Tinsel Town cont...
24 FESTIVE HOURS IN...
FAVERSHAM
CHRISTMASINKENT
MACKNADE
THE SUN INN NICOLA CHATTEN AT BELMONT HOUSE
Aquaint medieval market town deeply proud of its agricultural heritage and passionate community, as well as its storied winding streets, wholesome indies and country inns galore, Faversham makes for a splendid Kentish destination to delight in the wonders of the sparkling season.
Begin your festive Faversham exploration with a visit to foodie haven Macknade, a fantastic food hall that’ s home to a famous delicatessen, butchery and grocery. Following a hearty farmer’ s breakfast of top local produce in the cosy café, browse a lovingly curated selection of of the finest foods from across Kent and beyond. Whether for your Christmas table, toasting tipples, a superb Kentish hamper, or to curate the perfect cheeseboard for the big day, this food-lovers’ paradise has got you covered.
Festively fuelled and ready for a spot of Christmas crafting, next up on the list is a trip to the stunning Belmont House & Gardens, a terrific 18th-century estate nestled in the countryside of Faversham that’ s known and loved for its fascinating collections, serene gardens and wonderful lineup of creative workshops.
On 11 November, join the Belmont team and talented paper artist Nicola Chatten for a hands-on workshop where you’ ll craft a beautiful table centrepiece using lifelike paper flowers, or, on 20 November, try your hand at creating joyous Christmas paper decorations.
To truly soak up the magic of the season, Faversham’ s heritage-rich and wonderful community-focused town centre is the place to be. Head to trendy coffee shop Ours for a warming cuppa and welldeserved sweet treat before stocking up on unique gifts from Scandi lifestyle shop Birch & Form, and beautiful homewares and artworks from Preston Street independent No77. If another pitstop is on the cards, try town favourite Papà Bianco on the quay for a mouthwatering pizza and famously good cocktails.
Another highlight of the season, and positively rooted in centuries of history, Faversham’ s Christmas Markets are another kentish gem, kicking off from 6pm on 29 November with a jolly Christmas Lights Switch-On & Night Market promising an evening of live bands and delicious street food.
On 13 and 14 December, Faversham’ s Market Place will also play host to a bustling Christmas Market Weekend with heaps of unique gifts, decorations and accessories, alongside seasonal food and drink, festive music and appearances from the Happy Endings Rescue donkeys.
The perfect way to end your day, particularly after a chilly evening of market gift shopping, seek respite in beloved Shepherd Neame pub, The Sun Inn.
Dating back to the 14th century and steeped in centuries of character, The Sun Inn is located only a short stroll from Shepherd Neame’ s renowned brewery and boasts the most delightful inglenook fireplaces, distinctive Kentish cask ales, locally inspired home-cooked dishes and comfortable accommodation for those who wish to extend their visit to this charming bolthole. www. insidekent. co. uk • 37