THE VINES
ROMNEY MARSH SHEPHERD ’ S HUTS
The Vines , Rochester www . thevinesofrochester . com
Just a stone ’ s throw away from both Rochester Castle and Rochester Cathedral , The Vines is set in a magnificently beautiful building , The Old Archdeaconry , which oozes romance all year round . With wisteria creeping round the elegant sliding windows and heavy door which is ready to welcome lovers with open arms , expect an elegant yet relaxing stay at this boutique hotel . Towering brick chimney stacks sit atop of this Grade II listed building and allude to the glowing warmth of the fireplaces that heat the rooms below . Inside , explore winding staircases and intriguing original features that span across the centuries and enjoy the luxury of one of the 13 lovingly restored rooms .
Guests can also enjoy marvellous food in this rambling cathedral property : ‘ Our desire is to cook seasonal produce in an honest and unpretentious way . A feast for the eyes and the taste buds ,’ say The Vines team . Enjoy either the á la carte or brasserie menu , both the perfect ingredient for a Valentine ’ s meal to savour and remember for years to come .
Eastwell Manor , Ashford www . champneys . com / hotels / eastwell-manor
If you are searching for the ideal way to make a grand gesture this Valentine ’ s Day , look no further than Eastwell Manor . A simply glorious setting that promises a blissful escape , this spa hotel owned by Champneys is the epitome of romance . A magnificent ancient stately home that sits proudly on 62 acres of beautiful parkland , you are sure to enjoy the views and misty walks as much as the treatments at Eastwell . Sit back next to a crackling fire in the bar and admire beautifully grand architecture as you wait for your coffee or cocktail . Look forward to using the impressive spa facilities that include a showstopping heated pool , sauna , whirlpool , steam room and other high-tech thermal experiences .
End your Valentine ’ s celebrations perfectly with a delicious meal at the Brasserie in The Manor Restaurant , who source all their ingredients from handpicked local producers to showcase the very best of the Garden of England . Retire to one of Eastwell ’ s plush bedrooms in which you are promised a peaceful slumber in a lavish four poster bed , after making use of your grand roll-top bubble bath and fluffy robe for ultimate comfort and relaxation . Valentine ’ s bliss .
Hotel Du Vin and Bistro , Royal Tunbridge Wells www . hotelduvin . com
A jewel in this royal spa town ’ s sparkling crown , Hotel Du Vin and Bistro will be a regal Valentine ’ s getaway for those looking to enjoy a vibrant and historic location such as Tunbridge Wells . Lovingly converted from a Grade II listed mansion and still cherishing all its best features , Hotel Du Vin has amplified the beautiful , authentic Georgian period detail and added their own characteristic twists throughout . Couples can immerse themselves in one of the hotel ’ s 34 unique rooms and suites , settle in for the night with luxuriously fluffy towels and robes , as well as overhead showers and roll-top baths that beckon guests to have a long soak in some lovely bubbles .
Conveniently situated with fast train links to London , guests can explore the buzzy Pantiles of Tunbridge Wells and search out a precious momento from one
of the independent shops or artisan producers . Relax in one of the hip cafés or bars that sit in abundance in the town before returning to experience the marvellous food at the Bistro . With classic French dishes making up the menu , set your expectations high for an elegant and delicious Valentine ’ s meal . Sample a heavenly glass of wine carefully selected by one of Hotel Du Vin ’ s experienced sommeliers to match a delicious dish from the á la carte menu , which consists of produce grown in the Garden of England itself .
Romney Marsh Shepherd ’ s Huts , Romney Marsh www . romneymarshshepherdshuts . co . uk
One of the most idyllic ways to spend Valentine ’ s Day is perhaps to be in only the company of your other half with no interruptions ( apart from the distant sound of bleating sheep and the twit-twoo of owls in the night ). Romney Marsh Shepherd ’ s Huts are a blissfully perfect way of achieving this , placed under the spectacular open skies of what Thomas Ingoldsby referred to as ‘ The Fifth Continent ’, couples can relish this intimate seclusion whilst being in the cosy comfort of a delightful Shepherd ’ s Hut with modern amenities .
Part of the Kent Downs Area of Natural Beauty , Romney Marsh has plenty for visitors to explore while they stay . With an extensive coastline not far away , a diversity of natural habitats for rare species and a rich history that comes with intriguing stories , whatever your interests , your imagination will always be stimulated during your stay here . Guests can also experience sheep farming first hand at this family farm and even purchase bespoke products made from the wool farmed here .
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