insideKENT Magazine Issue 144 - April 2024 | Page 54

GUIDE
DIVINE DINING
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
SQUERRYES AA Rosette award-winning restaurant using produce from the Squerryes estate and local surroundings . After a day admiring the aesthetic beauty of vineyards on a tour and tasting during which you ’ ll learn about the 300-year-old Squerryes estate , dine on exquisite seasonal food and Squerryes wine .
GRASSHOPPER ON THE GREEN Relax at the bar that offers real Kentish ales , or choose to dine at the restaurant , always including catch of the day , succulent steaks and other tempting
delights . Offering breakfast , start your day by watching village life go by from the sunny outdoor seating or next to the log fire .
THE OLD BANK The culmination of chef Adam Turley ’ s lifelong passion for food and love of fresh , seasonal ingredients combined with a desire to create a relaxed and elegant dining experience . The Old Bank ’ s beautiful vault has been transformed into a unique wine cellar and is stocked with an array of fabulous wines .
Squerrys ( top left );
The Old Bank ( bottom left )
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
EMMETTS GARDEN A wonderful place to spot the early bloomers such as crocuses and daffodils in the early months of spring which give way to pretty bluebells that cover the woodland floor with a blanket of blue and purple hues - a majestic photo opportunity and beautiful place to walk . Stroll to another nearby garden beauty in the form of Chartwell , the historic home of Sir Winston Churchill .
QUEBEC HOUSE Although built in the 17th century , it was renamed Quebec House in honour of James Wolfe ’ s famous victory against the French at Quebec . There are household items and other memorabilia relating to Wolfe on display and the stable block houses an exhibition about the Battle of Quebec . Visitors are invited to finish their tours in the new and improved secondhand bookshop and browse the shelves at leisure .
WESTERHAM BREWERY Established in 2004 by Robert Wicks , the Westerham Brewery Company is proud to bring brewing back to the historic town of Westerham .
Serving their top quality real ales in their tap room , shop and café , which also dishes up great street food , this is a must for beer enthusiasts . Tours and tastings are held weekly and a programme of lively events is on offer .
THE GREENSAND RIDGE One of the few places in England where thin , sandy soils support lowland heathland and acid grassland - which support specific wildlife and vegetation - Greensand Ridge ’ s ancient woodlands will be awash with bluebells in late April ; a beautiful sight to behold especially to the backdrop of woodland bird song .
CHARTWELL Sir Winston Churchill ’ s former home now National Trust property , delight in stunning grounds and gardens which cover some 80 acres as well as the onsite museum housed in two rooms of the primarily family home . There are also a host of family- and dog- friendly events throughout the year , too .
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES AND MARKETS
KATE ’ S COLLECTION Whether you are looking for a stylish outfit for a special occasion or for something a little more casual , Kate and her team are always pleased to help you find outfits that suit your lifestyle .
CASTLE ANTIQUE CENTRE Classic antiques shop selling the likes of tools , books , advertisement items , small furniture and a wide range of country bygones and collectables . A great place to browse and pique your imagination whether buying for your home or satisfying curiosity .
THE VINTAGE HOME COMPANY Established in Westerham for over 16 years , The Vintage Home Company brings a wide range of beautiful home furnishings not to be seen elsewhere ! Housed in a beautiful Victorian building , explore a series of rooms displaying furniture and accessories .
TOYS HILL Discover the place that inspired Octavia Hill to found the National Trust . Toy ’ s Hill is more than 200 acres of woodland and the area is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to its abundant wildlife - much of it is recognised as a Grade I site of national importance for nature conservation . Discover four waymarked walks around Toys Hill ranging from just under two to four miles in length .
Quebec House ( top right ); Castle Antiques Centre ( bottom right )
54 • www . insidekent . co . uk