insideKENT Magazine Issue 43 - October 2015 | Page 104

DAYSOUT AUTUMN & WINTER at QUEX PARK Surrounded by burnished leaves and frost-bitten lawns, Quex Park takes on a magical aura in the autumn and winter. The 250-acre country park is a thrilling place to explore at any time of year, with so much to see and do as the nights draw in. From the beautiful manor house and grounds to the fascinating Powell-Cotton Museum; or from the bustling farm shop and boutique café to the pretty crafts village and children’s play area, visitors will be spoilt for choice with things to see and do. Here are some of the spectacular events to enjoy at the estate this season… Halloween Half Term // 26-30 Oct Quexmas // 22 Nov It’s never too early to start planning your Christmas market schedule, and Quex Park’s offering is not to be missed. The Christmas Craft Fair will see more than 70 stalls selling a variety of crafts and gifts throughout the Powell-Cotton Museum, Quex House and gardens from 10am to 4pm. Santa will be warming his toes by the fireside and invites you to join him in the dining room of Quex House. There will also be a free trail to follow throughout the museum, house, restaurant and marquees, and Birchington Hand Bell Ringers will perform some festive sounds. To book a space at the fair call the museum 01843 842168. A week of spooktacular events are in store for bold and brave visitors to the park this half term, as intrepid explorers can travel to the haunt of the infamous White Lady. Before your journey begins, you will create and decorate a lantern to light your way in dark places and then trek in the footsteps of Percy Powell-Cotton to the dreaded tower hidden amongst the trees in the northern woodland of Quex Park. At this ill feted location, you will then hear the spine tingling tale of an ancient tomb, a terrible curse and discover the identity of the White Lady herself! The eerie adventures w ill take place from 3.30pm to 5pm. Prices vary, with a maximum of 20 children per tour. Christmas Family Luncheon // 13 Dec Don’t leave the big family meal to Christmas day alone – take a break from the shopping, don your finest Christmas jumper and bring the family to Quex’s beautiful festive dining room for a three course traditional family luncheon. The delicious meal and sparkling decorations will put you in the festive spirit, and prices include a present from 'Mama Christmas' and a craft activity. Pre booking advised 01843 482004 or [email protected] Murder Mystery Evening: Murder on the Dancefloor // 31 Oct Dig out your flares and platforms because the 1970s are coming to Quex...and there's been a murder on the dancefloor! Join the Perfectly Dreadful Murder Company for an evening of fun and investigation with this very special murder mystery dinner at the Powell-Cotton Museum. Fancy dress is encouraged, and £25 tickets include a light 1970s-style supper, with a licensed bar open throughout the evening. The event is part of Museums at Night, Culture24’s UK-wide festival of inspiring after-hours events designed to encourage people to see arts, culture and heritage in a different light. Tickets are on sale now, to book call the museum 01843 842168. Children’s Christmas Party Disco // 19 Dec Give the little ones a chance to burn some of that seasonal energy and make new friends at this very special children’s Christmas disco. From 6.30pm to 8.30pm, Jungle Jims indoor play centre invites the little ones to join their fun disco and play lots of party games. They will even get to meet Santa on his sleigh and receive a present. Visit Jungle Jim's or call 01843 846305 for tickets or more information. 104