Local Area

Thistle Academy is located on the Isle of Sheppey in Kent. The school is located in the popular area of Minster which is home to a historic Saxon abbey which is now one of the oldest functioning churches in England. Minster on Sea, as it is also known, is located on the coast line and has a breath-taking “Blue Flag” beach which is the perfect location for a bracing walk.
 
Transport links to the island are strong; the M2 is a short 15 minutes’ drive and the M20 is 30 minutes away, offering quick access to the rest of the county. There are also two train stations on the island which provide regular links to other Kent towns in under an hour, and to London in an hour and a half.  

The Isle of Sheppey boasts wonderful marsh surroundings and is home to two unspoilt Nature Reserves. Elmley and Swale Nature Reserves are renowned for their wildlife and home to a variety of birds of prey which are known to breed in the area. The reserves are perfect for peaceful walks and reflection. 

The island is full of sporting activities; you can learn to ride the waves at Minster Leas and the Isle of Sheppey Sailing Club or find kayaking, boating and kiting at Barton Point Coastal Park. There are also popular fishing lakes to be found in the area.  If staying on dry land is more your thing then cycling on The Isle of Harty Trail or The Sheerness Way is a great pastime for you to enjoy and helps showcase the unique scenery found on the island.