DAYSOUT
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
FROM NEW NEIGHBOURHOOD DINING HOTSPOTS AND REIMAGINED FAVOURITES TO ICE CREAM WITH A MESSAGE AND A KENT-INSPIRED CUPPA , CHECK OUT THIS SUMMER ’ S HOTTEST NEW OPENINGS …
NEW ADVENTURES
Ballerz , Bluewater ballerz . co . uk
The multimillion-pound Ballerz dome at Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent launched with a star-studded football tournament featuring famous names from football , music and entertainment . Created by Rio Ferdinand , Bobby Zamora , Roberto Carlos and Mark Noble , Ballerz ’ s 30,000 sq ft dome features a six-aside 5G pitch with instant goal replays , pro changing rooms and stadium-style seating . Ballerz offers coaching for kids through the Ballerz Academy as well as goalkeeper clinics and with taster sessions . Partnering with Kick It Out to combat discrimination in sports , Ballerz aims to create an electric atmosphere . Rio Ferdinand says : “ We ’ re giving the beautiful game a makeover , making every player feel like a star .”
The Ashford Cinema , Ashford theashfordcinema . co . uk
The Ashford Cinema , formerly Picturehouse , is now open at Elwick Place in Ashford . This local six-screen cinema is more than just a movie theatre ; it ’ s a vibrant community hub featuring a café , workspace and bar . Since its launch , the cinema has introduced an enticing new food and drinks menu with options like small plates , indulgent burgers and sourdough pizzas .
The kitchen also serves tasty toasties and hot dogs , and has a fully stocked bar . Whether you ’ re looking to catch the latest film , work remotely , or enjoy a coffee with friends , The Ashford Cinema is the perfect spot . It offers a welcoming space for everyone to meet , eat , watch and explore , complete with exciting deals and offers ( and free parking !) sure to attract movie lovers of all ages .
SideQuest , Canterbury sidequesthub . com
Just a 10-minute walk from Canterbury Cathedral , SideQuest Canterbury boasts 40 PC stations , consoles , racing simulators and an event space . This riverside location , the first under SideQuest ’ s new franchise model , offers various gaming zones including public areas , Duo Rooms and Squad Rooms with high-spec PCs . Equipped with top-notch technology like GeForce RTX 4080 SUPER graphics cards , the hub also plans to introduce racing simulators soon . Visitors can enjoy free gaming on Nintendo Switch consoles , along with food , drinks and SideQuest ’ s own bubble tea .
Garlinge Theatre , nr Canterbury thegarlingetheatre
The Garlinge Theatre , situated in Garlinge Green near Canterbury , has reopened with a unique vision , nestled within an organic farm . Collaborating with Light Roots Home Education Hub , this venue , once part of an old Steiner school , now connects entertainment with nature . As the UK ’ s first vegan theatre , it champions compassion and sustainability , hosting diverse performances from live music to plays and musicals . Embracing ARTivism , it aims to be a vibrant hub for the performing arts and social activism , fostering a kinder world . Explore its upcoming programme and join its mission for a compassionate future .
DINING & DRINKS
POMUS , Margate pomus . co . uk
Located just a 10-minute stroll from Margate train station , POMUS is a new neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar . Helmed by Ryan Jacovides , previously of Jamie Oliver , and partnered with MasterChef 2015 finalist Tony Rodd , it promises a culinary journey inspired by Kent ’ s rich natural larder .
The Counter , Tunbridge Wells thecountertw . com
Robin Read and Greta Boccia ’ s long-awaited venture , The Counter , is now open in Royal Tunbridge Wells , housed in a historic Georgian building . Drawing from family heritage in butchery and greengrocery , Robin presents meticulously crafted tasting menus featuring locally sourced ingredients from Kent and Sussex . Priced at £ 60 to £ 125 , these menus offer culinary delights like cured mackerel croustade and steamed brill with lobster mousse .
The interactive 10-course option , served at the eponymous counter , promises a dynamic dining experience . Committed to sustainability , Robin personally selects suppliers while Greta curates the wine list . The restaurant also showcases vibrant artwork by Venezuelan artist RAA , adding a creative flair to the dining ambience . www . insidekent . co . uk • 57