FOOD + DRINK
GET FRESH
AS THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND , KENT IS THE PERFECT PLACE FOR STOCKING UP ON THE BEST NATURAL , NEWLY HARVESTED PRODUCE . LOCALLY GROWN BY KENTISH FARMERS AND LOVINGLY SUPPORTED BY OUR FARM SHOPS AND GREENGROCERS , THERE ’ S NO BETTER PLACE FOR GETTING FRESH .
From vineyards and hop gardens to fruit orchards and fields of veggies , Kent ’ s luscious land provides a plethora of produce that serves a nation . As well as crops , Kent is home to hundreds of other farms producing meat , eggs and dairy products . Stocking all of this good stuff are , of course , Kent ’ s famously good farm shops . But why should we choose them over our supermarkets ? Buying food that has been grown by local producers ensures high welfare standards are always met . This doesn ’ t just mean working conditions for staff , but welfare and living standards for animals , too .
One of the most significant advantages of buying local is also the positive impact on the community ’ s economy . When consumers choose locally produced goods , they contribute directly to the growth and prosperity of their own neighbourhoods . The carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances is a considerable contributor to environmental degradation . Opting for local products drastically reduces the environmental impact of transportation and supports a more sustainable supply chain . Fewer miles travelled means reduced emissions , helping to combat climate change and promote a healthier planet - not to mention keeping our Kentish culture thriving .
And finally , local food is often fresher and of higher quality compared to products that have travelled extensive distances . When consumers purchase locally grown produce or locally made goods , they enjoy the benefit of items harvested or created at their peak . Freshness not only enhances flavour but also ensures that consumers receive products with maximum nutritional value . Supporting local farmers and artisans means a commitment to a higher standard of quality .
Here are just some of insideKENT ’ s favourite farm shops :
Holwood Farm Shop , Keston A family-owned farm shop and cafe housed in a beautifully restored barn , Holwood nestles in rural Kent between Keston and Downe village . “ We opened our shop because we are passionate about supporting local producers and we go out of our way to offer you the very best of traditionally reared meat , fresh fish from the South Coast , Wealden fruit and veg , local beers and cakes baked especially for us ; come and see us soon and fill your basket from The Garden Of England ,” say owners Sarah and Gary .
Gibsons , nr Wingham Established in 1970 , Gibsons is a family-run farm shop and eatery that believes in offering the finest foods that Kent has to offer . A true example of a traditional farm shop that has evolved into a foodie ’ s delight , Gibsons has a glorious deli counter stocked with homemade goodies , shelves bursting with bright fruit and vegetables , and a range of meticulously sourced artisan products . Visit their café for a taste of the wholesome goodness on offer including scrumptious homemade cakes .
Algar Lodge , Deal A rural foodie haven , Algar Lodge is an immaculate family-run farm shop stocking a wide range of local produce . They have a butchery , deli and bakery to provide you with plenty of fresh and homemade products . Their cafe serves breakfast and lunch throughout the day accompanied by a wide range of products to choose from including vegetarian , vegan and gluten-free options from the shop .
Broadditch Farm Shop , Gravesend Set in peaceful countryside , yet just 20 minutes from Bluewater , 470-acre Broadditch Farm has been owned and operated by the Harris family for over 170 years . With its farm shop joining its farmto-table ethos some 30 years ago , it has been going from strength to strength ever since . The shop , of course , specialises in Broadditch ’ s very own fresh-from-the-farm vegetables . Grown a matter of acres away and available only hours after harvesting , all fruit and veggies are seasonal and are grown in the best quality conditions .
It ’ s not just your five-a-day that you ’ ll find as you peruse inside the wooden beamed , rustic farm shop , there is also produce from a multitude of other local Kentish farms and businesses including cakes and fruit pies from Country Cakes , all manner of cheeses and cold meats from Curd & Cure , eggs from Barradale Farm and a vast
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