Farmers' markets

Farmers' markets in Kent are flourishing - there are more than 40 across the county - and they're superb places to buy if you're self-catering or picnicking, or just fancy some local colour! What's on your list? Morning-fresh bread, baked goodies, preserves, cheese, organic eggs, free-range meat, veg, juices, wines... browse stalls at Hythe, Penshurst, Sissinghurst and many other locations. Take a look at the Kent Farmers' Market Association for more details.

The Goods Shed, Canterbury's permanent farmers' market set in a beautiful Victorian railway goods shed, also has a restaurant so you can tuck into tasty fare right there. Slow-proved bread is baked on the premises each day and the menu varies according to season and suppliers, just as it should: be tempted by smoked fish and meat from The Weald Smokery, Kentish spring water and wines, mouthwatering quiches and cakes.

Or call into a farm shop, another Kent speciality. The county produces most of the UK's strawberries and what could be finer than a just-picked punnet with a generous helping of cream? In fact you're in one of the best places to feel fruity because apples, pears, plums, cherries, damsons, raspberries, blackcurrants (to name a few) are all grown here. You'll probably come across some in a gorgeous (and healthy!) salad or made into tarts or pies. And if you haven't already, try Kentish cobnuts for the first time, a cultivated type of hazelnut that only thrives on the Kentish ragstone ridge.

You could, of course, stay on a farm - awaking to the refreshing sound of birdsong and teasing thoughts of bacon and eggs.

Click here to browse Kent's farmers' markets.

Don't have time to pop to your local farmers' market? Family run local business Foodari Direct will bring it straight to your door! Foodari, based on a working farm near Ashford, supply locally sourced produce and deliver it to homes all across Kent. Foodari Direct combines the very best local seasonal produce along with all your weekly shopping essentials giving you a very different shopping experience. They source some of the best new and exciting produce from around Kent to provide you with fresher food in the most convenient manner.