ACCESSIBLEKENT
Accessible Abodes cont...
TREEHOUSE HOTEL AT PORT LYMPNE luxury and style, perfect for an indulgent escape. Located within ancient city walls and just a short walk from the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, this exquisite hotel seamlessly blends history with contemporary elegance. Each individually designed bedroom offers modern bathrooms and accessible facilities; guests can expect comfortable wheelchair-accessible rooms with step-free access and spacious layouts.
Being in the heart of such a vibrant, cultural city means a wealth of attractions to explore. Start by admiring the exquisite architecture of The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge, then take the step-free entrance and lift to the library and museum galleries to discover artwork, animals and treasures from Asia, Africa and India. Canterbury Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece that’ s not to be missed; the building is accessible, with step-free access, wheelchair loans, accessible toilets, induction loops and guided tours tailored for guests with disabilities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds a unique place in England’ s history and is now a spiritual and cultural hub that even holds silent raves!
When hunger strikes, indulge in a culinary journey at Brasserie ABode where gourmet dishes crafted from local ingredients are served in a fully accessible, elegant setting.
For Rustic Romance: The Goat Shed, Hadlow cottages. com
In the picturesque village of Hadlow lies a unique accessible retreat with a charm
54 • www. insidekent. co. uk of its own. Once home to its namesake animals, The Goat Shed has been thoughtfully transformed into a blissful haven where accessibility meets rustic elegance. This characterful conversion retains the countryside soul while offering modern comforts designed with accessibility at its heart.
Wide sliding doors and a gentle ramp welcome you into this cosy sanctuary, where every detail has been considered. The spacious interior boasts an open-plan design that allows freedom of movement without sacrificing the intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape. Consideration has been given to the generously sized wet room, meaning any personal needs can be taken care of quickly. Additionally, the enclosed rear garden provides a private oasis. Wheelchair users can easily access the sitting area, which is perfect for morning coffee as you plan your day or for watching the sun go down with a BBQ and a bottle of wine.
A self-catering and pet-friendly property, The Goat Shed offers a well-equipped kitchen where you can rustle up a delicious meal without leaving your retreat and Hadlow Village boasts several charming eateries within easy reach. The pretty, white-weatherboarded The Rose Revived restaurant has a well-considered layout with level flooring, wide aisles and a variety of seating options meaning you can sit near the fire or the bar to enjoy a tasty menu including a hearty daily carvery,
For Group Getaways: Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne
Perfect for a pamper weekend, a group getaway with friends or a relaxed stag or hen do, Hempstead House Hotel and Spa offers country house chic. Staying in the Ashby Suite offers four people luxurious groundfloor accessible accommodation with an ample kitchen and contemporary dining area, and a 50” TV and comfy lounge completing the ultimate pamper package.
The Ashby Suite allows self-catering, perhaps for a late breakfast or late-night snack, and breakfast served in the Lakes Restaurant is accessible by a ramp on request, but the hotel’ s crowning glory is undoubtedly the Aquamanda Spa, an accessible sanctuary of wellbeing where skilled therapists offer rejuvenating facials, tension-melting massages, aromatherapy sessions and nourishing heat wraps. Each treatment can be adapted to accommodate varying mobility levels, ensuring the therapeutic benefits of touch are available to all guests.
The spa’ s facilities extend to a fully accessible indoor swimming pool where you can swim or bob about leisurely with friends, although it’ s worth noting that the hoist requires pre-booking. For any fitness fans amongst the party, the fully equipped gym with accessible equipment will provide a much-needed energy boost.