CHRISTMASINKENT
THE KENT DOWNS AREA OF NATURAL BEAUTY
CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY
ROARING FIRES IN COUNTRY PUBS , LONG WINTER RAMBLES ROUNDED OFF WITH MULLED WINE AND RURAL SHOPPING PERFECT FOR UNIQUE GIFTS AND DIVINE FOOD ... KENT ’ S COUNTRYSIDE IS THE MOST HEAVENLY BACKDROP FOR A HEARTY , WHOLESOME CHRISTMAS .
Kent ’ s sprawling countryside is home to a myriad of natural beauty spots , with perhaps the most well known and expansive being The Kent Downs Area Of Natural Beauty . The Downs rise to over 240m , cresting in a prominent escarpment above to yet another celebrated area of natural beauty in the south : the Weald of Kent . The surreal beauty of Kent ’ s countryside is awe-inspiring at any time of year , but the ethereal allure of winter and the magic of Christmas together offers a truly enchanting experience when out exploring . From brisk walks with marvellous mists that transform the countryside and wildlife into Christmas-card scenes , to traditional pubs and cute coffee shops that offer cosy sanctuary from the elements – Kent ’ s countryside is set to make marvellous Christmas memories to cherish .
One of the best ways to take in all the stunning scenery of the Kent Downs is by walking along , or visiting places on the Greensand Way . Named after the sandstone ridge which crosses Hampshire , Surrey and Kent , this long-distance path of 108 miles can be embarked upon in the picturesque village of Hamstreet . This area encompasses a myriad of delightful country pubs , a visit to which is , undoubtedly , the cherry on top of a lovely winter walk . One such place is Percival ’ s Rest in Harrietsham itself .
With a brand new chef for 2023 , Percival ’ s Rest ’ s menus are embracing the very best of Christmas and the foods we love so much at this time of year , from roast turkey with all the trimmings to chocolate orange mousse . This Christmas , Percival ’ s Rest are offering guests the opportunity to celebrate Christmas Day with them , and the option of hosting a Christmas party and meal with your friends or work colleagues . A jovial atmosphere and warm interiors make Percival ' s Rest a top spot for such yuletide celebrations .
Take a picturesque 35-minute drive from Harrietsham across the Kent Downs towards Maidstone , and you will find yet another charming Kentish pub perfect for appreciating this area of outstanding natural beauty : The Pepperbox Inn , which sits in between both the Downs and the Kentish Weald . A charming 15thcentury country pub and restaurant , this is cosy-country Christmas at its best . Timbered ceilings and beautiful inglenook fireplaces offer the ultimate winter sanctuary , ideal for romantic dates that could be straight from a Christmas film - watch out for that mistletoe ! Situated on one of the highest points overlooking the Weald of Kent , there are outstanding views which can be appreciated from the large garden terrace . Back inside , enjoy prime steaks and sublime seafood , as well as local ales and wines .
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