The market town of Faversham in southern England may be small in size, but it brims with cultural and historic charms, offering a delightful blend of heritage and local character.
Outside the Shepherd Neame brewery (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Situated in northern Kent – also known as the Garden of England – around a 15-minute drive from the coast, the town is steeped in history and was even recorded in William the Conqueror’s 11th-century Domesday Book. Today, Faversham’s medieval past remains visible in its architecture and historic landmarks dating all the way back to its origins. But modern-day Faversham also bustles with contemporary appeal too, and at just over an hour’s train journey from London, increasing attracts commuters seeking to escape the frenetic bustle of the capital. Here are 7 of the most unique things to see and do in the town.
Take a tour of Britain’s oldest brewery
Beer fans visiting Faversham are in for a treat thanks to the presence in the town of Britain’s oldest brewery. In operation since 1698, Shepherd Neame Brewery has grown into a local legend, with a ubiquitous presence seen in the many pubs it owns in the town and across Kent and beyond. The brewery itself is spread out across various areas, including a fantastic visitor centre where you can dive into its past. There are also regular guided tours where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, and of course, an immersive beer tasting session to finish off.
Stroll along a beautiful medieval street
Set just off the town’s Market Place, Abbey Street is a real step back in time. One of the prettiest spots in town, it makes for a delightful amble down to the buzzing quayside that sits at the bottom of the street, where the charm of the creek adds to the atmosphere. Named after the nearby Abbey, as you wander along you’ll pass quirky cottages, old timber-framed houses and tucked-away gardens and courtyards, each with its own story to tell and every corner feeling like a snapshot of the past.
A view along Abbey Street (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Explore a historic country park
Perched on the northwestern fringes of the town, Oare Country Park played a key role in the country’s industrial past, having served as a fully-operational gunpowder works during WWI. But this now-peaceful park also hides a tragic story. In 1916, a massive explosion here killed several workers, leaving an indelible and never-forgotten mark on the town’s history. Today, the park offers visitors a chance to explore its industrial ruins, wildlife and beautiful surroundings, all while learning about its harrowing past through informative displays and exhibits.
Western Link
Visit an oldy-woldy pub
Surrounded by the wide-open landscapes of the Oare Marshes on the outskirts of Faversham, The Shipwrights Arms is about as characterful an English pub as you’re likely to find. With its low ceilings, wooden beams and nooks and crannies, it’s rustic charm is a world away from the polished gastropubs so commonplace in towns and cities nowadays. Locals with their salty sea dogs and visitors seeking a pit stop while exploring the marsh’s muddy tidal flats, saltwater creeks and reed beds come here for hearty cask ales, good company and a laid-back atmosphere that feels a world apart.
Hollowshore / Weds-Sat 12pm-9pm Sun 12pm-7pm Closed Mon-Tues
Soak up the waterside vibes
Once a bustling hub for the town’s thriving shipbuilding industry, Standard Quay is now lined with historic narrowboats, including one that famously took part in the Dunkirk evacuation – making it a true piece of living history. Nestled along the tranquil creek, the quay is a relaxing spot for taking a leisurely stroll, with a mix of quirky antique shops that tempt treasure hunters and entertainment spots like a cocktail bar and a pizzeria serving up stone-baked pizzas and regular live music.
Narrowboats line the creek at Standard Quay (Photo: Paul Joseph)
Get hopping at an acclaimed street festival
Each summer, the streets of Faversham come alive with music, dancing and the unmistakable scent of hops in the air. With everything from local ales on tap to live bands, the Faversham Hop Festival draws huge crowds of revellers every year – hailing from the town and far beyond – who flock here to join in the good-natured celebrations of hop harvests and the brewing culture surrounding it that is so indelibly linked with Kent’s rich agricultural heritage.
Venues across Faversham / August-September each year
Huckleberry Woods
A small, rustic farm devoted to micro, miniature, or just plain cute animals, Huckleberry Woods makes for a popular family day out, a quick drive from the town centre. Visitors can spend time surrounded by adorable creatures, all free-ranging around the orchard in their natural habitat. There are also several unique activities on offer, including the chance to walk micro pigs, donkey and sheep through the site in the company of a staff-member. Meanwhile a charming on-site café offers restorative drinks and snacks.
Lower Road, Buckland / Fri-Sun, Tues & Thurs 10.30am-3.30pm Closed Mon & Weds
A small girl feeds an animal at Huckleberry Woods (Photo: Paul Joseph)