Camber Sandy Shores

Climb to the top of the bell tower of the Church of Saint Mary in Rye (10 minutes’ drive) for far-reaching views of the area, then explore the town’s cobbled streets, such as Mermaid Street, lined with impeccably maintained half-timbered houses with lead windows. The Rye Heritage Centre runs interesting walks to help you learn about the history of the place. Dungeness National Nature Reserve (10 minutes) is said to be the only desert in England. The landscape is certainly desolate, but the vast shingle beach is home to several species of seabirds, moths and dragonflies. Climb the lighthouse for 360-degree views of Romney Marsh, or visit the garden at Prospect Cottage, the former home of film director Derek Jarman. Folkestone (45 minutes) is ‘an art school’ – so says a colourful mural on the train station platform. And there’s certainly plenty of art around the town (which hosts a triennial art festival) – from Tracey Emin’s moving Baby Things sculptures to large installations on the beach. You can also stroll to the end of the Harbour Arm, sampling tasty offerings from the various food stalls.