ROOT BUNNY COTTAGE
As well as food , Sandgate is great for Christmas gift shopping too . The high street that runs parallel with the seafront is filled with antique shops and independent stores great for treasure hunting . Drop into Workshop Number 29 for a curated collection of vintage clothing , homewares and simply beautiful things – ideal for giving something a little different that will stand out from the crowd this Christmas . Wine lovers can also be satisfied in Sandgate when they pay a visit to John Dory Wine . A wine shop and tasting room on the high street , peruse wines that range from Burgundy , German Riesling , Northern Rhône , Piemonte , iconic Tuscans , California , and proper dry Lambruscos . John Dory offers wine by the glass from a range of more than 150 specialist wines . Benefit from free local delivery , buy a bottle to take home , or enjoy any of the bottles from the shelves inside their cosy tasting room alongside a charcuterie board to match . Keep up to date with them on Instagram (@ jondorywine ) to find out when their festive tasting events will be taking place .
Keep going further west along the coast and you will find yourself in the next seaside town : Hythe . Known for being somewhat the sleepiest of this seaside trio , Hythe is in fact home to an incredible high street that has stood the test of time and remains to be wonderfully nostalgic . Hoards of tourists come to appreciate this quirky trait of the town , and Christmastime is one of the best seasons in which to embrace it . Full of independent boutiques , art galleries and food shops , while away the hours here and the day will be over before you even realise . Pop in to The Graham Gallery and marvel at artist Robbie Graham ’ s ‘ photo realistic ’ portraits depicting wildlife . Robbie ’ s numerous paintings can be ordered in most sizes if you have a particular requirement and are available in paper or canvas . Robbie can be seen regularly painting in the gallery where he is happy to discuss his methods which include a range of painting mediums such as gouache , acrylics and oils .
As well as shops and galleries , Hythe is no stranger to great food . Pay a visit to Root , a vegan and vegetarian café , which also sells a gorgeous array of foods and products to take home with you , great for gifting at this time of year too . A newer foodie attribute to Hythe is The Truffle Pig , a charming destination deli restaurant that uses fresh , local seasonal ingredients to create their delicious menus . Why not indulge in one of Truffle Pig ’ s tasting evenings and book a coveted seat at their chef ’ s table ? Held on Friday or Saturday evenings , enjoy a freshly prepared , carefully curated five-course tasting menu of innovative perfect little dishes . These ‘ immersive food experiences ’ creatively showcase the best seasonal , locally caught fish and locally gathered produce . A tasting evening experience would make a great festive gift for any foodie that you too can enjoy alongside them .
Embrace the best of Hythe ’ s eclectic dining scene along with panoramic sea views at The Waterfront . Reflecting the owner ’ s clear penchant for collectibles while maintaining an air of sophistication and a sideserving of fun , the refurbished and rebranded Waterfront is a sensory experience that goes much further than taste . Expect supreme views of the ocean out beyond as you tuck into delicious dishes such as their highly acclaimed oysters . The Waterfront neighbours one of Hythe ’ s most magnificent gems : The Hythe Imperial . This award-winning hotel has stood at the heart of the beautiful seaside town for hundreds of years and today , guests can enjoy a wonderful stay , dine in style , or indulge in a pampering experience at the spa and health club . All rooms at the Hythe Imperial are individually designed and range from intimate and cosy to spacious and decadent .
The friendly spa offers a range of treatments from expert Caudalie facials to hot stone massage and OPI manicures . With four spa treatment rooms , three nail stations and a heated relaxation area , you ’ re sure to find tranquility here . For those who like to spend a full day at a spa , Hythe Imperial offers a great selection of spa day packages as well as individual treatments , and these experiences are all available to purchase as the perfect Christmas gift for loved ones .
Slightly away from the coast but just next to Hythe is the village of Saltwood . Saltwood is home to highly acclaimed , Michelin-starred Hide and Fox . Although a neighbourhood restaurant , Hide and Fox takes on a contemporary identity in everything from food to decor . Serving vibrant modern cuisine , Hide and Fox revel in their friendly and informal atmosphere , which embraces an accessible finedining experience with a relaxed and unpretentious approach . Praised by the Michelin Guide for its unique identity and take on food , and having already claimed three AA Rosettes , Hide and Fox was first awarded their Michelin star in January 2021 which it retained for this year ’ s Michelin announcements in March . Head chef Allister chooses every ingredient with a focus on the best quality and designs menus to showcase the season . With the help of their meticulously selected suppliers , their aim is to source only the best produce available , locally where possible , and is guaranteed to be an exquisite festive visit at this time of year .
From one woodland animal to another , Saltwood is also home to Bunny Cottage , a charming holiday home that can be booked via Bloom Stays . Step inside and be greeted by the warm glow of the fireplace , inviting you to curl up with a good book , with hand-picked pieces of furniture and artwork paired together for a welcoming and homely feel . The cottage boasts a fully-equipped kitchen , perfect for whipping up a delicious Christmas meal . Enjoy this in the dining area and then retire to the openplan sitting room for wholesome evenings with the whole family .
Hidden behind an unassuming door , stairs lead up to two generously sized bedrooms finished in calming tones , with white bed linen and plump pillows offering you a peaceful sanctuary for a restful night ' s sleep . Beautifully finished , the spacious bathroom includes both a shower and a bathtub for you to unwind in after a bus day of yuletide exploring .
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