OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
GUIDE
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
BALFOUR WINERY Making over 400,000 bottles of both still and sparkling a year , acclaimed wine producer Balfour passionately creates some of the county ’ s most renowned wines with precision and innovation . Take the opportunity to stroll amongst the vines on the vast Staplehurst Tudor estate for a splendid day at one with nature . Learn from the experts on guided tours and taste exquisite pairings in the on-site dining spaces .
KINO CINEMA Set in the heart of the village of Hawkhurst stands a former Victorian lecture hall , transformed to offer the community a stylish place to dine , relax and relish a modern cinema experience . From the latest blockbusters to independent artistic performances ,
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
STAPLEHURST NURSERIES & FRANKIE ’ S FARM SHOP Originally run as an independent nursery that has since expanded into a community-focused farm shop and homely restaurant . Experience a sea of blossoming plants as you browse the nurseries and pitch up for a sweet treat or Sunday lunch .
TAYWELL FARM SHOP Championing Kentish suppliers , great produce and sustainability , Taywell Farm Shop in Goudhurst is packed with gorgeous artisan goodies . From fresh ingredients to homemade treats , there are lots of new brands to discover . Inspired by the seasons and local landscape , the on-site café is also a must visit .
MILLBROOK GARDEN CENTRE Family-founded , Millbrook has flown the flag for all things gardening since 1979 . Situated just outside of Staplehurst , the garden centre is home to glorious floral selections and stylish homeware - with knowledgeable staff on hand for expert gardening advice .
DIVINE DINING
WATER LANE Set within a picturesque walled garden in Hawkhurst and complete with a beautiful gift shop and idyllic grounds , Water Lane ’ s restaurant proudly showcases thriving seasonal produce throughout its gardeninfluenced menu . Prepared with the utmost care and championing simple yet imaginative dishes , you can expect an elegant dining experience unlike any other .
THE MILK HOUSE Whether you opt to test out the grazing menu in the lively bar area or the fresh and exciting flavours served in the dining room , this former Sissinghurst coaching inn promises a relaxed atmosphere and great food . Try the muchloved Sunday roasts or tempting puddings , both certain to please .
THE GOUDHURST INN Only a short drive from Balfour Winery , The Goudhurst Inn immaculately combines modern dining with traditional pub favourites . Sip on a glass of Balfour while delving into an innovative seafood dish or sharing plate , or perhaps try a stone-baked sourdough pizza .
Water Lane ( above left ), The Goudhurst Inn ( bottom left )
Kino showcases the very best of film in its 91-seat screening room . Also boasting a pretty garden space in which to enjoy a tipple or two .
THE TOY MUSEUM , PENSHURST PLACE & GARDENS Opened in 1970 by William Sidney , 1st Viscount De L ’ Isle , this museum features a fascinating collection of collectible toys , many of which are from the collection of Yootha Rose , a stage designer , artist and royal toymaker . Located on the 14th-century estate known for its spectacular gardens and historical significance , the museum was created out of an old carpenters ’ workshop , built by the 1st Viscount ’ s great-great grandfather .
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
SISSINGHURST CASTLE GARDENS Adding to the castle ’ s diverse history , poet and writer Vita Sackville-West and her diplomat and author husband Harold Nicolson began their transformations of Sissinghurst Castle in the 1930s using their creative vision and wide knowledge to paint the house and gardens with artistic displays of colourful expressions . Today , the grounds also showcase a secondhand book shop and popular café .
KINGDOM Set amongst 13 acres of Penshurst ’ s woodlands , Kingdom aims to provide an idyllic environment to unwind , relax and explore . Creating nourishing plates to feed the soul at the café and allowing those to connect with their mind , body and nature at the wellness centre with yoga sessions and cycling trails ; an enchanting location to embrace all things wellness .
BEDGEBURY CAMPING For family getaways to the great outdoors , embrace all that Bedgebury has to offer set in the heart of the High Weald , nestled just outside of Goudhurst . With a central camping location next to a peaceful stream and views of the rolling countryside stretching for miles , you ’ re certain to appreciate Kent in all of its countryside glory here .
Balfour Winery ( above right ), Taywell Farm Shop ( bottom right ).
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