NEWS insideSTORY
ICONIC LIGHTSHIP LV21 ANCHORS AT CHATHAM ’ S HISTORIC DOCKYARD
The iconic LV21 , a National Historic Ship ( No . 2330 ), has returned to Medway and docked at The Historic Dockyard Chatham , marking a significant moment in its journey . Temporarily moored at Anchor Wharf for up to 12 months , the vessel will await its permanent home at Medway Riverfront , bringing with it a unique blend of maritime heritage and cultural innovation .
LV21 , National Historic Ships ’ Flagship of the Year 2023 , is a 40-metre steel-hulled historic lightship that has been transformed into a unique floating cultural hub . It serves as a dynamic art space and performance facility , designed to deliver innovative and immersive experiences across artforms . The vessel champions the creative industries while honouring its rich maritime heritage , making it a standout venue in Kent ’ s cultural landscape , bridging the gap between arts and heritage . While The Historic Dockyard Chatham is closed for winter , the LV21 will continue to run events and projects ashore across Medway to celebrate the ship ’ s arrival and share its future plans .
SNOWDROP WALK LAUNCHES 2025 SEASON AT HEVER CASTLE
From February 12 2025 , Hever Castle & Gardens is inviting visitors to celebrate the start of spring with the return of its highly anticipated Snowdrop Walk , showcasing around 150,000 snowdrop bulbs across the estate .
KENT ’ S MUST HAVE IDEAS CROWNED WINNERS AT THE 2024 GREAT BRITISH ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS
Kent-based e-commerce powerhouse Must Have Ideas has clinched a prestigious win at the 2024 Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards . At a dazzling London ceremony , cofounder and director Amy Knight shone brightly as her homeware business was named the Established Business of the Year for the South East of England .
Amy founded Must Have Ideas with her husband Rob Knight and friend Chris Finch by packaging products from her dining room table in 2018 . With a motto to “ Treat everyone like your nan and make decisions that would make your mum proud ,” the business has grown into a 40,000-square-foot warehouse in Maidstone with 135 staff . Francesca James , founder of the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards , commented : “ Every year , I ’ m in awe of the entrepreneurs who come through our programme , and this year is no different . The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards continues to receive thousands of applications annually , reflecting the incredible strength of entrepreneurship across the UK . These extraordinary individuals are not only transforming industries but also uplifting communities and inspiring the next generation of business leaders .”
An enchanting time of year to visit , Hever Castle & Gardens offers nature-lovers the chance to witness the stunning display of delicate white blooms and learn about the fascinating history of the Galanthus plant . First cultivated in England during Tudor times and officially recorded in 1598 under the reign of Anne Boleyn ’ s daughter , Queen Elizabeth I , these delicate flowers herald the final days of winter and bring the promise of Spring .
The Snowdrop Walk at Hever Castle & Gardens takes visitors on a self-guided tour through some of the estate ’ s most beautiful areas , including the Outer Moat , Winter Gardens , Sunday Walk , and Church Gill . Along the way , visitors will experience breathtaking views of frosted topiary , Early Sensation daffodils and a vibrant array of winter plants including flame-coloured dogwoods , hellebores and heathers . For the adventurous , a walk around the 38-acre lake is recommended , and all visitors are encouraged to dress warmly and enjoy the beauty of the season on this scenic snowdrop trail .
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