Near Canterbury Is A Historic Market Town With Quaint Shops, Nature Walks, And Britain's Oldest Brewery

Between its reputation as the "Garden of England" and its rich history, Kent County has a lot to offer its millions of annual visitors. But while attractions like the Canterbury Cathedral, Leeds Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover are already among the most popular sights, there's one charming medieval gem yet to be noticed by the masses. Faversham is a historic market town, home to over 20,000 residents. But this is not your average sleepy town with little to see and do. Boasting vibrant events and medieval streets lined with independent businesses, Faversham promises to keep itineraries full.

Faversham Market is one of the must-visits. Dating back back to at least 1086, it remains one of the town's most recognizable symbols. Speaking of historically significant attractions, Faversham's top highlight, according to Tripadvisor, is Shepherd Neame Brewery, Britain's oldest. After a tour, visitors can browse through the quaint, locally-owned shops selling everything from antiques to specialty products. Nature lovers might want to also take advantage of the area's trail network. Most loops and pathways are pretty easy.

You'll find Faversham right near Canterbury, about a 20-minute car ride away (or only 15 minutes if you're taking the train). London's also just over an hour away, which is especially convenient for those flying in. Like many surrounding hubs, Faversham is exceptionally walkable. The regional railway and bus networks connect you to many big cities and points of interest, so you might even want to keep this as a day trip.

The historic Faversham Charter Market, which you can attend every Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday in the town center, is Kent's oldest. It dates back to William the Conqueror's 11th-century Domesday Book, though all signs point to even older origins. Modern-day visitors can revel in the historical interest while browsing for local produce, home decor, plants, and trinkets. Alongside the triweekly events, Faversham also organizes two monthly markets: Best of Faversham and Faversham Antiques. The former is held on the first and third Saturday of the month and is a must-see for those looking to support local businesses and independent talent by purchasing original art pieces, crafts, and freshly-made food. The latter, usually organized on the first Sunday, is the only place of this scale in Kent offering second-hand treasures, collectibles, pre-loved furniture, and more. 

Shepherd Neame Brewery remains an unmissable highlight. While the business was officially founded in 1698, evidence of brewing on-site dates back to at least the 1570s, which is why Shepherd Neame Brewery is often touted as the oldest in Britain, as well as the entire U.K., per Family Business United. Today, you can experience one of their award-winning tours, which last 80 minutes and include insight into the practice of brewing, a visit to the Old Brewery Store, and a tasting of specialty lagers and Kentish ales. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides. Those looking to switch things up a bit can travel 30 miles to Walmer, a quaint coastal town with beach beauty, tasty eats, and a castle.

Faversham's understated charm is cemented by its shopping scene. While there's no shortage of fun, locally-owned stores to explore around town, Upstairs Downstairs Antiques and Collectables is one of the must-visits. Hosting over 20 dealers spread over two floors, this is a place where you can browse through collectibles, French furniture, World War memorabilia, handmade jewelry, and more. There are also tea rooms where you can nibble on fresh cakes and sip on tea — all served in antique china. Even the Victorian building itself, highlighted by Bullion-ed windows and high ceilings, is worth admiring. 

Next, you can stop by The Yarn Dispensary, an award-winning yarn store selling not only a variety of high-quality threads plus needles, hooks, and gauges, but also pre-made artisanal pieces and knitting classes. Reviewers rave about the warm, inviting atmosphere. Still, no well-rounded Kent getaway would be complete without experiencing the county's outdoorsy allure. Many might already know that this is where you'll find Dungeness, "Britain's only desert" and a one-of-a-kind, surreal beachscape, but not everyone explores Faversham's trail network.

There are eight loops taking visitors through Faversham's green spaces and its surrounding natural areas. Start with The Two Creeks Walk. This easy, 5-mile pathway takes you through marshes, grain fields, and historic shorelines while also providing boating and wildlife watching opportunities. It follows the Faversham and Oare creeks, providing access to rare plant species like hog's fennel. The Footsteps of Royalty and Romans walk is another option for those looking for something more challenging. It passes gardens, farms, and orchards, but the 6.5-mile trek can take up to three hours. Keep the adventures going by planning a day trip to Margate, a coastal town with sandy beaches, art galleries, and a mysterious underground grotto.