Pilgrims Cottage is in truly lovely Kent countryside with lots to see and do. The trendy seaside town of Deal is close by with its pier, eclectic boutiques, renowned cupcake shop and fresh fish direct from the beach.

The historic town of Dover is a short car journey away and is well worth a visit. The skyline is dominated by Dover Castle, as World Heritage Site run by English Heritage and worthy of at least a couple of days visit. The Western Heights with the Grand Stairway on the hill opposite the Castle are a more modern but also interesting fortification built during the Napoleonic Wars. Dover Museum, The Bronze Age Boat, sea trips in fishing boats, De Bradelei Wharf discount designer outlet are also attractions close at hand. And of course, for that day trip to France, you couldn't be better situated.

There are stunning walks along the Saxon Shore Way and the White Cliffs. The National Trust Visitors Centre (with café) at Langdon Cliffs above Dover Harbour provides much interesting information about the area. The lighthouse at South Foreland and Bluebird's Tea rooms in the old coastguard station above St Margaret's at Cliffe are welcome stop off points along the path.

The town of Dover has all the shopping facilities one needs and there is a large indoor swimming pool plus gym and squash court for those inevitable rainy days. The Dover Water sports Centre located on the beach in the harbour (well away from the ferries!) offers a myriad of sailing, windsurfing and power boating courses to suit all ages and standards. The Marina provides a safe haven for sailors with various traditional chandlers nearby to cater for all needs.

Kent has more castles than any other county so there are lots to explore with the newly refurbished Dover Castle a must - not only does it have one of the largest keeps in the country but the fascinating second world war rooms built into the white cliffs make this a 'must do' attraction. For an altogether more homely feel why not visit the beautiful Walmer Castle and Gardens, the home of the Queen Mother for many years. The wonderful gardens of Goodnestone House are within a few miles, renowned for its parkland setting and stunning walled flower garden - a plantsmans dream!

For golfers, there are several excellent links courses, including Royal St Georges at Sandwich and Royal Cinque Ports at Deal, both of which are close by.

The nature reserve at Pegwell Bay, famous for its wildlife is also worth a visit with the lovely sandy beaches of Botany, Westbrook and Joss Bays (all blue flag beaches) are great for a family day out.

For shopping, the outlet centre at de Bradleigh Wharf in Dover Marina is well worth a visit.

For more ideas please visit our 'things to do' section on the website.