Located east of Canterbury and founded by the Saxons on the coast at the mouth of the river Stour, the historic town of Sandwich was one of the Cinque Ports. The river has since silted up and Sandwich Bay is now home to nature reserves and two world-class golf courses – Royal St George’s and Prince’s.
Sandwich has a weekly market, which takes place in the heart of the medieval town at the Guildhall every Thursday morning, and a Farmer’s Market, which is also hosted at the Guildhall on the last Saturday morning of each month. Those on the hunt for Kent grown food may also want to check out nearby Delf Farm Shop, which specialises in fresh local produce.
Sandwich was once one of England’s most important naval bases before becoming a cloth manufacturing town. Its legacy is some of the best-preserved half-timbered buildings in the country including the Weaver’s Hall and the King’s Arms, while the curfew bell still tolls every night at 8pm.
For a bit of peace and quiet, check out the nearby Secret Gardens of Sandwich, encircled by the old stone city walls, where you’ll find the Grade I listed manor house The Salutation, designed renowned English architect Edwin Lutyens. There are also three and a half acres of ornamental gardens created by Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll to enjoy, as well as the inevitable tea room.
