DAYSOUT
Woof , Neigh , Roar ! cont ... stunning area of Kent ; a family-run stables , Ten Oaks places emphasis on ensuring a most welcoming and personal experience . Ten Oaks provide private and semi-private riding lessons , hacks , forest rides , pony days and clear round jumping . Whether you ’ re a beginner or a seasoned rider , you can be sure of a warm welcome from Ten Oaks and their lovely horses ; a brilliant way to experience this beautiful part of Kent with its gentle hills and leafy forests .
PAWS CAT CAFÉ
Traverse this area of Kent ’ s rural countryside about half an hour ’ s drive northwest from Hawkhurst and you will find yourself in the countryside that surrounds leafy Tunbridge Wells . Known for its natural beauty and marvellous rural architecture , West Kent is of course home to plenty of riding stables and equestrian centres . This includes Wellgrove Farm Stables , based in the village of Pembury ; plenty of bridle paths make Wellgrove the ideal place for countryside hacking in Kent . For less experienced and younger riders , a jaunt in Wellgrove ’ s own small area of woodland is also available , as are lessons , pony club , summer pony camp and group riding .
For animal lovers looking for a more chilled out experience , nearby Tonbridge has the perfect solution : Paws Cat Café . “ At Paws we know just how important cats can be for mental health ; studies show cats reduce stress , offer companionship and simply petting a furry friend can release stressreducing hormones . We know the studies are right , we are living proof and we wanted to bring that proof to Tonbridge , with the added bonus of some delicious cake and some nice hot ( or iced !) coffee ,” says founder , Elaine . Paws was born after Elaine struggled with her mental health and decided it was time to do what she loved . Elaine set about working out a way to incorporate cats and her family into a job . She joked about a cat café idea being the ideal location to come and feel calm and relaxed away from all the usual hustle and bustle of life . Elaine soon realised that was exactly what she wanted ! After making the decision , her daughter Lauren joined the team as Paws ’ manager and after 18 months of planning and finding a suitable location , Paws opened its doors in Tonbridge .
DAIRY BARN
For those wanting their own homeaway-from-home in Tunbridge Wells with their dogs , look no further than Bloom Stays ’ Dairy Barn . With breathtaking , uninterrupted views across rolling countryside , the beautiful Dairy Barn is an idyllic retreat for couples or friends wanting to fully unwind in the most tranquil of settings . French doors lead from the living area onto a raised terrace , with dining table for meals alfresco and steps leading down to a lawn garden ; the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic together before exploring the surrounding countryside on foot .
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