Local Nature Attractions

Exploring Kent’s Gardens

Kent is known as the “Garden of England” for a reason. With beautiful coastlines, stunning countryside and picturesque scenery, there is plenty to see and explore. Let’s have a look at some of the ways you can enjoy Kent, all within close proximity of the Marquis at Alkham.

Walks Around Alkham

Alkham is a beautiful village in Kent set in an area of outstanding natural beauty with gorgeous scenery and plenty of public footpaths to enjoy a walk. These walks range from shorter walks through the idyllic local countryside to longer walks to Ewell Minnis and St Radigunds. Whichever walk you choose to do, you’re sure to enjoy some beautiful countryside and local wildlife.

North Down Trail

As one of only 15 national trails, walking along any of the 153 miles the North Downs Trail offers is sure to provide you with amazing scenery, beautiful landscapes and picturesque villages. There are a number of walks you can choose to do along the trail and you don’t have to walk the trail in one go to enjoy what it offers. While the trail is mainly used by walkers, if walking isn’t your thing, you’re more than welcome to enjoy the trail by bike or horse also.

Lower Leas Coastal Park

Opened at the start of the millennium, the Coastal Park is split into three zones which means there’s something for everyone. The first zone is the formal zone, which includes beautiful pine avenues, wonderful gardens and pretty flowers. The second zone is the fun zone, which has a large free adventure play area as well as an amphitheatre. The final zone is the wild zone, an area cultivated for local wildlife to thrive.

Lower Sandgate Rd, Folkestone CT20 2JP

Westgate Gardens

Situated close to the centre of Canterbury, the gardens offer history of 2000 years dating back to Roman times. Within the Westgate gardens are attractions such as a 600-year-old gatehouse, a 200-year-old Oriental plane tree and a Victorian tower house. The picturesque gardens and river walks offer a great space to enjoy the outside.

St Peter’s St, Canterbury CT1 2BQ

Emmett’s Garden

Part of the National Trust, Emmett’s Garden is a large estate with stunning views over the Weald and a garden for all seasons. Highlights include exotic trees, rare plants and shrubs from all over the world.

Ide Hill, Sevenoaks TN14 6BA

The Secret Gardens of Sandwich

Named “secret” due to the old stone wall around it, the secret gardens of Sandwich include 3.5 acres of beautiful gardens along with an amazing Grade 1 listed manor house. In recent years, these gardens have undergone a complete revamp meaning they are now one of the finest gardens in Kent.

The Salutation, Knightrider St, Sandwich CT13 9EW

RSPB

For a closer look at nature, discover what’s on with the RSPB this season. Whether it’s participating in one of their walks to see the local wildlife up close or attending a specialist session to talk to some RSPB experts, if you’re a fan of nature, their events aren’t to be missed.

Elham Valley

With its location in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Elham Valley is the epitome of tranquillity. Enjoy a walk in the unspoiled countryside and taking a break in one of the valley’s local village pubs along the way. The perfect way to relax!

Royal Military Canal

As one of Kent’s most fascinating landmarks, the Royal Military Canal offers visitors the chance to explore its history along the 28 mile stretch across various towns in Kent, including Rye and Hythe. Along its public path, you’ll never be far from places of interest or refreshments.

Contact The Marquis at Alkham

With miles of rolling countryside, picturesque villages and public footpaths, Alkham is a great place to base yourself. Located in the Alkham Valley, The Marquis, a 200-year-old former village inn offers a country restaurant with rooms. Winning awards such as the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence and being featured in publications such as the Michelin Guide mean you’re sure to love your visit here. Our seasonal menu offers amazing food, and our country rooms provide you with the perfect place to stay.

To book, use our online booking button or contact us via phone on 01304 873410 or email at [email protected]. We’d love to hear from you.