Small But Mighty: Why It Pays to Shop Local in Kent’s Countryside

Big supermarkets have their place, sure, but there’s a different kind of joy – and a lot more flavour – to be found when you buy local. You get to support your neighbours, discover seasonal treats, and pick up a decent coffee while you’re at it. Here are a few of my favourite small-but-mighty spots to check out next time you’re exploring rural Kent…

Detling Community Store
Independent Retailer of the Year 2023 at the Taste of Kent Awards – and for good reason. This little gem is the heart of the community and packed with local produce, daily essentials, and freshly baked goodies. It's the perfect place to nip in for a coffee and a sarnie if you’re passing through – proper community spirit, with a good cuppa on the side.

S.W. Doughty, Doddington
If you know, you know. This traditional family-run butchers is the stuff of legend. They’ve got their own small abattoir, which means full traceability on all their meat – and I don’t just mean which farm, I mean which field. Their legs of lamb won Meat Product of the Year in the 2024 Taste of Kent Awards, and their sausage rolls? Honestly, life-changing. Worth the detour, every time.

Algar Lodge Farm Shop, Deal
This place is the full package – farm shop, deli, bakery, butchery and café, all in one lovely spot. Right now, they’ve got Kentish asparagus in (always a highlight of spring), and if you’re planning a BBQ, don’t miss their traditional South African Boerewors sausages. A proper treat for the grill – and you can stock up on picnic bits while you’re there too.

Smarden Community Store & Post Office
This friendly little shop took Silver in the Community Award category at the 2024 Taste of Kent Awards, and it’s easy to see why. Around 40% of their stock is from local producers – not bad for a village store! There’s a fantastic team of volunteers who keep the place running, and they’ve got their ‘Taste of Smarden’ festival coming up in June, which is always a good one for the diary.

So next time you’re in the mood for something a bit more personal than pre-packed and mass-produced, try your local farm shop. You’ll be surprised how much you find – and how many brilliant people you meet along the way.

Shopping local isn’t just a nice thing to do – it’s a delicious one.

Our Sustainability guide will help you make the most of any season that you choose to explore the county, and the Visit Kent website will help you find out what else is happening during your visit. Leave the car at home and hop on a Southeastern train for the most sustainable and relaxing way to enjoy your journey.