Farmers' markets

Farmers' markets in Kent are flourishing - there are more than 20 across the county - and they're superb places to buy if you're self-catering or picnicking, or just fancy some local colour! What's on your list? Morning-fresh bread, baked goodies, preserves, cheese, organic eggs, free-range meat, veg, juices, wines... browse stalls at Hythe, Penshurst, Sissinghurst and many other locations. Take a look at the Kent Farmers' Market Association for more details.

The Goods Shed, Canterbury's permanent farmers' market set in a beautiful Victorian railway goods shed, also has a restaurant so you can tuck into tasty fare right there. Slow-proved bread is baked on the premises each day and the menu varies according to season and suppliers, just as it should: be tempted by smoked fish and meat from The Weald Smokery, Kentish spring water and wines, mouthwatering quiches and cakes.

Or call into a farm shop, another Kent speciality. The county produces most of the UK's strawberries and what could be finer than a just-picked punnet with a generous helping of cream? In fact you're in one of the best places to feel fruity because apples, pears, plums, cherries, damsons, raspberries, blackcurrants (to name a few) are all grown here. You'll probably come across some in a gorgeous (and healthy!) salad or made into tarts or pies. And if you haven't already, try Kentish cobnuts for the first time, a cultivated type of hazelnut that only thrives on the Kentish ragstone ridge.

You could, of course, stay on a farm - awaking to the refreshing sound of birdsong and teasing thoughts of bacon and eggs.

Click here to browse Kent's farmers' markets.