With the English countryside as a backdrop, Kent in the southeastern part of England is aptly called the “Garden of England.” From the captivating White Cliffs of Dover to the impressive Canterbury Cathedral, the county’s sites and destinations are simply timeless. Visit the many artillery castles, from Tonbridge Castle to Sandown Castle. Explore the seaside town of Deal or take a tour of some of England’s finest wineries. The county also has a plethora of historic hotels that have retained their original character and are equipped with the amenities needed for the modern-day traveler. Here’s a rundown of the top historic hotels in Kent, UK.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa & Golf (from USD 179)
For over a century, this Victorian hotel, with its lavish and well-kept interiors, has attracted travelers and even locals to the charming coastal town of Hythe. Just steps away from the beach and right in the heart of the town, Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa & Golf offers a captivating view of the sea. It also boasts a convenient location, just a 20-minute drive away from the Dover Ferry Port.
After a day out, unwind in the sauna and steam room or take a dip in the indoor swimming pool. There’s also a nine-hole golf course and a squash court on the premises. The guest rooms have classic furnishings and mod cons such as free WiFi, a minibar, a flat-screen TV, a coffee machine, and an en-suite bath.
Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa & Golf
Address: Princes Parade
18.44 km (11.5 mi) from Victoria Park
2. BEST WESTERN PLUS Dover Marina Hotel & Spa (from USD 198)
With the striking beauty of White Cliffs of Dover and the sea as a backdrop, BEST WESTERN PLUS Dover Marina Hotel & Spa is a four-star hotel located on the vibrant and historic Dover promenade. Inside, you’ll find a mix of Victorian decor and 21st-century comforts. Modern chandeliers and light fixtures exude a luxurious feel in the lounge, while sumptuous beds with commanding views of the English Channel give guest rooms a relaxing vibe.
To pamper yourself, head to the on-site spa and health club that consists of treatment rooms, a sauna, a hot tub, and a steam room. The fitness center is equipped with the latest workout machines, so you have no reason to miss your exercise routine. After a workout, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the on-site restaurant while taking in the views of the sea.
Best Western Premier Dover Marina Hotel & Spa
Address: Dover Waterfront
31.76 km (19.8 mi) from Victoria Park
3. Donnington Manor Hotel, Sevenoaks (from USD 145)
The 15th-century Donnington Manor Hotel combines British heritage with contemporary style. It has manicured garden that lends the hotel a refreshing and serene atmosphere. The guest rooms are modern, complete with autumnal shades of red, brown and orange. Each unit is kitted out with a satellite TV and a coffee/tea maker.
For a heavenly meal, visit the 15th-century beamed Osteria Chartwell Restaurant that serves Italian fare. The hotel is conveniently situated — it is just 10 minutes away from downtown Sevenoaks, while the famous Brands Hatch race circuit is 14.5 km (9 mi) away from the hotel.
Donnington Manor Hotel
Address: london road
51.81 km (32.2 mi) from Victoria Park
4. Best Western Clifton Hotel, Folkstone (from USD 90)
Reasonable additional charge for parking at £4.50. Refurbished rooms offer value for money.
Well-equipped rooms with mini fridge, ironing board, and a cozy bar area. Helpful and attentive staff.
Excellent location with sea views, close to event venues, and within walking distance to the beach and town center.
Highlight is the Marco Pierre White restaurant with exceptional food. Breakfast offers a good variety, but service can be patchy.
Dating back to 1864, this imposing Victorian-style hotel overlooks the beautiful English Channel. Spectacular views and the grandeur cultivated through the years draw travelers from all over the globe to Best Western Clifton Hotel.
Opulent and luxurious, the interior provides an elegant mix of Victorian furniture with modern facilities. Guest rooms are arranged with traditional sensibilities and come with a satellite TV, radio, a work desk, and an en-suite bath. Refreshing drinks are available on the terrace. Culinary treasures are prepared daily at Marco Pierre White’s Steakhouse. Eurotunnel is just a 10-minute drive away, while Dover Ferry Port is a 20-minute drive away.
Best Western Clifton Hotel
Address: The Leas, Clifton Gardens
23.02 km (14.3 mi) from Victoria Park
5. Yarrow Hotel, Broadstairs (from USD 157)
Dating back to the late 19th-century, Yarrow Hotel is a luxurious property where the English and Victorian furniture creatively blend with modern amenities. The guest rooms and suites feature an original fireplace, a roll-top bath, and sea views.
With its serene atmosphere that promotes relaxation, the hotel is easily one of the most sought-after places to rejuvenate. Unwind in the spa area that comes with a whirlpool, steam room, and sauna. Feeling hungry? Head to the in-house restaurant that serves British cuisine prepared from locally sourced ingredients. If you wish to venture out and explore, there are plenty of attractions nearby. Granville Theater is just 2.1 km (1.3 mi) away, while the stunning Deal Castle is 15 km (9 mi) away from the hotel.
Yarrow Hotel
Address: Ramsgate Road
46.3 km (28.8 mi) from Victoria Park
6. Eastwell Manor, Champneys Hotel & Spa, Ashford (from USD 236)
Eastwell Manor, Champneys Hotel & Spa displays classic country house elegance. Situated in Kent – the Garden of England, the hotel cultivated its aristocratic charm way back in 1540 and fully formed into the Neo-Elizabethan style in the late 18th-century. Lush, vast, and scenic, the garden is ideal for outdoor activities such as croquet and boules.
Each room boasts stunning wood furnishings, modern facilities, and picturesque garden views. Guests must not miss tasting sumptuous French and English cuisines prepared from the best local produce in The Manor restaurant. There’s also a spa, gym, and indoor and outdoor pools for relaxation.
Eastwell Manor, Champneys Hotel & Spa
Address: Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees
5.39 km (3.4 mi) from Victoria Park
7. Cathedral Gate, Canterbury (from USD 97)
Reasonable pricing for a historic hotel in the heart of Canterbury.
Quirky and historic building with friendly and helpful staff. Continental breakfast included.
Superb location right next to the Canterbury Cathedral and within walking distance of attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Delicious continental breakfast and a good choice of options. Staff provided great recommendations for dining.
The 15th-century Cathedral Gate is found in the heart of Canterbury. The hotel retains its historic features, such as beamed ceilings, sloping floors, and crooked doors. A book-lined library, tasteful lounge, and friendly bar call for a laid-back day at the hotel, while the guest rooms come with four-poster beds and period-style brass.
Aside from the ambiance and historic location, you’ll love the hearty continental breakfast served daily. The Cathedral is just a 2-minute walk away, while Canterbury East Railway Stations is a 15-minute walk away from the property.
Cathedral Gate
Address: 36 Burgate
21.51 km (13.4 mi) from Victoria Park
8. Royal Hotel, Deal (from USD 209)
Just a few steps away from Deal’s sandy beach, Royal Hotel is an elegant property that dates back to the 18th century. Over the years, big names such as Lord Nelson and Lady Hamilton have stayed here. The guest rooms have minimalist decor, complete with a light color palette, giving them a classy look and feel.
British and International fare is served in the in-house restaurant with a splendid view of the sea. This three-star hotel is also a great place from which to explore Kent. Deal Castle is just a 2-minute walk away, while White Cliffs of Dover is less than a 20-minute walk away.
Royal Hotel
Address: Beach St
38.95 km (24.3 mi) from Victoria Park
9. The Falstaff in Canterbury (from USD 101)
The Falstaff in Canterbury’s traditional look reflects its 600-year-old history of providing hospitality in Canterbury. A lovely 15th-century coaching inn, this hotel combines period pieces with modern amenities. Rich tones and a luxurious layering of fabrics, and detailed wall prints give each room a distinct opulence – a hallmark of gracious living.
Start your day with a full English breakfast served daily and end it with a tipple at the on-site cocktail bar. The talented mixologists in the bar serve signature and classic cocktails. Conveniently located, Canterbury West Rail Station is only a three-minute walk away, while Norman Cathedral is a ten-minute walk away from the hotel.
The Falstaff in Canterbury
Address: 8-10 St Dunstans Street
21.39 km (13.3 mi) from Victoria Park
10. Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Tunbridge Wells, Royal Tunbridge Wells (from USD 119)
Built in 1762, Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Tunbridge Wells – a Grade II Listed mansion, has a lush garden and expansive lawn that complements its classic look complete with Georgian period details. Stunningly beautiful, the hotel is known to be one of the town’s famous architectural landmarks.
Wooden floors and brown leather beds grace the guest rooms. Some rooms also offer a sumptuous roll-top bath. Relish classic European fare at the in-house restaurant. For a nightcap, head to the lounge for a delicious wine. Tonbridge Castle is a 15-minute drive away.
Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Tunbridge Wells
Address: Crescent Road
41.56 km (25.9 mi) from Victoria Park
Explore the 'Garden of England'
Rolling hills, the scenic views of the English Channel, impressive cathedrals, and historic hotels make Kent one of the best places in England for a vacation. For a memorable experience, check into one of the above listed historic hotels in Kent, UK.
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