FOOD + DRINK
WESTWELL WINES JOINS WINE GARDEN OF ENGLAND
Kent estate and winery Westwell have joined Wine Garden of England , a partnership of eight Kentish vineyards committed to the growth of Kent as a wine destination . The single estate produces handcrafted sparkling and still wines from grapes grown on across 40 stunning acres . Westwell ’ s managing director and winemaker Adrian Pike said , “ We ’ ve admired the work of the Wine Garden of England from afar and have been impressed by the commitment and energy shown . As we begin to welcome visitors to our winery and vineyard it feels like the perfect time to join and add our own voice to the team . The Wine Garden represents a range of differing styles of visitor attraction all with wine of the highest quality at their centre . We aim to add our own blend of behind the scenes tours , interactive winery experiences and pop-ups from some of Kent ’ s finest restaurants .”
KENT CRISPS OWNER , LAURA BOUNDS , RECEIVES MBE AT WINDSOR CASTLE
THE BRIDGE ARMS
The owner of Kent Crisps , Laura Bounds , has received her MBE , awarded for Services to International Trade . Held in February at Windsor Castle , the investiture was hosted by Anne , Princess Royal , who presented the honour . Laura ’ s MBE reflects her work done through Kent Crisps to bring Kent and the UK to a world stage . Laura commented , “ It was a privilege to experience such an incredible day and be recognised for a lot of hard work and dedication to building the incredible brand that is Kent Crisps . I am so grateful for the support I have around me , including my incredible team , industry colleagues and connections , my friends and family . I do hope that this shows others that with commitment and determination , we can all make a difference and that anything is possible .” Kent Crisps is based in Bridge , near Canterbury , supplying local and regional outlets as well as international airlines , trains and ferries and 10 markets across the globe including Germany , America and Asia . The business is independently owned and run by Laura , whose portfolio also includes Kentish Oils & Condiments and A Little Bit Food Co , all of which use and champion local produce .
MICHELIN ACCLAIM FOR TOP KENTISH RESTAURANTS
Kent has continued to stake its claim as a hub of food excellence as Michelin announces its inclusions for 2022 . The Bridge Arms in Bridge near Canterbury is Kent ’ s latest success story being awarded One Star just 10 months after opening . Sister restaurant , The Fordwich Arms retained its One Star , as did Ben Crittenden ’ s Stark in Broadstairs , and Stephen and Phil Harris ’ The Sportsman at Seasalter . Sargasso in Margate was awarded Bib Gourmand joining The Kentish Hare and Swan Wine Kitchen in the category , while Will Devlin ’ s The Small Holding retained its Green Star for commitments to sustainability . Tallow , the new Southborough-based restaurant by Rob and Donna Taylor ( previously of The Compasses Inn ), which has recently opened its new private dining room , proudly obtained a guide listing just three months after opening .
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