FLORRIE’ S MAY DOG DAYS
Florrie
KENTSTAYCATION
THE MEDIEVAL CURIOSITY OF IGHTHAM MOTE
Beyond coastal fortified castles and subterranean caves, you can explore the curious history of Ightham Mote- a medieval moated manor house built over 700 years ago, it remains a mystery as to who built it. The house’ s interior has evolved over the centuries with various owners, so it is now a unique fusion of medieval, Victorian and 20th-century architecture, meaning when you move through the house, every room tells its own fascinating story.
When you enter the manor’ s courtyard, you will find a special curiosity- the only Grade I listed dog house in the UK, formerly occupied in 1890 by Dido, a St Bernard. Ightham Mote boasts a collection of unique items brimming with historical importance, which you can browse before a wander through the walled gardens and ancient apple orchards to relish in the abundance of newly sprouted wildflowers and vibrant perennials.
After exploring the house, make your way to the Mote Café and indulge in refreshments before embarking on the National Trust’ s five-mile circular walk from Ightham Mote to Oldbury Hill. On this intriguing trail, you’ ll discover an ancient woodland with the remains of the largest and finest Iron Age fort in the UK. Built around 100 BC, the hill fort was a major defensive settlement; from the Belgic to the Romans, it was used to protect communities and wealthy individuals from invaders.
Along the way, re-energise at The Plough in Ivy Hatch, a charming pub serving locally sourced food and drink including freshly made pizza and pub classics, before finishing your exploration by checking into The Carpenter’ s Arms in Tonbridge. A cosy, candlelit pub just a 10-minute drive from the 950-year-old Tonbridge Castle, here you can enjoy a hearty dinner with a menu that reflects the seasons before settling down in your characterful bedroom, which is spacious, quiet and dog-friendly. You can also tuck into a brimming snack basket and coffee-making facilities for a fitting end to a busy, curiosity-driven day.
FLORRIE’ S MAY DOG DAYS
BY FLORRIE, iK’ S RESIDENT COCKAPOO
Hello my sun-seeking pals.
May is a glorious month. My world feels greener, brighter and far more inviting, which makes it ideal for longer days out. This month, I’ m wagging my tail towards the coast again- specifically the White Cliffs of Dover.
May brings wildflowers, softer breezes and views that will make your human stop and stare, which, if the weather is kind, can be all the way across The Channel. The clifftop paths are spectacular, offering sweeping sea views and plenty of space to roam. Stick to the marked trails and keep dogs on leads near the edges- dramatic views are best explored safely.
The walking here is invigorating without being too challenging, and the chalk paths stay relatively dry. Early mornings or quieter weekdays are best before the summer and half-term crowds arrive.
Just along the cliffs you’ ll find Samphire Hoe. Built out of the spoils from the Channel Tunnel excavations, it’ s a wonderfully unique coastal spot with wide, flat paths and big sea views. It’ s perfect for an easy-going wander, with plenty of room to sniff the fresh, salty breeze. Dogs are welcome on leads, the walking is gentle under paw and you’ ll find shingle stretches, grassy patches and lots of insects to chase.
After your walk, depending on your mood and your human’ s hunger levels, head to either The Art Club for a well-earned coffee stop and freshly baked cookie, or make your way towards the harbour for a slice of pizza or street food truck stop.
Enjoy your salty strolls and post-walk treats.
with Florrie
IGHTHAM MOTE
© National Trust Images _ Andrew Butler
Until next month,
Florrie
68 • www. insidekent. co. uk