VISITKENT
BYGGA BO TILLER & WHEEL
PLACES TO
COOL OFF
IN KENT
by Visit Kent
Kent ’ s plethora of sandy beaches , alfresco dining and lively festivals were made for sun-soaked days out . When we need a little shade , however , but still want to keep the good times going , here are our favourite places to cool off across the county .
COOL OFF INDOORS
The Historic Dockyard Chatham The Age of Sail is waiting to be explored at The Historic Dockyard Chatham ; take a moment inside as you wander breathtaking instalments , all tailored to tell the 400-yearold story of maritime adventure . Don ’ t miss creative vintage festival , Salute to the ‘ 40s , taking place on 14 - 15 September !
Thanet Head underground at the Margate Caves , Ramsgate Tunnels , or the Shell Grotto , each offering not just an escape from the sun , but also a fantastic exploration into the history of the area .
Canterbury Cathedral Just picturing the heavy stone walls of Canterbury Cathedral is enough to cool us down , so join us as we explore the crypts . Take a guided tour to uncover fascinating history and stop off in the café for a refreshing drink on your way out .
COOL OFF WITH LOCAL PRODUCE
Macknade Beer & BBQ Festival This July , Macknade brings to life their inaugural Beer and BBQ Festival ! Relax under a canopy and see the site transformed into a buzz of live music , cooking demonstrations , kids ’ activities and delicious food to celebrate the season in style .
Maidstone Distillery Nestled in the Grade II listed historic Market Buildings in Maidstone town centre , Maidstone Distillery has awardwinning experiences on offer and a stylish bar – what better way to beat the heat than with a sip of a gin and tonic , distilled and made right in front of you ?
Shepherd Neame With a crisp , locally crafted beer in hand and unforgettable views out to sea , Shepherd Neame ’ s The Old Neptune is the place to go this summer . Sat on Whitstable seafront , the drinks and the atmosphere are simply stunning - don ’ t miss the fiery sunset as you sip on a glass Whitstable Bay .
COOL OFF IN THE WATER
Faversham Swimming Pools What better way to cool off than in an outdoor pool ? Head to Faversham Swimming Pools , where the heated pools are looking cool as can be ; kid friendly and accessible , there ’ s a day out waiting for everyone .
Canoe Wild Searching for an active , entertaining day out while staying cool ? With paddling , canoeing , kayaking , raft building and wildlife spotting at Canoe Wild , your summer diary is practically planning itself .
Tiller & Wheel All aboard ! Pop on your sailor hat and get to grips with life at sea with a Tiller & Wheel experience . Guided by experts , there ’ s tidal cruises , estuary exploration and much more to choose from along Kent ’ s north coast .
COOL OFF IN NATURE
Hever Castle Shaded in the trees , it ’ s time to get back to nature with Hever Castle ’ s jam-packed summer schedule . Check out Tansy in the Wild , where the historic setting acts as a backdrop to mindfulness and forest bathing sessions .
Go Ape Don ’ t let the heat stop you from enjoying adrenaline-fueled days out – swing among the treetops at one of the thrilling Go Ape courses at either dazzling Leeds Castle or picturesque Bedgebury Pinetum and get your heart pumping while shaded from the sunshine .
COOL OFF WHILE YOU SNOOZE
Keepers Cottages Keepers Cottages hold the keys to the perfect base for outdoors adventures . Wander the Kingsdown Bluebell Woods with all of your closet friends knowing that 10-sleeping Oldestairs House awaits ; eat alfresco in a tranquil garden with sea views at Whitstable ’ s Peace Cottage ; or dive into summer at Bowden Lodge ’ s refreshing outdoor pool .
Bloom Stays When friends and family are coming to visit , you ’ ll find a home-away-from-home at Bloom Stays ’ dreamy Finchcocks Oast with an outdoor heated pool , tennis court and brilliant indoor spaces for evening chats . Or how about quintessential Dormestone Farm - a 15th-century farmhouse plucked straight out of a country living magazine ?
GETTING AROUND
Sit back with Southeastern and take the stress away from sunny days out . Using their app , you can get around at the click of a button , saving you both money and time . The only question is , where will your next day out take you ?
54 • www . insidekent . co . uk