KENTSTAYCATION
From the timeless inspiration of murals inspired by social and environmental issues to genre-defying contemporary pieces that speak differently to every pair of eyes that view them , the innovative artworks spread across Margate and Ashford specifically will thrill and surprise in equal measure - perfect for a weekend away from the everyday .
Itinerary 1 : Canterbury and Margate
Day 1 : Canterbury
• Morning : Start your day with breakfast at The Refectory Kitchen , known for its cosy atmosphere and delicious brunch options . @ refectory _ kitchen
• Late Morning : Explore the small galleries of Canterbury , take in the sculptures along the river behind the Marlowe Theatre , and stop by The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge where varied collections and attractive galleries inspire all ages . @ the _ beaney , @ marlowetheatre
• Lunch : Head to The Goods Shed restaurant for a farm-to-table dining experience with fresh , local produce . The Goods Shed is a cooperative space for local producers and businesses set in a large barn . @ thegoodsshed _
• Afternoon : Follow the Canterbury Sculpture trail along the River Stour , don ’ t miss Alluvia by Jason deCairesTaylor , tucked beneath the surface of the river and visible from the bridge in Westgate Gardens . Alluvia is made from cement and glass and has been designed as a way to monitor the pollution in the river . Keep an eye out for the brand-new butterfly mural featuring the rare whitespotted sable moth and the heath fritillary butterfly on the side of the Ocakbasi of Kent building opposite Westgate Towers .
• Evening : Enjoy dinner at Sekkoya , offering innovative Asian cuisine with a modern twist . @ sekkoyarestaurant
• Accommodation : Stay at the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge for a unique , historic stay ; hotel guests receive complimentary access to Canterbury Cathedral . @ canterburycathedrallodge _
Day 2 : Margate
• Morning : Catch the train to Margate , enjoy the sculptures and murals around the station as you walk along the seafront to have breakfast at Fort Road Hotel , where you can sit overlooking the Turner Contemporary and take in the Turner-esque views of the sea . @ fortroadhotel , @ turnercontemporary
• Late Morning : Explore the vibrant street art scene in Margate where there are a plethora of small galleries and museums to explore ; visit the Turner Contemporary and The Carl Freedman Gallery . @ carlfreedmangallery
• Lunch : Grab lunch at Angela ’ s , Dory ’ s or Sargasso for a showcase of local ingredients . Sit in the sun and enjoy refreshments at Big Shot where they serve locally roasted coffee , cocktails and locally brewed beers .
Take a stroll to the end of the harbour arm to see Mrs Booth , a 12ft statue designed to represent the figurines that were commonly sold in gift shops around the town , and saunter behind the Turner to see Anthony Gormley ’ s Another Time sculpture ( at mid to low tide ). This is a great , secluded location to stop for a swim if you are feeling brave . @ angelas _ of _ margate , @ dorys _ of _ margate , @ sargasso , @ bigshotdiner
• Afternoon : Walk up to Walpole Bay and begin the RISE UP RESIDENCY Art Trail , The RISE UP RESIDENCY mural pieces have all been commissioned to raise awareness of plastic pollution and encourage visitors and residents to reconsider their plastic usage . @ riseupresidency _
• Evening : Enjoy dinner with a view at Guesthouse No 42 ’ s restaurant Pearly Cow , which overlooks Margate Main Sands . Pearly Cow serves steak , fish and has an outstanding dessert menu . @ pearlycowuk
• Drinks : End your day with drinks at the Little Swift , perfectly situated to watch the sunset over the Main Sands ; highlights from the menu include local wine , beer and frozen cocktails ( and mocktails !). Little Swift has a bottle shop and deli for provisions to take home . @ littleswiftct9
riseupresidency . co . uk www . insidekent . co . uk • 95