Autumn 2015 FREE
On the pumpkin trail at Emmetts Ashley Garden Jackson Kent’s hockey superstar
A time for sharing this WIN CHRISTMAS A Christmas turkey & all the trimmings Days out • Theatre • Homes & Gardens • Walks British upholstery brand arrives at Clarkes
The leading brand of quality upholstery is renowned for the unmistakable English style of YRHIVWXEXIQIRXWYFXPIX]ERH½RITVSTSVXMSRXLEXMWMRXVMRWMGMRMXWWSJEWERHGLEMVW
○ -RXIVREXMSREPP]WSYVGIHJEFVMG ○ ,ERHGYXGSZIVWI\TIVXP] ○ British made in Long Eaton, XSIRWYVI[MHIWXGLSMGISJ WI[R[MXLQIXMGYPSYWGEVIXS XLIGIRXVISJYTLSPWXIV] GSPSYVWERHWX]PIW WXMXGLMRKERHTEXXIVRQEXGLMRK QERYJEGXYVMRKI\GIPPIRGI
Southsea 1IHMYQ7SJE6ERKI*EFVMGRRP £2361 NOW £2009
www.clarkesfurnishers.co.uk 01622 753073 Sandling Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 2RF Contents
Leisure & Tourism
18-19 Tourist Profile A family day out at Cobtree Park 24-25 Walks - Enjoy a country walk through Hollinbourne 28-29 Charity Profile - Supporting Kent based charities 31-39 With Christmas in mind - A host of ideas for the festive period
Interview
7-9 Personality profile - Ashley Jackson - one of world hockey’s hot shots Lifestyle Editor's Choice 40-41 Mind, body & soul 42-45 Senior living 11-16 A selection of hand-picked events and great days out 47-54 Homes & gardens around the county through 60-61 Motoring the autumn months 62 Competitions
Chairman: Claire Procter Covering the Mid Kent towns Editor: Stephen Eighteen Mid Kent Living is published every three months with a free circulation in Maidstone, Publishing Manager: Jo-Anne Brown Medway, Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Malling, Ashford and Sittingbourne. It is Sales Manager: Bill Brett available at selected pick-up points throughout the area including major supermarkets. Subscription copies are posted (£8 annually). Advertising Sales: Tel 01622 630330
The team Mid Kent Living is published by Mail Publications Ltd (which also publishes the Downs Mail newspaper), Forge House, Bearsted Green Business Park, Bearsted, Maidstone, ME14 4DT. Tel: 01622 630330 Fax 01622 631131 email [email protected] www.downsmail.co.uk
Mid Kent Living 3 4 Mid Kent Living Prolong the magic of Christmas The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder, which must mean that Christmas is on its way. Though it may seem like only yesterday since the seasonal decorations were proudly worn by your Christmas tree and the final mince pie was consumed with stomach-bursting regret, shops, restaurants and other businesses all across Kent are busily preparing for a special end of the year. If you even remotely share the sentiment famously sung by Wizzard – ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ – there is no reason why you should restrict the fun to just a few days towards the end of December. So why not get into the spirit a little earlier this year? If so, you have come to the right place because this edition of Mid Kent Living is our largest ever pre-Christmas magazine. Couples keen to mark this special time of year with a touch of romance can treat their other half to alpaca trekking, Segway riding or even lion-feeding – without leaving the Garden of England (page 33). There are pantomimes galore (page 34), a guide to coping with the cooking demands of the festive season (page 39) and a recommended walk in the Kent Downs to help you work off any festive excesses (24-25). Also busy at this time of year is Royal British Legion Industries – a charity based in Aylesford that provides training, support, care and employment to the armed forces community throughout Britain. Publicising this fantastic cause, which kicks off our new regular feature on charities in Kent (pages 28-29), will hopefully inspire people to dedicate some of their Christmas goodwill to those who have put their lives on the line for this country throughout the years.
All this, and much more. Editor
CRAYF D GR TRACK
Gamble for fun – not to win! www.gambleaware.co.uk cgcrayford.racingrayford.racin ccrayforddogsrayforddogs
0013221322 555783657836 | wwww.crayford.comww.cmrayford.co | StadiumStadium Way,Way, CCrayford,rayford, KKentent DDA1A1 44HRHR *over*over 118’s8’s oonly.nly.
Mid Kent Living 5 One School, many journeys
2015: Top 10% of schools for added academic value.
Open Morning
Senior School (HMC 11–18 day and boarding) Saturday 7th November 2015 T: 01622 845206 | E: [email protected]
www.svs.org.uk
6 Mid Kent Living Personality profile ASHLEY’S home goal
Trying to snatch a few minutes with a sporting superstar is no mean feat. Especially when that star is Ashley Jackson, record goalscorer for Great Britain and one of world hockey’s current ‘hot shots!’ Jane Shotliff caught up with Ashley as he prepared to play in the 2015 EuroHockey Championships at the Lee Some children are said to be born with grandfather and uncle. Valley Hockey and Tennis a silver spoon in their mouths. When The Jackson family were well known Centre, at the Queen Ashley Jackson made his entrance into for their prowess on the ice and it was the world, in August 1987, he was most an accepted part of growing up for Elizabeth Olympic Park. probably presented with a hockey stick. Medway-born Ashley and his brother If not, it wasn’t long after as, by the age Wesley that most weekends were of two and a half, he was whizzing about spent supporting the teams for which was awarded by the prestigious private on the ice with his ice-hockey playing they played. school was the real driving force the teenager needed to set him on a path Ashley’s education which was to take up the majority of his began at Fairview waking hours then — just like now. Primary School, Amazingly, Ashley hadn’t wielded a Gillingham, but conventional hockey stick before when the family starting at Sutton Valence — ice hockey moved to Tunbridge plays off the left hand as opposed to the Wells, he switched right — but his past experience and to Rose Hill techniques clearly stood him in good Preparatory School, stead as he rapidly soared into the from where he school’s hockey record books. progressed to While at SVS, he represented Kent, Sutton Valence, near South of England and England at U16 Maidstone, at 13. and then went on to represent England The sports Hockey at U21 level, while captaining the scholarship Ashley school’s 1st XI.
Mid Kent Living 7 Personality profile
Ashley clearly thrives on a challenge
Ashley was also a keen cricketer and accepted into the Kent Cricket Academy — some members of staff actually considered him to have more potential as a cricketer. However, in his final year at school, 2005, Ashley didn’t play much 1st XI cricket, having become too involved in hockey. The midfielder made his debut for one of the country’s leading hockey clubs, East Grinstead, in 2003 while just 15 and gained representative honours for England shortly after. He made his debut for the English senior side in the 2006/7 season at the Ashley’s first Olympic match was in Ashley had spent all his adult playing age of 19 and was awarded the FIH 2008, in Beijing, where the team career with East Grinstead. Young Player of the Year title three finished 5th. At the London 2012 games, Not only did he help East Grinstead years later — the first English player to they came 4th. scoop the league and championship receive this coveted accolade. He also played for the England squad titles, he also helped them to obtain the in the 2010 Commonwealth Games, European Indoor title for the 2009/10 coming fourth, and won bronze in the season. 2014 Commonwealths — so has high However, an approach from Holcombe hopes for next year’s big event. chairman David South proved too much Ashley, still only 28, trains daily with to resist.
Ashley was awarded the FIH Young Player of the Year title – the first English player to receive this coveted accolade.
England Hockey at Bisham Abbey In May, he joined several of his GB National Sports Centre, near Marlow, team-mates in the Rochester-based and has spent the past few years living club, and will make his first appearance a comfortable 15-minute commute away on the pitch for them this season. in High Wycombe, travelling to his club South is busy hoovering up some of when matches demand. hockey’s most talented players to Under his central contract to the create an A-team of GB internationals England GB team, Ashley trains from and the signings have caused quite a 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, for the stir in English hockey circles. national team, turning out possibly one Ashley, who was once dubbed the evening a week for his local club. ‘Ronaldo of hockey’, said: “It was a Until earlier this year, with the difficult decision to leave friends and exception of two years spent playing for family but it was a decision I had to take the Dutch side of HGC in the Hoofklasse, for hockey — and for business reasons.”
Holcombe’s name heralds from an old boys club at Chatham Grammar School in the Sixties; the grounds they played at, near Rochester, being called Holcombe. Originally one of six clubs in the Medway towns, Holcombe merged with three others in 2000. It now has 12 mens’ and five ladies’ teams.
8 Mid Kent Living Ashley was once dubbed the ‘Ronaldo of hockey’
another can be found wielding clubs at Sweetwoods Golf Club, Edenbridge, or the London Golf Club, in West Kingsdown, where he plays off a handicap of two. Ashley clearly thrives on a challenge and finds golf both a difficult sport but also one which is addictive. He said: “It is challenging, but a sport in which you can always be better.” Opposite: In a pensive mood — and victorious. This page, clockwise: Pictured with the SVS cricket team — front row, far right; victorious in Euro Hockey; competing in the 2012 Olympics; playing for England v South Africa.
He added: “I am looking forward to “We don’t receive much funding from Playing for the Men’s 1st X1, working with team-mates old and new UK sport and he sees this as a way of Ashley has been capped 214 at Holcombe HC, contributing to a new bringing money into the squad and times for England and Great team in the Premier League whilst nurturing full time professional hockey Britain. He wears the number 7 continuing my development as a player. players.” shirt for both England and GB, David is a lovely guy and wants the club A passionate sportsman, Ashley is reflected in his Twitter account to do as well as possible, to promote the also a keen golfer and, when not found of @ashleyjackson7 sport as a whole. on a hockey pitch of one form or
Mid Kent Living 9 COUNTY MOBILE BODY REPAIRS • BUMPER SCUFFS • KEY SCRATCHES • ALLOY REFURB COBBLER • VANDOLISM DAMAGE TO PAINTWORK • DENTS • MACHINE POLISHING • FULLY GUARANTEED TO MAIN DEALER STANDARD • FULLY INSURED FREE SHOE REPAIRS ESTIMATES LADIES MENS Heels £6-£8 Heels from £11.95 Stick on Sole Stick on Sole + Heel £14 + Heel £21.95
Before Before KEYS Yale type £5 Mortice £6 Most chipped car keys cut Watch After After and replacement fobs batteries • 27 years experience Proud Engraving & straps • 6 day operation sponsors of service replaced Bearsted • Around 1/4 of body shop price Cricket Club • Reliable, professional and flexible 16 Week Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1RN Call: 07771 621 769 [email protected] www.touchupsltd.co.uk 01622 674855
10 Mid Kent Living Hand-picked events and great EDITOR’S Choice days out around the county.
the 100+ stalls of local and regional produce plus chefs’ 'theatre, a writers' forum, ask the expert sessions and children's activities. 10am – 5pm. Admission free. October 4 Autumn Amble Penshurst Place FREE Take in the changing colours EVENT TO of Autumn, while discovering October 4 WATCH OCTOBER local history, with a stroll Classic Car Rally, Wrotham - Hever across the stunning October 1-4 Get a glimpse of some of the county’s best Penshurst Place parkland. classic cars when the Blackpalfrey Motor Club of Tenterden Folk Festival The two hour morning Kent hits the road to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Various venues, walk, led by Estate Manager Setting out from the Moat at Wrotham Heath, 65 cars will Tenterden Ben Thomas sets off at 11am. drive through the country lanes on route to Groombridge Four days of folk, music and Following the circular walk, Place on the Kent/Sussex border for coffee before heading dance in Tenterden town visitors are served a off to Bewl Water for Lunch. A gentle afternoon ride will centre. Barn dances, delicious two-course roast finish at Hever Castle, the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, concerts, Morris dancers, lunch by Leith’s in The for a well- earned afternoon tea by the lake. workshops, folk clubs, sing-a- Garden Restaurant. This is a chance to see a fascinating variety of rounds, music sessions, craft, With unguided admission spectacularly-polished pre-1995 vintage and veteran music and street stalls. to the house and gardens vehicles who take to the road to raise funds for charity. Weekend and individual contained within the ticket event tickets are available price, visitors can spend the Cathedral choristers, but many events are free. rest of the afternoon followed by Compline. For details check exploring the historic 14th 6.30-9.30pm. For further century house and gardens www.tenterdenfolkfestival.co.uk details visit www.canterbury- at their leisure. October 2-4 cathedral.org Tickets £28 include access October Food Festival to the house and gardens. October 10 & 11 Broadstairs Wear suitable walking Autumn Extravaganza Set in Victoria Gardens, footwear. 11am onwards. Great Comp Garden, overlooking the sea, this popular free three day food October 6 Visitors will have the Platt, near Sevenoaks festival features a range of Open Evening opportunity to try their hand The newest event in Great Kentish foods including Canterbury Cathedral at skilled crafts including Comp’s seasonal calendar, cheeses, meats, artisan A rare chance to visit the stone carving, applying gold this weekend is designed to breads, cakes and pastries, Cathedral free of charge and leaf and brass rubbing. show the garden at the all washed down with Kent enjoy visits to the private This year, there will be a height of its autumnal wines, ciders and ales. chapels, the bell tower, the special exhibition about splendour. There will be a Try out new tastes and organ loft and the choir important women in the strong focus on garden flavours, meet the producers practice room, as well as Cathedral’s history .The ornamentation, as well as and stock up with loads of enjoy free guided and audio evening will finish with a local crafts and artisan foods lovely goodies from some of tours. concert sung by the to enjoy. Admission from £6.
October 10 Puppetry Festival, Tunbridge Wells This inaugural festival — and the first of its kind in the country — brings together a programme of quality puppetry and animation events in a variety of venues across the town. Workshops and cabaret performances take place at The Forum plus a full day of free outdoor performances including Punch & Judy and other street art, local street food and crafts and puppetry stalls on The Pantiles. 10am – 9pm.
Image: Classic car rally courtesy of Steve Town Mid Kent Living 11 October 10 East Kent Brewery Open Day, Faversham As part of the green hop celebrations, five breweries in East Kent have arranged to open their doors to the public for tours, music, food and, of course, plenty of Kent green hop beers. Visit and sample the delights of Gadds, Goody Ales, Wantsum, Canterbury Ales and The Foundry Brewpub throughout the day. There is even a special bus service that will transport you from brewery to brewery. A great way of learning about beer, and a must for any amateur brewers wanting to know the tricks of the trade. www.kentgreenhopbeer.com/eastkentopenday
October 11 spooky adventures of Hansel October 24 RSPCA Big Walkies and Gretel, as they escape Medway Siege FREE Mote Park, Maidstone the clutches of the evil witch Spectacular EVENT Join us at Mote Park for the only to stumble into another Rochester biggest dog walk ever! A monstrous nightmare – the Castle Moat choice of a 3km or 5km walks Monster Mash Halloween A dramatic re-telling - with chance to meet new Party! Other activities of the great siege of doggy friends – and their include gruesome games, Rochester Castle in 1215, owners. Dogs get a special creepy crafts, fearsome face held in the moat of the bandana and humans a t-shirt. painting and devilish dancing. castle, using live action, Tickets are £10 for the first From 5pm to 8pm, your special effects and film dog and £5 for any additions. invited to step into the projection in the location Humans go free! 10.30am – Enchanted Forest as events where it actually happened. 3pm. Proceeds go to the take a darker turn for a The council received RSPCA. Register at haunting tour you'll never Heritage Lottery Funding to rspca.org.uk/ BigWalkies2015 forget... This part is advised help stage this exciting event Tickets £35.95. 10% discount for ages 12 and above and an and the inaugural October 17-18 adult must accompany for booked online. 10am-8pm. Forest of Fear – Spooky performance will be at 4pm, under-16s. October 17-18 Halloween marking the 800th For those who prefer to National Apple Festival, anniversary Groombridge Place, stay away from the woods Brogdale, Faversham of the siege. Tunbridge Wells after dark, fun craft activities The biggest and best apple Admission A chance to get into the will be on offer in another festival is back for 2015, with is free. ghoulish mood nice and early part of the grounds. around 400 apple varieties with this wander through the The event is free with October 24 & 31 on display. ‘Try before you woods where, from 10am, admission: Adults £10.95, Ghost and Gourmet buy’ the seasonal fruit. families can witness the Concessions £9.45, Family Evening Tractor, trailer and walking Ightham Mote tours of the orchards will be running while the craft and With only the flickering of produce village offers some candlelight to guide you, unique gift ideas. take this terrifying tour of Enjoy live music, local food Ightham Mote by night. Walk and entertainment. Take a through the gloom of the miniature train ride to see historic house and listen to the farm and children can the stories of its past MUSIC, inhabitants, but watch DANCE, get crafty and have their face painted in the little out...they are closer than you DRAMA, think! October 17-30 festival goer’s area. MAGIC Followed by a two course Canterbury Festival 2015 Tickets at the gate or are discounted online at supper in the tea room Opening Day Celebrations - afterwards. 7pm-10.30pm. October 17 at 12 noon, Longmarket, Canterbury High Street www.brogdalecollections.co.uk or call on 01795 536250. Tickets £37.50 per person, The streets will come alive with the sound of music and booking essential street performance, with plenty to keep the whole family October 18 on 01732 811314 entertained for the opening of this year's festival. Mote Park Wildlife Walk October 24 - FOR Music, dance, drama, magic – a packed programme of Maidstone November 1 MORE ON events, for 10 days and nights; many free. Courtesy of the Mote Park EMMETTS Halloween Visit: www.canterburyfestival.co.uk for full list. Fellowship, this guided walk See Page 26 takes visitors and locals Pumpkin around the award-winning Trail Mote Park, looking at the Emmetts Garden birds, trees and wildlife that Try to find as many spooky live there. More information things as you can to get a and booking at prize at the end. moteparkfellowship.org.uk/ev Normal admission charges ents Price £2.50 apply, £1 per trail. 10am-4pm.
12 Mid Kent Living Hand-picked events from the editor
October 25 October 27-30 October 30-31 Open Day Halloween Fun Week Fright Night Express, Mote Park Indoor Bowls Kent and East Sussex Kent and East Sussex Club, Willow Way Railway, Tenterden Railway Come and try your hand at Take part in activities Be greeted with the beat of indoor bowls – a sport for all including pumpkin carving Drum Skullz and entertained ages, genders and abilities, and face-painting. by Jacob the Fire breather. whatever the weather! All activities are included On board the train, be Look around the club, in the ticket price which prepared to be frightened enjoy a free cup of tea includes unlimited journeys silly with ghostly goings on and book your between Tenterden and at stations. There is also a place Bodiam Station on the steam firework display - and a few in four FREE and diesel trains. surprises along the way. Bowl4Free Fares £49.50 for a family, Families are encouraged sessions EVENT adults £17, children (3-15) to come in fancy dress and October 26 - as an £11.50. Trains leave booking is essential. November 1 introduction Tenterden station at 10:40am, Adults and Children aged to the club and the 11:45am, 1:15pm and 2:45pm. 3-15 inclusive: £17. Lighthouse Keeper game. 10am-5pm. Trail, South Foreland www.moteparkibc.com Lighthouse, St October 26 Margaret’s Bay, Dover Family Monday See what it was like to be a lighthouse keeper in Knole Park, Sevenoaks days gone by. A range of themed Solve the clues and help activities and crafts suitable save a troubled ship in the for ages five – 12 in the bay then fly a kite on the beautiful setting of the lawn in front of the National Trust Property lighthouse. at Knole Park. 11am-3pm, Normal admission normal admission charges charges apply, £1 per trail. apply.
SUMMER2016 Caravans SALE Now Arrived Kent’s Premier New NOW ON & Used Caravan Dealer
New Caravans Used Caravans Leisure Shop Our Location View the latest range of brand Offering a great selection of Please also visit the The Lee Davey Caravan new Bailey and Coachman top quality used caravans. At Lee Davey onsite Leisure Showroom and Leisure Shop caravans at our large indoor Lee Davey Caravans we cherry Shop. Fully stocked are located in the heart of Kent, showroom. Offering luxurious pick our range of used caravans with an extensive range approximately Ä ve minutes caravans that are extremely which are all fully serviced and of accessories to further from Junction 8 of the M20, well designed, well equipped prepared to exceptionally high enhance your caravan just off the A20 in Harrietsham, and affordable. standards. experience. Maidstone, ME17 1HN.
For more information please call: Opening Times: Monday to Saturday Visit our New 01622 859301 9am - 5.30pm Sunday Awning Showroom www.leedaveycaravans.co.uk 10.00am - 4.00pm
Image: South Foreland courtesy of National Trust; Halloween fun week courtesy of Kent & East Sussex Railway Mid Kent Living 13 October 31 familiar items or places, Haunted Trails, taken from a different Smallhythe Place, perspective. The aim is to Tenterden get people to focus on the Scary stories and horrible positives of what one can hauntings after dark, if you still do after sight loss — dare. 6.30pm and 7.30pm. albeit in a different way. Normal admission charges November 6-8 apply, £5 per person. Crafts for Christmas, Booking recommended Detling Showground, on 01580 762334. Maidstone FAMILY October 31 Crafts for Christmas DAY HMS Pinafore, provides a unique OUT Mote Hall, Maidstone opportunity to find wows thousands every the Western Front in World Leisure Centre special presents for special people — the year and is a great way War I, this exhibition explores The Hospice Festival Choir perfect place to work your for families to celebrate. 7pm. his daredevil escapades at and Orchestra present this way enjoyably through your the last cavalry charge in Gilbert and Sullivan classic to November 7 - December Christmas list. military history and his raise funds for Heart of Kent 20, (every weekend), Indulge yourself, your experiences as an escaped Hospice. 7.30pm. The Dickens Country family and friends with prisoner of war. Tickets: Circle — £16.00, Experience stunning fashions and Admission to the exhibition Stalls — £12.50 and Gallery Join the fictional Elijah accessories, leather bags is free; normal admission £10.00 from 01622 790195. Puddlephat and his nemesis, and belts, dazzling jewellery fees to Chartwell apply. Mr Charles Dickens on a October 31 - from sparkly fashions to unique tour back in time. November 20 November 1 graceful diamonds. The tour lasts about two The Elvis Years Detling International Talented makers and hours and starts and finishes 1953-1977 designers, together with Antiques & Collectors at the Guildhall Museum, Hazlitt fabulous food and drink, Fair, Detling Rochester, at 10.30am and promise to fill you with Theatre, GO Showground, Maidstone 2pm (except for Dickensian Christmas spirit and get you Maidstone BACK IN Up to 400 exhibitors Christmas weekend) and in the party mood. Celebrate offering antiques, includes visiting Cobham, TIME 9am-5pm. Admission £7, the King’s collectables, vintage items Cooling, Cobham Hall, and seniors £6, students and 80th including ceramics, glass, Dickens' last home, Gads Hill children free. birthday year silver, jewellery, furniture, Place, Higham. with this concert production books, vintage clothing, and November 7 You’ll visit some of Dickens’ of the West End musical much more. Admission from Aylesford & Eccles most loved places and see Jailhouse Rock, featuring £4-£6. 10am-4pm Craft Fair, the inspiration behind some original star Mario Kombou The Brassey Rooms, of his masterpieces. and his band. NOVEMBER Station Road, Aylesford Tickets: £10, concessions: The show is packed with Time to start your Christmas £7.50 from more than 50 of Elvis’s November 3-28 www.medwayticketslive.co.uk From a Different shopping and support your greatest hits, from the early local craftsmen and women. days of ‘That’s Alright Mama’ Perspective, November 14 - 12noon-4pm. February 19 2016, through the Hollywood Maidstone Museum, years, culminating in the Maidstone November 7 Into the Trenches Chartwell, near legendary Las Vegas An exhibition of photographs Bonfire night display, concert, which featured In taken by members of Kent Great Lines Heritage Westerham the Ghetto, Suspicious Minds Association for the Blind, Park, Gillingham. To mark 100 years since Sir and American Trilogy. who have varying degrees of Be part of Medway’s annual Winston Churchill made the 7.30pm, tickets £21.50 sight loss. The images are all bonfire night. The event decision to go and fight at
November 7 Leeds Castle Fireworks Spectacular, near Maidstone There will be lights, camera, action with this year’s incredible fireworks timed to music from the movies. Look out for scenes from the silver screen projected onto the side of the Castle during the display!
14 Mid Kent Living Images: Autumn leaves courtesy of Megan Taylor; Leeds Castle courtesy of Leeds Castle Hand-picked events from the editor
November 21 day is £8 if you have your Come and Sing Messiah own score, £10 to include St George’s Church, score hire. For information Wrotham and a score, contact Linda at Maidstone Choral Union [email protected] welcomes anyone who wants November 27 to have a go at singing some Heart of Kent Hospice of those familiar choruses, Winter Gala Ball, including the ‘Hallelujah’. Bradbourne House, 1.45pm to 9pm. Rehearsals East Malling take place from 2.15pm to A Gatsby-inspired evening of CHRISTMAS 5.15pm with a break, then a fine dining and SHOPPING break for tea until 7.15pm. entertainment to raise funds November 28 & 29 FAMILY Concert starts at 7.30pm. for the hospice. Reception December 4-6 & 11-13 EVENT Wear a black long skirt or drinks and three-course Rochester Christmas Markets trousers with a black top for meal; live entertainment and Set in the picturesque Rochester Castle ladies, dark suit, shirt and tie charity auction. gardens, enjoy a hog roast, hot chocolate and roasted for the men — and bring a 7pm-1am. Tickets £85 from chestnuts as you browse the stalls for unique gift ideas packed tea. The cost of the [email protected] and unusual stocking fillers. 11am – 6pm.
November 28 countryside location of this Christmas Fair, lovely castle is perfect for a Chiddingstone Castle, relaxed shopping opportunity Edenbridge with many stalls selling Choose your ideal festive unique products that are not gifts from the beautifully laid found in the High Street. out stalls in the castle’s The grounds of the castle historic rooms and marquee. will be open for a peaceful Mulled wine and mince pies stroll to the Victorian will add to the seasonal Orangery or around the lake. cheer. The beautiful 10am-4pm. Admission £4. CORPUS CHRISTI HALL KENT’S BEST KEPT SECRET
The most beautiful venue for any type of event • Signature Wedding Receptions • Stylish Events & Celebrations • Corporate Delegate Days
CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN
The Corpus Christi Hall Earl Street, Maidstone, Kent ME14 1JP Maidstone’s www.corpuschristihall.com Exclusive Venue T: 01622 670011 E: [email protected]
Images: Chiddingstone Christmas Market courtesy of Simon Kelsey Mid Kent Living 15 Hand-picked events from the editor
December 5, 6, 12, 13, and it was also his last. 19, 20, 22, 23, & 24 He performed it over 150 Santa Specials times and the effect on the The Kent & East Sussex public was phenomenal. This Railway, Tenterden Christmas, you can There are some exciting new experience what it must have additions to the popular been like to be in the Santa Specials this year. audience. Visitors arriving at The Hazlitt based European Tenterden station will be Arts Company is faithfully greeted by the sound of the recreating Dickens’ famous Victorian carousel and during performance of his best-loved the 70-minute journey to and most heart-warming Northiam Station, Santa story. A real seasonal treat in Claus and his elves will visit the spirit of Christmas past, everyone on the train with present and future. 7.30pm. their sacks of gifts. Tickets £13.50, concessions £11.50 GREAT Every child up to the age of DAY OUT 12 will receive a present, while those aged 13-15 receive FOR THE festive chocolates. Early KIDS booking is recommended to secure your chosen date through the website dying at Gads Hill in 1870. www.kesr.org.uk or by calling DECEMBER The streets will be alive with 01580 765155. Tickets start December 5 & 6 entertainment, readings, from £16.00 Meet Santa! song and dance. Uncover a December 12 Kent Life, Sandling feast of Victorian delights, Carols by Candlelight Come and meet Santa and familiar fictional characters, All Saints Church, parades, carols, stalls and Twinkle Toes the Elf in their Maidstone magical Christmas grotto. lots of festive shopping. Maidstone Choral Union’s Craft activity and special There are lamp-lit parades, annual Christmas concert, gift for every child, and carols to be sung, Father December 20 featuring a range of well- mince pies for Mum and Dad. Christmas to be met and Family Carol Concert known favourites, plus guest 10am-3pm. even a guaranteed snowfall, Tonbridge School Chapel, performances and brass framed by Rochester’s Tonbridge December 5 & 6 accompaniment. 7.30pm. fairytale cathedral and Tonbridge Philharmonic choir, Christmas with the castle. Tickets £12. Children and Goats! students half price. conducted by Matthew Willis, Highlights include the leads this popular family Buttercups Goat Seven Poor Travellers December 18 carol concert in the Sanctuary, Boughton Procession, the Grand Hazlitt Theatre, atmospheric setting of a Monchelsea Parade, a candlelit Maidstone candlelit Tonbridge School An evening of Christmas procession, the open air A Christmas Carol was the chapel. £8 celebrations in the stables! carol concert, and roaming first public reading that Call 01732 353707 to check Help tuck in some of the 140 street performers. Charles Dickens ever gave times and/or cancellations. rescue goats at Buttercups in their warm beds of straw for the night, while feasting on mulled wine and mince pies. 4pm-7pm. Admission by donation. December 5 & 6 Dickensian Christmas Festival, Rochester Rochester’s Dickensian Christmas has been held annually since 1988, which is fitting as Medway held such a special place in Charles Dickens’ life and work. GREAT The writer spent five DAY OF of his childhood years in FAMILY Medway from 1817 to FUN 1822. He returned for the last few years of his life,
16 Mid Kent Living Images: Dickensian Festival courtesy of Simon Kelsey Advertisement feature
Mid Kent Living 17 A walk in THE PARK
If you are looking for somewhere different for a family fun day out, head to Cobtree Manor Park, Aylesford, near Maidstone.
The 50-acre park — close to the heart of our county town — has had a £1.1million make-over in recent months, with the addition of a sculpture trail, a running route and children’s play park. In fact, the fabulous face-lift earned Cobtree park its first Green Flag in 2014. As well as its fantastic open spaces, diverse collection of trees and shrubs, the charity-run recreation area now boasts a new visitor centre, along with a café. The £300,000 centre — funded by the Cobtree Charity Trust — officially opened in September to provide visitors with new toilets, a seating area and a restaurant offering hot and cold Cobtree meals, using local produce, as well as an office for the park Manor ranger. The history The park is open from 7am to dusk, visitor of the park centre and café open 10am-4pm every day Cobtree Manor Park forms part of (except Dec 25th). the Cobtree Estate, the former home of Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake (1881-1964). The 12-times mayor of Maidstone fulfilled his passion for animals by opening a zoo at the park on March 26, 1934. It was opened by the well-known circus owner Bertram Mills and attracted a string of celebrity visitors including singer and actress Gracie Fields. The zoo programme from 1939 lists 36 kinds of animals, including bears, camels, cheetahs, chimpanzees, kangaroos, lions, zebras, a stud of cream ponies (one of only two in the country) and two elephants named Gert and Daisy. There were also pony and elephant rides; a miniature railway with a petrol powered “steam engine” and two carriages ran on tracks along the carriage drive, saving visitors the walk from The visitor centre’s walls carry the fascinating history of the the main road to the zoo. park and its founder, Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, who opened a zoo, which attracted thousands of visitors and celebrities during its 25 years open to the public, before being bequeathed to the town. Today, the park attracts more than a quarter of a million visitors each year, as an excellent base for further adventures in the area, to access the popular North Downs Way or simply to walk, go running, or to exercise the dog and the children. Its play area, which takes the theme of the park’s famous zoo, has proved particularly popular, as has the sculpture trail, which was designed and crafted by Kent artist Jason Mulligan. Admission to the park is free, while parking is £1.50 for the whole day. And while you are there, why not pop along to Aylesford? This charming village, with its stone bridge over the river, has shops, a pub, places to eat and some beautiful buildings, as well as the working friary at the top of the hill, which is also open to the public.
18 Mid Kent Living Coming up: Cobtree Arboretum in the autumn Wednesday, October 21 and Sunday, October 25, 10am-noon An informative seasonal ramble with the ranger through the park’s rich collection of trees from around the world. Free for all the family. No need to book. Making bird feeders and nesting boxes Wednesday, October 29, 10am-11.30am Learn how to help the birds survive the winter months. A Find practical event, with participation. it at: Today, the elephant house is all that benefit of the Forstal Road, Free for all the family. Booking remains and is currently used by the inhabitants Maidstone, Kent required on 07870 988128 or active retired as part of the nation-wide of Maidstone and M20 7AG elizabethbuckingham@maidstone. men’s sheds initiative. the surrounding gov.uk The zoo opened to the public from neighbourhood”. Rustic Christmas decoration March to October for 25 years, before The estate, which includes Cobtree Monday, December 21, 10am-noon rising costs and the deteriorating health Manor Park, Cobtree Golf Course, the A chance for you and your family of Sir Tyrwhitt-Drake forced its closure headquarters of Kent Wildlife Trust to create your own Christmas in 1959, with most of the animals (Tyland Barn) and the Kent Life decorations, which you can take dispersed to other zoos. museum, is now managed by Maidstone home. £3 per person. Booking In 1980, a ‘parkland garden’ was Council for the Cobtree Manor Estate required on created at Cobtree, with nearly 600 Trust. 03000 different trees and shrubs planted in a The trust’s chairman Roger Hext said: 414793. landscape setting, some of which fell in “The recent improvements have made the violent storms of 1987 and 1990, sure that the park is one of the with others righted with winches and borough’s most beautiful and popular steel ropes. Today, the surviving trees attractions, and the new visitor centre form a maturing arboretum of at least is the finishing touch. It is a fitting 160 species. tribute to the memory of Sir Garrard Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake and his who I am sure would have been very wife, Lady Edna, established the proud of what has been achieved in the Cobtree Trust in 1951 to secure the park and will give so much pleasure to future of their 300-acre estate “for the the people of Maidstone.”
Mid Kent Living 19 Advertisement feature Healthier eyes /&7))"+0"0$&3"1%" )"/"013&0&,+&+1%"1,2$%"01 )"+0 ,1&+$ǽ%"6/"0 /1 %Ȓ/"0&01+1Ǿ4&1%Ǘ6"/ 4//+16+!-/,1" 1$&+01$)/"4%& %&0$/"1#,/+&$%1 1&*"!/&3&+$Ǿ01%"6/"!2 "1%"$)/"+!!77)"#/,*1%" & Safer Vision %"!)&$%10,#,+ ,*&+$3"%& )"0ǽ #6,24,/(&++,ƛ& "Ǿ 6,2 +Ɯ+!/"Ɲ" 1&,+0#/,** &"+1)&$%1&+$+!6,2/ DID YOU KNOW over 90% of spectacle wearers in Japan have ,*-21"/3&02))61&/&+$Ǿ)"3&+$6,2/"!Ȓ"6"! 61%""+! +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3")"+0"0Ǿ ,*-/"!1,2/,-"+ ,2+1/&"04&1% ,#1%"!6ǽ/&7))"+0"0/"*,3"1%"0"++,6&+$/"Ɲ" 1&,+0 *"/"ǚǕʢǽ"1%&+(&1ȉ0 ,211&*"1%1*,/",#20 ,2)! %&"3" +!/"0,!3+ "!1%1"3"/6!6!201+!!&/1ǾƜ+$"/-/&+10+! )"/"/3&0&,+ǽ 0*2!$"0Ǿ +ȉ1$"1$/&-,+1%"*Ǿ*"+&+$1%"6016 )"+"/#,/ ),+$"/ǽ%"+6,2 )"+6,2/0-" 1 )"01,,Ǿ1%"6!,+ȉ1 /"1"1%" +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3" coating (ARȜ&016-",#-1& ) ,1&+$--)&"! 011& 1%111/ 10!201ǽ,1))1%" "+"Ɯ10/"3&0& )"Ȁ/&7) 1,1%"02/# ",#)"+0"01,/"!2 "/"Ɲ" 1&,++!$)/"ǽ%&0 )"+0"0)0,Ɯ)1"/,21ǖǕǕʢ,#/60Ǿ0,1%"6ȉ/"1%"%")1%6 option too! &*-/,3"01%""ƛ& &"+ 6,#)"+0"0+! )/&16,#3&0&,++! !" /"0"01%"/"Ɲ" 1&,+,#)&$%1#/,*1%"#/,+1+! (,#1%" )"+0"0ǽ!!&1&,+))6Ǿ ,1&+$0&+ /"0"1%"1/+0*&00&,+,# /&7)/,1" 1&3")"+0"0+,4,ƛ"//&7)/"3"+ &4%& % )&$%11%/,2$%1%""6"$)00)"+0"0ǽ%&$%Ȓ.2)&16,/+1&Ȓ Ɯ)1"/0,21%/*#2) )2"Ȓ3&,)"1)&$%1!")&3"/&+$-/,1" 1&,+)) $)/" ,1&+$4&)))),4ǞǞǽǚʢ,#)&$%11,-001%/,2$%1%")"+0"0Ǿ !6Ȁ4%&)"/&7)/+0&1&,+0.2& ()6 %+$"#/,* )"/1,!/( )),4&+$#,/ "11"/3&0&,+ǽ+6-",-)")0,Ɯ+!1%1%3&+$1%" 4%"+"5-,0"!1,)&$%1ǽ ,/*,/"&+#,/*1&,+/"$/!&+$ +1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3")"+0 ,1&+$&*-/,3"0+&$%11&*"!/&3&+$ 6$)/" 1%" ,*-)"1"/&7)#*&)6Ǿ-)"0"3&0&1,2/4" 0&1"ǿ444ǽ /"!2 1&,+Ǿ-/1& 2)/)6,+/&+64&+1"/6+&$%10ǽ (&+$0%&)),-1& &+0ǽ ,ǽ2(Ǿ,/)1"/+1&3")6 ,*"3&0&120&+-"/0,+ǽ
AT WORK IN THE SUN DRIVING OUT & ABOUT
1&+$0 &))-1& &+04"-/&!",2/0")3"0,+,ƛ"/&+$,2/ " ")&"3"#,/*+6-",-)"&1ȉ0&!")1,%3"14,,/*,/"-&/0,# -1&"+10 ,+"01Ǿ/,#"00&,+)+!5-"/1!3& "4%&)01,ƛ"/&+$ $)00"04&1%!&ƛ"/"+1)"+0"01,02&11%"&/3&02)+""!0ǽ"%"/"1 %&$%.2)&16-" 1 )"+!"+0"04%& %&04%64"/" ,**"+! &+$0 &))-1& &+0/"-/,2!,#1%"/&7))"+0"01%14",ƛ"/ /&7)+1&Ȓ/"Ɲ" 1&3")"+0"0ǽ +!/"+,4,ƛ"/&+$))+"4+!"5&01&+$-1&"+10ǚǕʢ,ƛ1%"&/ 0" ,+!-&/,#/&7))"+0"0ǽ ,2/"6"0/" ,+01+1)62+!"/11 (Ǿ#/,*/60Ǿ!&$&1) !"3& "0Ǿ-,,/!&"1Ǿ+!*,!"/+)&3&+$Ǿ4%& % + "%7/!,20 &+$0 &))-1& &+0/"-/,2!1, ")" /1"1%"&/ 1,6,2/3&0&,+ǽ,6,20-"+!%,2/0$)2"!1, ,*-21"/0 /""+Ȅ ǖǕ1%6"/++&3"/0/61%&06"/+!),,(#,/4/! ,6,2!/&3"Ȅ/"6,2 ,+01+1)6!0%&+$&++!,21,#1%",ƛ& "Ȅ 1,4") ,*&+$+"4+!"5&01&+$-1&"+101,1%" %1"3"/6,2/16-& )!6),,(0)&("Ǿ6,2 + %,,0")"+0"01%1 -/ 1& "&+1%"#212/"ǽ /"-"/#" 1#,/6,2/+""!0ǽ
Your 2nd pair 50% OFF of Crizal lenses /"0"+11%&03,2 %"/&+Ȓ01,/" "#,/"ǘǕth,3"* "/ǗǕǖǚ1,/" "&3"ǚǕʢ!&0 ,2+1,ƛ 1%"-/& ",#0" ,+!-&/,#/&7)"+0"0ǽ To find out more visit www.kingshillopticians.co.uk
t: 01732 875544 Kings Hill Opticians w: kingshillopticians.co.uk 2 Liberty Square, Kings Hill,
e: [email protected] West Malling, Kent, ME19 4AU ad170915 Code: Voucher
20 Mid Kent Living Advertisement feature
Mid Kent Living 21 Discover more at Newnham Court Shopping Village
Be sure to visit this autumn – there is something for everyone
Notcutts Garden Centre forms a central point of the Shopping Village and as you would expect has one of the most comprehensive ranges of top quality plants and gardening equipment as well as everything you need to help you relax and enjoy your garden or patio. Gardening can play a key role in the health and happiness of us all, whilst at the same time doing our bit for the planet. When everything else in life seems to flash by at 100 miles per hour, gardening gives us all the chance to breathe, forget the frantic pace of life and indulge in a little peace and quiet. Keen gardeners should consider joining the Notcutts Privilege Club where you can save money every time you shop at Notcutts. It costs just £10 a year and there are lots of benefits including 10% off your bill (some exclusions apply) each time you shop.
PETS AND AQUATICS From the most popular domestic to the exotic, Ark Pets & Aquatics stocks a wide range of equipment, food, accessories and toys for your pet. Their friendly staff have a great deal of expert knowledge so they can help and advise you on choosing a pet and how to care for this new member of your family. Small mammals, parrots and other birds are a speciality. Plus there are more than 400 aquariums of tropical, freshwater and marine fish.
CHARTERWOOD MOBILITY DISCOVER THE KLASS PENNIES DAY NURSERY AND SHOPMOBILITY COLLECTION Pennies Day Nursery offers 'the very best Get some great offers on a huge selection Klass have a stunning range of affordable in childcare learning and fun' for children of mobility scooters, rise and recline chairs, women’s fashion in sizes 10 to 22. aged between three months and five stairlifts, walkers, bathing aids and much Whether you are looking for ladies years old plus Breakfast, After School and more. The largest choice in the south east at evening wear or casual daywear outfits Holiday Clubs for primary age children. unbeatable prices. Now available – you can be sure to get the perfect outfit. Pennies is a family run nursery with over Shopmobility is a free service to visitors to Shop the latest dresses, tops and blouses, 25 years of experience in childcare and Newnham Court Shopping Village who are knitwear, jackets, trousers and skirts plus a provides a wide range of exciting activities. mobility impaired. To book a wheelchair or coordinated range of accessories. Parents describe the nursery as ‘welcoming, powered scooter, call us on 01622 631511. bright and colourful, echoing with the sound of happy children.' Visit our website www.newnhamcourt.co.uk Free Parking
JUST OFF JUNCTION 7 OF THE M20 AT MAIDSTONE • MONDAY TO SATURDAY – 9:00AM TO 6:00PM • SUNDAY 10:30AM TO 4:30PM SHOPMOBILITY: 01622 631511
FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY If it’s a bit of personal pampering you seek then look no further than Pure Hairdressing and Pure Beauty Essentials. You are sure to receive personal attention plus the latest hair care and beauty advice. Pure Beauty Essentials which sits alongside the hair salon offers a range of must have beauty treatments and due to popular demand is now open on Sundays. Other shops to tempt you along the way include Edinburgh Woollen Mill with a wide range of clothing for ladies and men plus many accessories including Hotter Shoes. Cotton Traders offers a further range of quality clothing at great value in a wide range of sizes. Cotswold Outdoor are suppliers of equipment for outdoor activities such as camping, walking and mountaineering. Then there is sports clothing and equipment at Sweatshop Sports Shop, specialists in running.
FOR THE HOME Fineline Windows, Doors & Conservatories AHM Bathing specialise in walk-in baths Hammonds fitted bedrooms are a offer a complete range of windows, doors, and walk-in showers for the elderly and popular choice with those looking to conservatories and orangeries of the highest disabled. Plus there is a great range for refurbish their bedroom space this quality. Also log cabins and chalets from those wanting non mobility bathrooms with autumn. They offer the largest range of Johnsons Garden Buildings, perfect for a contemporary look. fitted bedrooms in the UK to choose creating extra space for a home office, gym from plus they offer a free creative If you are looking for the perfect gift or or a playroom. design service with detailed 3D something special for the home then drawings as standard. The friendly Is your kitchen looking tired or in need of Notcutts Gift Shop is the place for you. family business has excelled by giving its sprucing up? If you want stylish, functional From kitchen accessories and gifts to customers exceptional quality and truly and comfortable without the mess then pay artificial flowers and vases to display them in personal service and by doing things Granite Transformations a visit. Their plus there is a great range of greetings with a little more style. unique, maintenance free worktops are cards and gift wrap too. available in 55 colours.
RELAX AND TAKE A BREAK Be sure to leave enough time to meet up with friends in one of our friendly eateries. The newly refurbished Coffee Corner is open for breakfast, morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. Whether you want a full meal, a snack or just a cup of tea or coffee, you are sure of a warm welcome and good service. Alternatively enjoy fresh barista made coffee in Bricks Coffee House in the courtyard, from skinny latte and cappuccino to Americano. It is open every day, offering a relaxed atmosphere in comfortable surroundings.
Noble House is a magnificent Chinese restaurant specialising in oriental cuisine where customers savour all the specialities of classic Cantonese and Peking dishes. Its sheer class and opulence set it apart creating an atmosphere will that will take you into a different world. Be it an intimate dinner for just two, or large functions and parties, the restaurant caters for everyone. There’s room to enjoy your evening so you can chat and spend time with family and friends. The popular restaurant is known for prompt and friendly service and also offers a quality takeaway service.
Find Visit our website www.newnhamcourt.co.uk us on: EAST HOLLINGBOURNE Walk The village of Hollingbourne is nestled just below the beautiful North Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Just five miles from Maidstone, this walk is the perfect way to escape busy life to enjoy some amazing countryside and experience several fantastic views. The walk takes you through parts of the extremely rare ancient woodland of Britain which has remained untouched for hundreds of years and probably existed prior to human settlement.
The walk starts at Hollingbourne Station, so is highly accessible by train. Walk to the left of the station and up a footpath that climbs a bank. Cross the stile and head right. Once you reach a field, bear left across it towards a stile. ! Start/Finish Cross it, and walk along the field edge 8miles (12.8km) and then in between two hedges. Follow this path over another stile. When you Gate reach a road turn right and then at the
T-junction turn left on to Musket Lane. Stile This will bring you to the small hamlet © Crown Copyright and database j right 2015 Ordnance Survey of Eyhorne Street. The word ‘street’ in 100019238 its name suggests it was located along a Roman road, and therefore the settlement must date back to this time. Once you reach another T-junction, turn left and then take the footpath j down the side of the Windmill pub. As you come to a large, modern barn bear left and go through the field gate behind it. Continue along the path until you reach a waymarker post. Then walk diagonally across the field towards large tree. Cross the stile and turn right j following the path into a garden. Keep right and cross another stile. Head
straight on, before bearing left and ! crossing a stile into another garden. j Leave it by crossing a stile onto a small bridge. Follow the field edge on your left before heading towards an arch under 00.51 the railway. Pass through it and then Km over the stile and up a driveway. 0 Miles Cross the road and continue on the 00.5 footpath. When you reach another road, turn right and then left down Greenway Court Road. Head right and follow the road until you reach a byway on your tracks off to the left, take the second to sit in bunkers through an invasion left. Follow the byway until you reach a one. As you walk uphill stop to look at and then emerge behind enemy lines. T-junction where you should turn right, the amazing views of the beautiful They were recruited in utmost secrecy joining the North Downs Way. You countryside below. and were likely to be farmers who had a should then reach a junction with two When the path divides, head left detailed knowledge of the area. through woodland. Follow the byway When you reach a road turn left and along the edge of the wood and then continue on the byway to the right Location: Hollingbourne (ME17 1TX) across a field between two fences. After through two sections of woodland. Distance: 8 miles (12.8 km) a short distance you will come to a Once you have passed through a gate, OS Explorer Map: 148 narrow strip of woodland on your left. turn left and look out for a stile on your Terrain: Mostly along public Not far from here is a WWII ‘fox hole.’ left. Pass over it and walk diagonally footpaths in fields and This is part of a network of secret across the field, heading for the stile to woodlands. One bunkers found here to prepare in case the right of some farm buildings. relatively steep climb. of an invasion. A ‘secret army’ were Cross the stile and eventually turn recruited whose task would have been right up the side of a small valley. When
24 Mid Kent Living Information and images supplied by Explore Kent you reach a road, cross it, and take a through a series of thin sections of footpath leading into the woods and woodland and kissing gates. Once you eventually past a small pit to your right. reach a waymarker post, turn right These are believed to be ‘Deneholes’, through a kissing gate and then walk small medieval chalk mines. Cross the along the edge of the field. At the stile into a large field and turn left and corner of the field continue downwards keep straight towards the woods. On a alongside a main road. After the steps, clear day it is possible to see the north turn right onto the road. Continue Kent coast from here. straight over the crossroads into Cross a stile into the woods and when Hollingbourne. You may wish to stop for you eventually reach a lane, turn right. a drink at the Dirty Habit, an excellent Then take the byway to the left. This pub, popular with walkers. path then leads into a section of rare Keep a look out for Hollingbourne ancient woodland. At the junction bear Manor to your right, a grade I listed left. You are now in Hucking Estate, building from about 1570. Once the road Fo r more managed by the Woodland Trust. passes the church take a footpath to the inspiration fo r wa lking, cycling Stay straight until you reach a marked right of it leading to a large field. Head junction where you turn left onto the across it and follow the path down by and outdoor activities check North Downs Way and into woodland. the school towards the main road. Turn out explorekent.org or follow Pass through a kissing gate and through right and head under the railway. Take us on Facebook and Twitter to open downland with excellent views. the next right after this, back to the @explorekent. Follow the North Downs Way left station.
Mid Kent Living 25 Gardens to visit
Gardener’s AUTUMN glory question time The season offers a new chapter for garden lovers in Kent, as Dawn Kingsford discovers at Emmetts Garden.
With its expansive pinetum, Emmetts autumn but gives off the aroma of burnt Garden is the perfect place to marvel at sugar, similar to the smell of candyfloss. autumn’s rich russets and golds, while A great place for the whole family, taking in panoramic views across The including the dog — it is one of only a Weald. handful of National Trust properties that The National Trust ranks the four-and- permit your pet on a lead in all parts of a-half acre gardens — along with those the grounds — Emmetts’ wide open at Scotney Castle — as the top place to spaces, outdoor seating and takeaway celebrate autumn in all its glory. refreshments provide the perfect place - with Emmetts’ head gardener Once owned by Frederic Lubbock, the to let off steam. Simon Walker charming Edwardian estate is known for This autumn, the family Hallowe’en its array of autumn colour. Fostered as a pumpkin trail enables adults and Your top tip? plantsman’s paradise in the late 19th children alike to explore the garden, Spend some time in the garden, not century and now owned by the National spot spooky items, answer sinister gardening, just enjoying. Trust, the garden is teeming with rare questions and pick up some Hallowe’en Least favourite job? and exotic trees and shrubs that come facts and prizes. Later in the year Digging out brambles. in to their prime at this time of year. children can take part in the Christmas Favourite flower? It incorporates a quintessential English elf trail, helping Father Christmas’ elves I’m a sucker for a pink tulip. rose garden, alpine and rock garden, prepare for the big day. and its south garden is brimming with New for this year is the children’s wild Flowers, fruit or veg? impressive hardy exotic trees and play area, offering youngsters a chance Fruit. I used to help grow peaches, shrubs, with 200 acres of woodland to clamber and get in touch with nature, it’s a real art and I love stuff like that. beyond. or to borrow games such as giant What’s your busiest month? The garden’s Japanese Katsura tree is dominoes and jenga, kites and cricket For us at Emmetts Garden it’s the flavour of the moment — not only sets, while parents can look on from the February, just before we reopen to does it turn yellow and orange in nearby seated refreshment area. the public. Things to do