25 Quirky & Unusual Places To Stay In Kent (2023)
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Situated in the southeastern corner of England, Kent, often referred to as the “Garden of England,” is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and abundant orchards and hop gardens.
The county is steeped in history, with its roots stretching back to the Roman era. Its notable historic landmarks include the iconic white cliffs of Dover, the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral, and the regal Leeds Castle, which elegantly balances on two islands in a tranquil lake.
Unsurprisingly, all of this means that the county boasts an extensive number of quirky accommodation options for visitors to stay in during their trip.
1. Hever Castle Luxury Bed & Breakfast
Are you looking for the most unique places to stay in Kent? The Hever Castle Luxury Bed & Breakfast will provide you with just that!
Located in the village of Hever, Kent, near Eden-bridge, this 13th-century double-moated castle will take your breath away. The five-star hotel is set on 125 acres of formal gardens.
Hever Castle offers individual rooms, double rooms, four-bedroom cottages, deluxe rooms, and suites. Room prices can vary depending on the type.
Amenities:
- Free Parking
- Free WiFi
- On-site bar
- Non-smoking rooms
- Facilities for disabled visitors
2. Port Lympne Mansion Hotel
The Port Lympne Mansion Hotel is a historical vacation destination and a hotspot for animal and nature lovers. The hotel is situated in a fantastic setting of 15-acre gardens in the Port Lympne Wild Animal Reserve.
You can find this hotel in Hythe, a market town at the edge of Romney Marsh. You’d need to drive for about one to two hours to reach Hythe starting from London.
The historical mansion provides elegant, Edwardian-themed rooms for its guests. The century-old hotel accommodated notable historical figures, such as Sir Winston Churchill, Lawrence of Arabia, and Prince Edward.
Amenities:
- Free on-site parking
- Free WiFi
- Restaurant
- Room service
- Animal park exploration
3. Cathedral Gate Hotel
The Cathedral Gate Hotel is another history hotspot for guests looking for quirky accommodations. The hotel dates back to 1438, predating many structures in the area!
This hotel sits at the heart of Canterbury, a short walk from the Canterbury Cathedral. Driving takes around one and a half hours starting from London City.
Cathedral Gate Hotel boasts rustic rooms with wooden beams and sloping floors. Each room includes a television, telephone, hairdryers, and en-suite bathrooms.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Convenient parking spots
- Tea and Coffee-making facilities
- Full English breakfast
4. The Coastguard Lookout
Kent has some of the best and most unique hotels in England. And The Coastguard Lookout in Hunstanton will definitely make for the best holiday experience!
The Coastguard Lookout is 77 miles away from London City Airport. It’s located southeast of Dungeness National Nature Reserve.
The historic lookout sits on top of Old Hunstanton Cliff. So if you’re looking for exquisite sea views, The Coastguard Lookout is your best option.
This holiday spot brags two individual bedrooms, a living room, and a private garden. You’ll also get access to its kitchen, equipped with a microwave, dishwasher, and bathroom.
Amenities:
- Free private parking
- Free WiFi
- Private garden access
- Non-smoking facilities
5. Stone Court House
Stone Court House is one of the most popular guest houses in Kent. And as you may have guessed, the historical buildings were used for hearing cases of the town’s court!
You can find the guest house west of Maidstone’s Mote Park. If you’re coming in from the city, you’ll have to travel by train, bus, or shuttle, which can take one to two hours.
Stone Court House will provide superior, deluxe, and standard double bedrooms for its guests. Each room includes a wardrobe, smart TVs, private bathrooms, bed linens, and towels.
Amenities:
- Private garden access
- Free WiFi
- Full-day security service
- Coffee machine
- Shared lounge area
6. Dungeness Carriage
English people are notorious for transforming different structures into tourist destinations. And these converted railway carriage accommodations provide similar luxury and comfort as hotels!
You can find the best of these houses in Dungeness, Kent. That’s about a one to two hours drive from London City but less than an hour if you’re starting from Maidstone.
Dungeness Carriage sits at the tip of Kent’s coastal area, a stone’s throw from the district’s best beaches and the perfect spot to unwind. The accommodation boasts a light and cosy interior.
Amenities:
- Pet-friendly accommodation
- Baby-friendly facilities
- Modern kitchen appliances
7. Shepherd’s Hut by Tracy
Are you looking for a quick romantic getaway with your partner? Then consider booking a Shepherd’s Hut by Tracy, an Airbnb service in Kent.
This picturesque hut is in the middle of a vast, 18-acre countryside. So you and your spouse will enjoy the view of the rolling scenery of England’s garden in every direction.
Shepherd’s Hut by Tracy offers a comfortable double-bed space for its guests. The room also includes an oven, refrigerator, microwave, toaster, and kettle.
Amenities:
- Free parking on the premises
- Private backyard
- Kitchen access
- Open fire pit
- Hot and cold water
8. The Spa Hotel
Do you plan on visiting Royal Tunbridge Wells? Consider staying in The Spa Hotel, a luxurious country mansion near the Tunbridge Wells Train station.
The luxury hotel mansion is set in a spacious 14-acre parkland and gardens. And you and your family can enjoy its gymnasium, pool, sauna, tennis court, and captivating view!
The Spa Hotel caters to solo and group visitors. They have single, double, feature, deluxe, and even indulgent rooms with an extra-large double bed.
Amenities:
- Free parking for all guests
- Free WiFi
- Indoor swimming pool
- Indoor restaurant and bar
- Fitness Center
9. Leeds Castle Knights Glamping
Find Kent’s best glamping site 2 miles from the Hollingbourne Train Station, a 5-minute drive from the district’s M20 motorway.
Glamping simply means camping with luxurious facilities. And the Leeds Castle Knights Glamping offers a unique glamping experience with medieval and modern twists.
You can enjoy overnight stays in cosy medieval tents with stylish designs. These tents include double beds, reading lamps, chest drawers, and safety boxes.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Free Parking
- On-site restaurants
- Tea and coffee-making facilities
- Non-smoking rooms
10. Foxhill Lodges
There’s something special about relaxing in the country. So, if you’re ever exploring near Canterbury, why not visit the Fox Hill Lodges?
Foxhill is 4 miles from the Canterbury Cathedral and 3 miles from the Canterbury West Train Station. A short drive will let you unwind with Kent’s surrounding countryside.
This lodge offers deluxe rooms with double beds for its guests. Accommodations include air conditioning, a private bathroom, and an en-suite shower room.
Amenities:
- Free Parking
- Free WiFi
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Private hot tub
- Access to the private garden
11. Cave Hotel near Canterbury
Situated just 7 miles from Canterbury, Cave Hotel near Canterbury is one of the best hotels in Kent. They offer luxurious housing and feature top-notch amenities for visitors.
Guests can indulge in the hotel’s fine dining restaurants, with diverse dishes from different countries. Some of the best things you can only experience in a 5-star hotel!
There are a variety of room formats you can choose from in the Cave Hotel near Canterbury. They provide expansive bed spaces, including suites, penthouses, and rooms with golf views.
Amenities:
- Indoor swimming pools
- Golf course
- On-site restaurant
- Fitness centre
- Children’s playground
12. Leeds Castle Maiden’s Tower
The Maiden’s Tower is another historical site offering overnight accommodations in Kent. This bed and breakfast is on Broomfield Road, Maidstone, 41 miles from the nearest airport.
Leeds Castle Maiden’s Tower provides an exquisite view and experience for all its guests. And who would pass up the chance of dining in a structure straight out of a Bronte novel?
They have deluxe king rooms, double rooms, and twin rooms. Every unit has desks, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
Amenities:
- Full-time security service
- Picnic area
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Room snacks
- Continental breakfast options
13. Treehouse Hideaway
While some people prefer the comfort and convenience of hotels, others seek out the most unusual places to chill and unwind. So, if you love the strange and the quirky, you’ll surely enjoy Treehouse Hideaway.
You can find Treehouse Hideaway in a small village outside Canterbury, Kent. The site overlooks a wildlife park—guaranteeing peace and relaxation.
The Treehouse Hideaway offers two comfortable bedrooms for those who dare climb its trunks. It has a living area, kitchen, freezer, dishwasher, and everything else you need!
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Underfloor heating
- Own hot tub
- 70-inch surround sound cinema system
- Easy access to public transport
14. The Yarrow Hotel
Guests who love historical sites will appreciate The Yarrow Hotel. Initially built to house poor children in 1894, the structure is now owned by a local college and run by students!
This gorgeous 4-star hotel is in Broadstairs, a coastal town on the Isle of Thanet. You can reach this area from London City by train or by car.
The hotel caters to singles, couples, and families. They have classic, deluxe, and suite rooms, all with flat-screen televisions and toiletries.
Amenities:
- Free Wifi and parking
- Room service
- Spa and wellness facilities
- On-site restaurants
- Tea and coffee makers in all units
15. The Crescent Turner Hotel
Here’s a hotel with sceneries you can only find in a Bob Ross painting. The Crescent Turner is located in Wraik Hill near the coastal towns of Whitstable, an hour’s drive from London’s city centre.
The Crescent Turner offers some of the best sea views in Kent. Top it off with excellent accommodations, and you’ll have a memorable stay in Kent!
Rooms in the hotel are classic rooms and deluxe units overlooking Kent’s coastal beach. They cater to families, individual guests, and even large groups.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Family rooms
- Room service
- Facilities for disabled visitors
16. Broadstairs House Boutique B&B by the Sea
Are you looking for a holiday getaway on Kent’s sandy beaches? Book your reservation in the Broadstairs House Boutique B&B by the Sea, an ideal spot for beach lovers.
The location of this bed and breakfast gives you access to several Kent beaches. The site is a short distance from Viking Bay Beach, Joss Bay, Ramsgate Main Sands Beach, and more!
This B&B provides rooms for families and small groups. They have double, triple, and family rooms—all with private bathrooms, TVs, and iPod docking stations.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Non-smoking rooms
- Easy access to nearby gardens and castles
17. The Sun Hotel
Do you want a hotel with panoramic city views? The Sun Hotel’s units boast spectacular views of the bustling cathedral city.
The Sun Hotel is a mere 0.6 miles from the Canterbury West Train Station. They offer standard, family, and deluxe rooms with extra-large bed spaces.
These units include a flat-screen TV, free WiFi access, hairdryers, toiletries, and bed linens. Coffee lovers will also love the tea and coffee maker amenities!
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Tea and coffee makers in all units
- Non-smoking rooms
18. Five Bells Inn
This 16-century tavern is the archetypal country pub of Kent. The heavy timber tables, mismatched chairs, and ale-on-taps make an authentic medieval experience for guests.
The Five Bells Inn is in Brabourne, a village in the Ashford district, Kent. You can easily reach the area by car, taxi, bus, or train through the Great Western Railway.
Five Bells Inn offers four unique rooms named after Kentish hops and grapes. They have two one-bedroom suites, one deluxe suite, and one superior suite.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Non-smoking facilities
- Tea and coffee makers in all rooms
- On-site bar
19. Eastwell Manor Hotel and Spa
Eastwell Manor is a hotel with neo-Elizabethan aesthetics. The impressive structure was the home of notable English monarchs, such as Prince Alfred, Edward VII, and Queen Victoria.
The manor is in Boughton Lees, Ashford, east of London City. Surrounding the hotel is an exquisite garden with lush greeneries and attractive flowers.
Rooms in the Eastwell Manor are nothing short of magnificent. Guests can choose between standard, classic, deluxe, and suite units.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Sauna and steam rooms
- Heated outdoor swimming pools
- Wellness and fitness centre
- Access to scenic natural trails
20. Albion House
The Albion House sits atop Ramsgate’s East Cliff, a two-hour car drive from London City. This structure is another historic spot with excellent views of Kent’s coastal beaches.
Dating as far back as 1792, the house boasts antique furniture and some original features! Plus, the site is a few minutes walk from beaches, like Ramsgate Main Sands Beach.
Albion House has a total of 14 luxurious rooms for its guests. Tourists and visitors can choose from deluxe suites and king and queen rooms with TVs, private bathrooms, and showers.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Airport shuttle services
21. Hurst Farm B&B
Some people prefer trees, hills, and farms for a holiday destination. Fortunately, Kent’s countryside destinations are as impressive as those of the coastal areas!
Hurst Farm B&B is situated in Crockham Hill, a small village in the Sevenoaks, Kent district. It’s 5 miles Northwest of Hever Castle & Gardens.
Guests can choose between deluxe, superior, and luxury rooms with views of rolling greeneries and hills. The spacious units can cater to solo, families, and large-group visitors.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Non-smoking rooms
- Continental, English, and Irish breakfast
22. The Royal Albion Hotel
Are you a fan of Charles Dickens’s novels and works? Then you’ll enjoy visiting The Royal Albion Hotel, a favourite spot for the renowned English writer.
The structure, built in 1760, sits on the seafront of Albion Street, Broadstairs. Guests can walk a little south of the Royal Albion Hotel and find the Dickens House Museum.
It offers standard, deluxe, and family rooms for visitors. You can also choose between a sea view and a city view.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Facilities for disabled guests
- Beachfront rear garden
23. The Pig at Bridge Place
The Pig is an impressive Jacobean-style house hotel in the historic village of Bridge. You can locate this spot 3 miles south of Canterbury, a 56 minutes train ride from London City.
This hotel became a hotspot for popular parties and gigs over the last decades. It housed popular rock bands, such as Led Zeppelin, The Kinks, and Moody Blues.
Despite the name, the chambers in The Pig have an excellent rustic design and aesthetics. It has 29 seductive rooms boasting four-poster beds and exclusive bathtubs.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- Outdoor dining
- Spa services
- On-site bar and restaurant
24. Chilston Park Hotel
The Chilston Park Hotel is a grade-one listed structure in Lenham, a civil parish and market village. It was once home to England’s most notable viscounts, politicians, and writers.
This 15th-century old Manor is 12 miles from Maidstone, accessible via the M20 motorway. Surrounding the hotel is a vast 22 acres of parkland.
This hotel features 53 rooms—15 in the Manor and 38 converted stables and cottage houses. Guests can pick from standard, deluxe, classic, superior, and executive suites.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi and parking
- On-site bar and restaurant
- Room service
- Facilities for disabled guests
25. Canterbury Cathedral Lodge
The Canterbury Cathedral Lodge is a stylish hotel in the city’s centre. The structure boasts minimalist and contemporary designs, contrasting the cathedral’s intricate Gothic architecture.
The private and peaceful ground of the lodge claims some of the best views in all of Canterbury. And visitors wake up close to the remarkable Anglican cathedral.
Guests can choose from the lodge’s collection of bright, airy rooms. These units feature TVs and modern bathrooms.
Amenities:
- Free WiFi
- Facilities for disabled guests
- On-site restaurant
- Tea and coffee makers in all units
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