It’s beginning to look a lot like…nearly autumn/winter? So, while you may think we’re wishing away the last of those summer days, we’re here to help you get ahead of the curve and get into that seasonal spirit, even if it’s just for a moment or two. Join us in looking forward to the end of the year, where twinkling lights, magical overnight stays, and fun-filled days out await. The Grinches among you can then go back to basking in the sun, while all the Christmas lovers can stay holding on to the thought of spiced chai and thick scarves…
A Narnia Christmas at Leeds Castle
What could possibly make Christmas more special than it already is? How about entering a world of magic and wonder at Leeds Castle, where C.S. Lewis’ beloved tale of Narnia is ready to take over the castle and grounds. Weave your way through the dazzling landscape of eternal winter, before entering a transformed castle and meeting Mr Tumnus, Aslan the Great Lion, and the other spectacles of this amazing world. And make the night even more magical with an overnight stay at the castle...
Winter walks in the Kent Downs
Once you’ve hyped yourself up to go on that wintry walk (you know you’ll love it once you’re out there!), we’ve got just the loops, trails, and spots for you to wander. And who better to give you those roaming recommendations than Kent Downs who, it’s pretty safe to say, know a thing or two about the Kentish countryside. From history to hound-friendly, coastal to quiet, there’s a walk that ticks all of the boxes for those days when you’re itching to get out and take in that oh-so refreshing winter air.
Christmas World at Dreamland
15th-22nd December
Thought the coastal fun had to stop during the winter? Think again! Our favourite seaside resort is putting on a true spectacle in Margate this festive season with Christmas World at Dreamland. Bring the kids along for a day out they’ll never forget, filled with snowball fights, magical grotto experiences, sleigh rides in Santa’s snow mobile, family friendly performances, and much much more. Bring the cameras, we’ll see you there!
Chapel Down
Get into the true festive spirit (or should we say festive wine!?) with a visit to Chapel Down's estate this Christmas. Sit back and relax as you sample their fantastic range. Whether it's a sparkling wine masterclass, a festive five-course menu, or a wreath making workshop for you creatives out there, you're in for a treat as you dive into the Christmas fun!
No 42 Guesthouse
Nothing beats looking out the window on a cold, windy day, knowing that you get the joy of tucking up into a freshly made bed, warm and cosy while the weather rages on outside. And where better can you get a real show than right by the seaside? Right on Margate’s seafront, No. 42 Guesthouse Hotel is waiting with a warm drink and even warmer welcome. Book yourself in today for an overnight stay to remember this winter.
Hever Castle Christmas Experience
18th November – 1st January
Our childhood dreams are coming true this year at Hever Castle, as we’re making plans to be waking up in our very own private bedroom in one of the castle’s wings! Four poster beds, roll top baths, and modern-day luxuries in a traditional setting are calling us this Christmas, and where better to answer than at one of Kent’s finest castles? Get comfortable in your home away from home as you delight in the magic of the Christmas Experience, where twinkling Christmas lights, encounters with Santa, and enchanting trails await.
Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival
2nd-3rd December
We couldn’t have a round up of Christmas breaks in Kent without including one of our favourite events of the year - the Rochester Dickensian Christmas Festival, celebrating the season in the most Victorian, literary, and lively way possible. Each year, we wait on tenterhooks for their programme to be released, so keep your eye out on their website and join us in counting down the days to this Dickensian take on the most wonderful time of the year.
Bridgewood Manor Hotel
And once you’ve enjoyed all of the Victorian fun that the Dickensian Christmas Festival has to offer, it’s time for some rest and relaxation at the Bridgewood Manor Hotel. Take advantage of the spa facilities and the Health Club, both the perfect places to unwind and relax before heading to their onsite restaurant, Squire. Here, sit back and enjoy a hearty meal from a diverse menu, whether you fancy a warming shepherds pie or a Trinidadian goat curry made by Head Chef Colin. Tuck into your meal, then tuck into a freshly made bed at the end of the day, content and cosy as can be.
Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
Swing on over to Port Lympne this winter and experience the ambiance of an African winter in the heart of Kent with an unforgettable safari staycation. This outstanding 600 – acre parkland features a wide range of luxurious and unique accommodation options, from glamping tents and treehouses nestled high above the woodland canopy to stunning lodges which are partially set within the park’s lion and tiger habit and Instagrammable panoramic bubble pods. Lace-up those boots, put on a fluffy coat and journey by truck through the crisp open air of a Kentish savannah (just don’t forget those hats, gloves, and scarves).
Dover
Put on your hat, gloves and scarves and explore those iconic White Cliffs and watch below the waves crashing and the white horses forming. And the best place to explore the area is booking yourself in for a few nights at one of Keepers Cottages beautiful home-away-from-homes, whether that be Castle View with (as it says on the tin) fantastic views of Dover Castle, or the charming 1800s Brook Cottage, set within the natural beauty of the county and the best space to get your cosy-Christmas needs.
