Sandwich


Sandwich, on the River Stour on the beautiful Kentish Coast, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in England and part of the Cinque Ports.
This used to be a major commercial port, until the Stour started silting up in the 1500s. But the river has not vanished completely. It still flows through town.
It is a such a great experience to wander around Sandwich, with its crooked half-timbered buildings, narrow picturesque lanes, beautiful quayside and riverside paths.
The Cinque Ports
The Cinque Ports (pronounced ‘Sink’ Ports) were a confederation of five harbours, Sandwich, Romney, Dover, Hythe, and Hastings plus the two Ancient Towns of Rye & Winchelsea.
These were grouped together, for defence purposes, by Edward the Confessor. They supplied the Crown with ships and men. In return these towns were granted privileges and other liberties.
Today, of all the Cinque Ports only Dover is still a major working port.


Secret Gardens of Sandwich
The Secret Gardens of Sandwich, which is enclosed by the old stone city walls, is a must-see.
At the heart of this stunning Kent attraction stands the Grade I-listed manor house, The Salutation, designed by the famous English architect Sir Edwin Lutyens.
Lutyens also created the three-and-a-half acres of ornamental gardens with the help of his good friend Gertrude Jekyll.
After being abandoned to the wilderness for 25 years, the gardens were restored in 2007.


Walking
We spend hours exploring this part of the Kentish coast on foot!
First, we explored the winding streets of Sandwich. This 2-mile historic Town Trail starts and finishes at the bridge on The Quay. Along the way you will see all the highlights including the Secret Gardens.
Then we headed for Sandwich Bay. This 5-mile circular walk follows the Saxon Shore Way across the immaculate greens of the Royal St George’s Golf Course.
This is perhaps the finest link course in England. Established in 1887, it has been a frequent venue for the British Open since 1894.
From the sea, the route traces the sand dunes and salt marshes to open fields and the rich habitats of the Sandwich Bay Bird Observatory Trust.
There are many other great walks around Sandwich. You can easily stay for days in this glorious part of Kent.
Cool Places to Explore: Deal | Margate | Ramsgate | White Cliffs of Dover | Canterbury Cathedral | Broadstairs | Chilham.
Cool Places to Stay: The Pig at Bridge Place.