insideKENT Magazine Issue 155 - March 2025 | Page 59

KENTSTAYCATION

Arriving in the afternoon , we were greeted at reception with a warm welcome and handed the keys to our very own golf buggy , our golden ticket to exploring the Port Lympne Reserve , which is dedicated to the conservation of endangered species , housing more than 900 animals , including rhinos , giraffes , gorillas , and the big cats we were about to bed down next to , at leisure . The children were immediately enthralled , eagerly taking turns to point out animals and snap photos as Mr R steered us down winding paths past freeroaming giraffes and grazing rhinos . With the crisp country air filling our lungs and the promise of a once-in-a-lifetime stay ahead , excitement bubbled up among us .

The approach to the Tiger Lodge is as thrilling as its name suggests . One of only two tiger lodges on-site , it is nestled against the boundary of the Amur tiger habitat , making it the only accommodation in the UK that allows you to sleep mere inches from the magnificent creatures . Floor-to-ceiling windows frame a perfect view of the tigers from both the lounge and the twin bedroom , and as we stepped inside , we were struck by the beautifully designed interiors ; warm , inviting , and seamlessly blending rustic charm , think sawn-wood panelled walls and ceilings and heavy wood truss beams , with modern comfort , modern artworks and stunning black and white framed photographs , jewel-toned chesterfield sofas and sheepskin rug-thrung armchairs . The lodge boasts a cleverly designed open-plan living area with minibar fridge , nespresso machine and kettle , a spacious master bedroom with views across the Kentish ‘ savannah ’ to the coast beyond , and a stylish twin room for children . Luxurious soft furnishings , a roaring log burner , and a welcome hamper brimming with Kentish treats , crisp local apple juices , crisps , and indulgent crumbly Fudge Kitchen fudge , set the tone for a stay that would balance wild encounters with total relaxation .
As dusk fell , we took our buggy to dinner at The Garden Room , the reserve ’ s elegant yet relaxed restaurant where produce from Kent ’ s larder is transformed into beautifully crafted dishes . With a menu championing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients , we feasted on starters of cheese croquettes ; the crisp shell giving way to oozing cheese crying out to be dunked in its accompanying tomato and chilli jam and roast garlic aioli ; tender chicken wings smothered in a rich , sweet barbeque glaze and topped with crispy onions for extra zing ; and The Garden Board , which was heaving with house focaccia , red pepper hummus and baba ghanoush . For mains , we indulged in dry-aged sirloin , served perfectly medium with crisp fries and a rather moorish pink peppercorn and brandy sauce ; the house beef burger , complete with juicy patty , smoked applewood cheese , streaky bacon and beer onions , while the children ’ s menu offered great ‘ little appetite ’ options including , crispy chicken goujons and jacket potatoes . The ambience here is sublime and great for dining with little ones ; low-lit , intimate , and perfectly suited to a meal that felt both special yet unpretentious .
Returning to the lodge , a scene of pure tranquility awaited . The team at Port Lympne had orchestrated an extra surprise – a candle-lit outdoor bath already drawn , steaming and fragrant , inviting us to soak beneath the stars , to the soft glow of lanterns while listening to the distant calls of lions , with the extra insider-knowledge that the heat from the tub draws the tigers too … It was a moment of absolute serenity , the perfect conclusion to a day that had been equal parts adventure and indulgence .
Morning arrived with a hushed thrill as we woke to find the tigers prowling gracefully just beyond the glass , their amber eyes meeting ours with a quiet curiosity . There is no alarm clock quite like the sight of these incredible creatures stretching in the golden light of dawn . Honestly an experience like no other it was with utter reluctance that we left for breakfast , and with utter speed that we devoured freshly baked pastries , heaving Kentish breakfasts and a poached egg / avo toast staple , so that we could rush back to linger as long as possible face to face with the majestic cats , truly savouring the last moments of our wild retreat .
As we bid farewell to our extraordinary hideaway , we left with more than just memories . Tiger Lodge had delivered an experience unlike any other – a seamless fusion of luxury , adventure , and conservation that will stay with us for years to come . Port Lympne is a destination that doesn ’ t just invite you to witness the wild ; it immerses you in it completely , while educating you in the importance of conservation too , making for a stay that is as breathtaking as it is unforgettable .
aspinallfoundation . org / port-lympne
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