48 hours in West Kent

You've got a free weekend and a hankering for an escape from the ordinary. Where are you going to go and spend that weekend? West Kent, of course. West Kent is our little corner of luxury, our gorgeous green escape and an answer to work stresses and cabin fever. Here you'll find foodie escapes, indulgent breaks and a touch of class. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to don the sunglasses, pack up and head on your way for a stylish getaway.

And as for the planning, well we've obviously got that covered. Here's our pick of the best of the best, from the top foodie finds, to the best accommodation and the must-visit locations.

Days out

We're going to level with you here. We've probably got more suggestions than you can fit into one weekend, but with any luck you'll be able to craft your own bespoke itinerary, and maybe even plan your return.

Kent Cookery School

Foodies, you've got some time for yourself, so what are you going to do? We LOVE Kent Cookery School for indulging our culinary credentials and sharpening our skills. Whether you choose one of the evening street food courses, or date night with a twist on a couples cooking course, you'll walk away armed with hints and tips and with a stomach full of sensational Kentish food. If you really want to up the ante, we recommend the Kent Cookery Course for a lesson in preparing the finest local and seasonal ingredients.

Afternoon live music at The Orangery, Chiddingstone Castle

Remember when we said a visit to West Kent was all about a little luxury and class - live music in a castle's orangery has got to be case and point! Head to historic Chiddingstone Castle on a Sunday afternoon and you'll be treated to anything from live jazz, to funk and Latin. Arrive early and wander the grounds for a taste of the royal treatment - we recommend stopping off at the tea rooms for a little treat too.

Forest Bathing - Tansy in the Wild

What were we saying about West Kent being the perfect place for a country escape? This unique experience will have you leaving behind the stresses and getting back in touch with nature. Set in the heart of the woods, forest bathing is a restorative experience to connect with nature and help improve your physical and mental well-being. Tansy's unique experiences are just the thing to help reset, detox and reconnect.

Tunbridge Wells

From the newly refurbished The Amelia, which brings together culture, arts, heritage and well-being, to the large commons which offer green space and a place to relax, Royal Tunbridge Wells is the place to go for a little R&R. Visit the many, many boutique shops in The Pantiles (those colonnaded walkways are dreamy), or head to Trinity Theatre for a taste of the dramatics in the beauty of a former church. While the packed calendar of festivals includes Gin and Jazz on The Pantiles and Pub in the Park - delish.