⌕Oast houses & hops
Explore one of Kent’s most recognisable traditions and the language surrounding hop growing.

A fascinating guide to Kentish speech, combining distinctive local words and expressions with the history, traditions and character of the county.
Kentish dialect has played an unusually important part in the development of modern English. Ian Howe explores the old words, pronunciations and turns of phrase that once distinguished communities across the county, while showing how Kent’s proximity to London and continental Europe helped shape its language.
Alongside the extensive glossary are stories and traditions rooted firmly in Kent — from farming, hops and oast houses to Romney Marsh, the Medway, coastal life and the Goodwin Sands. Together they create a colourful portrait of the county and the language of its people.
⌕Explore one of Kent’s most recognisable traditions and the language surrounding hop growing.
⌕Discover the distinctive landscape, communities and traditions of this remarkable corner of Kent.
⌕Read the stories behind the notorious sands lying off the Kent coast near Deal.