Traditionally known as the Garden of England because of the hops and fruit that were grown there, Kent lies on the south east coast of England. The nationally acclaimed Royal Oak at Brookland serving Romney lamb, the Shepherd Neame Brewery at Faversham offering tours and Whitstable’s fish market selling its famous oysters in season make Kent an ideal place for a culinary tour.
Visit Whitstable for Oysters, Whelks and Cockles
Whitstable, on the northern coast of Kent, is famous for its native oysters and other shellfish including whelks and cockles. Although whelks and cockles are available all year round, oysters are in season from September – April (i.e. whenever an “R” occurs in the name of the month!) so a visit in September, when the weather can still be fairly warm would allow the culinary traveller to taste this delicacy at its best.
Locally caught fresh fish and shellfish, including oysters in season, can be bought from the Whitstable Fish Market located on South Quay at the picturesque harbour. If buying raw doesn’t appeal, there are several restaurants and cafés in the town to try, including the Crab and Winkle Restaurant which is directly above the fish market itself.
Eat Delicious Romney Lamb at The Royal Oak, Brookland
The Romney Marsh area of Kent has served as a grazing ground for sheep for centuries and has given its name to a particular Kentish breed called Romney. Situated on the A259 at Brookland, between Rye and Old Romney is the Royal Oak which has been serving beer since the middle of the 1700s. Regularly featured prominently in the Good Food Guide, the restaurant is worth trying out.
Providing bar, special and general restaurant menus, the Royal Oak is a wonderful place to visit to taste Romney Lamb and locally caught seafood such as Dover Sole and South Coast crab with a samphire salad all washed down with a pint of fine real ale. Further details can be found by visiting the Royal Oak’s website or phoning the pub on +44(0)1797 344215.
Take a Tour of Britain’s Oldest Brewery – Shepherd Neame
The Shepherd Neame Brewery has been making Kentish ales and beer at Faversham since 1698 and so claims to be the oldest brewer in Britain. The Brewery, located at Court Street in the town, produces several ales including the very drinkable and intriguingly named Bishops Finger. There is also a visitor’s centre which sells Shepherd Neame merchandise and where a brewery tour can be arranged.
