Whether it’s the Christmas parties, the assault on the bank account of buying Christmas presents – this time of the year can be tough on everybody, so with the New Year here, it’s time to take care of yourself. Whether it be with an outdoor activity or healthy food, or just downright relaxing, below are just a few suggestions to improve your health and well-being this coming year…
Eastwell Manor
When you think of well-being and relaxation after a busy time, your mind may hop straight to spas and treatments, and definitely no list would be complete without them. Luckily in Kent we have Eastwell Manor, located just outside of Ashford, which is home to a luxurious Champneys spa. Whether you want to revitalise with a facial, swim in the indoor heated pool or go all out and spend a night, including a 3-course dinner and healthy meals in between, Eastwell Manor is sure to help.
Countryside relaxation retreat
Macknade Fine Foods
Being in the middle of winter, there’s plenty of bugs going around and nothing beats a cold like healthy eating. Macknade Fine Foods in Faversham is one of the most popular food halls in Kent and offers a variety of local fresh produce from vegetables to fish and meat. There’s also plenty of cheese and other treats – perhaps to make you feel better, but not in a health-conscious way!
Beat the winter bugs with Macknade
Coastal escapes in Thanet
With over 20 kilometres of coastline in Thanet, the area makes for perfect activities, including walking and cycling routes. Not only will taking a walk or bike ride on a crisp winter's day give you the chance to see beautiful chalk cliffs and seascapes, but the exercise will certainly help your peace of mind! If you are after something a little more relaxed to while away a couple of hours, there are a number of golf courses including North Foreland and Manston right through to the Lost Island Adventure Golf.
Peace of mind in Thanet
Credit: Josh Carter
Kent’s peaceful gardens
If getting back to nature sounds ideal, but you only have a few hours to spare, perhaps one of Kent’s glorious gardens are worth a stop. With many open over the winter break, there’s plenty to choose from. If you are near west Kent, Ightham Mote is open from Boxing Day and throughout the start of 2019, as is Hever Castle too – perfect for a winter wander! For those of you toward the north and east of Kent, Belmont House’s enchanting gardens are open daily until dusk.
Garden serenity
Elmley Nature Reserve
Escaping it all and reconnecting with yourself and nature is one sure way to unplug from the world and Elmley Nature Reserve could well be the place to do so. For 40 years, the family who call the area home have farmed the land and today continue to care for it, keeping nature at the forefront of mind. In recent years, the reserve has been opened up for people to stay at the site, with luxurious huts on the marsh and farmland that are outfitted like hotels but have exceptional additions such as outdoor baths and outside showers for those daring enough!
Back to nature escape
Swing into January
Kent's greens aren't reserved for the summer months. Relax, pick up your clubs and take a swing this month and you'll have the chance to enjoy quiet greens and sharpen up your skills ready for the summer. From Championship links, to coastal courses, check out Golf In Kent for the top golf clubs in the county.
Join the pros
Family Holiday Association
All of these ideas should help you relax and have a great time, but for others it can be a lot harder. Summer sunshine at the beach… Exploring somewhere new… A simple few days away with the ones you love… We all know how much happier a break can make us feel. But what if you’ve never had this opportunity? So many families are trapped in terrible situations, and they too need a reason to smile. We proudly support and work with the Family Holiday Association and with your help they can support a family to enjoy time away to relax and take away stress even for a short while.
Help others' well-being
