KENTSTAYCATION
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
48 Hours in SWALE CONT .
AFTERNOON No trip to this part of Kent would be complete without a visit to ‘ Britain ’ s Oldest Brewer .’ By now you must have smelt the presence of hops in the air , as nestled in the medieval market town of Faversham is the home of Shepherd Neame . Using natural ingredients , including mineral water from the town ’ s aquifer and local hops , the brewers here blend art and science to produce their award-winning Kentish ales , beers and renowned international lager , and you can find out more about its unquestionable place in brewing history and sample some fine tipples on its highly recommended Brewery Tour . Having partaken pre-lockdown the insideKENT team know from experience that this is one not to be missed !
DINNER Tour and tipple tasting complete , it seems only fitting to end the evening dining at a Shepherd Neame stable pub ! Just a short stroll from the brewery , The Sun Inn naturally serves distinctive Kentish cask ales in peak condition , but it is more than just a haven for real ale aficionados though . The Sun
Inn also offers some of the best pub food in Faversham , with a variety of snacks and main meals that can be enjoyed in the bar , lovely courtyard garden or in the dining rooms of this traditional Kentish pub which is brimming with intriguing original features such as nostalgic inglenook fireplaces and oak beams . With a tale to tell that dates back to the 14th century , The Sun Inn is bursting with history , charm and character , offering the ultimate everyday escape via the unrivalled atmosphere of one of Faversham ’ s oldest pubs .
Where to stay
Looking for the ultimate night under the stars and ultimate countryside seclusion ? Then why not ‘ wake up to wilderness ’ and opt for a stay at Elmley Nature Reserve . Located on the Isle of Sheppey , this area of marshland is a privately-owned family farm and nature reserve which is home to an impressive array of wildlife – particularly birds . A two-mile drive from the entrance to the car park
makes for a great safari but there are more traditional hides once you ’ ve parked your car and started to explore on foot . You can see wading birds and wildfowl on the Swale Estuary and in the shallow pools of the reserve . In terms of accommodation , choose from the beautiful 18th Century Farmhouse which offers the experience of a luxurious private home ; the intimacy , seclusion and boutique hotel feel of the Kingshill Farmhouse ; the sweeping views and utter cosiness of Elmley Cottage ; or with windows for walls , wake up to glorious sunrises and wilderness views from The Ferryman ’ s Hut .
If luxury and pampering are your preference , then head to Hempstead House Country House Hotel and Spa . Set in four acres of grounds and surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens , this traditional privately owned hotel and spa is nestled within a handful of beautiful villages and open farmland in the heart of the Kent Countryside . Enjoy luxurious accommodation , AA Rosette dining , and indulge at the AquaManda Spa .
BELMONT HOUSE AND GARDENS
ELMLEY NATURE RESERVE
* Article is for inspiration for travel only when it is safe and responsible to do so . Many featured attractions and restaurants remain closed in line with Government guidelines but look forward to welcoming you in the hopefully not too distant future .
In partnership with Kent Staycation and Visit Kent .
For more inspirational ideas for things to do in Kent , visit www . visitkent . co . uk .
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