insideKENT Magazine Issue 151 - November 2024 | Page 36

OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
GUIDE
CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
THE CHAPEL DOWN WINERY England ’ s leading wine producer with an awardwinning range of sparkling and still wines , Chapel Down is well-known for its world-class winemaking team and use of the latest innovative techniques . The winery estate is open to visitors for guided tours and tastings , and the on-site shop displays Chapel Down ’ s beloved and ever-growing collection of wines and spirits including ‘ cellar door ’ exclusives .
KENT & EAST SUSSEX RAILWAY Built by Holman F Stephens , the Kent & East Sussex Railway ( K & ESR ) was the first light passenger railway in Britain in the early 20th century . Celebrating the
MUST-SHOP ARTISAN STORES
SILCOCKS FARM SHOP Fully stocked farm shop with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables , dairy products and a butchery - most of which is produced on Silcocks ’ organically run farm . Stop off at the café , courtyard and heated garden room for a spot of tea and some tasty light bites .
HOP , STITCH & JUMPER Fabric , yarn , craft and haberdashery shop driven by heartfelt creativity that stocks a beautiful range of striking fabrics as well as garment , knitting and crochet patterns and equipment .
DIVINE DINING
TRUFFLES @ COCO A proud part of the community for over 20 years that showcases their handmade chocolates using cocoa sourced from fair , sustainable and traceable growers . Marvel at their collection of handmade truffles and flavoursome single-origin bars available in milk , dark , white and even oat milk chocolate .
MONTALBANO Welcoming family-run restaurant built upon the family ’ s passion and tradition for great food served in great company . Montalbano delights diners with a menu that deliciously blends a mix of regional Italian dishes and Sicilian recipes that are bursting with authentic flavours and ingredients .
THE SWAN WINE KITCHEN AT CHAPEL DOWN VINEYARD Holding two AA Rosettes , a private Chef ’ s Table room , and , of course , the finest wine menu made up of Chapel Down ’ s award-winning still and sparkling wines , The Swan
Wine Kitchen is adored for its magical pairings , elegant environment and considered menu that , when topped off with magnificent views across the vineyard , creates the most splendid dining experience .
HOOF & HOOK The team behind Hoof & Hook are all about using sustainable local produce of the highest quality and creating unfussy yet unforgettable dishes . Enjoy the freshest of fish from the Kentish coast and local beef reared on their family farm alongside a handpicked drinks menu in a fun , intimate setting .
The Swan ( top right ), Montalbano ( bottom right )
50th anniversary of reopening this year , and with an outstanding history spanning over 120 years , the K & ESR is passionate about providing a unique glimpse into the golden age of rail travel and offers visitors an authentic steam and diesel-powered railway experience through the picturesque Wealden countryside .
THE SINDEN THEATRE Situated within the grounds of Homewood School , The Sinden is a 290-seated venue that boasts an eclectic calendar of events . From live music performances and gripping dramas to stand-up comedy and a Christmas pantomime - there is something to excite the whole family .
© National Trust Images / James Dobson
OUT- DOORSY SPOTS
SMALLHYTHE PLACE This cherished landmark was built in the early 16th century and later purchased by renowned Victorian actress , Ellen Terry , in 1899 . A year after her passing , her daughter Edith Craig lovingly transformed the house into an inspiring museum , which today displays a remarkable collection celebrating Ellen ’ s extraordinary life and work . Smallhythe Place is set to close for the season from the start of this month , but will be reopening in late February 2025 as the landmark ’ s garden begins to bloom once again .
TURNERS FIELD Managed by Kent Wildlife Trust in partnership with a local farmer , Turners Field lies moments from Tenterden ’ s vibrant town centre and provides a serene haven for thriving wildlife including birds and butterflies . Ramblers can explore the rolling grasslands , glistening stream and pond and wondrous woodlands .
HUKINS HOP FARM With family at its very core , Hukins is a fifth generation farm that ’ s been growing British hop garlands in the Weald for over 100 years with varieties including intense apricot from Ernest and the classic English flavours of Fuggle , Golding ’ s and Challenger - amongst others ! Explorers are welcomed to the farm year round to discover the impressive parklands on a detailed tour .
Smallhythe Place ( top right ), Kent & East Sussex Railway ( bottom right )
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