Kent is steeped in history, and the quaint village of Reculver is a prime example. Nestled between Herne Bay and Thanet on the coastline, this ancient settlement is renowned for the majestic Reculver Towers.
Recently, these iconic towers underwent a significant restoration and opened their doors to the public for the first time in years as part of the nationwide Heritage Open Days.
The site of Reculver has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, with the towers initially serving as one of the earliest Roman forts built to fend off Saxon raids.
The fort later transformed into an Anglo-Saxon monastery before becoming the parish church for Reculver.
Today, this charming village is home to approximately 4,400 residents and is a popular destination for mobile homes, drawing those who appreciate fresh sea air and stunning landscapes.
While the Reculver Towers are undoubtedly the village’s main attraction, there’s much more to discover for an enjoyable day out. After marvelling at the grand landmark that commands views over the North Sea from its cliffside perch, you can take a leisurely walk in the nearby Reculver Country Park.
This sprawling 26-hectare haven is teeming with an array of flora and fauna, earning it international recognition as a Special Protection Area and national significance as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Cyclists can enjoy the scenic Oyster Bay Trail, which winds through the park, while walkers can take in the breathtaking views of the cliff tops and grasslands along the Saxon Shore Trail, which leads to nearby Herne Bay, reports Kent Live.
Visitors can refuel at the on-site HatHats coffee shop, which offers a range of snacks and drinks. The park also features public toilets and numerous benches, providing ample opportunities to rest and take in the stunning surroundings.
For those who prefer a beach day, Reculver Beach is a tranquil oasis. This quiet, shingle beach, backed by rocks and grass, is perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
History enthusiasts will delight in the beach’s rich heritage, as it’s a hotspot for fossil hunting, particularly for shark teeth. Additionally, the beach played a significant role in the Second World War, serving as a testing ground for the Barnes Wallis “dam-buster” bouncing bomb.
Two prototype bombs lay forgotten in marshland behind the sea wall until 1977, when military experts finally removed them, while additional prototypes surfaced from the shoreline two decades later; one prominently showcased at the Herne Bay Museum and Gallery. Visitors will find a nearby paid car park charges £5.40 for a swift two-hour stay, with another located adjacent to the country park for the same rate.
For families, a sizable play park situated right by Reculver Towers offers the perfect spot for children to expend their boundless energy, while expansive grassy areas invite picnickers to relax and soak up the beautiful surroundings. Within easy reach of the country park and the towers lies the bustling King Ethelbert Inn.
This family-run pub, boasting an ample outdoor seating area, is ideal for those balmy days and serves a range of local brews, spirits, wines and soft drinks. With hunger pangs setting in, patrons can indulge in a hearty menu offering everything from fish and chips to burgers and sumptuous Sunday roasts.
Proudly presenting a TripAdvisor rating of four out of five stars based on nearly 400 reviews, the King Ethelbert Inn has garnered praise from its clientele. A satisfied customer commented on their experience: “The team at the King Ethelbert Inn are friendly and accommodating and the menu is varied with something for everyone.”
“A good selection of meat, fish and vegetarian options. Generous portions freshly cooked to order. Nice outdoor spaces too.”
A second reviewer raved about the pub, writing: “Excellent beer, food and atmosphere at the King Ethelbert. I use it as a local and also take friends and family for lunches when they visit. Friendly staff and an excellent choice of beers and food. Sunday lunches are very popular.”