insideKENT Magazine Issue 158 - June 2025 | Page 56

KENTSTAYCATION
decorations and cosy blankets on the kingsize bed and magical bunk beds.
Sheltered by the North Downs’ peaceful woodland, Aylesford is home to plenty of cycle paths for both beginner and intermediate cyclists. With the Pilgrims Cycle Trail just 300 yards away, guests can explore the trail in manageable sections, or try the Number 17 National Cycle Network route for a journey more suitable for little ones. Kits Coty Glamping also has lockable cycle storage for several bikes available on site. With a selection of tools, a puncture repair kit and hand pump within the storage area, guests are set with everything they need for a successful bikecentred holiday.
Cherry Tree Cottage at Hawthorn Farm, Canterbury hawthornfarm. co. uk
A paddock-backed cottage suitable for small families and couples wanting a slice of serenity for their Kentish holiday, Cherry Tree Cottage is one of a handful of properties nestled within Hawthorn Farm. Fit with luxury cotton bedlinen and a private garden space with parking just a few steps away, Cherry Tree Cottage provides a genuine escape-to-thecountry experience. Nostalgic and homely, each self-catering cottage shares an adjoining field and children’ s play equipment including a slide, swings and climbing rope.
Once ready for a cycling adventure, families can head to the Viking Coastal Trail through Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate, stopping at each town to explore their beachfront promenades and stunning sea views. A popular circular route for all manner of explorers, this trail spans 32 miles of Kent’ s coastline and is a clearly signposted route for families not wanting to venture too far into the wilderness. Hawthorn Farm itself also has a secure bike shed and, for those who haven’ t packed their own two wheels, e-bike hire is available in the local area.
Chilston Park Hotel, Lenham handpickedhotels. co. uk
When you picture a bicycle-centred getaway, a luxury country house hotel might not be the first image that comes to mind. However, for those wanting to embrace some classic British charm in an award-winning hotel revered for its unique styling and historic antiques, Chilston Park Hotel is an obvious choice. For a re-energising overnight stay, guests can enjoy one of Chilston’ s feature bedrooms, where four-poster beds meet characterful period features and twinkling chandeliers. Boasting captivating views over the hotel’ s lake, their Victoria Room has plentiful space for families, with bunk beds located in a secret bedroom adjoined to the main suite.
Of course, most important of all is that Chilston Park Hotel has easy access to North Downs Way, one of the country’ s most accessible trails covering 246km of the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just 30 minutes away, Ashtree Farm offers exciting outdoor activities within their 200 acres of natural woodland, orchards and open fields. From quad biking to 4x4 off-road driving, all experiences can be booked via their website( thewrightevent. co. uk).
CART LODGE
THE PIG- AT BRIDGE PLACE
56 • www. insidekent. co. uk