A Guide to Faversham

A market town with Roman origins, Faversham sits just 10 miles from Canterbury in the southeast of England. Veined with creeks and waterways that slip out into the channel, the town has long been associated with maritime trade. Archaeological evidence and Roman relics suggest that a large port once existed alongside the River Swale, while 18th-century smugglers likely used the area as a lucrative hideaway. 

The town was also made famous for both the gunpowder and hops industries. From c1530, when Faversham Abbey instigated the first explosives production until 1934, explosives were one of Faversham’s main exports, with great demand from Chatham and Sheerness Dockyards, the Woolwich Arsenal and the Tower of London, as well as brisk European trade – things like sulphur imported from Sicily and saltpetre from India were combined with charcoal and easily shipped to customers thanks to the navigable waterways and proximity to the coast. Hops were another key piece of revenue, and over 50% of all UK hops are still produced in Kent to this day!

Where to park in Faversham

There are plenty of places to park throughout Faversham, making it convenient if you’re visiting or staying nearby. Places to park include:

• Central Car Park (ME13 8PW) – paid outdoor parking with over 200 spaces, just steps from the high street.​
• Faversham Station Car Park (ME13 8LJ) – paid outdoor parking with day rates from £4 to £6.70, free for Blue Badge holders, and connected to APCOA Connect for easy payment.​
• Queen’s Hall Car Park (ME13 8QE) – paid outdoor parking with 137 spaces and electric charging ports. 
• Standard Quay – offers Free Customer Parking (2Hours)

Explore a complete list of carparks in Faversham and their charges through the council’s official parking portal.

Where to stay in Faversham

Nestled in the quiet and calm of the countryside, but with easy access to the coast, our collection of Faversham holiday cottages provides the perfect base for exploring Kent. The town itselfis a historic market town perched on the edge of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, perfect for walking, cycling, and soaking up the landscapes of the Garden of England.

There are lots of things to do and places to see in order to get a local flavour of Faversham. Explore some of our favourites below: 

• Take a Shepherd Neame brewery tour and discover Britain’s oldest brewer, founded in 1698 and still housed within classic Victorian buildings. This guided experience suits beer lovers, history enthusiasts and those keen to learn about Faversham’s proud brewing tradition.​
• Huckleberry Woods offers delightful micro animal adventures with pigs, donkeys and goats on a rustic Kentish farm. Ideal for families and animal lovers looking for a gentle outdoor escape.​
• Wander through the exquisite acreage of Mount Ephraim Gardens, a spectacular Edwardian estate set against the Kent countryside. Still a private home to this day, the gardens and tearooms close from September to April. 
• Don’t miss a wander to Standard Quay, a hidden gem of independant shops, cafes and eateries at the far end of Abbey Road. Running alongside the creek, it’s a stunning space to sit and watch the traditional fishing boats and tugs come and go.
• Observe flora and fauna at Oare Marshes Nature Reserve, an internationally important bird habitat and SSSI, steeped in history from its role supplying London with gunpowder. Perfect for nature fans, photographers and birdwatchers.​
• Visit the evocative ruins and peaceful trails of Oare Gunpowder Works and Country Park, once a major industrial centre for explosives until a tragic accident in the early 20th century. Today, the site is peaceful and family-friendly, with woodland walks, ponds, and engaging information boards for curious minds of all ages.​
• Browse Faversham’s weekly market (Kent’s oldest), held since medieval times in the cobbled square. Expect everything from local produce to crafts and antiques. 
• Ensure you visit Macknade Food Hall on Selling Road at the outskirts of the town – described as a dining hall, deli, butchery and cafe, this unique community hub is a foodie’s paradise (and has plenty of goods on offer for you to take back to your holiday cottage.)
• Take a day trip to Canterbury, just fifteen minutes by train from Faversham, where the UNESCO-listed cathedral and medieval streets await. A top recommendation for architecture buffs, culture seekers and anyone wanting a classic Kent day out.

Faversham offers a diverse dining scene with standout options both in and around the town. 

First up, Papà Bianco, known for its wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted cocktails, and irresistible homemade desserts. Papa Bianco has become a go-to spot for laid back dining and weekend fun. The venue regularly hosts live music nights, where talented local artists set the scene for an evening of fun.

And if you’re more of a burger lover, don’t miss their sister brand Barge Burgers, serving up juicy, stacked burgers that perfectly complement the relaxed riverside setting.

The Sportsman in Seasalter, a Michelin-starred gastropub about a 15-minute taxi ride from the centre, is renowned for fine British cuisine prepared with local seasonal ingredients in an airy, laid-back seaside setting. 

Closer to the heart of Faversham, Albion Taverna sits by the creek in a stunning old building; here, you’ll find vibrant Mexican flavours alongside British classics, all in a charming, blissfully peaceful atmosphere just a few minutes from the centre. 

The Three Tuns, less than a ten-minute stroll from the centre, is a traditional and historic pub with cosy interiors, a real fire, and a sun-trap garden, perfect for classic British pub fare and a genuine sense of local spirit. 

Heading into the Kent countryside, The Dove at Dargate is a top-rated gastropub just 15 minutes’ drive from Faversham, known for creative British menus, relaxed yet stylish interiors, and a gorgeous garden for summer dining. 

Lastly, The Carpenter’s Arms in Eastling, also a 15-minute drive away, delivers excellent British and bar cuisine within a classic red-brick setting featuring stone floors, exposed beams, and a sunny courtyard, offering a warm village welcome and inventive, changing menus.