The White Tower

You'll spot this sturdy flint structure standing alone on the Thanet marshes near Birchington - it's a proper medieval watchtower, built sometime in the 13th century to keep an eye on shipping and any unwelcome visitors from across the water. The White Tower is exactly what it sounds: a defensive tower, nothing grand or heavily decorated, just functional stone work that's somehow survived seven centuries of Kent weather and neglect.

What you actually get is a straightforward historical site - the tower itself is viewable from outside, and depending on when you visit, there may be access to climb inside for a modest fee, though hours are irregular so best check ahead. You're looking at maybe 30 minutes here unless you're genuinely into medieval fortifications, in which case the quietness is rather lovely. Bring binoculars if you're keen on spotting birds across the marshland.

History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile, particularly those interested in medieval coastal defence. It's not flashy or touristy - there's no café, no gift shop, just the tower and the landscape. Families with young children might find it underwhelming unless they're already hooked on medieval history. The walk across the marshes is flat and accessible, though muddy in winter.

Stay at Birchington Vale Holiday Park just 0.7 miles away and you've got easy access to this corner of Thanet's forgotten defences. It slots neatly into a broader ramble around the north Kent coast - combine it with Birchington's seafront and you've got a decent afternoon sorted.