insideKENT Magazine Issue 148 - August 2024 | Page 65

KENTSTAYCATION

HOME-FROM- HOME STAYS

ON THE DOORSTEP OF GREEN GARDENS , OCEAN VIEWS AND BUSTLING TOWNS , KENT IS AN IDEAL PLACE TO ESCAPE TO AND YET STILL FEEL RIGHT AT HOME IN - THANKFULLY , FINDING A HOME-FROM-HOME HOLIDAY HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER .

Whether you ’ re seeking some solo solace or yearning for quality time with family and friends , wanting to digitally detox from screens or simply escape the chaos of everyday life , a summer staycation is always best in those places you visit that just feel like home - so much so that you don ’ t want to leave . Ideal for a short break or a longer getaway , these rural retreats are sure to transport you into a sense of homely comfort , even if you ’ re miles away from your own .

The Hobitty Treehouse , Blean kent-cottage-holidays . co . uk
The newly opened Hobitty Treehouse in the woodland of Blean brings guests ’ wildest fantasy to reality . Based on J . R . R . Tokien ’ s beloved novel series , The Lord of the Rings , this one-of-a-kind hideaway is an escapist ’ s dream . In fact , every corner of the split-level treehouse is adorned with luxury , from the firepit and velvet drapes to the slipper bath . With features including a king-sized bed , hot tub and log burner , this sanctum is ideal for couples wanting to transport themselves into the Shire - or the natural world in general . Excitingly , Blean Wood Nature Reserve waits outside for visitors with its 25-mile long Big Blean Walk , fit to make you feel on a journey from Middle-earth to Valinor . For creatures ( and Hobbits ) of comfort who want to relax in an environment of fantastical imagination yet still sense that they fit in completely , The Hobitty Treehouse is the perfect spot for a getaway .
Bay View , Sandgate bloomstays . com
Between the artistic centre of Folkestone and the charming town of Hythe , Bay View holiday home boasts panoramic views of the Kentish coast and its iconic white cliffs of Dover . Beside this oceanic backdrop , the three floors of Bay View include a spacious sitting room and modern kitchen , oak dining table and a private , tiered patio garden . With bi-folding doors opening out into the fresh air , the garden is a relaxing retreat for guests to enjoy the sunshine . Sleeping up to five across three bedrooms , Bay View is ideal for small families who want to experience a slice of home following action-packed days out at the British seaside . After traversing the sea wall and nearby woodland paths , guests can venture out to Sandgate Castle , Dover Museum or the Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone - all of which are experiences for the whole family .
The Thatched Barn , Stowting bloomstays . com
This Grade II listed barn makes a charming getaway to soak up the sweeping countryside views right on your doorstep . With a spacious open-plan living area and vaulted beamed ceilings , this barn is completely filled with charm and character . From soft furnishings to cosy sofas , guests are sure to sink into relaxation feeling right at home . A stay at The Thatched Barn will also treat visitors to a comfy king-sized bed , sunlit outdoor dining area and quick access to the countryside within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty . Not only is the village of Stowting picturesque and welcoming , it is home to the stunning destination pub , The Tiger Inn , which was crowned the Best in Kent at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2022 . Close by to Canterbury , guests of The Thatched Barn can head into the historic city or stay inside and enjoy the domestic comforts of this tranquil country stay .
Victory at Cliffe , Kingsdown keeperscottages . co . uk
If you ’ re looking for a seaside escape for the whole family , Victory at Cliffe is an absolute must-visit . Located at Oldstairs Bay on the far end of Kingsdown beach , this holiday home allows guests to enjoy the luxuries of a private dwelling with easy access to the Kent coastline . The pebble bay - situated between St Margaret ’ s Cliff and Walmer - makes a spectacular location for days out basking in the sun , though visitors might find themselves not wanting to leave the comforts of Victory at Cliffe . With an open plan kitchen / dining room , beach-facing bay windows and a cosy conservatory , the exceptional sea views will have guests feeling like they ’ re right on the beach . With four bedrooms and two spacious bathrooms , the house sleeps up to eight people - with an allowance of one four-legged companion , too . There is plenty of space for the whole family to enjoy , from the wild garden and sandstone firepit to the relaxing seating area - a perfect place to enjoy a family BBQ in the seaside breeze .
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