insideKENT Magazine Issue 133 - May 2023 | Page 57

LUNA DOMES
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG GLAMPING
For the romantics
Whisking your loved one away on an escape to the Kent countryside is the epitome of romance ; nothing speaks the language of love like rolling hills , nature and hand-in-hand strolls into the sunset . But , have you considered a Kent glamping adventure for this year ' s romantic escapade ?
Escape the humdrum of everyday life for a short getaway , retreat or even mini-moon this year and book at Luna Domes for a remote grown-up glamping experience in a desired location . Situated in the picturesque hamlet of Chiddingstone Hoath , just a 10-minute drive from Tunbridge Wells , the Luna Domes reside at Hoath House , a privately owned manor house brimming with history owned by the Streatfield family . Consisting of four semi-sphere-shaped accommodations , the beautifully executed geodesic domes feature a luxury king-size bed , modern kitchen , private heated bathroom , interior dining space , and modern mod-cons including a coffee machine and hairdryer . Each dome named after a National Trust park , house or castle has its own touch of luxury and unique selling points . Knole faces south and is slightly raised above the site ' s border , allowing for stunning views across the surrounding countryside while boasting a separate covered decking area with a wood-fired hot tub - an ideal seclusion for couples . Whereas Hever feels a lot more private and is tucked away amongst the grassland , making it feel snugger , this dome doesn ’ t boast a hot tub which is reflected in the rates .
Once you ’ ve settled on your dome , you can start thinking about your itinerary and what your romantic getaway looks like . Given the domes ’ ideal location , there ’ s an abundance of activity to be seeing and doing during your visit . Walkers can explore the many surrounding footpaths , or for those more enthused take a hike around the Chiddingstone Castle Loop starting in Penshurst .
For keen historians or gardeners , plan a visit to 13thcentury Hever Castle , once the childhood home of Anne Boleyn , enjoy a romantic stroll around the blooming gardens , or discover the beauty and serenity of the lake via rowing boat or pedalo . Make a day of it and spend the afternoon at Penshurst Place ; just a little further afield , take a short car trip to this authentic 14th-century stately home surrounded by 11 acres of glorious gardens and don ’ t forget the camera ! Stop for a bite to eat along the way at one of the traditional pubs , all within close proximity of the glamping site . If you ’ re looking for an authentic rural country pub , head to The Rock Inn at Chiddingstone and unearth a historical building . Tuck into classic pub grub dishes served all year round – they do an excellent roast on a Sunday . If you ’ re looking for a little more indulgence , spend the day in Tunbridge Wells . Book onto a romantic spa day at The Spa Hotel and enjoy being pampered for the day . Or go on a shopping excursion and stroll along The Pantiles , known for its independent food , drink and retail offerings . You ’ re sure to stumble across something you fancy : a coffee at Kumquat , an oyster or two at Sankeys or a
quick peek at the rings in the Peter Jenner window , perhaps ? Finish the day with dinner at Thackerays , a relaxed fine-dining experience without the pretension , or head out of town to neighbouring Southborough , where you ’ ll find Tallow , a mastermind of a restaurant serving unquestionably good food .
All before heading back to your dome to chill in the hot tub under the stars with a glass of Kentish wine in hand .
For the explorer
If you love the idea of exploring one of Kent ’ s most iconic cities but also want to connect with nature , perhaps you should consider glamping at Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Glamping , located on the outskirts of Canterbury . Surrounded by unspoiled countryside views in the charming village of Chislet , this glampsite is a third-generation countryside retreat consisting of 5m luxury bell tents . Each tent has its own king-size bed and log burner and is dressed with tasteful luxurious materials and furnishings to make its guests feel at home . The more exclusive accommodation features a hammock for reading a book while catching a few rays and an inviting woodfired hot tub , ideally located to make the most of the stunning views . A fully furnished separate kitchenette is available to use as and when required if you plan to end your day of exploring with a home-cooked feast for the family .
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