We know how difficult it can be to set aside some time to really focus on yourself, especially with the rollercoaster year we’ve all experienced. But no matter what is going on around us in this crazy world, it really is important to try and keep your body and mind, happy and healthy. No, we’re not trying to force you to pull up the yoga pants and tackle the elements in a triathlon, setting a personal best can be achieved in many other ways. The Garden of England boasts a plethora of revitalising and invigorating experiences, allowing you to slip into neutral, indulge in a little R&R time and leave those Joe Wicks workouts firmly on pause…
Surrounded by rolling hills, quaint villages and open heaths, Royal Tunbridge Wells truly presents the epitome of undisturbed serenity. Tucked away in the heart of the beautiful High Weald, the area boasts a uniquely unspoiled spa town, gloriously green parkland in spots like Bedgebury Pinetum and Bewl Water, independent shops, bustling bars, and magnificent manor houses and world-famous gardens like Scotney Castle, Groombridge Place and Sissinghurst Castle. Whether your perfectly peaceful break includes discovering a new-favourite restaurant, indulging in opulence at a swanky hotel, or sinking into the scenic surroundings of a romantic castle, rest-assured, Tunbridge Wells will offer a healthy helping of luxury to any visitor.
Get ready to indulge, revitalise and discover a myriad of health and wellbeing experience across Tunbridge Wells and further afield in Kent. Ready, set, relax…
Take a deep breath of fresh air, escape the four walls, and sail away to beautiful Bore Place, nestled within the peaceful Kent Weald. This relaxing, rural retreat offers the perfect excuse to break free from the routine by playing the part of a traditional Kentish local. Spend the morning visiting the four-legged residents of the newly developed farm, before donning those wellingtons ready for an afternoon of foraging fun. With an abundance of experiences to choose from such as jam making, pickling, yoga, bonfire building and twilight strolls, this wonderfully sustainable venue offers an idyllic place to unwind.
Yes, we all said that we were going to sweat it out at the gym as soon as they re-open, (it’s the thought that counts right?), and instead found ourselves huddled in-front of Netflix wrapped under a blanket. Well it’s officially time to socially distance from your tv screens! Be shaped by trees, not treadmills at Primal Roots natural gym, and embrace the elements to reconnect your mind, body, and soul through primal movement. With classes taking place all over the county in Ashford, Dover, and Bedgebury, there really is no excuse to opt for an evening in. Lace those running shoes, get those hearts pumping, and treat your body to a much-needed post-lockdown detox.
In the heart of Shadoxhurst Woodland, Green Farm are offering the chance to not only hear the intoxicating song of the nightingale, but hear some of the finest musicians duet with them. As darkness falls, cosy up beside the fire, learn all about the folklore surrounding these intriguing birds and hear world-renowned classical, folk and jazz artists as they collaborate with the nightingale. Why not extend your break and make a weekend of it with a stay at Holiday Inn Ashford?
Fed up with the lockdown blues? How about enjoying Kent’s glorious greens instead? There’s no better place to immerse yourself in nature than the 150 acres of glorious grounds at Hever Castle. Revitalise your senses, sink into the tranquillity that this breath-taking area diffuses, and roll up your sleeves ready for a day of natural therapy with the Forest Bathing experience. The trail is designed to provide maximum colour, winding through buttery yellows, radiant reds and glistening greens, so you can expect nothing less than a perfectly peaceful mind after a stroll here.
Stretching greenery, sweeping scenery, and a sprinkling of history; there a few things more serene than Penshurst Place’s Parkland. Enjoy reconnecting with the natural world as you take a scenic stroll through the age-old estate, passing the open meadows, ancient trees, and rolling farmland of the Kent Weald. Take a moment to soak in the surroundings and relax among the natural soundscapes of the great outdoors.
Calm the mind, s t r e t c h the body, and rejuvenate the soul with a visit to the beautiful Buckland Lake Nature Reserve. Set in the quaint village of Cliff, the boasting blue waters here offer far more than just an idyllic spot for a wander, with weekly activities, a nutrition-based cafe, and a health clinic on site. Release your inner karate kid and high kick your way to one of the martial art classes, delivered against the backdrop of rolling hills and panoramic views. If you consider yourself more a water bug than a sensei, the opportunities here are abundant; from fishing, to diving, you’re sure to find something to fill your adventure boots!
Watch as the worries drift away in the tranquil surroundings of Bloomsburys. Tucked in the unspoiled village of Biddenden, this beautiful corner of Kent’s countryside offers peaceful retreats framed by luscious landscapes, so you can really indulge in a little R&R time. Enjoy a slice of the good life as you unwind in one of glamping pods, spoil yourself with a little ‘me time’ in the eco-friendly hot tubs, or tickle taste buds with a mouth-watering meal at the bohemian Heritage Garden Restaurant. Go on, you deserve it…
Steeped in history, surrounded by uninterrupted views of the Kent coast, and rich in championship links, swing away the lockdown woes with an unforegetful visit to Prince’s Golf Club in Sandwich. Has staring at your living room walls been driving you up the wall? Well trade those greys for golfing greens and really get away from it all at this teerific 27-hole course- sure to putt a huge smile on your face! With exquisite dining experiences, luxurious accommodation and a fascinating heritage waiting to be explored, this glorious golf course is one of the best by par!
Inhale the calm, and exhale the cares... After spending the last year stuck indoors, we’re all in need of reconnecting with our inner-self and indulging in a little zen. Set in the grounds of Owletts, a Grade II listed, 17thcentury country estate, Stable House Meditation specialises in deep detoxing and de-stressing. Using the art of Vedic meditation, visitors can experience relaxation, increased vitality and ultimate serenity after as little as one session. So, what are you waiting for? Add a sprinkling of undisturbed tranquillity to your agenda.
Tansy Jane Dowman’s forest therapy, mindful walks, and retreats for women are the chance to get back into nature, and with so many glorious landscapes in our county, Kent has got to be the place to start that journey. Tansy’s workshops are all about rewilding yourself and reconnecting with nature through crafts, classes and guided meditations, so if you’re looking for a chance to switch off and escape from the hustle and bustle, they’re the perfect antidote to life’s everyday stresses. And breathe...
Forget the online shopping, we all know there's nothing like experiencing the real thing! Peruse 85 luxury designer stores at the newly extended Ashford Designer Outlet and discover the likes of Hugo Boss, Armani, Ralph Lauren and Diesel at outlet prices. Plus, with 14 restaurants to choose from, including Wagamama and Five Guys, a visit here is the ultimate treat. While at Westwood Cross in Broadstairs, choose from more than 50 stores, restaurants, a 10-screen cinema and even the Little Bears Club to keep children smiling!
With fitness classes aimed at women of all ages and fitness levels, the Female Fit Club is a great place to start to reach those fitness goals. From clubbercise to Fit30 and even family fitness sessions, you're sure to find a session to suit you.
Take a deep breath and relax. After months of stress, the Spring Rooms offers a holistic and wellness space that's all aimed at restoring good health and wellbeing. From massage therapy and holistic facials, to reiki, reflexology and advanced clinical massage, those tensions and worries are sure to be lifted away after a visit here.
Before you embark on your peace-filled adventures, please do check our partner websites as many attractions and locations now request that you pre-book. There may also be new procedures in place in order to keep their staff and visitors safe. Take a look at our guidance on how to best Respect, Protect and Enjoy our wonderful Kent attractions and landscapes.
As our worlds begin to open up again, Southeastern Railway are looking forward to welcoming you back on board their trains. Whether you’re continuing to travel for work, starting to think about returning to the office, planning to meet friends and family or are looking forward to visiting one of the wonderful destinations in Kent, Southeastern are there to help and support you every step of the way. Travel looks a little different from before and Southeastern want to reassure you that they are doing everything they can to help make you feel more comfortable, such as cleaning trains more frequently with anti-viral products, regularly wiping high touch areas and supplying hand sanitiser points at busy stations. So whenever you are ready and when it feels right for you, whatever journey you are taking, Southeastern want you to feel you can travel safely and with confidence.
As restrictions start to lift and the government’s plans to ease out of lockdown come into effect, Arriva are here to support our local communities. Plan your journey, track your bus in real-time, buy, store and activate tickets all in on one handy app. Search Arriva UK Bus app in your app store which is free to download or visit www.arrivabus.co.uk/app. You can also plan your journey, buy tickets and check out the latest news and offers online at www.arrivabus.co.uk. All Arriva buses are COVID-19 secure, to find out more please visit www.arrivabus.co.uk/help/coronavirus
