CHRISTMASINKENT
A WINTER TRAIL CONT .
© National Trust Images / John Miller
IGHTHAM MOTE
For weekend breakers
Discover Sevenoaks in all its glory this winter . Gorgeous stately homes , wonderful gardens , historical remains and rolling landscapes including the rippling hills of the High Weald and the North Downs , Sevenoaks in Kent is worthy of any weekender ’ s todo list , especially during the colder months . Sevenoaks holds onto a wealth of historical buildings and there ’ s plenty to see and do during your weekend winter getaway . Venture out and explore some of Kent ’ s most recognised landmarks : historical homes and gardens aplenty . Wrap up warm and start with a trip to Chartwell , once Churchill ’ s beloved family home . Head inside to explore the collections of paintings , books and possessions that belonged to this influential family and then take a stroll around the frosted grounds of its beautifully landscaped gardens . Or , enjoy a walk around many of the wonderful National Trust properties close by such as Ightham Mote or Knole House . Frosted trails , wintry strolls and those highly Instagrammable misty mornings make Ightham Mote enchanting at this time of year . After your walk , why not retreat inside , warm up and take a guided tour along the servants ’ quarters ? These tours only run during January and February so be sure not to miss out . Open from dawn to dusk all year round , Knole House welcomes visitors to explore this important , historical house set in the grounds of Kent ’ s last remaining medieval deer park . Visit during the festive season and expect to see sparkling lights , decorations and Christmas trees . Start in the Great Hall where you ’ ll be greeted by the roaring fire and experience life as it would have been all those years ago . Don ' t miss out on a walk around Knole Park among the deer .
North of Sevenoaks and Westerham is Britain ’ s most famous fighter station , RAF Biggin Hill , which is still internationally recognised as being Sir Winston Churchill ’ s ‘ strongest link ’. Head a little bit further and you ’ ll arrive at Lullingstone Roman Villa with its vibrant mosaics and striking wall paintings .
Sightseeing done , or perhaps it ’ s raining ? Then head for the High Street for a spot of shopping . Home to a mix of big brands and independents , there ’ s something for everyone – don ’ t forget to explore the little side streets where you find the real gems . Music lovers are also spoilt for choice with cosy pubs such as The Rifleman hosting monthly gigs from local performers . Finish with an evening at The Stag , Sevenoaks ’ all-in-one cultural hub , cinema and theatre . Look out for the festive panto and other touring performances this winter – there ’ s some great ones .
For family excursions
Family fun in the winter can seem like a difficult task , but it needn ’ t be . Kent is alive with activity and seasonal fun to keep the whole family entertained . Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest is open all year and is home to the world ’ s leading collection of conifers . It ’ s a beautiful setting for cyclists and walkers alike . Head off the beaten track and explore the hidden areas , or get the family involved in the family nature challenge . Feeling a little daring ? It ’ s home to one of Go Ape ’ s treetop adventure parks where you can have zipline fun with family and friends and find your inner Tarzan among the rope walks this winter . Even more exciting is that during the Christmas period they hold their illumination trail ; a magical walk through the forest lit with a spectacular display of lights – a technicolour dream . Tickets for this annual event sell very quickly , so be sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment .
Animal lovers should make their way to Kent Life . This Heritage Farm park is open all year round and welcomes families during the winter months . Explore the family play area , get friendly with farmyard friends or discover their very own Kentish gardens . Check out the packed calendar of events , including a whole host of winter activities – a visit to see Father Christmas is his magical grotto is not to be missed . Another must-do winter animal attraction ? Wingham Wildlife . Situated between Sandwich and Canterbury , the park is home to over 200 different species and has an indoor and outdoor play area , which is perfect come rain or shine . Blean Woods National Nature Reserve also makes for a lovely family day out - set out on the walking tour and discover the woodlands excotic creatures : European bison , Iron Age pigs and Exmoor ponies , which all contribute to a wilder Kent .
Wrap up warm and get your art fix by exploring Folkestone ’ s Creative Quarter . With yearround events and activities , there ' s plenty to see and do . For a little inspiration , explore the various artworks and installations on display – at this time of year you ’ re bound to see things from a different perspective even if you ’ ve been before . If the weather ’ s taken a turn , you could head to internationallyrenowned gallery , The Turner Contemporary to discover the display of contemporary and historical artworks . It ' s suitable for the whole family and has lots of fun activities for kids .
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