The Coach House
Harrietsham, Nr Maidstone
6
3
12
2
Enjoy a truly unique and enjoyable holiday house experience with a home that quite simply has it all!
The house offers great entertaining spaces with all the modern conveniences but enhanced by an array of charming period and quirky features. The grounds offer formal walled gardens (perfect for children and pets), a large hot tub, infrared sauna,and a grassed games court, plus 40 acres of farm woodlands and walks.
The Coach House is part of Stede Court Estate, a beautiful country estate situated on the North Downs in a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. A country house set in tranquil countryside with a large courtyard and gardens, on a 40 acre farm with walks and trails through woodland and fields.
The house and grounds are designed to give guests the fullest possible range of facilities to suit everyone from the youngest to the oldest. Just look at this list of things to do, play, visit and enjoy while staying here, or just relax in the house and gardens.
The House itself has six bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus a dining table for 12, two lounges with the multiple entertainment options and an inglenook fireplace.
Outside there is a tennis court sized grass games area provided with everything you need to play all these games - football, tennis (fun, not match), badminton, croquet, garden bowls, fun cricket, table tennis and even quoits. All the bats, balls and rules are there for you to enjoy.
The beautifully laid out walled gardens also contain a large tree house, a den and lots of areas for children to enjoy and explore. The garden is totally enclosed and so is dog safe.
The Garden room offers a 55-inch Smart screen TV, with full SKY sports and movies package plus the usual connections for Netflix and Prime TV. The lounge has another 50" TV plus a PS4 for games and for playing DVD’s from the house's large collection, a log burning open fireplace (logs supplied) and a full library of books and games.
Spa facilities - Hot tub and sauna - There is a 6 person Jacuzzi hot tub to one side of the main patio and also a 4 seat infrared sauna (both provided all year round). Towels, robes and sandals provided in the adjacent changing room.
Gardens and patio - In the large formal gardens there are three patios. The main patio which gets the sun from morning to early afternoon is furnished with a large dining table. The garden patio is south facing and gets the sun all afternoon and is furnished with settees and both a gas and charcoal BBQ (charcoal and gas provided). This patio is lit at night and offers a fire pit (logs provided). Further into the garden is a quiet patio with a large hammock and relaxing chairs, ideal for reading a book in peace.
Farmland and Woods - On the 40-acre farm there are lots of horses and grazing paddocks (all of which are private, but lovely to look at). Away from the stables are 30 acres of walks and woodlands for you to enjoy and which are pet friendly, dogs can run free as the whole area is well fenced. Around the edge of the farm there is 3/4 of a mile of grass trackway and lots of paths in the woods, perfect for a stroll (or even a jog) through beautiful woodlands with lovely views. The farm also offers a sunny woodland glade picnic area with seating and a fire pit. There are picnic hampers and cool boxes in the house for guests to enjoy.
Locally - In the area there are many lovely local walks and some top-quality country pubs, gastro pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. We have prepared walking maps that make finding your way around really easy. Travelling mainly on footpaths this is a lovely way to get to the local pub.
The house offers great entertaining spaces with all the modern conveniences but enhanced by an array of charming period and quirky features. The grounds offer formal walled gardens (perfect for children and pets), a large hot tub, infrared sauna,and a grassed games court, plus 40 acres of farm woodlands and walks.
The Coach House is part of Stede Court Estate, a beautiful country estate situated on the North Downs in a designated 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty'. A country house set in tranquil countryside with a large courtyard and gardens, on a 40 acre farm with walks and trails through woodland and fields.
The house and grounds are designed to give guests the fullest possible range of facilities to suit everyone from the youngest to the oldest. Just look at this list of things to do, play, visit and enjoy while staying here, or just relax in the house and gardens.
The House itself has six bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus a dining table for 12, two lounges with the multiple entertainment options and an inglenook fireplace.
Outside there is a tennis court sized grass games area provided with everything you need to play all these games - football, tennis (fun, not match), badminton, croquet, garden bowls, fun cricket, table tennis and even quoits. All the bats, balls and rules are there for you to enjoy.
The beautifully laid out walled gardens also contain a large tree house, a den and lots of areas for children to enjoy and explore. The garden is totally enclosed and so is dog safe.
The Garden room offers a 55-inch Smart screen TV, with full SKY sports and movies package plus the usual connections for Netflix and Prime TV. The lounge has another 50" TV plus a PS4 for games and for playing DVD’s from the house's large collection, a log burning open fireplace (logs supplied) and a full library of books and games.
Spa facilities - Hot tub and sauna - There is a 6 person Jacuzzi hot tub to one side of the main patio and also a 4 seat infrared sauna (both provided all year round). Towels, robes and sandals provided in the adjacent changing room.
Gardens and patio - In the large formal gardens there are three patios. The main patio which gets the sun from morning to early afternoon is furnished with a large dining table. The garden patio is south facing and gets the sun all afternoon and is furnished with settees and both a gas and charcoal BBQ (charcoal and gas provided). This patio is lit at night and offers a fire pit (logs provided). Further into the garden is a quiet patio with a large hammock and relaxing chairs, ideal for reading a book in peace.
Farmland and Woods - On the 40-acre farm there are lots of horses and grazing paddocks (all of which are private, but lovely to look at). Away from the stables are 30 acres of walks and woodlands for you to enjoy and which are pet friendly, dogs can run free as the whole area is well fenced. Around the edge of the farm there is 3/4 of a mile of grass trackway and lots of paths in the woods, perfect for a stroll (or even a jog) through beautiful woodlands with lovely views. The farm also offers a sunny woodland glade picnic area with seating and a fire pit. There are picnic hampers and cool boxes in the house for guests to enjoy.
Locally - In the area there are many lovely local walks and some top-quality country pubs, gastro pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. We have prepared walking maps that make finding your way around really easy. Travelling mainly on footpaths this is a lovely way to get to the local pub.
There are easy connections to the M20 at Junction 8 (3.5 miles) and from the station in Harrietsham Village there are direct trains to London (1.23 to Victoria, 1.12 to St Pancras) and the south coast seaside resorts. Harrietsham Village has great local shops and there are literally dozens of top quality restaurants and pubs close by.
Please be reminded that The Coach House is not a party house, and to protect the neighbours we ask that outside noise is kept down after 10pm, with no noise on the patios or in the jacuzzi after 11pm.
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About the House
6
3
12
2
The Coach House: Sleeps 12 guests in a large, detached family home with a choice of reception and dining rooms, six bedrooms, two en suite and a family bathroom. Large formal gardens, a Jacuzzi hot tub, IR sauna, three patios, a treehouse, a BBQ area, firepit, and a tennis court sized grass games area.
Accessible via the main staircase: There are two staircases, the main one by the clocktower, and the wing side staircase, making it perfect for those who want one end of the home to be quieter than the other!
Bedroom 1 (sleeps 2) master bedroom, super king bed, built in wardrobes, chest of drawers, and a balcony overlooking the garden. Two doors, one to the clocktower staircase the other into the walkthrough bedroom (Bedroom 3) and the en-suite family bathroom with bath, walk in shower cubicle and sink and wc.
Bedroom 2 (sleeps 2) double bed, off the main staircase, with corner desk, wardrobe and en suite bathroom including bath and shower over, wc and sink plus a small balcony overlooking the garden.
Bedroom 3 (sleeps 2) Walkthrough bedroom, single bed with another pull out single bed – both full sized for adults but best suited to children. This room is between the master bedroom and the en suite bathroom. There is also a door through to the wing side landing.
Across the wing side landing:
Bedroom 4 (sleeps 2) double bed, wardrobe, desk, and tall mirror. Velux windows.
Ground floor of the wing, with second staircase, includes:
Bedroom 5 (sleeps 2) king size bed, wardrobe, dressing tables.
Bedroom 6 (sleeps 2) twin beds, wardrobe and drawers.
Family bathroom with bath and shower over, wc and sink.
Note: For families a single airbed can be supplied for the three larger bedrooms on request (Bedrooms 1,2, and 4). For flexibility reasons please do not exceed 12 guests in total. For babies and young children, two highchairs, two travel cots and two baby-gates are provided. All on request.
Outside
To the front an acre of grassed courtyard faced by other classic historical cottages. To the rear, and private to the guests, are ¾ of an acre of beautiful formal gardens inside a high brick wall that surrounds the property (making it very dog-secure).
In the gardens are three patio areas. The main patio by the house has a dining table for 8 guests, which can easily be increased by bringing the spare tables and chairs out from the Garden Room, ideal for al fresco dining day or night. The south facing garden patio offers sofa seating for 10 or more guests and has a BBQ area with both charcoal and gas BBQ’s (charcoal and gas supplied), and a firepit (logs supplied) The quiet patio has a large hammock and two deckchairs. All three patios are lit at night.
The Spa area has a six-seater jacuzzi hot tub, an infrared sauna seating four, and a changing area which is home to pool towels, robes and sandals.
Further down the garden is the Tree House (with removable staircase for parents who prefer to limit use) and a secret den for the children.
At the far end of the walled garden is the games pavilion with everything you need to play tennis (fun, not match), football, badminton, table tennis, croquet, cricket to name a few of the games. All the rackets and balls supplied and there is lighting enough to allow evening play if an important match runs late.
Explore the farmland and woods - On the 40-acre farm there are lots of horses and grazing paddocks (all of which are private, but lovely to look at). Away from the stables are 30 acres of walks and woodlands for you to enjoy and which are pet friendly, dogs can run free as the whole area is well fenced. Around the edge of the farm there is 3/4 of a mile of grass trackway and lots of paths in the woods, perfect for a stroll (or even a jog) through beautiful woodlands with lovely views. The farm also offers a sunny woodland glade picnic area with seating and a fire pit. There are picnic hampers and cool boxes in the house for guests to enjoy.
Locally - In the area there are many lovely local walks and some top-quality country pubs, gastro pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. We have prepared walking maps that make finding your way around really easy. Travelling mainly on footpaths this is a lovely way to get to the local pub.
Services
Visiting Beauty services, contact Sara (host) on 07786-070135.
Dog Grooming next door by Gabrielle (www.ggdoggrooming.com)
Catering services and other options on request via Bloomstays
Corporate facilities with meeting/lecture room by request
Party planning service available from Beyond the Table - including table scaping and balloons and dressing.
Catering options available on request from £60 per person for a three-course meal.
Cocktail making course from Wildbox available from £50 per person. Local produce used
Children's party organiser - 2 hours of entertainment on site. Some superb themed ideas.
Dog grooming on the premises at Stede Court. www.ggdoggrooming.com
Visiting beauty and massage arranged by the hosts.
Many more entertainment ideas on request via Bloom Stays
Ground Floor
Entry hall / Dining area - Lovely beamed ceilings and view of the turret clock tower. Dining table and seating for up to 12 guests. Lots of table dressing accessories and battery candles. Perfect for a special meal.
The Garden Room - connects nicely to the side of the kitchen and is light and airy. Huge 55 inch screen TV fully loaded with Sky Sports, Sky Movies, Netflix and Amazon Prime TV. Stereo sound system with Bluetooth. Seating for 8 on the corner sofa. Additional chairs and tables are provided.
The Lounge - seats 6+ guests in front of a huge inglenook fire. Large screen TV, terrestrial channels and PlayStation 4 for games and DVD’s from our extensive collection. On one side of the fireplace the Library displays an enormous choice of hardback books and on the other side a bar area with an under counter wine cooler and display cabinets, cocktail glasses, shakers and ice buckets.
The Kitchen - is part of an open living area with a large kitchen island and two counter stools. Huge array of serving bowls and trays - much of it eclectic and fun. Facilities include an induction hob, Neff electric double oven, microwave, dishwasher, two fridges, two freezers, Nespresso machine (classic), toaster, kettle. Fully stocked with glassware and crockery for 12 guests. Ample pantry cupboards and a walk-in utility cupboard with washing machine and dryer.
Accessible via the main staircase: There are two staircases, the main one by the clocktower, and the wing side staircase, making it perfect for those who want one end of the home to be quieter than the other!
Bedroom 1 (sleeps 2) master bedroom, super king bed, built in wardrobes, chest of drawers, and a balcony overlooking the garden. Two doors, one to the clocktower staircase the other into the walkthrough bedroom (Bedroom 3) and the en-suite family bathroom with bath, walk in shower cubicle and sink and wc.
Bedroom 2 (sleeps 2) double bed, off the main staircase, with corner desk, wardrobe and en suite bathroom including bath and shower over, wc and sink plus a small balcony overlooking the garden.
Bedroom 3 (sleeps 2) Walkthrough bedroom, single bed with another pull out single bed – both full sized for adults but best suited to children. This room is between the master bedroom and the en suite bathroom. There is also a door through to the wing side landing.
Across the wing side landing:
Bedroom 4 (sleeps 2) double bed, wardrobe, desk, and tall mirror. Velux windows.
Ground floor of the wing, with second staircase, includes:
Bedroom 5 (sleeps 2) king size bed, wardrobe, dressing tables.
Bedroom 6 (sleeps 2) twin beds, wardrobe and drawers.
Family bathroom with bath and shower over, wc and sink.
Note: For families a single airbed can be supplied for the three larger bedrooms on request (Bedrooms 1,2, and 4). For flexibility reasons please do not exceed 12 guests in total. For babies and young children, two highchairs, two travel cots and two baby-gates are provided. All on request.
Outside
To the front an acre of grassed courtyard faced by other classic historical cottages. To the rear, and private to the guests, are ¾ of an acre of beautiful formal gardens inside a high brick wall that surrounds the property (making it very dog-secure).
In the gardens are three patio areas. The main patio by the house has a dining table for 8 guests, which can easily be increased by bringing the spare tables and chairs out from the Garden Room, ideal for al fresco dining day or night. The south facing garden patio offers sofa seating for 10 or more guests and has a BBQ area with both charcoal and gas BBQ’s (charcoal and gas supplied), and a firepit (logs supplied) The quiet patio has a large hammock and two deckchairs. All three patios are lit at night.
The Spa area has a six-seater jacuzzi hot tub, an infrared sauna seating four, and a changing area which is home to pool towels, robes and sandals.
Further down the garden is the Tree House (with removable staircase for parents who prefer to limit use) and a secret den for the children.
At the far end of the walled garden is the games pavilion with everything you need to play tennis (fun, not match), football, badminton, table tennis, croquet, cricket to name a few of the games. All the rackets and balls supplied and there is lighting enough to allow evening play if an important match runs late.
Explore the farmland and woods - On the 40-acre farm there are lots of horses and grazing paddocks (all of which are private, but lovely to look at). Away from the stables are 30 acres of walks and woodlands for you to enjoy and which are pet friendly, dogs can run free as the whole area is well fenced. Around the edge of the farm there is 3/4 of a mile of grass trackway and lots of paths in the woods, perfect for a stroll (or even a jog) through beautiful woodlands with lovely views. The farm also offers a sunny woodland glade picnic area with seating and a fire pit. There are picnic hampers and cool boxes in the house for guests to enjoy.
Locally - In the area there are many lovely local walks and some top-quality country pubs, gastro pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. We have prepared walking maps that make finding your way around really easy. Travelling mainly on footpaths this is a lovely way to get to the local pub.
Services
Visiting Beauty services, contact Sara (host) on 07786-070135.
Dog Grooming next door by Gabrielle (www.ggdoggrooming.com)
Catering services and other options on request via Bloomstays
Corporate facilities with meeting/lecture room by request
Added Extras:
Shopping received and put away service - £75Party planning service available from Beyond the Table - including table scaping and balloons and dressing.
Catering options available on request from £60 per person for a three-course meal.
Cocktail making course from Wildbox available from £50 per person. Local produce used
Children's party organiser - 2 hours of entertainment on site. Some superb themed ideas.
Dog grooming on the premises at Stede Court. www.ggdoggrooming.com
Visiting beauty and massage arranged by the hosts.
Many more entertainment ideas on request via Bloom Stays
-
Facilities
Accessible ParkingBBQBluetooth SpeakerBoard GamesChild FriendlyChristmas DecorationsCoffee MachineCotCountryDishwasher22 Miles To The Beach3 Miles To The Pub1 Mile To The ShopsEV ChargerFireFreeviewGardenHairdryerHighchairHot TubIron & BoardLarge Holiday HomesLinenMicrowaveOpen FireParking - Off StreetPet FriendlyPlaystationSmart TVSmoke DetectorsStarter Logs ProvidedTowelsTumble DryerVacuum CleanerWashing Machine18Mb Wi-Fi -
Things You Need to Know
All Towels and Linen provided.
Robes and sandals provided for spa use.
Wi-Fi - speed of 18mbps throughout house and main garden.
Central heating throughout.
BBQ - charcoal and gas provided.
Logs provided for the inglenook fireplace and firepit. (Additional logs may be purchased from the host if needed)
Pets permitted - small fee additional (£30 per pet).
Private parking in the courtyard for up to 4 cars. Additional parking can be arranged on the farm.
Three phase electric car charger provided.
Suitable for those aged over 25 only
Two Cots, two highchairs and two baby gates are available on request.
The hosts live beside the property and will enter on occasion to treat the hot tub, normally early in the mornings. Hosts will always check with guests before entering. -
House Rules
Please ensure you check out on time to allow our housekeepers to enter the property and prepare it for the next guests.
Smoking is not permitted in the property at any time.
Please note for insurance purposes the number of guests must not exceed the total occupancy of the house.
For fire safety reasons please do not use any candles in the property.
Please note stag or hen parties are not permitted unless agreed in writing
Please note quiet hours are between 11pm and 9am. Please be respectful to our neighbours.
No Chinese lanterns. No Fireworks.
If bringing pets please ensure you bag all dog mess and place bags in the black bin by the car park.
The main courtyard is shared with other residents so is not a play area.
When visiting the farm please do not approach any stables or feed any horses. The gallops and woodlands are completely open to guests and pets but be aware horses may be exercising. Please do not enter any grazing paddocks. Dogs should be on a lead in the courtyard and stable area.
In the Area
The house is perfectly located in a wonderful, quiet, calm country spot yet so close and accessible to the M20, good rail links to London, and the towns of Maidstone, Ashford and Canterbury. If the coast is calling Harrietsham is within a 45 minutes’ drive of some major beaches.
Key attractions:
Leeds Castle: (10 mins) www.leeds-castle.com
Described as "the loveliest castle in the world", Leeds Castle was a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England's medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon; a Jacobean country house; a Georgian mansion and an elegant 20th century retreat. The Castle and its grounds hold a wealth of attractions, including: the Castle tour; the Knight's Realm Playground; the Maze; Go Ape Tree Top Adventure; Segway Tours; and simply enjoying the gardens and grounds. Tickets on sale at the gate.
The Big Cat Sanctuary (20 mins) www.thebigcatsanctuary.org
Set in the heart of the countryside at Smarden The Big Cat Sanctaury has excellent conditions for the breeding of endangered cats, both large and small. They offer a wide range of amazing experiences.
Chatham Historic Dockyard: (30 mins)
From the Tudor Spanish Armada to the Falklands crisis, ships have been built, repaired and manned at the Dockyard for 400 years. Chatham Dockyard secured and maintained Britain's command of the world oceans. With 80 acres of history to explore you really have to check out the website to plan a visit – there is so much to see.
Historic Rochester and Castle (30 mins)
Historic Rochester with its castle and Cathedral is well worth a visit. Be ready for lots of information about Charles Dickens and try not to miss The Royal Engineers Museum
Port Lympne Wild Animal Reserve: (37 mins) www.aspinallfoundation.org
One of the largest wild animal parks in the UK, with 600 acres of wide-open spaces for the animals to roam. A world leader in breeding rare and endangered species, committed to conservation. Animals include gorilla, tigers, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and a huge variety of primates. If wild animals are your thing also consider Howletts Wild Animal Park (44 mins),
Canterbury: (40 mins)
There is so much to see and do in Canterbury beyond the cathedral. Wander through the large pedestrianised shopping area which contains many family owned specialist shops as well as more mainstream high street brands. Visit the Canterbury Tales to learn about medieval life based on Chaucer’s famous stories (canterburytales.org.uk); take a guided river tour to learn about the hidden history of Canterbury (www.canterburyrivertours.co.uk); or join a ghost walking tour (www.canterburyghosttour.com). There are many good venues to eat and drink. One of our favourites is La Trappiste on Sun Street which has great food and choice of over 200 Belgian beers.
Whitstable: (45 minutes)
This is the quirkiest town on the north Kent coast, a veritable treasure trove of little independent shops, a real working harbour, great shingle beaches, top quality restaurants (try Wheelers, if you can get a table. www.wheelersoysterbar.com ), and walks galore. The Sportsman, Seasalter: gastro pub with a Michelin star and a great reputation is nearby (01227 273370) as is Jojo’s: meat, fish and meze restaurant at Tankerton near Whitstable (01227 274591)
Folkestone: (45 mins) www.folkestone.ukfossils.co.uk
Hunt for Jurassic ammonites and belemnites in the Gault Clay on the beach foreshore at Copt Point. Tide dependent: better at mid/ low tide. Eat fish and chips beside the old Folkestone harbour. The Harbour arm is a wonderful day out, with shopping area, kiosks on the beach. Beachfront eateries and cocktail bars. Little Rock is a definite visit or its larger restaurant Rock Salt (www.rocksaltfolkestone.co.uk) or you can enjoy the harbour walks and just grab some fresh seafood, or hot fish and chips and sit admiring the view.
Nearby Pubs.
This area is so well supplied with excellent pubs it is only worth mentioning those nearby.
The Ringlestone. www.theringlestone.co.uk 01622-290300 (5 mins)
A beautiful Grade ll listed building dating back to 1533, now a free-house country pub and restaurant run by Dalton and Paulo who present a menu based on artisan methods of whole carcass butchery, dry curing, smoking and preserving. A lovely walk from the house over mainly footpaths (30 mins).
The Hook & Hatchet. www.hookandhatchetpub.co.uk 01622-880272 (13 mins)
This is a hidden gem in a lovely valley in Hucking. Set all alone and surrounded by thousands of acres of public woodlands on the Hucking Estate (great for dogs and kids, miles of well signed footpaths) the Hook offers great pub food, regular music events and excellent beers. A real locals free-house country pub lovingly run by Sharon and Alan.
The Dirty Habit. www.elitepubs.com/venue/the-dirty-habit/ 01622-880880 (9mins)
A great pub in Hollingbourne with a nice and varied menu and an excellent pizza oven. Another lovely walk (50 mins along the historical Pilgrims Way).
The Windmill, www.thewindmillhollingbourne.co.uk 01622 889000 (10 mins)
In Hollingbourne village near Leeds Castle: gastro pub, ideal for Sunday lunch
Percival’s Rest. www.percivalsrest.com 01622-587518 (4 mins)
The village pub in Harrietsham. A nice pub a mile down the road from the house
The Pepperbox Inn www.thepepperboxinn.co.uk 01622-842558 (10 mins)
Another real country pub, set up the top of Windmill Hill this is a 15th century pub with beamed ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. Run by the same family since 1958 it is just what you’d expect from Kentish country pub.
Selected local Restaurants
The Taste of Bengal: (5mins) 01622-859461. Good Indian Restaurant in Harrietsham Village offering take-away.
The Chequers Fish and Chips: (7 mins) 01622 859878 Really good local fish and chips in Lenham market square
Chopstick & Bowl Chinese Restaurant. (7 mins) 01622-858416 Our local Chinese Take-away in Lenham village..
Local Food Shops
Co-op - (4 mins) There is a good sized Co-op in the village and a small Mace store opposite.
M&S Food - (5 mins) At the service station between Harrietsham and Lenham.
Key attractions:
Leeds Castle: (10 mins) www.leeds-castle.com
Described as "the loveliest castle in the world", Leeds Castle was a Norman stronghold; the private property of six of England's medieval queens; a palace used by Henry VIII and his first wife Catherine of Aragon; a Jacobean country house; a Georgian mansion and an elegant 20th century retreat. The Castle and its grounds hold a wealth of attractions, including: the Castle tour; the Knight's Realm Playground; the Maze; Go Ape Tree Top Adventure; Segway Tours; and simply enjoying the gardens and grounds. Tickets on sale at the gate.
The Big Cat Sanctuary (20 mins) www.thebigcatsanctuary.org
Set in the heart of the countryside at Smarden The Big Cat Sanctaury has excellent conditions for the breeding of endangered cats, both large and small. They offer a wide range of amazing experiences.
Chatham Historic Dockyard: (30 mins)
From the Tudor Spanish Armada to the Falklands crisis, ships have been built, repaired and manned at the Dockyard for 400 years. Chatham Dockyard secured and maintained Britain's command of the world oceans. With 80 acres of history to explore you really have to check out the website to plan a visit – there is so much to see.
Historic Rochester and Castle (30 mins)
Historic Rochester with its castle and Cathedral is well worth a visit. Be ready for lots of information about Charles Dickens and try not to miss The Royal Engineers Museum
Port Lympne Wild Animal Reserve: (37 mins) www.aspinallfoundation.org
One of the largest wild animal parks in the UK, with 600 acres of wide-open spaces for the animals to roam. A world leader in breeding rare and endangered species, committed to conservation. Animals include gorilla, tigers, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and a huge variety of primates. If wild animals are your thing also consider Howletts Wild Animal Park (44 mins),
Canterbury: (40 mins)
There is so much to see and do in Canterbury beyond the cathedral. Wander through the large pedestrianised shopping area which contains many family owned specialist shops as well as more mainstream high street brands. Visit the Canterbury Tales to learn about medieval life based on Chaucer’s famous stories (canterburytales.org.uk); take a guided river tour to learn about the hidden history of Canterbury (www.canterburyrivertours.co.uk); or join a ghost walking tour (www.canterburyghosttour.com). There are many good venues to eat and drink. One of our favourites is La Trappiste on Sun Street which has great food and choice of over 200 Belgian beers.
Whitstable: (45 minutes)
This is the quirkiest town on the north Kent coast, a veritable treasure trove of little independent shops, a real working harbour, great shingle beaches, top quality restaurants (try Wheelers, if you can get a table. www.wheelersoysterbar.com ), and walks galore. The Sportsman, Seasalter: gastro pub with a Michelin star and a great reputation is nearby (01227 273370) as is Jojo’s: meat, fish and meze restaurant at Tankerton near Whitstable (01227 274591)
Folkestone: (45 mins) www.folkestone.ukfossils.co.uk
Hunt for Jurassic ammonites and belemnites in the Gault Clay on the beach foreshore at Copt Point. Tide dependent: better at mid/ low tide. Eat fish and chips beside the old Folkestone harbour. The Harbour arm is a wonderful day out, with shopping area, kiosks on the beach. Beachfront eateries and cocktail bars. Little Rock is a definite visit or its larger restaurant Rock Salt (www.rocksaltfolkestone.co.uk) or you can enjoy the harbour walks and just grab some fresh seafood, or hot fish and chips and sit admiring the view.
Nearby Pubs.
This area is so well supplied with excellent pubs it is only worth mentioning those nearby.
The Ringlestone. www.theringlestone.co.uk 01622-290300 (5 mins)
A beautiful Grade ll listed building dating back to 1533, now a free-house country pub and restaurant run by Dalton and Paulo who present a menu based on artisan methods of whole carcass butchery, dry curing, smoking and preserving. A lovely walk from the house over mainly footpaths (30 mins).
The Hook & Hatchet. www.hookandhatchetpub.co.uk 01622-880272 (13 mins)
This is a hidden gem in a lovely valley in Hucking. Set all alone and surrounded by thousands of acres of public woodlands on the Hucking Estate (great for dogs and kids, miles of well signed footpaths) the Hook offers great pub food, regular music events and excellent beers. A real locals free-house country pub lovingly run by Sharon and Alan.
The Dirty Habit. www.elitepubs.com/venue/the-dirty-habit/ 01622-880880 (9mins)
A great pub in Hollingbourne with a nice and varied menu and an excellent pizza oven. Another lovely walk (50 mins along the historical Pilgrims Way).
The Windmill, www.thewindmillhollingbourne.co.uk 01622 889000 (10 mins)
In Hollingbourne village near Leeds Castle: gastro pub, ideal for Sunday lunch
Percival’s Rest. www.percivalsrest.com 01622-587518 (4 mins)
The village pub in Harrietsham. A nice pub a mile down the road from the house
The Pepperbox Inn www.thepepperboxinn.co.uk 01622-842558 (10 mins)
Another real country pub, set up the top of Windmill Hill this is a 15th century pub with beamed ceilings and inglenook fireplaces. Run by the same family since 1958 it is just what you’d expect from Kentish country pub.
Selected local Restaurants
The Taste of Bengal: (5mins) 01622-859461. Good Indian Restaurant in Harrietsham Village offering take-away.
The Chequers Fish and Chips: (7 mins) 01622 859878 Really good local fish and chips in Lenham market square
Chopstick & Bowl Chinese Restaurant. (7 mins) 01622-858416 Our local Chinese Take-away in Lenham village..
Local Food Shops
Co-op - (4 mins) There is a good sized Co-op in the village and a small Mace store opposite.
M&S Food - (5 mins) At the service station between Harrietsham and Lenham.
Tesco Express – (13 mins) Bearsted near Maidstone. ME14 4NE
Tesco Superstore – (18 mins) – Maidstone ME14 5TQ
Sainsburys Superstore – (18 mins) – Maidstone ME15 6SF
Waitrose - (20 mins) - Ashford TN23 3RT
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