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. 5 St Mary's Island is off the coast of Kent, an hour from London Credit: Alamy 5 The island is primarily a housing development Credit: Alamy 5 Locals have raved about it, sayings its like always being on holiday Credit: Alamy 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.

Read more on UK islands FERRY BAD Sadness as ferry linking UK to 'Maldives-style' island is scrapped ISLE BE THERE Tiny UK island open to day visitors reveals plans for brand new 43-bed hotel 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. Most read in News Travel HAPPY DAYS Scottish city crowned the 'happi.