The heart of Kent seems to embody everything good about England. Villages like Biddenden and Goudhurst have delightfully unspoiled timbered houses lining their main streets. Goudhurst's church clock chimes the hour for everyone along the High Street, and you can climb this same tower to take in views that extend for miles all around.
You'll fall in love with the calming, gentle beauty of the area's rolling hills and the small copses that sit in the middle of fields. Leafy country lanes meander through a patchwork of farmland and roll past cone-shaped oast houses.
You can go exploring along footpaths and cycle routes that criss-cross the landscape. And what better way is there to relax after a hard day's walking than a meal in a country pub?
If you have young children, places like the Rare Breeds Centre will let them make friends with weird and wonderful animals. History buffs will be intrigued by how Kent has been the stage on which major events in British history have been played out, including the Roman invasion and the Battle of Britain.
Still, many people only think of Kent as the 'Garden of England', growing fresh produce for the nation. Holidaymakers often drive past to reach ferries to France. But the county has so much more going for it than fruit, veg and ferries. The heart of Kent is home to histro ric houses, castles, museums, animal parks, walks, cycle trails and steam railways. There is something to interest everyone, making it a fantastic place for a family holiday.

SEE ALSO IN THE OCT 2006 ISSUE OF PRACTICAL CARAVAN
The Great Outdoors, Holiday Hints, Nature Notes, Contacts, History and Culture, Foodies' Corner, Holiday Souvenirs, Family Fun, Festivals & Events

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