EXPLORE , and the Visitor Guide

www.swaletourism.co.uk Welcome to the Towns and Villages of Swale

Pretty villages, seaside resorts, attractive towns, maritime and aviation history and a wealth of wildlife make Swale a fascinating area to spend a day, a weekend, a short break or even longer. There is a wide range of accommodation to choose from, exciting places to visit and good shopping facilities – both modern and traditional. Situated between the Channel Ports to the south-east and to the west, it’s an area alive with history and the perfect base for a holiday.

This guide is published by Tourism Association, an informal and independent organisation, first established in 1990, and dedicated to the marketing of member establishments. The Association takes no part in the operation of individual establishments, all of which are under independent ownership or management, nor is it responsible for the actions of individual members. If you have any comments or queries please contact the establishment concerned.

All information is believed to be correct at the time of going to press. Opening times, prices and events are subject to change – you are advised to telephone to check details before travelling. The publishers, their agents or employees cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or subsequent alterations.

1 Contents

“Toppled with apples, hops galore, marshland, the t its core.” seaside and heritage a

Welcome to Swale 1 Isle of Sheppey 3 & 4 Faversham 5 & 6 Sittingbourne 7 & 8 Food and Drink 10 Nature 11 & 12 Events 14 Map 15 & 16 Places to Visit 17 - 24 Where to Stay 25 - 29 Further Information 30

If you are having difficulty reading this publication and would like the information in an alternative format we will do our best to accommodate your request. Please contact The Swale Tourism Association at: OF OL VIS MB U Y AL Swale House S E H T

East Street

Sittingbourne D is ab , ME10 3HT ility

2 Isle of Sheppey

Towering above the Sheppey marshland stands the new and iconic Sheppey Crossing connecting Kent’s mainland to the Island. The Island is truly an island of contrasts with breathtaking wide, open skies and outstanding spectacular landscapes offering a unique holiday experience in Kent.

The towns and villages scattered throughout shelter centuries of rich maritime and aviation histories whilst the traditional holiday destinations – , Minster and Leysdown – continue to attract and enthral friends and families for both short and longer breaks throughout the year. Truly something for everyone! The nature reserves and wildlife habitats are attracting many new visitors who recognise and seek the unparalleled environmental excellence of the .

The sleepy harbour town of is steeped in maritime history, having evolved from a small Saxon settlement. Edward III built a Castle at Queenborough but sadly nothing remains now since, in 1650, Parliament ordered its demolition.

The proud naval connections of Sheerness are still in evidence especially in Bluetown which sits in the shadow of the former naval Dockyard. Today the promenade provides a vantage point over the estuary from which to watch the trading vessels.

3 Minster’s heritage stems from its royal Saxon Abbey, which from its hilltop vantage point dominated the skyline. Originally a Benedictine convent, founded in the 7th century by Queen Sexburga of Kent, who became its first Abbess. The Gatehouse probably dates from the 12th Century and, with the twin churches of St. Mary and St. Sexburga, is all that now remains.

Just a few miles along the coast is the village of steeped in aviation history. Distinguished aviators such as Shorts, Rolls, Wrights plus many others all made their names on Sheppey and will be commemorated in a centenary celebration in 2009 as the birthplace of British aviation. Further eastwards stands Leysdown, a traditional and lively resort. Move on through the Coastal Park to reach the most eastern tip of the Island and the naturist beach at . 4 FAVERSHAM

Discover Faversham, a picturesque historic market town, located in the heart of the Garden of . Take a stroll down the medieval Abbey Street and browse in a range of independent shops in the town centre, crowned by the distinctive Guildhall in the historic Market Place.

Dating back to pre Roman times, Faversham is mentioned in the Doomsday Book. By 1900, and after 400 years of manufacturing gunpowder for famous battles such as Trafalgar and Waterloo, Faversham was to grow to be the centre of the nation’s explosives industry. With over 400 listed buildings recording Faversham’s industrial past this makes the town a ‘must see’ on any heritage trail.

Much of the area to the south of Faversham is in the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty while to the north are nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

5 Family fun can be found at the award winning fruit and hop farm, Farming World providing a great learning experience as well as a fun day out with friendly farm animals. With the town surrounded too by an abundance of apple, pear and cherry fruit orchards it is no surprise to learn that the largest fruit collection in the world is housed within Collections for all to see and enjoy. The magnificent and mature Edwardian gardens at Mount Ephraim offer both traditional and contemporary features to delight visitors. Nearby the beautiful and elegant Georgian Belmont House and Garden with its special collections, including an extensive clock collection, provides stunning views over the Kent countryside.

An overnight stay in one of the nearby villages will give you time for a leisurely walk alongside meandering creek inlets whilst the Creeks and Country cycle route takes in town and country routes which still characterise Kent today. Nearby Blean Wood is one of Britain’s largest broad-leaved nature reserves and has seven miles of walking trails and glimpses of the Kentish countryside.

Regular and popular events in Faversham continue to delight the regular visitor as well as new visitors who stumble on the charm of this Kentish town - Secret Gardens, Open House, Faversham Hop Festival and Carnival to name but a few.

6 Sittingbourne

Sittingbourne is part of Europe’s most exciting regeneration plan which is set to transform the town and the surrounding area as part of the wider and ambitious Thames Gateway. There are many unspoilt natural areas both in and around this heritage town including creeks, marshland, woodlands and the delightful timbered cottages of the North Downs. Sittingbourne provides an ideal base for walking, cycling, photography and other leisure pursuits.

All this, and more, from a town at the heart of commerce. countryside • nature reserves • walking and cycling • shopping • historic houses • gardens • theatre

You can choose from historic houses, museums and beautiful gardens or simply enjoy the fresh air in fascinating nature reserves and unspoilt woodlands. Cyclists following rural country lanes through attractive orchards and farmlands, small villages and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty along the North Downs will find contrasting scenery to delight. Or take a gentle drive in the countryside and see the picturesque timbered cottages in this, the world famous fruit and hop growing area.

7 The modern market town of Sittingbourne has a proud maritime and industrial heritage as depicted by the bronze statue of the Bargeman in the High Street. , close to Sittingbourne, tells the fascinating story of the local paper and brick industrial past.

Still on the heritage trail, the Sittingbourne & Light Railway, originally built in the days of steam to haul paper and raw materials between the mills and the dock at Ridham, now takes passengers on a delightful 4-mile return trip.

Markets, karting and more! Sittingbourne High Street itself has plenty of places to have a short rest while enjoying some refreshments and is home to many well-known stores as well as having a weekly market and occasional speciality markets.

Entertainment comes in various guises! For the ‘big kids’ there’s Karting, and for the active youth a skate park to expend surplus energy.

Sittingbourne’s countryside attraction to the south of is The Barn Yard at Gore Farm - with a large selection of local produce, dried flowers and, in autumn, the traditional Kentish hop bines. The dairy has a selection of up to 80 different cheeses as well as delicious ice cream and with three farm trails you can see how conservation can run side-by-side with production on a modern fruit farm.

8 The Aviator

The Aviator (formerly known as The Lady Hamilton) is a short drive from the new Sheppey Bridge, on Queenborough Corner, and is well worth a visit.

The interior design features artefacts relating to Sheppey’s role in the early days of powered flight, recalling the exploits of pioneers such as the Short Brothers, the Gordon Bennett air race; the Eastchurch Naval Flying School and the visit of Wilbut and Orville Wright to Leysdown in 1909. Bar menu is available from 12.00 midday - 9.00 pm with a wide range of delicious dishes. The restaurant opens from 6.00 - 9.00 pm with bookings now been taken. The Aviator, Queenborough, Sheerness,Kent ME12 3DJ Tel: 01795 666094 Email: [email protected]

OareOare GunpowderGunpowder WorksWorks CountryCountry ParkPark Woodland walks Industrial remains & extensive wildlife Special events & volunteer days all year round Car parking and disabled access Visitor Centre Open : 10.30 - 4.30 Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays / April - Nov www.gunpowderworks.co.uk

9 Food and Drink

You’ll find a wide selection of restaurants, inns, cafés and tearooms in Swale. Quintessentially Kentish pubs festooned with hops, serving traditional meals – with a modern twist. Cosy tearooms where you will be faced with a difficult choice – which cake to choose today? Brogdale is home to the national fruit collections so apples, pears and cherries, as well as soft fruits have always featured in Kentish recipes. Local produce is readily available and often used by the chefs in the restaurants – as well as the landladies in the B&Bs. Visit a farm shop or farmers market and treat yourself to something special to take home! You certainly won’t go hungry in Swale!

THE AVIATOR Queenborough, Sheeress, Isle of Sheppey Tel: 01795 666094 E-mail: [email protected] www.shepherd-neame.co.uk The Aviator is a short drive from the Sheppey Bridge. Join us and sample our varied bar and restaurant menus. THE FERRY HOUSE INN , Isle of Sheppey Tel: 01795 510214 Fax: 01795 511529 E-mail: [email protected] www.ferryhouseinn.com The Inn prides itself on home cooking, using locally sourced produce. Our new Barn Restaurant specialises in game, steaks and fish. THE TUDOR ROSE Borden, Sittingbourne Tel: 01795 842575 E-mail: [email protected] Home cooked traditional menu with weekend carvery. All food locally sourced. Great selection of Shepherd Neame beers and fine wines.

10 Nature Reserves in Swale

This area of Kent is rich in wildlife, and whether you just want a peaceful stroll in the countryside, or are a keen nature lover you will enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and glorious wildlife in Swale.

On the Isle of Sheppey you will find Marshes Nature Reserve (RSPB), which is part of the extensive national nature reserve. The windswept salt marshes are home to many breeding wetland birds, marsh frogs, insects and aquatic plants. The best time for visiting is early winter through to late spring. The reserve often attracts ducks, geese and wading birds. On the southern tip of the Island is The Swale National Nature Reserve, forming part of the internationally recognised coastal marshlands of North Kent. There are many rare and uncommon migrant moths and butterflies whilst the salt marshes, grazing marshes and creeks provide the feeding and roosting areas for large numbers of wildfowl and waders, which can be viewed along coastal walks.

Oare Marshes, near Faversham is a reserve of great international importance due to the large variety of wildlife including redshank, lapwings, and the rare bearded tit. There are dramatic views of the Swale Estuary and marshes and the reserve offers walks, hides, nature trails, view points and information. The Nature Reserve, also near Faversham, is part of the Swale Site of Special Scientific Interest and provides a pleasant coastal walk between Faversham and Seasalter. There is a wide range of wildfowl, including 2000 Brent geese and wading birds.

Cromers Wood Nature Reserve near Sittingbourne, is mainly coppiced woodland with a vast range of flora and fauna, including 39 species of breeding birds and 17 species of mammals. Nature Reserve near , Sittingbourne is a site of chalk downs and woodland, host to a dozen species of orchid and a huge variety of birds.

11 For the long distance walker there is The which runs for 140 miles from Gravesend to Hastings. It offers a view of the wide expanse of marshland and is particularly rich in historical sites such as in Faversham. The shoreline through Swale is important as a roosting place for migrating birds. But you don’t need to walk 140 miles to enjoy this rich landscape!

A Nature Reserve Factsheet is available from Swale Borough Council Tel: 01795 417478 or contact the reserves direct for full infomation Elmley Marshes Nature Reserve (RSPB) Tel: 01795 665969 / 01634 222480. Fax: 01634 222489 www.rspb.org.uk/reserves E-mail: [email protected] The Swale National Nature Reserve Tel: 01622 765222 www.naturalengland.co.uk E-mail:[email protected] C , South Swale Nature Reserve, Nature Reserve, Queendown Warren Nature Reserve Tel: 01622 662012 www.kentwildlife.org.uk E-mail: [email protected] The Blean Tel: 01227 862015 E-mail: blean.initative@.gov.uk Saxon Shore Way Tel: 08458 247 600 E-mail: [email protected] http://ftp.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/explore-kent/ walking-cycling-and-riding/saxon-shore-way-walk.htm

12 HMS WILDFIRE III Sunday 7th September 2008

A parade, civic service and annual reunion in Queenborough remembering those men and women who served at the former minesweeping base during WWII.

For further information please contact: Queenbroough and District Naval Ensign Association on (01795) 660971 or email: [email protected]

13 Events in Swale From carnivals to ‘secret gardens’, from sea-side fun to heritage events – there is plenty to enjoy this year in Swale! 7th & 8th June, 26th & 27th July Secret Gardens, Faversham View gardens not normally open to the public. Tel: 01795 534542 28th June - Sittingbourne Carnival A colourful showcase with spectacular floats. Tel: 01795 475773 1st - 31st July - Swale Festival Entertainment for the whole family throughout the month – phone for programme. Tel: 01795 585616 5th, 12th & 19th July Open House Scheme, Faversham Visit buildings not normally open to the public. Tel: 01795 534542 12th July - Sittingbourne Spectacular Colourful flagship community event. Tel: 01795 585616 2nd August - Sheppey Show Fun-packed day by the sea-side. Tel: 01795 585616 30th & 31st August - Faversham Hop Festival Traditional entertainment, music, dance & crafts. Tel: 01795 585616 7th September - HMS Wildfire III See advert on facing page. Tel: 01795 660971 11th October - Faversham Carnival Band, Majorettes, evening procession & fireworks. Tel: 01795 538747 Please note that circumstances can and do change and the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any subsequent amendments. Fleur de Lis Gallery Exhibitions, Faversham An exciting programme of exhibitions throughout the year from Art Exhibitions to Railways. Tel: 01795 531554

14 Map of Swale

15 4 16

Sheerness

A 12 Queenborough Minster

B Isle of Sheppey 2 Eastchurch Leysdown Upchurch C 1 Harty Rainham 17 Milton Regis Newington 3 14 Harty (mainland) D Stockbury Sittingbourne Oare 7 Tonge 9 6 18 13 Borden Blean Wood Faversham 10 E 8 11 Boughton

F Doddington 5

Throwley G

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Places to Visit Nature Reserves

15 Map of Swale London M2 M20 Swale 15 4 16 Kent Dover To Sheerness

A 12 Queenborough Minster

B Isle of Sheppey 2 Eastchurch Leysdown Upchurch C 1 Harty Rainham 17 Milton Regis Newington 3 14 Harty (mainland) D Stockbury Sittingbourne Oare 7 Tonge 9 6 18 13 Borden Blean Wood Faversham 10 E 8 11 Hernhill Bredgar Boughton

F Doddington 5

Throwley G

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Nature Reserves Saxon Shore Way

16 Places to Visit in Swale

Here is a selection of some of the fascinating attractions in Swale - do phone to check opening times!

1. AFRICAN CRAFT CENTRE AT GARDENING WORLD LIMITED Newington, near Sittingbourne Tel: 01795 841199 Fax: 01795 844455 E-mail: [email protected] See the traditional and diverse skills that have been used to create a wonderful range of unusual gifts from Africa. Hand crafted animals, masks, pottery and furniture are displayed within Gardening World Limited, just off the A2, Newington. Light refreshments available. Coach parties and school groups welcome. Open seven days.

Newington 1 mile. On A2 and bus routes

2. THE BARN YARD Upchurch, near Sittingbourne Tel: 01634 235059 www.the-barnyard.co.uk

The Barn Yard is made up of delightful 17th and 18th Century farm buildings and offers fresh fruit, vegetables and cheeses. Country gifts and unusual comestibles on sale. Restaurant, seasonal pick-your-own and farm trails. Wild flower meadow and reservoir. Open: June-Aug daily 10am-5pm. Sept-May closed Mons. Fully wheelchair accessible. Disabled toilets.

Newington or Rainham, then bus. Farm is ¼ mile from stops on A2 or in Upchurch.

17 3. BAYFORD MEADOWS KART CIRCUIT LTD Sittingbourne Tel: 01795 410707 Fax: 01795 423814 E-mail: [email protected] www.bayfordmeadows.co.uk Bayford Meadows is one of the leading kart circuits in the South. The 1100m race circuit hosts regular race meetings as well as providing for group events and individuals. Open daily all year round. All activities must be booked in advance. For further details and information please phone.

Sittingbourne 1 mile.

4. BEACHFIELDS PARK Sheerness Tel: 01795 417127 Fax: 01795 417477 E-mail: [email protected] www.swale.gov.uk Beachfields Park is to be found adjacent to Sheerness Beach in the town centre. In addition to traditional bedding displays the park also offers an extensive sandpit play area, water play and paddling pool, youth zone, swimming pool, Healthy Living Centre and café. Fun for the whole family. Sheerness ½ mile.

18 5. BELMONT HOUSE AND GARDENS Throwley, near Faversham Tel: 01795 890202 E-mail: [email protected] www.belmont-house.org An elegant 18th century country house set in beautiful parkland. Gardens include a pinetum with grotto, walled and kitchen gardens. Home of the Harris family since 1801 the collections reflect the family connections to India and Trinidad including the fifth Lord’s intensive clock collection. Please phone for opening hours and dates. Faversham 5 miles, follow signs from A251

6. BIRDS, BIRDS, BIRDS Preston Street, Faversham Tel: 01795 532370 E-mail: [email protected] www.birdsbirdsbirds.co.uk

A unique gallery displaying originals, reproductions and figurines, all depicting birds, from owls, robins or ducks via falcons, be they British or from anywhere else in the world. Birds, Birds, Birds is the company to visit with an expanding collection of paintings all with birds on, from select wildlife artists. Open Tues – Sat 9.30am – 5.00pm. Faversham – less than three minutes

7. THE BLEAN near Faversham Tel: 01227 862015 E-mail: [email protected] www.theblean.co.uk The Blean, between the cathedral and Faversham, Whitstable and Herne Bay, includes the largest ancient woodlands in the south east. The outstanding natural and cultural heritage interest is promoted by regular newsletters, events and guided walks. There are over 120 miles of public footpaths, see website for further details.

Faversham 5 miles, Canterbury 7 miles

19 The tide waits for no man! Deep water moorings at Queenborough, Isle of Sheppey offering great estuary sailing. g tuff ad A range of moorings are available within Queenborough Harbour on the Isle of Sheppey. Situated in the Swale, the moorings are well located close to the Thames and estuaries.

Visitors facilities include dedicated Yellow Visitors Buoys, all tide landing, launching facilities and fresh water. Whilst toilets and showers are located adjacent in Queenbourgh Park ...... For mooring availability contact the Harbour Office on 01795 662051. For an application or information please call Swale Borough Council on 01795 417212 ...... Further information is available on the Council’s website at www.swale.gov.uk or you can e-mail the Harbour Office at [email protected]

8. BREDGAR & LIGHT RAILWAY Bredgar, near Sittingbourne Tel: 01622 884254 Fax: 01622 884668 www.bwlr.co.uk One of the best narrow gauge railways in the UK. Ten steam locomotives with at least two operating a regular passenger service on open days. Also traction engines, model railway, vintage vehicles, working Beam engine. Picnic sites, woodland walks, tea room, toilets, free parking. 30 acres of grass and woodland. Sittingbourne 5 miles. 5 miles south of Sittingbourne, 4 ½ miles north of J8 M20

20 9. BROGDALE COLLECTIONS near Faversham Tel: 01795 536250 Fax: 01795 534860 E-mail: [email protected] www.brogdalecollections.co.uk Brogdale Farm is the home of the national fruit collections, the largest collection of fruit trees and plants in the world. Over 2,300 different varieties of apple, 550 of pear, 350 of plum, 320 of cherry varieties, bush fruits, nuts and vines. Available also * Tours * Shopping * Tearoom * Festivals throughout the year Faversham 1 mile. Just off the A2

10. FARMING WORLD Boughton, near Faversham Tel: 01227 751144 Fax: 01795 520813 E-mail: [email protected] www.farming-world.com Fabulous family fun. See goats, lambs, pigs and cows. Mighty horses to tiny shetlands. Ride the cart pulled by tractor or shire. Bounce on the jumping pillow. Watch spectacular displays of hawks, owls and eagles. Muddle through mazes or potter with paints. Farming World – a great day out for all. Faversham 3 miles. Off A299 ¼ mile east of M2 J7

11. FLEUR DE LIS HERITAGE CENTRE Faversham Tel: 01795 534542 E-mail: [email protected] www.faversham.org/society Minutes from the railway station and central car park, picturesque medieval buildings house a museum of Faversham history, a visitor information centre, and a Kentish bookshop and gift shop. Guided town walks start from here every Saturday at 10.30am from Easter to October and group tours can be booked throughout the year. Faversham 3 minute walk. 3 minute drive from M2 J6 to central car park.

21 10 12. MINSTER ABBEY GATEHOUSE MUSEUM Isle of Sheppey Tel: 01795 872303 / 661119 out of opening hours. Sheppey’s history from fossils to fashions in a medieval building with the best view in Swale. Open Easter, May, Spring and August Bank Holiday Weekends and Saturdays mid-July to mid September. Other times by appointment. Limited wheelchair access (free) to ground floor, gift and book shop and unisex toilet.

Sheerness 3 miles then bus to Minster Village

13. MOUNT EPHRAIM GARDENS Hernhill, near Faversham Tel: 01227 751496 Fax: 01227 750940 www.mountephraimgardens.co.uk

Ten acres of Edwardian Gardens with herbaceous border, Japanese style rock gardens and rose terraces included in the floral delights. A large grass maze - fun for children and adults. Blossom, spring bulbs and wonderful mature trees are added attractions. Water garden and Arboretum are additions in the last 10 years. Faversham 3 miles. Follow signs on A2 and A299

2 14. OARE GUNPOWDER WORKS COUNTRY PARK near Faversham Tel: 01634 855166 Fax: 01634 855177 E-mail: [email protected] www.gunpowderworks.co.uk Renovated remains of gunpowder factory operating for 300 years until 1934. Industrial history and wildlife information boards throughout the site and in Visitor Centre including models. Site open every day, Visitor Centre weekends April to Nov, 10.30am – 4.30pm. Group guided tours and school visits by arrangement. Wheelchair accessible including toilets. Faversham 1 ½ miles, follow signs from A2 Western Link Roundabout.

15. SHEPPEY RESORT BEACHES Sheerness (Beach Street), Minster (The Leas) and Leysdown (The Promenade) Tel/Fax: 01795 667015 E-mail: [email protected] www.swale.gov.uk Dog free (seasonal) beaches overlooking the Thames Estuary. Traditional seaside activities such as park with free sandpit and water play facility at Sheerness. Minster, a quieter rural beach with adjacent watersports zone and coastal park. Leysdown, the bustling resort with a sandy beach and traditional amusement facilities. Sheerness - Beech Street 1/2 mile, The Leas 5 miles, The Promenade 7 miles.

16. SHEERNESS GOLF CLUB

Sheerness Tel: 01795 662585 Fax: 01795 668100 E-mail: [email protected] 18 Hole Semi-Links Course (par 71). Full practice facilities. Fully stocked pro shop (P.G.A Teaching Professionals). Modern clubhouse with full bar and catering facilities. Visitors and societies welcome (prior booking for weekends). Fully wheelchair accessible and disabled toilets. Full membership also available. Sheerness 1 mile.

23 17. SITTINGBOURNE AND KEMSLEY LIGHT RAILWAY Sittingbourne Tel: (Information Line) 0871 222 1568 (Booking Hot Line) 0871 222 1569 (evenings) E-mail: [email protected] www.sklr.net Steam hauled passenger trains covering 4-mile return journey from Sittingbourne Viaduct Station to Kemsley Down on tracks of former paper mills railway. Grass picnic area, souvenir shop, refreshment room. Parties by prior arrangement. Children’s Parties and Footplate Experience Courses, Special Events. See website for full details. Disabled access by arrangement. Sittingbourne ¼ mile. Sittingbourne Viaduct Station is located beside the Sittingbourne Retail Park

18. WYARDS PRINT AND ARTWORKS LTD Faversham Tel/Fax: 01795 590680 E-mail: [email protected] www.wyards.com Feel free to browse in our spacious gallery. Contemporary and traditional fine art prints, watercolours, photography and sculpture for sale, or watch artists working in the printmaking workshop. We offer printmaking classes, printmaking materials and framing. Coaches and schools welcome by appointment. Open Wednesday-Saturday 10am–6pm. Closed January.

Faversham 10 minute walk.

24 Where to stay

All the accommodation featured here has been quality assessed by either Visit Britain or the . Please be aware that ratings may change throughout the year. VisitBritain and the AA now assess hotels and guest accommodation (including B&Bs) to the same criteria and award 1 to 5 stars. The star ratings reflect the overall quality of the experience. Star ratings made easy

* Simple, practical, no frills ** Well presented and well run *** Good level of quality and comfort **** Excellent standard throughout ***** Exceptional with degree of luxury

There are also Gold and Silver Awards - Silver Awards recognise exceptional quality at all levels and Gold awards are given to the very ‘best of the best’. Green Tourism Business Scheme

Businesses with a concern for the environment are recognised by the Green Tourism Business Scheme. The majority are accommodation providers. From conservation of energy and water to buying local produce, from encouraging wildlife in their gardens to providing information on what to see and do in the area nearby, the businesses’ efforts to operate in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way are graded against set criteria with:

You can book your accommodation directly with the establishment of your choice. Alternatively, if you wish to book same night accommodation the nearest Tourist Information Centre/Tourist Information Point can do this for you and in most cases will charge a refundable 10% of the first night’s tariff. This charge will be deducted from your final bill at the end of your stay. There is a flat booking fee of £2.50 applied to bookings at Faversham TIC and a flat booking fee of £3.00 levied through the Destination Management System at the Sittingbourne TIP.

25 BED & BREAKFAST

BED & BREAKFAST AT CHURCH OAST **** Church Oast, Hernhill, Faversham ME13 9JW Tel: 01227 750974 Fax: 01227 750974 E-mail: [email protected] www.churchoast.co.uk Converted oast house in quiet picturesque village. Large garden. Views over orchards. Three well equipped double/twin bedrooms with en-suite/private facilities. Lounge with TV. Cooked breakfast using local produce.

THE BEAUMONT **** 74 London Road, Sittingbourne ME10 1NS Tel: 01795 472536 Fax: 01795 425921 E-mail: [email protected] www.thebeaumont.co.uk Comfortable, clean and friendly B&B near town centre. Sky sports and movies in every room, free wi-fi, superb prize-winning breakfast menu and car park. Self-catering accommodation available nearby.

DUNMOW HOUSE **** 9 Church Road, Eastchurch, Isle of Sheppey ME12 4DG Tel: 01795 880576 Fax: 01795 880230 E-mail: [email protected] www.swale.gov.uk Superior accommodation set in a beautiful garden. All rooms with separate entrances and TV’s. Full English breakfast. Open all year.

HOLLY HOUSE B&B **** Silver Award Wises Lane, Borden, Sittingbourne ME9 8LR Tel: 01795 426953 E-mail: [email protected] www.hollyhousebandb.org.uk Situated in small village in Kent countryside. Good motorway access. House and rooms traditionally decorated with a contemporary twist. Excellent breakfasts using home grown and local produce. Warm welcome all year.

26 THE LEES B&B *** 10 Horselees Road, Boughton-under-Blean, Faversham ME13 9TG Tel: 01227 751332 / 07857 633738 E-mail: [email protected] www.theleesbb.co.uk Situated in small village in Kent countryside. Convenient for Canterbury, Faversham and coast. Superb breakfast, all diets catered for. A warm, friendly welcome. Family atmosphere.

MARCH COTTAGE B&B *** 5 Preston Avenue, Faversham ME13 8NH Tel: 01795 536514 E-mail: [email protected] www.marchcottagebandb.co.uk Quiet location in tree lined avenue short walk to town. Comfortable accommodation, excellent breakfast. Canterbury 15 minutes. Many local attractions.

PALACE FARMHOUSE *** Chequers Hill, Doddington, Sittingbourne ME9 0AU Tel: 01795 886820 Early Victorian farmhouse in rural setting on the edge of the village. Comfortably furnished rooms with ensuite or private facilities. Log fires, pleasant gardens. Warm welcome. Open all year. FARM HOUSE

BRENLEY FARM HOUSE **** Brenley Lane, Boughton, Faversham ME13 9LY Tel/Fax: 01227 751203 E-mail: [email protected] www.brenley-farm.co.uk A warm welcome with tea and homemade cakes awaits you, for a country house experience on our traditional Kentish farm. Spacious rooms. Excellent breakfasts using home grown and local produce. GUEST HOUSE

THE CROFT GUESTHOUSE *** 89 Queenborough Road, Halfway, Sheerness ME12 3DB Tel: 01795 662003 E-mail: [email protected] www.thecroftguesthouse.co.uk Newly refurbished and licensed. All rooms en-suite. Off road parking. Colour TV, tea & coffee making facilities, central heating. Evening meal by prior arrangement.

27 INVICTA GUESTHOUSE *** 6 Marine Parade, Sheerness, Isle of Sheppey ME12 2AL Tel: 01795 661731 www.invictaguesthouse.co.uk Family run Victorian guesthouse on the seafront, 3 minutes walk to town centre. Luxury bedrooms, mini- library. 10-minute walk from train station. Convenient for London, Canterbury and Channel Ports.

SCUTTINGTON MANOR GUEST HOUSE **** Dully Road, Tonge, near Sittingbourne ME9 9PA Tel/Fax: 01795 521316 Historic country manor house set in 3.5 acres with superb views. Spacious accommodation tastefully decorated. Suit business people and tourists. Many personal touches. Friendly service.

SHEPPEY ISLAND GUEST HOUSE **** 125 High Street, Eastchurch, Isle of Sheppey ME12 4DF Tel: 01795 880454 Fax: 01795 880959 E-mail: [email protected] www.sheppeyisland.co.uk Wonderful cuisine with bar. Beautiful rooms: disabled, single, double, twin and family rooms, all with en-suite facilities. Tea, coffee making facilities, colour television. Spectacular Island in the Kent countryside. HOSTEL

PALACE FARM HOSTEL *** Palace Farm, Down Court Road, Doddington, Sittingbourne, ME9 0AU Tel: 01795 886200 Fax: 01795 886365 E-mail: [email protected] www.palacefarm.com Quality flexible accommodation in Kent North Downs AONB short walk from village, pub. Six en-suite rooms around garden courtyard. Bed-linen and continental breakfast provided. Self-catering kitchen and lounge/ dining room.

28 PUB WITH ROOMS

THE FERRY HOUSE INN **** Harty Ferry Road, near Leysdown, Isle of Sheppey, ME12 4BQ Tel: 01795 510214 Fax: 01795 511529 E-mail: [email protected] www.ferryhouseinn.com Traditional 16th century Inn. Set in peaceful location overlooking the Swale Estuary. Great for walking, birdwatching or just relaxing. Luxury ensuite accommodation complemented by our new Barn Restaurant. SELF CATERING

THE COUNTRY RETREAT **** Yew Tree Cottage, Syndale Park, Faversham ME13 0RH Tel/Fax: 01795 531257 E-mail: [email protected] www.syndalepark.co.uk Approached by a private road, well presented, comfortable bungalow. A truly peaceful location with 3 acres of gardens and grounds. Within easy reach of Canterbury and the coast.

THE OLD DAIRY **** Wheatsheaf Farm, Hazel Street, Stockbury ME9 7SA Tel/Fax: 01622 884222 E-mail: [email protected] Detached two bed roomed property adjacent to house on working sheep farm. North Downs Area Oustanding Natural Beauty by ancient woodlands. Ten minutes Leeds Castle. Dover 35 minutes. Dogs accepted

THE OLD STABLE *** Bayford Farm, Poot Lane, Upchurch, Sittingbourne ME9 7HJ Tel: 01634 234138 Spacious 4-bedroom cottage, large kitchen, large lounge with wood burner. On small working farm with river frontage. Ideal bird watching, fishing. Central to Dover and London.

29 Further information Tourist Information Centres exist to advise, inform and offer practical help with everything from booking accommodation to special events. The staff are always happy to help.

Swale Tourism Services Tel: 01795 417478 E-mail: [email protected] www.swaletourism.co.uk

Faversham Tourist Information Centre Fleur de Lis Heritage Centre 13 Preston Street, Faversham Kent ME13 8NS Tel: 01795 534542 E-mail: [email protected] www.faversham.org

Sheppey Leisure Complex Visitor Information Seafront, Sheerness Tel: 01795 668061 Personal callers only

Produced by Swale Tourism Association with support from the Tourism Section of Swale Borough Council, Swale House, East Street, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3HT Tel: 01795 417478 Fax: 01795 417275 E-mail: [email protected]

Chalkwell Coaches Sittingbourne Tel: 01795 423982/3 Fax: 01795 431855 E-mail: [email protected] www.chalkwell.co.uk

For all your Coaching needs, Chalkwell offers a comprehensive brochure of UK and Continental Trips. Specialist in private Coach Hire.

Printed and published 2007

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