashford designer outlet has over 80 of your favourite brands which include Abercrombie & Fitch, All Saints, Jack Wills, Kurt Geiger, Links of London, Polo Ralph Lauren, Ted Baker, Tommy Hilfiger and more all at up to 60% off the RRP. There’s something for everyone and within the beautiful settings, you’ll also find children’s play areas, cafes and restaurants. Treat yourself to a Pizza Express,Wagamama’s or a snack from Patisserie Valerie or Caffè Nero. And with the exciting news that Ashford Borough Council has approved plans for expansion, there will soon be 38 new stores, restaurants and cafes. The expansion is scheduled for opening in 2019, establishing Ashford designer outlet as the south east’s premier shopping destination.
White cliffs of Dover– The white cliffs of Dover are the most famous symbol of the channel port in Kent. The white cliffs are a recognizable landmark to those approaching the port of Dover from the English Channel. But not only people on the sea can wonder in their beauty. Thousands of people walk on the cliff’s top paths during the season and enjoy the unique flora and fauna that can be found only here. The cliffs are a symbol for Britons everywhere.
Goodnestone Park gardens Goodnestone Park gardens is a peaceful and romantic garden with connections to Jane Austen. It has been described by various writers as ‘the very heart of rural England’, ‘one of the loveliest gardens in Kent’, ‘a haven of beautiful tranquility hidden away in south east Kent’. Discover the place where Jane Austen penned parts of Pride and Prejudice in 1796. This exquisite privately owned stately home has recently been restored to critical acclaim. A favourite place to stay for Jane Austen in the 19th century and the producer of Downton Abbey in the 21st. Available to hire for that special occasion.
Port Lympne reserve- Near the town of Hythe in Kent, Port Lympne reserve is set in 600 acres of land and incorporates
the historic mansion and landscaped gardens designed by architect Sir Herbert Baker for Sir Philip Sassoon during World War One. The estate near Lympne was purchased in 1973 by John Aspinall to solve lack of space at Howletts Wild Animal Park, and it was opened to the public in 1976. Since 1984 the animal park has been owned by a charity (The John Aspinall Foundation). The collection is known for being unorthodox, for the encouragement of close personal relationships between staff and animals, and for their breeding of rare and endangered species. Royalty and many other famous people have stayed at the mansion at the centre of the park. The rooms are lavishly decorated and the landscaped gardens have stunning views of Romney Marsh.
Howletts wild animal park-(formerly known as Howletts Zoo) was set up as a private zoo in 1957 by John Aspinall near Canterbury, Kent. The animal collection was opened to the public in 1975. Steve Irwin visited the park in 2004 and described the park’s gorillas as “the finest in the world”.
Turner Contemporary– With stunning views over Margate sands and free entry to all exhibitions, Turner Contemporary makes great art accessible to all. The Turner Contemporary has many superb and exciting exhibits, therefore visit today to be inspired!
By Oliver Daws, current Kent student