Golf Guide to Kent

The marvellous county of Kent has many outstanding features and it prides itself on its rich and steep history. It will play host to the 149th Open Championship in July and although the district is revered amongst the golf community, its reputation is deeper than its extraordinary connotations with the sport of golf.

The county is located within the south-east of England and borders Greater London to the north, Surrey to the west and East Sussex to the south-west. Canterbury Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in England, allowing visitors to walk among the same footsteps that graced the building over 1,000 years ago.

Due to its coastline and entry into the land of England, the area became a vicious aerial warzone during the Battle of Britain, with many of its resident witnessing the carnage that the skirmish caused. Kent produces an abundance of fruit and hops, which has resulted in the country being known as ‘The Garden of England’. Tourism is a major industry for the local economy and due to its desirable assets, it is one of the most visited destinations in England.

Where To Play | Golf Course Map | Weather

Kent Golf Courses
Local Info
Travel Info
Things to do

Kent have an array of splendid golf courses that aren’t only historical but provide the sternest tests of golf. Three golf clubs have hosted The Open Championship inside the county and it is often described as the best location for golf within the south of England.

Royal St George’s, Prince’s Golf Club and Cinque Ports all share the same coastline. Away from the more popular golf clubs lie hidden gems and difficult challenges. There are almost 100 golf courses in Kent, which provides virtually limitless choice as to where you tee it up.

A testament to the standard of sublime golfing facilities in the county is the fact that it has hosted The Open Championship on 17 occassions and it was the first hosting away from Scotland.

Kent is a large county that homes slightly less than 2 million residents. Considering its large locality, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied. Below, we provide details for tourist information centres, helping you to make an informed decision when discovering new activities that don’t involve the golf course.

The Climate

Another appealing reason to visit Kent is that it’s not prone to extreme weather, resulting in the area being an ideal destination all-year round. In the summertime, you’ll typically experience warm weather but not overbearing heat. However, during the colder months, expect a traditional English winter – which isn’t immune to the occasional snowfall.

There will be two primary travel options for those that reside in England and that’s either via train or by car. However, for those who are based in Ireland, Northern Ireland or Scotland, air travel may be more convenient.

Travel Information

Car

All times listed is the journey from the location noted to Kent.

Liverpool – 4 hours
Manchester – 4 hours
Bristol – 2 hours 30 minutes
Nottingham – 3 hours
Cardiff – 3 hours
Newcastle – 5 hours
Edinburgh – 7 hours
London – 1 hour
Birmingham – 3 hours

Train

Liverpool – 3 hours
Manchester – 3 hours
Bristol – 3 hours
Nottingham – 3 hours
Cardiff – 4 hours
Newcastle – 4 hours
Edinburgh – 6 hours
London – 45 minutes
Birmingham – 3 hours
Luton – 2 hours

Plane

You won’t be able to fly directly to Kent. Luton is the closest airport and you may be required to get a train from there.

Dublin – 1 hour
Edinburgh – 1 hour
Belfast – 1 hour

Considering its close links to the capital of England, Kent is viewed as an ideal location for a weekend getaway. What makes this such an attractive destination is the beautiful countryside, sensational coastline and vibrant towns and cities that are easily reached from one another. Both Stagecoach and Arriva are operating throughout the Kent area, which results in ultimate ease if you are planning to visit different areas of the county. Additionally, P&O Ferries and Eurotunnel le Shuttle carry visitors across the channel to Kent on a daily basis.

Considering its large size, there are endless activities to keep you and your family occupied when in Kent.

Things to do

Whether you’re a fan of live music, enriching yourself with the abundant history that the area contains or if you want to get up-close-and-personal with some wildlife, Kent has it all.

Wildwood Trust

The Wildwood Trust is a centre of excellence for the conservation of British Wildlife and in 2002, it became a registered charity. It homes over 200 native animals and its setting is a mesmerising ancient woodland where visitors to the park can witness bears, wolves, owls, foxes, wild boar and many more wild animals. During the summertime, the trust will be operating in the evenings, allowing visitors to get close to the wildlife that reside within the park.

Dover Castle

Dover Castle has such a rich history and, through the events and shows put on by the staff, you’ll be given an opportunity to refresh your history of England. You can explore recreated rooms that are filled with colourful furnishings and your imagination will be used to reflect on how drastically different life once was. On weekends throughout the summer, English Heritage will be bringing Dover Castle’s history to life with costumed characters who will reveal the involvement of the castle during the front line of the Second World War.

Rock The Mote

Are you a fan of live music? If so, Rock The Mote is an absolute must-attend festival that will celebrate the history of rock and roll. It will be located in Mote Park, which is based in Maidenhead, across the 7th and 8th of August 2021. You can expect performances from the country’s top tribute bands such as: Muse, Queen, Ed Sheeran and many more. Tickets will cost anywhere between £25 to £40 and Saturday tickets are running low.

Sandwich

Sandwich is a historic town and civil parish, which is within the Dover vicinity. The town was one of the Cinque Ports and it still has many original medieval buildings for tourists to visit. With a population of 4,985, it is small in size but there are many things to do to make your day memorable. You can visit the Guildhall Museum, displaying the history of sea battles, Sandwich at war and other notable historical moments in the town’s past. Additionally, a river tour is available and they take place all-year round – they also act as a mode of transport to and from Richborough Roman Fort

Dungeness Beach

Dungeness Beach is a unique and marvellous destination. If you held the thought of golden sand beaches then you may be in for a shock at the vast shingles that the beach lies upon. It is technically classified as a desert but that has not stopped up to 600 species of wildlife, plants and rare inspects from habituating its environment. Angling is a popular activity here and during the summertime months, the Snack Shack operates to serve up scrumptious seafood.

Dining

As well as its rich history, Kent also has plentiful restaurants within the district. Whether you’re in the mood for an Indian, curious to trial a French bistro or you’re looking for a traditional menu, the county has it all.

The Frog and Scot

The Frog and Scot is a French bistro that is located in the beautiful coastal town of Deal. The restaurant was included in both the 2020 Michelin Guide and the Good Food Guide. During lockdown, the establishment went through a revamp that has improved its setting and general appeal. On the menu you can find: grilled lobster, baked pollack, pigeon breast, sevenscore asparagus, custard tart and cherry clafoutis.

Coppers

Coppers is located in Hythe and it is a unique and stylish authentic Indian restaurant. Their vision is to create a buzz and further expose the taste and style of Indian culture. The modern café provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere and the venue can host large groups. The restaurant offers: samosa aloo matar, dahi puri, dalcha gosht, shahi paneer and they also present extensive vegetarian and vegan options.

The Canopy Bar & Kitchen

Kent is an inclusive and varied district of England and it is reflected in their diverse eating choices. However, if you’re looking for something a smidge more traditional, then The Canopy Bar & Kitchen has you covered. Based in Maidstone, they offer a wide range of drinks and Wi-Fi. If you’re feeling peckish, you can order: smashed burger, hummus and baba ghanoush and a warm chocolate brownie.

Namaste Indian Restaurant

Located in Sandwich Bay is Namaste Indian Restaurant, a traditional yet stylish Indian cuisine that continues to serve happy tourists. Accompanying the terrific service is a fine selection of beers and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. As you walk through Namaste’s doors, the entre staff will offer you friendly service and provide helpful comment on the food that they serve. On the menu, you can find: lamb rogan josh, malai kofta and prawn biryani.

The Zetland Arms

The Zetland Arms has a fantastic setting for an eatery – as you’ll be overlooking the beach in Kingsdown, Deal. You’ll be located so closely to the waterfront that it will be possible for you to skim a stone into the ocean from the patio seating area! Not only do you experience sensational views of the expansive water, but you’ll also be indulging in some of the most premium seafood that Kent has to offer. Away from locally caught food and other options include: sandwiches, burgers and ever-changing daily specials. This establishment is located closely to Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, Prince’s Golf Club and Royal St George’s.

The Crispin Inn

Sometimes, there’s nothing more appealing than true pub grub. If you’re in the mood for a traditional dish during your travels in Kent, then there are seldom better options than The Crispin Inn, which is also located in Sandwich Bay. First built in 1491, it originally operated as a dwelling house which was smaller in size before its modern business use. During the summertime, the expansive patio is open for customers and food will be served until 8:30 PM.