KENTSTAYCATION
A COSY CHRISTMAS ESCAPE
FROM FESTIVE FORAYS WITH FRIENDS TO SECLUDED SEASONAL SANCTUARIES FOR COUPLES , FAMILY CELEBRATIONS SPENT NEAR THE SEA OR COUNTRYSIDE HAVENS PERFECT FOR THE POOCH , KENT HAS A PLETHORA OF COSY CHRISTMAS ESCAPES SURE TO HAVE ONE DESTINED FOR YOU . BY OLIVIA RICCINI
STONE HALL FARMHOUSE
Not only does December bring the delight of Christmas , it also brings colder weather and longer nights . Although festivities will sometimes tempt us to venture outdoors to a bustling Christmas market , a wonderfully wintery walk , or have us wrapping up warm for a coffee sat outside , our time spent indoors increases and we seek the sanctuary of cosy fireplaces , comforting kitchens and squashy sofas to snuggle up on after being out in the winter weather . Whether this be time spent in serene solace or happy hours spent amongst loved ones and friends celebrating , this time of year is perfect for embracing a temporary new abode in which to enjoy the season .
If you are looking to escape to a new location to explore for a few days with your partner or four-legged furry friend , Kent ’ s glorious countryside and blustery seaside spots are perfect for buttoning up and embracing the elements . With so many foodie favourites , from high end restaurants to cosy coffee shops , there are plenty more reasons to get outside and explore before returning to your winter sanctuary . The festive season is also a time awash with celebrations that involve the whole family and lots of friends , from those we might see only once a year to our closest ones whom although we may see every day , we cherish this time to really make the most of them and express our appreciation for all that they do for us .
With so many winter activities and fun festive events throughout the month , as seen in the insideKENT Events section and throughout the magazine , Kent makes the perfect excuse to book up an abode for the weekend and attend one of the county ’ s extravaganzas taking place nearby . With so many delightful holiday cottages , quirky B & Bs and luxurious hotels you are certain to find a stay only a stroll , or a short drive away , from your chosen activity .
No matter who you are , whatever your plans might be and whoever you ’ re celebrating the season with , Kent is certain to have a staycation to suit you . Here are some of insideKENT ’ s favourite cosy Christmas escapes .
FOR BIG FAMILIES SPANNING THE GENERATIONS AND FESTIVE FROLICS WITH FRIENDS
Stone Hall Farmhouse , Mongeham near Deal www . keeperscottages . com
Sleeping 12 , Stone Hall Farmhouse is a stunning Grade II listed house with Georgian and Victorian origins nestled in the village of Great Mongeham . This truly is a relaxed and comfortable holiday home , with the emphasis very much on families . With six bedrooms it is simply perfect for multi-generational family groups who want to come together and enjoy each other ’ s company in this wonderful house at Christmas . The large ground floor has a sitting room , family room and snug so lots of options for socialising and for quiet time . The dining room seats 12 guests , so indulging in a festive family feast is entirely possible . Children can enjoy the trampoline or roam in the lovely three acres of landscaped gardens . The village of Great Mongeham , which has two pubs and a local store , is a short drive to the seafront and the Georgian town centre of Deal .
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