Welcome to Faversham...
Whether you're a long-time resident or visiting for the first time, this guide is your go-to companion for discovering everything Faversham has to offer.
From its rich history to hidden gems, we’ve packed it all in here, so you can make the most of your time in this charming Kent town.
Faversham is a place where history meets the present, and we’ll help you explore it all—from the stunning medieval streets to the historic landmarks that tell the story of the town. We’ve also put together a collection of scenic walks, perfect for getting out and about, whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful countryside stroll or a wander through the town’s lively centre.
Looking for things to see and do? You’ll find plenty of events and ideas here, whether you're into history, nature, or just want to relax with a coffee. And when it
comes to eating, Faversham has a wide variety of places to suit every taste and budget—from cosy cafés and traditional pubs to fantastic restaurants serving up local delights.
This guide is all about helping you feel at home in Faversham, whether you’re here for a day or you’ve been living here for years. So, grab a cup of tea or coffee, settle in, and start exploring everything this wonderful town has to offer!
Enjoy your visit to Faversham!
Cllr. Josh Rowlands Mayor of Faversham 2024-2026
Oyster Bay House Image: Andrew Fletcher/Shutterstock.com
Faversham is an ancient market town with a rich history dating back to its royal charter, you can visit and see the Faversham Charters and Magna Carta at 12 Market Place. Nestled between the Downs and coastal marshlands, Faversham is home to fascinating landmarks like the Fleur de Lis Museum, Maison Dieu, Chart Gunpowder Mills and Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park.
Explore the town’s maritime past at Standard Quay or enjoy a tour at Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery. You can also discover the Kent Police Museum, which is a free, educational and fun experience for the whole family, looking at the history and development of one of the UK’s largest police forces.
History, Heritage & Local Walks...
Discover and experience the selfguided ‘Faversham Town Walks’ which offers a deep dive into Faversham’s heritage. You can collect a hard copy from the Faversham Visitor Information Centre at 12 Market Place or download the three-page trails from the Visit Faversham website:
• A History Trail
• A Gunpowder Trail
• West to East Trail
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Image: Sue Martin/Shutterstock.com
Shepherd Neame Brewery, 2019
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Alternatively, take a longer walk and experience the local landscapes on one of ‘Faversham's Nature Trails’, which also have a heritage story to tell. Pick up your copy of the trails at the Visitor Information Centre or download from the Visit Faversham website:
• Footsteps of Royalty & Romans
• The Peasants’ Last Revolt
• The Two Creeks
• A Land for all Seasons
• First Fruit
• Earth, Wind & Water
• A Walk on the Wild Side
• Syndale Valley Trail
Faversham Passport: It’s time to begin a journey of a lifetime with the Faversham Passport! You can check out all current Passport Stamping Points and complete the sign-up form on Faversham Town Council’s website.
It’s hoped that the Faversham Passport will encourage you to venture to places you’ve never been before and explore all that Faversham has to offer! Participating in Faversham Passport is entirely free, no purchases are necessary.
Views along the gunpowder walk
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Homemade Cakes
Diana’s Warm Scones served with Jam & Clotted Cream
Afternoon Tea (Pre-booked)
All Day Breakfast
Made to order: Sandwiches, Baguettes, Toasties, Salad Boxes & Homemade Soups
Buffet Platters also available
Pots of Tea • Coffee • Cold Drinks
Gluten Free, Vegetarian & Vegan options
Eat In / Takeaway
Dog Friendly
Yarns, Patterns, Project Bags, Books & Accessories for Cra ing Projects
Natural bres specialist
Shop online today!
Situated in the heart of Faversham
Proud supporters of local producers
Award-winning Classes & Workshops theyarndispensary.co.uk 6 Market Place, Faversham, ME13 7AG 01795 533812 01795 533812
Shopping & Markets in Faversham...
Faversham is home to the oldest market in Kent and was mentioned in the Domesday Book.
Located in a historic market place and surrounded by independent shops and businesses, it’s a beautiful market and a lovely place to visit.
Faversham Markets holds three different markets each month, taking place in the picturesque town centre. These comprise:
• Faversham Charter Markets: Which take place on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, selling a wide selection of food, drink, clothing, plants and homewares.
• Best of Faversham Market: Held on the first and third Saturday of each month featuring Faversham produce and locally-created artisan arts and crafts.
• Faversham Antiques Market: Trades on the first Sunday of the month and specialises in antiques, decorative items and collectibles from across the decades. It’s believed to be the country’s largest town centre antiques market.
Triple Market weekends: Most months, all three Faversham markets coincide with the first weekend of the month, creating what’s popularly known as the ‘Triple Market Weekend’. Visitors and shoppers can enjoy both ‘Faversham Charter Market’ and ‘Best of Faversham Market’ on Saturday and then ‘Faversham Antiques Market’ on Sunday.
This weekend is the perfect time to visit Faversham as the town centre is lovely and busy with plenty to see and enjoy.
Christmas: Faversham organises a very popular ‘Christmas Markets Weekend’, which takes place in the middle of December. It’s a fun and friendly event with a focus on good local shopping, delicious street food and traditional festive music. It’s a lovely day out and the perfect opportunity to top up on Christmas shopping.
Visit the Market’s website for latest dates and information: favershammarket.org
Visit Faversham...
Discover Faversham... Where history meets charm!
Step into the heart of Kent’s history with a visit to Faversham. Wander through medieval streets, explore the famous Shepherd Neame Brewery, and relax along Faversham Creek. Enjoy vibrant markets, local festivals, and unique independent shops and cafés. Whether you’re savouring fresh local produce or soaking up the town’s rich maritime heritage, Faversham offers an unforgettable blend of culture and tradition.
Go to the Visit Faversham website (visitfaversham.org) which highlights the town's rich history, vibrant market and welcoming atmosphere. It suggests exploring historic sites, local events, and the town's food and drink scene, and features guides on where to stay, eat, and shop.
Sign up to receive monthly email newsletters on the Visit Faversham website, delivering tourism news and events straight to your inbox.
Still looking for more about Faversham? Go to the Visitor Information Centre, managed by The Faversham Society, located at 12 Market Place, Faversham, ME13 7AE. Open 10am until 4pm Monday to Saturday and 10am until 1pm on Sunday.
You can follow Visit Faversham too, on Facebook and Instagram @VisitFaversham
Market Place
The National Fruit Collection is one of the largest collections of fruit trees in the world and features over 3,500 varieties of apples, pears, plums, cherries, quince and medlars.
Located in 150 acres of Kent’s beautiful countryside (at Brogdale Farm, Faversham), Brogdale Collections invite you to visit for tours, pick-your-own, courses and family-friendly events.
Guided Orchard Tours & Walks
Guided tours run at weekends and ‘walks with the experts’ are available mid-week twice a month during the fruit season (late June-end of October)
Prefer your own pace? We’ll provide a map to show you the routes so you can enjoy a self-guided walk all year round, 10am-4pm.
Enjoy Brogdale throughout the seasons, from stunning blossom in spring to rich harvest and autumn colour.
www.brogdalecollections.org
Season Guide:
April & May: Blossom • June & July: Cherries
August: Plums & Early Apples • September: Apples & Pears
October: Apples, Pears, Quince & Medlars
Events & Festivals:
Blossom Tours: April • Hanami Blossom Weekend: April
Easter at Brogdale: March/April • PYO Fruit Weekends: June-October
Cherry Fair: July • Plum Fair: August • Apple Fair: October
Brogdale Cider Festival: August Bank Holiday Weekend
Santa’s Grotto: November/December
Tiddly Pomme Shop
Faversham offers something special in every season. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, this town provides a rich variety of experiences throughout the year.
Spring: As the countryside awakens, Faversham bursts into colour with its beautiful gardens and surrounding orchards. Spring is the perfect time to explore the historic streets and enjoy the renowned Faversham Market, the oldest in Kent.
A highlight of the season is the Faversham Transport Weekend, held on the third weekend in May. This popular event brings vintage cars, motorcycles, buses, and steam engines to the town, creating a nostalgic spectacle for enthusiasts and families alike. The streets come alive with classic vehicles, live entertainment, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Summer: With longer days and warmer weather, summer in Faversham is packed with exciting festivals and outdoor fun!
The season kicks off with Faversham in the Forties, held at the beginning of June. This nostalgic event transports visitors back to the wartime era, featuring vintage military vehicles, reenactments, live swing music, and period costumes. It’s a must-visit for history lovers who want to experience the atmosphere of the 1940s.
Around the Midsummer Solstice, the Midsummer Night’s Feast at Town Quay, Faversham Creek offers a truly magical evening. With a stunning riverside setting, this open-air dining experience showcases the best of local produce, great company, and a beautiful summer atmosphere.
Faversham Events...
At the beginning of July, the town transforms into a pirate haven for the Faversham Pirate Festival, also held at Town Quay, Faversham Creek. Expect swashbuckling fun with pirate-themed entertainment, live performances, and plenty of family-friendly activities along the waterfront.
Later in the summer, the Faversham Hop Festival celebrates the town’s brewing heritage with live music, local ales, and lively entertainment filling the streets.
The town’s picturesque Creekside Walks provide a relaxing escape, perfect for unwinding by the water after a day of festivities.
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Autumn: As the leaves turn golden, Faversham’s countryside becomes a stunning backdrop for autumn adventures.
At the end of September, history lovers can enjoy Medieval & Tudor Faversham, a lively event that brings the past to life. With historical re-enactors, market stalls selling traditional crafts, and costumed performers, visitors can experience the sights and sounds of centuries past.
For some spooky seasonal fun, the Howl-ween Dog Parade, held at the end of October, is a must-see. Adorable dogs dressed in creative Halloween costumes parade through the town, delighting spectators.
Winter: As the year draws to a close, Faversham transforms into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive cheer.
The holiday season kicks off at the end of November with the Christmas Light Switch-On & Night Market. The town comes alive with sparkling decorations, live entertainment, and a special night market filled with festive treats, handmade crafts, and mulled wine.
The festive spirit continues with the Faversham Christmas Market, held on the second weekend of December. This magical event is perfect for picking up unique gifts, enjoying seasonal food and drink, and soaking up the Christmas atmosphere in the historic town centre.
Throughout December, visitors can also cosy up in one of Faversham’s historic pubs, enjoying a pint of locally brewed ale by a roaring fire.
Christmas Light Switch-On & Night Market
A small, rustic farm devoted to micro & miniature animals
Enjoy private animal experiences or an hour or two of relaxation, visiting animals roaming free in their orchard home! - Booking Essential!
Teddy Bear & Valais Sheep, Alpacas, Micro Pigs, Pygmy Goats, Miniature Donkeys, Miniature Chickens
For more info, or to book, visit:
Faversham in Kent
Belmont House & Gardens
The beautiful Georgian house of Belmont, set in its own parkland, is a completely unspoilt and distinctive example of the work of the architect Samuel Wyatt.
The gardens offer beauty and interest in every season, from vibrant floral displays to peaceful green spaces.
belmont-house.org
@BelmontHseGdns @belmonthousegardens
Gardens of Faversham Gardens of Faversham
Mount Ephraim Gardens
Belmont House & Gardens Mount Ephraim Gardens
10 acres of glorious Edwardian gardens to explore with highlights including a Japanese rock garden, lake, arboretum, grass maze and topiary. Gardens & Tea Room open Wednesdays to Sundays & Bank Holidays April-September from 11am-4pm.
Also offering Accommodation & Private Hire for Weddings/Events.
mountephraimgardens.co.uk @mountephraimgardens @mount_ephraim_gardens
St. Mary of Charity
Parish Church
Masonic Hall
(Formerly The Old Grammar School)
Standard Quay
Town Quay
Stonebridge Pond
Faversham Pools
The Alexander Centre
Town Hall/Visitor Information Centre, Faversham Charters & Magna Carta Exhibition
Fleur de Lis Museum
Kent Police Museum
Royal Cinema
Shepherd Neame Visitor Centre
Flavours of Faversham...
Tradition, quality, passion, authenticity and innovation can be found in a flavour of Faversham. As in Faversham, we grow, catch, rear, source and produce some of the best flavours you can find in the ‘Garden of England’.
Faversham boasts a range of independent traders including Macknade and a gentle mix of national retailers providing the choice and customer service to be proud of. Complimenting the Faversham Charter Market and open community events which attract people from across Kent.
Day trippers to Faversham have a wealth of coffee shops and cafés to select from and enjoy an afternoon tea or visit one of the quality public houses or restaurants like The Sun Inn, West Street.
Traditional takeaways can also be found in Faversham, especially in Preston Street, with plenty of food stalls providing a variety of flavours at Faversham events.
Whatever your taste, you will find something to suit you in Faversham!
Faversham is a fantastic choice for couples seeking a wedding with history, charm, and character. Known for its medieval streets, beautiful countryside, and warm community, Faversham offers a range of wedding venues, from historic buildings to rustic barns and elegant country houses.
The Guildhall
A historic wedding venue:
Located in the heart of Faversham’s charming Market Place, The Guildhall is one of the town’s most iconic buildings and a beautiful venue for weddings. This timber-framed structure dates back to 1574 and offers a unique blend of history, character, and intimacy, making it a special setting for couples looking for a traditional yet distinctive wedding experience. Why choose The Guildhall for your wedding?
The Guildhall is a venue rich in history and charm, making it an ideal setting for couples looking for a unique and intimate wedding. Its Tudor-style timber-framed structure and elegant interior create a sense of timeless romance. Standing proudly in the heart of Market Square, the building offers a picturesque backdrop for wedding photographs, with its striking architecture and surrounding cobbled streets adding to the historic atmosphere.
For couples seeking a smaller, more personal wedding, The Guildhall provides a warm and inviting space. The ceremony room, with its wooden panelling and classic décor, offers an intimate setting where vows can be exchanged in front of close friends and family. Being centrally located, it also allows for a seamless transition to nearby reception venues, whether it’s a country estate, a brewery, or a charming local restaurant.
Getting Married in Faversham...
Another advantage of The Guildhall is its affordability. Managed by Faversham Town Council, it provides a beautiful and historic wedding venue for couples who love the idea of a traditional, yet budgetfriendly wedding in a distinctive location, The Guildhall is a perfect choice!
For more information, call Rob on: 01795 503286 or email: weddings@favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Faversham has a wonderful selection of venues where you can hold both your wedding ceremony and reception, from grand country estates to unique and intimate spaces. See more as we continue on page 25...
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1: The Assembly Rooms: A stunning Georgian venue with elegant interiors, ideal for a classic wedding reception. Preston Street, Faversham, ME13 8PG favershamassemblyrooms.org.uk
2: Huckleberry Woods: A unique and intimate countryside venue, perfect for a romantic engagement or small wedding celebration, surrounded by charming miniature animals.
Lower Road, Faversham, ME13 0NX 07929 871465 • huckleberrywoods.co.uk
3: Mount Ephraim Country House & Gardens: A stunning Edwardian estate with picturesque gardens, ideal for romantic wedding. Offering both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.
Staplestreet Road, Hernhill, Faversham, ME13 9TX 01227 751496
mountephraimgardens.co.uk
4: The Alexander Centre: A flexible Victorian venue in the heart of town, offering elegant spaces for ceremonies and receptions.
15-17 Preston Street, Faversham, ME13 8NZ 01795 591691 • thealex.org.uk
5: Shepherd Neame Brewery: A unique brewery wedding venue with rustic-industrial charm and award-winning beer.
17 Court Street, Faversham, ME13 7AX 01795 542285 • shepherdneame.co.uk
6: Judd’s Folly Hotel: A countryside hotel offering ceremony rooms, a function suite and guest accomodation.
Syndale Park, London Road, Faversham, ME13 0RH 01795 591818 • juddsfollyhotel.co.uk
7: Macknade: A relaxed, food-focussed wedding venue, offering a unique celebration with outstanding local produce.
Selling Road, Faversham, ME13 8XF 01795 534497 • macknade.com
8: The Quay: A picturesque waterside venue, overlooking Faversham Creek, perfect for a unique wedding.
Conduit Street, Faversham, ME13 7DF 01795 530388 • thequayfaversham.co.uk
Stay a while?
Nagden House, Faversham
With stunning panoramic views across Graveney Marshes, Nagden House is a stylish and secluded rural retreat in Kent. It sleeps 10 people in 5 king-size bedrooms, with 2 bathrooms. Spacious social areas, including cinema room. Outdoor dining area and private creekfront. Cedar-wood hot tub offering a slice of added luxury.
Ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of Faversham? Discover our curated selection of accommodations, each promising a comfortable and memorable stay. Stay a while... and let the journey unfold!
The Cart Stable, Dargate
A beautifully-presented Grade II listed former stable for 2 located in the quiet hamlet of Dargate (between Faversham & Whitstable), at the entrance to the historic Blean Woods. Open-plan living space, super-king sized bed, large walk-in shower, outside dining space, bench swing, parking for 1 car & space to store bicycles.
The Sun Inn, Faversham
Enjoy a relaxing stay in a charming 14th century pub, right in the heart of Faversham’s historic conservation area. Beautiful period features meet modern style and convenience in The Sun Inn’s 12 boutique bedrooms. A stay here is the perfect escape from reality into a little slice of heaven - with a cosy pub twist!
The Railway Hotel, Faversham
With a friendly atmosphere and ambience in both the bar and restaurant, as well as being conveniently located at the top of the High Street, the Railway Hotel is a great place to stay! It’s been offering a warm welcome for 150+ years & features a number of recently-refreshed en-suite rooms with brand new beds & decor.
Willow Farm Holiday Lets, Ospringe
Brand new, purpose-built to the highest specification, single story holiday lets surrounded by beautiful AONB views. Fully furnished with kitchen, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 sofa beds, separate fridge & freezer, washer & dryer. The property is complete with air con, WiFi, smart TVs, & on-site, free private parking.
Enchanting Manor House, Selling
Large country house set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, surrounded by orchards, paddocks & parkland that sleeps 12 guests in 7 bedrooms. 5.5 bathrooms. A fantastic base for large families or groups of friends to explore. Games room & cinema, home gym, WiFi, beautiful garden with outdoor seating & more!
Seed Road, Newnham, ME9 0NE www.sandhurstfarmforge.co.uk 01795 886854
Gallery Open Tuesday-Friday: 9am-5pm & Saturdays: 9am-12pm
2 hour Forge Taster Sessions: May-September
Check our website/contact us for more details
Forge enquiries: hammer.tongs@btinternet.com
Stable Block enquiries: rooms.forge@btinternet.com
Why not combine a short break in the Stable Block with a Forge Taster Session?
Comets Netball Club cometsnetballclub.com
Creekside Boxing Club creeksideboxing@yahoo.co.uk
Faversham Badminton Club favershambadminton.co.uk
Faversham Community Gymnastic & Activity Centre favershamactivitycentre.co.uk
Faversham Cricket Club favershamcc.co.uk
Faversham Judo Club favershamjudoclub.com
Faversham Ladies Hockey Club favershamladies.co.uk
Faversham Recreation Bowls Club favershamrecreationbowlsclub. bowlsclub.net
Faversham RUFC favershamrufc.co.uk
Faversham Running Club favershamrunningclub.co.uk
Faversham Swimming Club favershamswimmingclub.org
Faversham Tennis Club clubspark.lta.org.uk/ FavershamTennisClub
Faversham Town FC secretary@favershamtown.co.uk favershamtownfc.co.uk
Seasalter Sailing Club seasalter.org.uk
Snooker favershamclub.co.uk
Syndale Park Fitness Club syndalepark.com
Faversham Town Football Club
Faversham Society...
Discover Faversham’s heritage with us!
Faversham is a unique and welcoming town with a rich history and a strong sense of identity. Since 1962, the Faversham Society has worked to preserve its heritage and character. With over 800 members and run entirely by volunteers, we are one of the UK’s oldest civic societies.
Our Visitor Information Centre offers expert local knowledge and a selection of books, gifts, and artwork by local artists. We also run the much-loved Fleur De Lis Second-Hand Bookshop, which helps fund our heritage activities.
Explore Faversham’s fascinating past at our museum and extensive archives on Preston Street. We also manage Chart Gunpowder Mills, one of the UK’s oldest, and host a popular programme of heritage talks and guided walks.
Guided Walk
As an independent, volunteer-run organisation, every penny we raise supports our work. Members enjoy benefits like free entry to talks, access to historical archives, and a free town ‘Walking with History’ tour.
If you love Faversham, why not join us? Visit our Visitor Information Centre at: 12 Market Place, email: info@favershamsociety.org, or explore: favershamsociety.org to learn more.
The Faversham Community Networking Group (FCNG) brings together local charities, community groups, and organisations to collaborate and support residents.
With over 60 members from health and wellbeing backgrounds, we focus on tackling loneliness and social isolation by raising awareness of the many support services available in Faversham.
Loneliness affects people of all ages and can have serious health impacts, from heart disease to mental health challenges. FCNG works to connect residents with help before they reach a crisis point. One of our key initiatives is a walletsized support card, listing local services and distributed across shops, cafés, and businesses thanks to support from Faversham Town Council.
We also hold drop-in events and ‘Chatty Bench’ sessions, where people can talk about their wellbeing, find
Faversham Community Networking Group...
social groups, get advice on benefits, volunteering, mental health support, and more. By working closely with the community, including local businesses, we aim to make support more accessible and visible.
If you’d like to learn more about FCNG and how we can help, email: comms.fcng@gmail.com. We’re grateful for the ongoing support of Faversham Town Council, which enables us to continue our work for the local community.
Local Information & Contacts...
Citizens Advice Swale 0808 278 7979 admin@citizensadviceswale.uk
Faversham Assistance Centre favassistants@gmail.com facefaversham.co.uk
Faversham Cottage Hospital 01795 562066
kchft.kentcottage@nhs.net
Faversham Foodbank info@faversham.foodbank.org.uk faversham.foodbank.org.uk
Faversham Health Centre 01795 501753
kentcht.nhs.uk/location/ faversham-health-centre
Faversham Hopper Bus Service 01795 503286
hopper@favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Faversham Library 03000 413131
favershamlibrary@kent.gov.uk
Faversham Medical Practice 01795 905577
favershammedicalpractice.nhs.uk
Faversham Town Council 01795 503286
favershamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Faversham Umbrella 01795 229143
info@favershamumbrella.org favershamumbrella.org
Kent County Council 03000 414141 kent.gov.uk
MP for Faversham (Helen Whately) 020 7219 6472 helen.whately.mp@parliament.uk helenwhately.org.uk
Post Office 01795 538105
Swale Borough Council swale.gov.uk
The Faversham Society 01795 534542
info@favershamsociety.org favershamsociety.org
West Faversham Community Centre 01795 537321
info@westfavershamca.org westfavershamca.org
Image: Andrew Fletcher/Shutterstock.com
Gatefield Lane
