Tiny English island an hour from London that locals say is like ‘being on holiday all year’
A TINY island in the UK isn’t the first place people would think of visiting.
St Mary’s Island in Kent is reclaimed marshland, and mainly now a housing development.
But now home to 5,000 locals, who call themselves ‘islanders,’ they say its like a constant holiday.
David, who moved 25 years ago, told local media that he loves being able to walk along the canal, adding: “It’s idyllic, like being on holiday.”
Despite being mainly housing, there are a number of outdoor activities for people wanting to visit as well as a hotel.
The island has a number of riverside walks, one of which includes views of Upnor Castle.
The Elizabethan fort, dating back to the 1500s, is on the mainland opposite the island but can be seen from across the River Medway.
Or you can go on a boat trip, with rentals from the harbour.
Naval enthusiasts can head to the Chatham Maritime Marina which often has events and displays.
Other sites include the PS John H Amos landmark, as well as the Sam Holland sculpture The Mariners.
And nature-lovers can visit to spot a number of birds including skylarks, sparrowhawks and redwings.
If you want to stay right next to St Mary’s Island, there is the four-star Ship & Trades hotel just by the crossing.
Set above a dockside bar and restaurant, rooms start from £120 a night.
Just don’t expect any nearby shops as they are all off the island.
And trains take just over an hour from London although you will need to get a bus from Chatham to St Mary’s.
Thankfully there is much more to do just outside of the island.
There is The Strand lido in Gillingham, a saltwater pool that first opened in 1896.
It is the only riverside tidal saltwater pool left in the UK, and only opens in the summer months.
Some people have even compared the pool to Greece, being painted in bright blue and white colours.
Or you can head to Chatham Snowsports Centre for Europe’s longest toboggan ride, which runs for 750 metres.
Go a bit further down and you will find Fordwich, the UK’s smallest town but home to a Michelin-starred pub.