KENTSTAYCATION
Award-Winning Abodes cont ...
Leeds Castle Stable Courtyard Marquis of Granby
Medley Court , Hever Castle
Chilston Park
PERFECT FOR FOODIES The Marquis of Granby , Alkham marquisofgranby . co . uk
Nestled in the village of Alkham in East Kent , this prize-winning pub is an excellent place to staycation . With a stay at The Marquis of Granby , the stunning Kentish countryside is right on your doorstep - and so is an array of delicious food . The rooms themselves are homey yet elevated , with queen or super-king sized beds , en-suites and air conditioning , although the Country Restaurant is where you ’ ll want to be at mealtimes .
With a menu inspired by all things British and dishes curated from fresh and local ingredients , The Marquis of Granby ’ s ethos is ‘ to use the most local and seasonal produce to deliver good-quality food on the plate ’. The restaurant has summer , Sunday , breakfast and set lunch menus serving everyone ’ s favourite classics beside carefully crafted , premium dishes . Separating the sea from the land , the summer menu features everything from crab bisque and smoked cods ’ roe to rump steak burgers and bourbon-glazed baby back ribs - and this is just a taste of what ’ s to offer .
The Marquis of Granby was the County Winner of The National Pub & Bar Awards in 2023 , marking this destination as one of quality food and an excellent night ’ s sleep .
PERFECT FOR HISTORY BUFFS Medley Court Holiday Cottage , Hever Castle & Gardens , Edenbridge hevercastle . co . uk / stay / medley-court
Many of us know Hever Castle as the childhood home of Anne Boleyn , but the 13th-century castle offers modern guests much more than just historical prowess . Set on a sublime 125-acre estate , Hever Castle ’ s five-star stays are an escapist ’ s oasis , offering luxury bed and breakfast in the 27 rooms of its Edwardian Wing , though the adjoining holiday cottage , Medley Court is the real gem of the grounds .
The four-bedroom cottage boasts a complimentary hamper of goodies when you arrive , a log fire lounge to settle into and out-of-hours access to the stunning gardens , lake walks and mazes throughout the grounds . Overnight visitors can witness over 600 years of history across Hever Castle , with iconic rooms to explore such as The Great Hall , The Library and even Anne Boleyn ’ s bedroom . With an experience like this , it ’ s no wonder that Hever Castle & Gardens has been a finalist in the Group Leisure & Travel Awards 2024 for three consecutive years . Excitingly , the castle recently unveiled the newly refurbished Boleyn Apartment ; the only surviving rooms inhabited by the Boleyn family centuries ago ; certainly worth a visit for history lovers this summer .
PERFECT FOR RELAXATION Chilston Park Hotel , Lenham handpickedhotels . co . uk / chilstonpark
If you ’ re looking for a countryside escape , then follow past the tree-lined lanes to Chilston Park Hotel , a traditional country house in the heart of Kent . Upon arrival , guests are greeted by the grand staircase and original features in every room , where amenities include a 24 / 7 front desk , room service , housekeeping and access to the award-winning Culpeper ’ s Restaurant . Situated in Chilston ’ s original dining room , Culpeper ’ s has earned two AA Rosettes for its exceptional service .
If you ’ d prefer a more relaxing afternoon tea , The Marble Lounge combines 17th-century charm with an open fire and tranquillity . Upstairs , guests can enjoy suites and feature bedrooms with four poster beds , roll top baths and the best views of Chilston Park ’ s lake and gardens . Alternatively , there is the charming Manor House or cottagethemed Coach House beside the courtyard , both of which suit holidays of blissful relaxation at the Chilston Park Hotel .
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