CULTURAL HOTSPOTS
MAISON DIEU A fascinating attraction, explore this 13thcentury house, which originated as a wayside hospital. The flint and timber building has been a monastery, hostel, retirement home and royal lodge commissioned by Henry III in 1234, and is now home to a variety of Roman artefacts.
THE ALEXANDER CENTRE A popular community hub housed in a restored 19thcentury building, this centre hosts a number of events across the year, including live gigs and community classes, which can be anything from artisan craft fairs to Pilates sessions.
MUST-VISIT PLACES
BROGDALE COLLECTIONS Home to the National Fruit Collection, one of the largest collections of fruit cultivators in the world. Set in 150 acres of farmland, there are nearly 3,500 varieties of fruit to discover, and, from 17 to 25 October, enjoy picking your own pumpkin in time for Halloween.
DIVINE DINING
THE COW SHED AT THE SHIP INN Serving delicious slow-cooked meats and set in an awardwinning garden, expect anything from hearty Sunday roasts and mouthwatering burgers, or choose from their varied menu of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes.
THREE MARINERS Dedicated to using locally sourced ingredients, the Three Mariners offers an à la carte menu, showcasing a two- or threecourse meal, or the‘ Walkers’ menu, which is perfect for those looking for a pit-stop lunch or dinner. Tuck into loaded burgers, tasty sharing boards and fresh local oysters.
THE DOVE A stunning gastropub with two AA Rosettes, each dish is crafted with care using seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a home-cooked gourmet meal in a traditional pub atmosphere, paired with local ales and award-winning wines.
The Dove( top left) Three Mariners( bottom left)
BELMONT HOUSE & GARDENS A beautiful 18th-century historic home built in 1769, Belmont House is recognised as one of Kent’ s most prestigious historic houses. Covering more than 3,000 acres, explore the estate house, landscaped gardens, traditional cricket pitch and surrounding orchards.
© Josh Carter
Outdoor Spots
OARE MARSHES A site of international importance, wander through the designated walking paths and observe a host of wetland birds in the freshwater dykes, open water scrapes, reedbeds and grazing marshes; one of the few that are found in Kent.
FAVERSHAM ANTIQUES MARKET Held on the first Sunday of every month, a wonderful selection of antique and vintage items lines the historic Market Place and Court Street, where you can discover unique treasures and collectible pieces. Upcoming markets will be held on 4 October, 1 November and 6 December.
STANDARD QUAY One of Faversham’ s hidden jewels, Standard Quay was once a thriving commercial port and has been transformed into a popular dining, independent shopping and heritage site. It’ s the perfect place to discover antiques goods and learn about the town’ s rich maritime history.
CREEK CREATIVE One of Kent’ s prime locations for local artists and artisan makers to create and display their work. Explore the current exhibitions on show in the art galleries, visit the artisan shop and stop for a coffee at the awardwinning Gallery Kitchen Café.
ELLIOTT The perfect window-shopping store, but so good you’ ll have to go in, every corner of this shop is filled with beautifully chosen lifestyle, home and clothing pieces- you’ re sure to find something special here.
Belmont House & Gardens( top right) Brogdale Collections( bottom right) Faversham Antiques Market( far right)
86 • www. insidekent. co. uk