Hawkhurst Country House is situated less than a 15-minute stroll from the centre of Hawkhurst village, where a good selection of helpful amenities can be found, including a Tesco, a Waitrose, and a selection of cafes and takeaways. A wider selection of excellent shops and restaurants can be found in the lovely town of Royal Tunbridge Wells, just a 25-minute drive away.
Conveniently situated on the border of Kent and East Sussex, there is plenty to see, do and explore in the surrounding area. For history enthusiasts, Bodiam Castle, Sissinghurst Castle, Scotney Castle and Battle Abbey are all within a 20-minute drive. Leeds Castle is also well worth a visit and just 35-minutes away. A number of excellent vineyards can be found in the local area including Biddenden Vineyards, Balfour Winery and Chapel Down at Tenterden, all within a 25-minute drive. For those with children, The Hop Farm with its animal farm, giant jumping pillows, indoor soft play and adventure play area, makes a fantastic day out and is less than 30-minutes away. For the beach bums, the seaside resorts of Bexhill and Hastings are just a 30-minute drive away.
The Region
Luxury self-catering holiday accommodation in Kent
Welcome to the bloomin' marvellous "Garden of England", Kent! Sprinkled with Oliver’s Travels cute cottages, bee-shaped lodges, mansion houses, seaside wonders and colossal party houses, you will find just the perfect place to stay to discover this wonderful county. So, gather up your favourite friends or your family or whisk away your special someone for a romantic getaway. Thanks to Oliver’s Travels, your adventure in this flowery haven is just a booking away!
Kent is home to some real showstoppers. First up is Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Archbishop of Canterbury's favourite hangout. With its Gothic glam and incredible history, it is a must-visit for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike. Leeds Castle, named the "loveliest castle in the world", is surrounded by a moat and stunning gardens that make you question if you have stepped into a fairy tale. The White Cliffs of Dover stand tall and proud, like the bodyguards of Britain. These chalky wonders have guarded this fine land for centuries and a trip to Dover not only treats you to panoramic views of the English Channel but also a chance to explore the historic Dover Castle. Nature lovers adore The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a green haven of rolling hills, woodlands and charming villages. It feels like Mother Nature threw a garden party and you are invited! You can lace up those hiking boots, hop on a bike or just bask in the countryside tranquillity. If you are looking for beachside bliss, Margate and Broadstairs have sandy shores and a lively arts scene. You should check out the Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate.
Canterbury is a living, breathing medieval postcard with cobbled streets, timber-framed buildings and the River Stour snaking through. Tenterden and Faversham, the market towns, are like stepping into a scene from a quaint British movie. Markets, boutique shops and historic architecture blend together in a beautiful way. Chilham, the village with a Tudor-style square, is practically a movie star. You might have seen it in period dramas, it is that photogenic.
There are plenty of festivals that take place, including The Canterbury Festival of music, theatre and art. The Rochester Dickens Festival offers Victorian-themed events, parades and street performances. It is like stepping into a Dickens novel. Get your taste buds ready for a dance because Kent is the "Garden of England" for a reason. Featuring orchards, hop gardens and vineyards, it is a feast for the senses. You can visit farmers' markets, cider houses and wineries to savour the local delights. Kentish cherries and apples are the celebrities here and you are the VIP guest at their flavour-packed party.
Kent is a whirlwind of history, natural beauty and culture. You will fall head over heels and the memories will linger like the scent of summer roses. So, whether you are storming medieval castles, sauntering through charming towns, lazing on a beach or feasting on oysters in Whitstable, a trip to Kent guarantees an adventure. Cheers to Kent where every moment is a bloomin' good time!
