KENTSTAYCATION
WONDERS OF THE WEALD CONT .
Outdoor activities , beautiful gardens and awe-inspiring architecture combine in yet another castle landmark on The Weald ’ s landscape in the form of Scotney Castle . A fortified manor house built circa 1378-80 and inspired by ' picturesque ' style , Scotney is perhaps the closest castle we get to those from the pages of a fairytale here in Kent . A enchanting building of two halves , Scotney ’ s style is certain to have visitors enthralled . One half ( Scotney Old Castle ) is a medieval manor house while the other half ( Scotney New Castle ) is a Victorian mansion . The grounds , classed as a Site of Specific Scientific Interest , are the ultimate place of beauty . With formal gardens and over 700 acres of parkland and woodland to explore , featuring spectacular flower displays and a moat from which the castle seems to rise , Scotney Castle remains a must-visit for everyone . Photographer , Instragrammer , history lover , gardener or imaginative child – you ’ re certain to love a visit to this ‘ Wonder of the Weald ’.
© National Trust Image / John Miller
Another official Wonder of the Weald is Biddenden Vineyard , which is yet another must-visit , especially in the harvest month of September . The oldest vineyard in Kent , its idyllic village location not only comes abundant with quintessential village scenes but is also awash with enthralling tales of Kentish folklore . According to tradition , in 1100 twin sisters were born in Biddenden who were joined at the shoulders and hips . The story describes how Elisa and Mary Chulkhurst lived in this condition for 34 years until one of them died . The other , refusing ( or more likely it being impossible ) to be separated from her sister ' s body , died shortly afterwards . Local records show that for 400 years after their death , the church gained an income from the 20 acres of land lying to its west , believed to have been bequeathed by the twins and used for the benefit of the poor of the village . Today , the sisters can still be spotted in the village on the painted Biddenden sign and on a stone in the corner of Biddenden Church . Said stone is marked with a diagonal line and is said to be the twins ’ final resting place . The church is also thought to have once been home to a stained-glass window depicting the sisters . Whether they were real people or a local legend , the Biddenden Maids have remained a beloved part of Kentish culture .
SCOTNEY CASTLE
As well as history and agricultural heritage , Biddenden is home to some foodie marvels too . For scrumptious breakfasts , light lunches , fresh smoothies and lovely cakes , stop by at The Bakehouse Café : the cutest , most flower-adorned establishment on the high street complete with quirky slanted windows , oak beams and exposed brick . For fine dining and evening meals however , Biddenden is home to one of Kent ’ s most highly acclaimed dining experiences : The West House . Based in a 16th-century weaver ’ s cottage , The West House is a small , family run restaurant with rooms . Boasting a reputation for fantastic food earned through chef-owner Graham ’ s focus on excellent delivery of Kent ’ s finest ingredients ; both Graham and the restaurant have been the recipients of numerous awards and accolades as well as featuring in all the major guidebooks . When it comes to the rooms , each of the four have been designed with unique , aesthetically pleasing themes and luxurious touches . Stays include dinner and a bespoke breakfast hamper delivered to your door , ready to enjoy from the comfort of your room .
THE WEST HOUSE
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