Sandwich

Medieval streets wind through one of England's best-preserved Cinque Ports, where half-timbered buildings lean conspiratorially over cobblestones that have seen eight centuries of history. Sandwich feels like a town that time forgot - in the very best way. The River Stour curves lazily around its edges, creating a natural moat that once made this place a formidable fortress.

Wander down Strand Street and you'll find shops tucked into buildings that Shakespeare might have recognised. The Guildhall still dominates the market square, just as it did when Sandwich was England's premier port. These days, the town moves at a gentler pace - perfect for exploring on foot without the crowds that swamp Canterbury or Dover.

Nature lovers should head straight for Betteshanger Park, a brilliant example of how former colliery land can be transformed into proper countryside. The trails here are excellent, and Kent Mining Museum tells the fascinating story of the area's industrial past. If you fancy a laugh, don't miss the Famous Ham Sandwich Sign - yes, it's exactly what it sounds like, and locals are rather proud of their wordplay.

The surrounding East Kent countryside offers some cracking walking through Raedbrook Wood, while Eastry's St Mary the Virgin Church is worth the short drive for its Norman architecture. Dover's just 20 minutes down the A256, making day trips to the White Cliffs dead easy.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to nip into town for dinner at one of the proper pubs, yet far enough out to enjoy the Kent countryside at its most unspoiled. The coast at Deal is a mere 15 minutes away too.