KENTSTAYCATION
A CHRISTMAS COUNTY
EXPERIENCE CHRISTMASES OF THE PAST IN A GLITTERING NEW LIGHT AT ONE OF KENT ’ S COUNTRY HOUSES THIS MONTH .
© National Trust Images / Chris Lacey
© National Trust Images / John Millar
SCOTNEY CASTLE
Christmas , with all its enchantment and magic , grants us escape into the fantastical , a chance to immerse ourselves into our own romantic story as though we are characters in our very own yuletide tale . Every tale needs a special setting to match , whether that be a glittering Christmas market , a wintery countryside walk , or simply our own living room festooned with decorations . Our backdrop really can set the tone for fabulous festivities fit for a film . No setting however is quite as spectacular or enchanting as one of Kent ’ s famed country houses . As well as being steeped in the past with echoes of Christmases gone by , at this time of year our esteemed historic treasures are a wondrous festive adventure for both little ones and adults .
History buff , period-property lover or a family with festive thrillseekers in tow , no matter who you are , Kent ’ s country houses are sure to delight all your Christmassy fantasies and exceed every expectation this festive season . The Garden of England is home to the ultimate plethora of castles , stately homes and grand historic abodes - from National Trust treasures and English Heritage havens to privately owned princely piles , you are certain to be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring Kent ’ s Christmas country houses . The idyllic surroundings of Kent also blend into Sussex , Essex and London too , so a quick step across the border means there are even more beautiful places to discover and explore this festive season in this wondrous corner of the UK . insideKENT have rounded up the very best Christmas houses for your viewing pleasure this Christmastime and beyond .
NOSTALGIC CHRISTMASES WITH THE NATIONAL TRUST
This Christmas , The National Trust have a splendid variety of experiences at their properties , including cosy traditional Christmasses for kindling a nostalgic warm glow and adventures that transport visitors back through the years for an authentic Tudor Christmas . For those simply in need of an uplifting escape into fresh air and nature , The National Trust ’ s acres of frosty landscapes are just waiting to be explored before you find sanctuary at one of their cosy cafes for a warm Christmassy catchup with friends and family .
Scotney Castle , Lamberhurst , 26 November - 2 January
Get ready for cocktails and Christmas trees , feather boas and flapper dresses as you step back 100 years to the glitz and glamour of a Roaring Twenties ’ Christmas . In the gardens , you ’ ll find a fabulous ‘ Putting on the Ritz ’ trail for families with a special festive prize . Enjoy the illuminated mansion and festive decorations after dark at twilight events in the week before Christmas where the shops and tea rooms will also be open for any last-minute presents and festive goodies .
Igtham Mote , near Sevenoaks , 26 November - 8 January
Immerse yourself in a Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote with festive music , twinkling lights and seasonal scents inspired by the rich and colourful history of the property . See the Great Hall set out for a lavish feast ; the beautiful Tudor Chapel will be fully adorned for the season ; hear the music of Tudor England and immerse yourself in the celebrations . With a roaring fire , crafting workshops , carols and choirs , there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy - this a perfect way to explore Kentish Christmases of long ago .
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