ROWHILL GRANGE HOTEL AND UTOPIA SPA
Canterbury is surrounded by an array of wonderful places to dine out , all within a short journey of one another . The Compasses Inn is a Michelin Bib Gourmand-accredited country pub hidden just above the downs between Ashford and Canterbury . All locally-sourced , the menu really grasps the concept of fresh , local produce with a contemporary twist – showcasing some of the best that Kent has to offer , it ’ s a fine dining experience in a cosy , quaint setting . Or perhaps finish your stay with a visit to one of Kent ’ s most recognised destination restaurants , The Fordwich Arms . Situated in Fordwich , Britain ’ s smallest town , this pub may seem like your typical postcard scene but , in fact inside it boasts a showstopping menu of seasonal dishes with excellent quality ingredients , and a coveted star , all credit to chef-patron Daniel Smith .
RELAXERS
Looking for a seclusion ? A place to relax , unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life , perhaps somewhere with a spa ? Rowhill Grange Hotel and Utopia Spa , could just be Kent ’ s best kept secret , and despite being located just 30 minutes by train from London Victoria , this country house spa hotel is set amongst 15 acres of landscaped gardens and boasts fantastic views across Kent . It ’ s traditional Victorian features date back to the 1800s ’ when it would have once been a family home . Now a modernised country manor , Rowhill is popular for it ’ s award winning Utopia Spa . Relax and indulge whilst experiencing the huge list of facilities on offer – a Roman-style swimming area ; gym ; 19 treatment rooms offering a range of therapies ; and a hair and nail salon to name but a few . For dinner , the hotel ’ s restaurant delivers a surprisingly varied menu of predominantly local produce with a creative twist ! Wake up and enjoy the generous buffet , sample the pastries and remember to save some room for an afternoon tea – it ’ s a must !
Having spent the previous day being pampered and massaged , take a trip out to make the most of the wealth of activities on offer . A relaxing walk around Chafford Gorges Nature Park will have you up close and personal with the wildlife . Roam the 200 acres of gardens , lakes and woodland through a network of pathways – you can even stop for a picnic . Offering history and blooms there ’ s Chiddingstone and Hever Castle . Both stunning , they offer the perfect place to experience the beauty of nature – the garden ’ s are spectacular . For those experienced golfers , drive 20 minutes and you ’ ll find London Golf Club , situated in close proximity to Ash Green and Brands Hatch , it ’ s home to two of the finest courses in Europe . Bespoke golf packages are available for purchase ahead of your visit , and those who aren ’ t golfing can sit back , relax and enjoy a drink in the clubhouse .
Perhaps the weather isn ’ t on your side , or you need a spot of retail therapy , Bluewater Shopping Centre is the perfect destination to fulfill all of the family ’ s needs . With a wealth of shops and restaurants , there ’ s something for everyone – and you could even take a trip to the cinema . For anyone looking for a tranquil escape , Royal Tunbridge Wells is a great place to stroll and discover what ’ s on offer .
THE COMPASSES INN
Hop over the border to discover one of the best views over the high weald . The Ashdown Forest is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest as well as being a Special Protection Area and a Special Area of Conservation - and not forgetting the original home of Pooh Sticks ! Journey back to Kentish soil to wander the beautiful Pantiles , treat yourself to coffee and a cake courtesy of Holly ’ s Little Cakery before heading for yet more bliss courtesy of The Spa Hotel . For a dinner ( or lunch !) to remember , it just has to be Thackeray ’ s . The award-winning restaurant , housed in a beautifully quaint , higgledy piggledy building , offers fresh , seasonal ingredients in mouthwatering dishes with a modern-european style of cooking – the souffles are to die for – the perfect way to end your relaxing staycation .
For more inspiration for planning your ultimate Kent Staycation , visit www . kentstaycation . co . uk kentstaycation .
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