Faversham named top UK destination for food and independent shops

Faversham, a medieval market town in Kent, has been named one of the UK’s top 10 destinations for food, independent shops and cultural attractions. The recognition follows a survey that assessed towns across criteria including TripAdvisor ratings, local events and the number of independent retailers. Betway, which conducted the research, reported that 86% of Faversham’s restaurants hold four-star or higher ratings on the review platform.

A town built on history and hops

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The town’s history stretches back over a thousand years. Records show hop-growing in Faversham as early as 900 AD, and the tradition continues today. Each September, the town hosts the Faversham Hop Festival, which concluded its most recent event earlier this month. The festival celebrates the local brewing industry, which includes Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewery. Established in 1698, the brewery still operates from its original site on Court Street and offers guided tours.

Faversham’s maritime past is equally prominent. Between 1916 and 1969, shipyards in the town built and launched more than 1,200 vessels, including barges used for landing craft. The industry left a lasting mark on the town’s landscape, with Standard Quay now a hub for independent shops, cafés and traditional boats moored along the creek. The quay, originally a commercial port, was acquired by the Earl of Faversham in 1677 and has since been regenerated into a shopping and dining destination.

Markets, museums and miniature railways

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Faversham’s market square is the heart of its retail scene. The town hosts several markets throughout the month, including the Charter Market, the Best of Faversham market and an Antiques and Vintage market. On the first weekend of each month, all three converge for a Triple Market Weekend. Stalls line the square and Court Street, selling locally crafted goods, artisan produce and vintage items. The surrounding area includes over 300 listed buildings, many adorned with hanging baskets and floral displays.

For families, the Faversham Miniature Railway offers a unique attraction. The nine-inch-gauge railway, the only one of its kind open to the public in the UK, is run entirely by volunteers. Nearby, Brogdale Farm houses the National Fruit Collection, featuring more than 4,000 varieties of fruit trees. Visitors can take a steam locomotive ride through the orchards, which are particularly scenic in autumn.

History enthusiasts can explore the Oare Gunpowder Works Country Park, where Faversham’s role in the explosives industry is documented. The town produced gunpowder for key battles, including Trafalgar and Waterloo. The park offers walking trails and exhibits on the industry’s impact on the area.

How to visit

Faversham is accessible by train from London in just over an hour, with direct services from St Pancras International and Victoria. Drivers can reach the town via the M2 motorway, with several car parks available, including Central Car Park and Partridge Lane Car Park. The town centre is compact and walkable, with most attractions within a 20-minute stroll of the market square.