The Kent Cottage in the Kent countryside

Local Area

The Garden of England, on your doorstep.

From English sparkling wine on the world stage to wide white-cliff coastlines and centuries-old country pubs — here is our quietly opinionated guide to the very best of the area.

No. 01

Best Local Pubs

Best Local Pubs

The Tiger Inn, Stowting

A genuine country pub around 10 minutes away — good beer, a roaring fire in winter and a lovely garden in summer.

The Five Bells, East Brabourne

Candlelit village inn known for warmth, character and the kind of long, lingering evening Kent does well.

The New Flying Horse Inn, Wye

Award-winning country inn with exceptional food in the heart of the Kent Downs — well worth the short drive.

No. 02

Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Domaine Evremond

Pioneering English sparkling wine estate founded by Champagne house Taittinger, set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just outside Chilham.

Gusbourne Estate

Award-winning English sparkling and still wines with intimate tastings and beautiful grounds near Appledore.

Chapel Down Winery

One of England's best-known wineries — vineyard tours, tastings and a brilliant restaurant.

Curious Brewery, Ashford

Award-winning beers and ciders with a winemaker's twist — taproom, restaurant and a view into the brewing.

No. 03

Beaches & Coast

Beaches & Coast

Hythe

The closest stretch of coast — traditional seafront town with a long promenade and good cafés.

Folkestone Harbour Arm

Around 20 minutes away. The Creative Quarter and Harbour Arm have made Folkestone one of the most rewarding towns on the south coast.

Camber Sands & Dymchurch

Wide sandy beaches within easy reach for a proper family beach day.

No. 04

Days Out

Westenhanger Castle

A quietly atmospheric medieval site just minutes from the house.

Dover Castle & the White Cliffs

Around half an hour away — clifftop walks and one of England's most dramatic castles.

Canterbury

Around 40 minutes north. The famous cathedral, cobbled streets and excellent independent shops.

Wye National Nature Reserve

Chalk downland walks and the Devil's Kneading Trough, with panoramic views across the Weald of Kent.

No. 05

Family Activities

Port Lympne Wildlife Reserve

Safari experiences and conservation reserve just 15 minutes away — a guaranteed family hit.

Rare Breeds Centre

Walk-through paddocks, woodland trails, adventure playgrounds and tractor rides near Ashford.

Conningbrook Lakes Country Park

Lakes, woodland and grassland for gentle walks, picnics and birdwatching.

No. 06

Travel & Transport

Ashford International

Around 15 minutes from the house by car. High-speed services reach London St Pancras in under 40 minutes; the Channel Tunnel puts Paris within around two hours.

From London

Reach the countryside from London in around an hour by public transport.

By car

Easy access from the M20 at Junction 11 (around 2 miles). Private on-site parking for up to 8 cars.

Taxis

Local taxi recommendations provided in your pre-arrival guide.