FLORRIE’ S FEBRUARY DOG DAYS
Florrie
DAYSOUT
ESCAPE HUNT
THE MARLOWE THEATRE
FLORRIE’ S FEBRUARY DOG DAYS
BY FLORRIE, iK’ S RESIDENT COCKAPOO
Hello my slightly-less-muddy pals,
SOPHIE SHORTER
DIGITAL MARKETING APPRENTICE
Love to Go: As a true theatre-lover, The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury will always stand out to me. I may be biased after performing on its stage many years ago but the warm, inviting atmosphere and standout productions- especially the panto- make every visit special.
Love to Eat: The cosy outdoor pods and foliage-filled interiors at Oad Street Food & Crafts in Borden create a relaxing and welcoming setting, and the taste-bud tempting dishes never fail to delight.
Love to Do: After completing their Ancient Egyptian escape room on a team building at Escape Hunt Canterbury- and of course beating the other teams- it’ s become my go-to for something that’ s great fun, a real challenge and sure to be loved by the family.
February is a funny little month. Short, chilly and often underestimated- a bit like me when I’ m wearing my jumper. But it’ s actually a brilliant time to get out and about, especially when the days are just starting to stretch and there’ s the faintest promise of spring in the air. This month, I’ m pointing my nose towards a firm favourite for woodland wanders: Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest.
Set deep in the Kent countryside near Goudhurst, Bedgebury is a dream for dogs who enjoy variety. Towering trees, winding forest trails and plenty of exciting smells make it an adventure from the very first paw step. In February, it’ s calmer and quieter, with fewer bikes and buggies, meaning more space to trot, sniff and occasionally stop dead for no obvious reason.
There are several waymarked trails to choose from, depending on how energetic you and your human are feeling. The forest paths are mostly wellsurfaced, which is excellent news after wet weather, and the tall pines provide shelter when the wind decides to show off. Keep an eye out for early signs of spring too- birds getting busy and little hints of green appearing along the paths.
CHARLIE BOND
EDITOR, WED IN KENT
Love to Go: Paddleboarding down at the River Rother near to where I live. It’ s definitely an activity for the warmer months, but it’ s always so calming being on the water.
Love to Eat: The best bit about paddleboarding is a post-board visit to the Lime Wharf Cafe in Newenden where they serve amazing food and drinks- needed after a workout on the water!
Love to Do: Another favourite thing of mine to do in Kent is go shopping. We’ re blessed with some great places from Bluewater to the McArthurGlen Ashford Designer Outlet. If I get the time, I also love a hunt in charity shops- Tenterden’ s high street is great for finding bargains, and Tunbridge Wells is always worth a look, too!
Leads are encouraged in places, especially near wildlife, but there are plenty of spots where well-behaved dogs can enjoy a bit of freedom. Remember your recall … Or at least pretend to.
Once you’ ve completed your woodland mission, head back to the café area where dogs are welcome outside. Humans can grab a hot drink while you supervise from the sidelines.
February adventures are all about fresh air, forest floors and wagging tails. Wrap up warm and make the most of it.
Until next month,
Florrie
with Florrie www. insidekent. co. uk • 45