It’s finally here! After a long winter, the buds are appearing and we’re ready for Kent to start bursting into bloom! From vineyard tours, to canoe trips and afternoons spend under the canopy of a forest, we cannot wait to get out in nature and celebrate the arrival of spring. So sit back and allow us to share some of those not-to-be-missed moments coming up this season.
Canoe Wild
Paddle with Canoe Wild along the River Stour this spring and you’ll see the very best of the season. Book in for a sunset kayak paddle on 10th May, or try your hand at stand up paddle-boarding, canoeing or kayaking. Whatever you choose, springtime offers the chance to see plenty of babies along the river, including ducklings, signets and even baby beaver kits!
Gusbourne
A crisp glass of white, budding vines and vibrant views, we love a vineyard visit in springtime. Visit Gusbourne this spring for a tour and tasting and the chance to sample their delicious award-winning wines. Plus, on 22nd March book in for their 2015 Vintage Masterclass and Lunch, a chance to discover vintages from the cellar, celebrate and learn about how Gusbourne’s sparkling wines have developed, before tucking into a delectable three-course lunch with wine pairings.
The Battle of Britain Memorial
Whatever the weather, nothing beats a clifftop walk, and the springtime view from the top of Kent’s famous white cliffs takes some beating. The Battle of Britain Memorial at Capel-le-Ferne, just outside Folkestone, is an ideal site from which to take in views of the Channel and, on a good day, the French coast, while the Cockpit Café on the first-floor of the Wing visitor centre offers warming refreshments.
Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest
This year is the centenary of the world’s largest conifer collection and we can’t think of a better excuse than that to get out and enjoy those fresh greens and pine scents under the forest canopy. Working to save 34% of conifer species that are threatened with extinction and growing more than 2,000 tree and shrub seedlings a year, Bedgebury is of international importance and we’re blessed to be able to walk, cycle and even forest bathe amongst its magnificent trees this spring.
Folkestone Harbour Arm
When those first sunny spring days roll around, one of our first destinations is Folkestone Harbour Arm. Pairing sensational views across the English Channel and across to the White Cliffs with street food, live music, fun experiences and art, this is the place to celebrate the arrival of spring. Enjoy the best of Kentish produce with delicious sandwiches, coffee and baked goods at SIP at the Signal Box, head to Brewing Brothers Beachside for beers with a side of sea views, or enjoy a round of Adventure Golf right on the beach.
Forest Bathing with Tansy in the Wild
The collaboration of dreams, expert Forest Bathing Guide Tansy in the Wild will be heading to Hever Castle this spring. Combining Hever’s wild and beautiful woodland with a three-hour forest bathing workshop on 15th March, this is the perfect way to welcome the new season. See new growth, the first hope of spring and enjoy the chance to get back into nature and soak it all in. What’s more on 16th March Tansy will be offering a session for neurodiverse minds, designed to support the challenges faced by neurodiverse adults, before returning to Hever on 23rd March for a forest bathing and sound bath mini retreat!
Walmer Castle
Walmer Castle’s award-winning gardens are always a spring sensation. Explore over eight acres of coastal gardens, with flower-filled borders and beautiful shady woodland walks. See the castle, commissioned by Henry VIII, the official residence of the Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports and the former home of some giants in history, including The Duke of Wellington, Winston Churchill and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother.
Dreamy views in White Cliffs Country
It’s time to catch that sea air, so venture to the top of the White Cliffs of Dover, following National Route 1, with cliffs and castles as its backdrop. Visit South Foreland Lighthouse, a historic Victorian landmark, or follow Kent’s ancient coastline along the Saxon Shore Way. For garden views, Goodnestone Park Gardens with its Jane Austen links really shines in spring, while Pines Garden in St Margaret’s Bay is a beautiful labyrinth of wildlife and secret walkways. For a true taste of spring, The Wild Kitchen’s forage and feast course showcases the best of the coast’s produce with a wild gourmet lunch, while Solley’s Farm Ice Cream Parlour pairs dreamy rural views with 20 delicious real dairy ice creams.
Penshurst Place and Gardens
The Spring Stroll and Lunch at Penshurst Place and Gardens is the chance to step into a world of vibrant blooms and tranquil beauty. Grab tickets to the two hour walking tour on 13th April and you’ll be treated to a walking tour, lunch and tickets for the house and formal gardens. Expect views of spring’s awakening, spot wildlife and catch sightings of the garden’s blooming flora.
Shepherd Neame’s Photography Competition
All those beautiful spring moments deserve to be captured, so be sure to take a look at Shepherd Neame’s photography competition this season. Get outdoors, capture the glory of the season and enter for your chance to win a £150 Shepherd Neame gift card or one of four £25 gift cards for the runners up. Enter by 17th March for your chance to win.
