KENTSTAYCATION
KENT ’ S Romantic Retreats CONT .
PORT LYMPNE HOTEL AND RESERVE
THE LOOKERS LEGACY
Canterbury Cathedral Lodge , Canterbury www . canterburycathedrallodge . org
A stay that will truly make its mark and be an unforgettable Valentine ’ s experience is one at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge . From their bedroom window , guests can marvel at the sheer size , aweinspiring architecture and rich history of the cathedral itself while staying in this venue that sits within its grounds . An UNESCO World Heritage Site , the cathedral and precincts are full of ancient history and stories , including that of the famous saint Thomas O ’ Becket whose tale of martyrdom has for centuries summoned pilgrims from all over the world to this very spot .
Ideally located in the centre of this vibrant city , visitors can enjoy even more history and beautiful ancient buildings from the cobblestone streets . Canterbury is known for its excellent shopping and has an abundance of scrumptious coffee shops and cafés . Visit Eleto Chocolate Café ( www . thekingsmile . org . uk / traders / eleto-chocolate-cafe ) on the King ’ s Mile to sample perhaps what will be the best , real hot chocolate you will ever taste and choose individual chocolates to gift or share with your Valentine . Return to the oasis of the Cathedral Lodge to enjoy a quiet glass of champagne together before venturing back out to one dine at one of the city ’ s most romantic restaurants such as Marlowe ’ s ( www . marlowesrestaurant . co . uk ) named after the Canterbury-born Elizabethan playwright , or Café Des Amis ( www . cafedez . com ) which serves up delicious Mexican dishes in a candlelit ancient building that oozes charm and romance through atmosphere alone .
Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve , Hythe www . aspinallfoundation . org / port-lympne / short-breaks
For a magical Valentine ’ s Day unlike any other , stay at Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve . Choose from a variety of different accommodations , including a luxurious boutique hotel or a panoramic bubble pod perfect for two to spend the night underneath the stars as though in your own enchanting jungle .
A 600-acre site and reserve protecting over 700 species , there is plenty to explore during the day at Port Lympne too . Seek out the UK ’ s largest herd of black rhino , big cats , gorillas , bears and more . Opt for a 30 minute Animal Encounter , at which you can come face-to-face with your favourite species or take a two hour Safari through the park with your very own expert ranger . Visit the Moroccan
Courtyard together for afternoon tea , a Valentine ’ s Day date you will never forget .
The Lookers Legacy , Tenterden www . originalcottages . co . uk
The cover star from our January issue , The Lookers Legacy , a beautifully renovated traditional brick Lookers Hut , offers a stunning luxury hideaway set in a rural vineyard with sweeping countryside views . Tranquil yet stylish , the open-plan living area is dominated by double bi-folding doors which open onto a secluded terrace complete with hot tub and far-reaching views across the Romney Marsh .
Furnished with luxurious touches and flooded with natural light , the cottage made for two ’ s cosy woodburning stove is perfect for chilly February evenings á deux … But being pet-friendly means your fourlegged loved one can come along too .
Venturing out ? Avid walkers have easy access to the Saxon Shore Way . Tenterden , historic Rye and the golden sands of Camber are nearby . While the footpath will take you straight to the ( pet-friendly ) Ferry Inn , renowned for its seasonal Rye Bay scallops .
For more inspiration for planning your ultimate Kent Staycation , visit www . kentstaycation . co . uk kentstaycation .
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