DAYSOUT
As well as infinite miles of countryside to explore , these beautiful places in Kent have more than their fair share of award-winning venues to eat and stay at . From cosy pubs and cute cafés complete with puppuccinos to bijou boltholes ideal for days of family rambling - dogs included ! As well as these places to snuggle up with your pooch , there ’ s plenty of unique landmarks to include on your explorations when you ’ re out and about . One such example is Wye Crown . A wonderful way to see the Wye Downs ( part of National Landscapes ) is via a short hill climb from the small town of Wye to this iconic landmark . A chalk crown carved into the hillside , this mural dates back to when Wye was home to a thriving agricultural college . Keen to celebrate the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902 , the college ’ s principal came up with the brilliant idea of carving a crown into the hillside above the village . It took 35 students four days to complete , and 7,000 barrow loads of soil and turf was removed !
Today , it is still a spectacle to behold and can be seen close up by hikers . Start in the village itself , within which a clearly marked footpath at the bottom of the hill can be found taking you past the old greenhouses and labs of the agricultural college . Before doing this , we recommend you take some time to admire the beautiful carvings and architecture of the college itself , which was once a thriving hub for generations of young people in the industry . The footpath itself leads through fields and pretty woodland - ideal for muddy paws to run around in - before you reach the top . When at the crown , admire the hard work it must have taken to make this commemoration , as well as the far stretching views that reach all the way to neighbouring Sussex and out to sea .
Back in the village , there are two inns with boutique rooms and exquisite menus . The New Flying Horse boasts a roaring fire and a menu made up of delicious local produce including veggies from their own allotment . An innovative kitchen team has also created a delicious Sunday roast and the bar serves authentic Kentish ales making it the perfect pitstop after a walk up to the crown . There are nine splendid guest rooms that make an ideal base and stylish place to rest after a ramble in the Kent countryside . Best of all ? Your dog can stay for free ! The New Flying Horse loves canines so much that they even have a dog charity donation box on their bar should you wish to help another dog who is not so lucky . The Kings Head is another great option for those looking for wonderful dining . In the heart of the village , on the most iconic street in Wye , this pub serves an exquisite menu that ’ s passionate about showcasing the incredible produce Kent has to offer . There are also seven countrycontemporary decorated bedrooms , one with a roll top bath and all en-suite ; cosy comforts all combining beautiful traditional features .
44 • www . insidekent . co . uk