The town has gone under the radar but has plenty to offer

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Ever wanted to step back into the past without all the faff of gruelling journeys on horseback, bandits, and scurvy? Well, conveniently one of England’s best-preserved medieval towns is but a few hours away from London by modern train.

Trade the metal and glass of sky scrappers for exposed wooden beams and terracotta roofs and the Thames for the seaside with one straightforward trip from London to Kent. Specifically, the beautiful town of Sandwich, which has gone a little bit under the radar as a holiday spot due to the well-known food that took its name.

Sandwich is a quaint spot with plenty of stunning walks, quaint architecture, good food and plenty of places to enjoy the summer sun including a bay and a quay. Sandwich also acts as a perfect base to explore the surrounding area including holiday destination favourites such as Deal as well as cute satellite villages like Eastry, Ash, Worth and Woodnesborough each with their own unique character.

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The best way to explore Sandwich’s centre is by foot where you can see wonderfully preserved medieval buildings that will transport you back to a time before mobile phones, Linkedin, and even synthpop. There are a bunch of listed public houses as well as gates in the old town walls, churches, almshouses, and the White Mill to take a look at and immerse yourself in.

Around every corner, there is a new bit of town to explore. The Fisher Gate is an imposing pillar of ancient stone, dating back from 1384, and is seen as a national monument due to its excellent preservation. The town’s guildhall is also a sight to behold, it was built in 1579 and was restored to its former glory in 1912 when the yellow brick encasing the building was removed.

The town is located on the River Stour which means two things restaurants by the water and great walks along the riverbank. One is the Sandwich circular walk that takes you through the town and eventually joins Saxon Shore Way opening up to stunning views of the English channel.

Clambering over the rolling banks of the coastline path you begin to further understand the area’s importance to the UK and why Sandwich has such impressive architecture. It is formerly a 'Cinque' port, part of a group in Kent and Sussex that were allowed trading privileges in return for supplying the bulk of England’s navy.

This explains the stunning affluence of the small town. The path eventually arrives at one of the area’s highlights, Sandwich Bay. The stretch of beach is a glorious place to stop and take in the local wildlife and sights.

Braving the water might also be an option for intrepid holidaymakers when the weather is warm. The beauty of the circular walk is after visiting some of Sandwich’s most striking spots you can return to the town and grab a bit to eat.

If you want, return to the quayside where there are pubs dotted along the stretch of river perfect for warm weather with a great view of the boats moored up nearby. Food spots like The Toll Bridge, Luigi’s Pizzeria, and the Drill Hall all offer relaxed environments to have something to eat in scenic surroundings.

Just a bit further down the river is one of Sandwich’s best fast food places according to TripAdvisor. Hay’s Shack has been reviewed favourably by a number of happy customers with one saying: “I absolutely loved the food, the their burger is one of the best I've ever had. I was amazed by the range of sauces they offer, there are so many options you just can't get bored of it. I will definitely return again.”

Sandwich is not as popular as some parts of Kent and is perfect for people that want a place with plenty to do but without ending up being swept up with a gaggle of tourists. It is a great place for a summer day trip.

It is around 90 mins hours to catch a train from St Pancras to Sandwich or you can drive which takes around 2 hours.

Have a story you think we should be covering? Email rory.bennett@reachplc.com.