CHRISTMASINKENT
For those looking for a more catered Christmas stay in this wonderful corner of Kent , there ’ s plenty of boutique bed and breakfasts and pretty pubs with rooms that meet the ‘ cosy Christmas cottage ’ criteria just as perfectly . Ash , near Sandwich , is home to B & B Goss Hall , a Grade II listed Georgian manor house surrounded by three-anda-half acres of picturesque gardens , including a lake and stream . Inside , guests will be greeted with a delightful homely feel including an elegant breakfast room overlooking the front garden and fields beyond . Goss Hall is also ideal for those looking for a Christmas staycation with their pooch in tow as dogs are welcome for £ 10 each per night . Your canine companion can enjoy long walks along nearby Sandwich Bay or in the surrounding countryside with its miles of footpaths .
Situated in the beautiful rural countryside between Deal and Dover , you will find the quirky , classic country inn The Lantern in Martin . An ancient inn that could be plucked from the pages of a fairy tale , The Lantern was built circa 1610 ; the historic building naturally lending itself to the atmospheric drinking and dining spaces on offer . Snuggle up with a Christmas cocktail by one of the three fireplaces , or enjoy a hearty meal of Kentish produce in the vaulted dining room . The owners have endeavoured to retain and enhance the inn ’ s period features through loving restoration and careful curation of curios , antiques and art and the result is a contemporary take on the traditional inn ; a convivial place to be at this special time of year . Sitting above the inn , the apartment combines stylish decor with honest creature comforts : excellent mattresses , a luxurious bathroom and fine linen sheets . In the pretty garden outside , guests will find a luxury handcrafted Mongolian yurt . What is certain to be a very memorable Christmas stay , the yurt has been furnished with carefully curated furniture , sumptuous bedding , and a wood burner – ensuring that , although not technically a cottage , a stay here will be just as cosy .
More quirky yet cosy stays can be found in Swale . Here The Syndale Valley shelters the central part of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty . One of the best bijou boltholes to explore this stunning area is Hide in the Downs , a shepherd ’ s hut in Doddington which can be booked through Airbnb . Nestled within 15 acres of wilderness in one of the remotest parts of the area , Hide in the Downs does exactly what it says on the tin . Offering a unique ‘ hiding experience ’ to escape your everyday life , this little yuletide haven is perfectly appointed to only give you and your loved ones the tranquil solace you might need at this busy time of year , while simultaneously providing the perfect location from which to explore the best of The Garden of England . A self-catered hut , it is positioned at the bottom of a wild meadow with easy access into the valley and a country pub within walking distance . Highlights include an outdoor bath and wood burner to enjoy an unspoilt starry sky and keep you extra snug – surreal Christmas memories guaranteed .
Not so far away in the hamlet of Borden , which sits amidst the countryside surrounding Sittingbourne , another quirky yet cosy stay comes in the form of Alpaca Lodge . Sleeping six , this is a great staycation option for a small family . The sitting room and bedroom is on the first floor and furnished in a contemporary style , while the shower and toilet are located on the ground floor . Step into the property and find yourself in the bright and airy sitting room with a delightful view of the gardens where you can watch the adorable alpacas quietly grazing . Here alpacas roam free , their inquisitive nature means they will follow you around and settle down with you for an evening in the communal vintage barn ! You ' ll also meet pigs , chickens , ducks and dogs making it the ideal Christmas farm stay to remember .
The rural marshy magic of Swale is far from limited when it comes to cosy cottages and boltholes from which to explore this unique part of Kent . Swale ’ s isle within an island , ‘ the isle of Harty ’ is connected to the Isle of Sheppey by a road causeway , and promises to be a surreal visit this festive season . Surrounded by the Swale Estuary , two nature reserves and rolling farmland , beauty and tranquillity call from all compass points here . A haven for wildlife enthusiasts , outdoor-types and foodies , some of the cosiest cottages at which to stay in Harty are Mocketts Farm Cottages . On colder days , groups and families will be just as content staying inside – with plenty of cosy couches and corners to snuggle in , plus a shared games room with a pool table , table tennis and foosball . Whether you ’ re looking for a quiet couple ’ s Christmas escape , a back-to-nature winter family break or the perfect setting for that large group festive getaway , this collection of five holiday cottages offers everything on the wish list for comfort and practicality this Christmas , including disabled and pet-friendly accommodation .
From a beautifully converted barn sleeping six , a large farmhouse sleeping eight , to a sweet lodge for three , Mocketts Farm has the hideaway to suit you this season . Just a short walk away , guests will find the rural wonder that is The Ferry House . Here , you can enjoy homegrown produce from the kitchen garden , Harty beef from the family farm , grazed on the neighbouring Emley Nature Reserve , locally sourced beer , wine and spirits , or relax in the treatment rooms with a massage .
GOSS HALL
MOCKETTS FARM COTTAGES
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HIDE IN THE DOWNS