Great Escapes
Escape to a potting shed
The Potting Shed is a small barn in the small village of Benenden, once used as the potting shed by plant collector, ornithologist and artist Capt Collingwood 'Cherry' Ingram.
The little barn is situated off the village green a
few hundred yards west of the old parish church of St George`s, down an unmade private track, yet within easy walking distance of two pubs, both of which serve food, a general store and a popular butchers. The Potting Shed has its own parking space and a private entrance. A homegrown garden arrangement in each room and a welcome trug await you.
Enter through the glazed double doors into the lofty
beamed sitting room. This is equipped with a small Knole sofa, two comfortable chairs, foot stool and side table. The light-proof lined curtains are made of pillow ticking; the
floor is of limed pine.
The sitting room is open through the old beams to the kitchen. A small round table and two chairs are situated in the window, looking out onto a flower border and active bird table.
Go up the six
alternating paddle tread stairs to a carpeted, mezzanine floor with very comfortable Vi-Sprung zip-lock beds, arranged and made up as a double or two singles by request. Homemade organic bread and marmalade, organic seasonal vegetables and eggs are sometimes available.
A short walk away through the nut platt is a private,
secluded garden exclusively for the Potting Shed residents. A guided tour of the Molesworth's topiary garden created over the last 30 years can be arranged.
Call 01580
240887 for details.
Escape to a castle
Lympne Castle is a beautiful 13th century Grade 1 listed building, set high on a hill overlooking the Romney Marsh.
The castle is a popular venue for wedding receptions, corporate events and private functions, and also offers accommodation.
The holiday cottages have undergone a full refurbishment,
offering modern facilities while retaining their charm. The site has been strategically important since Roman times.
The castle itself, parts of which date to the 13th century, has witnessed invasion by the Danes and the Normans, was formerly home to the Archdeacon of Canterbury and was once occupied by Thomas Becket. It also played an important role as an observation post in World War II.
The high vantage point of the castle, which made defence
its initial attraction, allows unprecedented views of the south coast and the French coast on a clear day. Stand on the terrace and hear the cry of the herons from the wood below and smell the salty sea air as you gaze on a view that has altered little over the centuries.
Inside the castle you are transported back to medieval times. In the Great Hall with its part panelled walls, wooden roof beams and gothic arched windows you can imagine hearing the lively talk, clank of goblets and music of bygone feasts.
Pineapple Cottage sleeps four while Lambourne sleeps six.
With extra space easily found for smaller children, there is plenty of room for a discrete couple or the whole family. On arrival tea, coffee, sugar and milk will be provided. A selection of toiletries will also be available including soap, shower or bath gel and body lotion. Cleaning materials and toilet paper will also be provided.
The Street, Lympne, Hythe. 01303 261666. Mid Kent Living 15
Book your great escape in Kent & Sussex with Freedom Holiday Homes.
A GREAT ESCAPE 01580 720770
www.freedomholidayhomes.co.uk
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