St. Martins

The Church of St Martin in Herne sits quietly on the outskirts of Whitstable, a proper working parish church that's been doing its thing since Norman times. What strikes you first is how unselfconscious it is - no visitor centre, no gift shop, just solid Kent flint and history getting on with the job. The interior's genuinely interesting if you like church architecture: there's a 13th-century chancel, some decent stained glass, and the sort of worn flagstones that tell you centuries of locals have walked this same path.

This works best for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs rather than casual tourists. You're looking at maybe 20 minutes inside, longer if you're the type to read every memorial and squint at the details. The churchyard itself is quite pleasant for a wander, particularly if you've got an interest in local genealogy - plenty of old stones to explore.

Admission appears to be free, though it's worth checking ahead as opening hours aren't widely advertised. Spring and summer are obviously nicer for the churchyard, though the building itself is worth a look year-round. If you're staying at Seaview Holiday Park just down the road or one of the other spots near Whitstable, it's an easy detour on a quiet morning before the town gets busy. Pair it with a proper walk around Whitstable's seafront or a visit to the nearby Canterbury sites if you're staying longer at any of the Canterbury-area parks - you've got enough to keep you occupied for a couple of days without overdoing it.