Email exchanges while curled up on the sofa, colleague catch-up calls while getting those morning steps in, or report writing from the quirky coffee shop on the corner. Let’s face it, the world of work has been a little out of the norm these past 18 months or so, hasn’t it?
If you’re planning a little work-cation, need a break from the same four walls, or perhaps procrastination from your never-ending inbox is exactly what finds you here today, we’ve got you covered. Our round-up of remote working spots across the Garden of England will have you reaching for your laptop and heading out the door, faster than you can say “what’s the Wi-Fi code?”…
Let’s face it, as cosy as it is sending emails from the sofa (particularly during these colder months), you’ve been struggling to hit those daily steps counts recently, haven’t you? Experience historic Canterbury like never before when you lace up and join a fascinating (and fast paced) Canterbury Running Tour. Your guide Andy will provide an overview of Canterbury at its most beautiful, whilst also sharing some stories of this charming city’s many secrets. Trust us when we say that an early morning lap of this charming city is the absolute best way to get a head-start on your working day…
If you’re missing the buzz of an office, unscheduled catch-ups with colleagues, and the daily “what are you having for dinner tonight?” chat, we think this next suggestion’s going to be right up your street. Quite simply the coolest co-working space we’ve seen in a long time, Coachworks Ashford offers everything from shared-space desks to self-contained studios, perfect for freelance creatives looking to work in a collaborative environment. Plus, once you’ve worked up an appetite from all that networking, why not pull up a pew outside in The Yard where you can enjoy a refreshing pint from Boutelliers whilst eating a delicious pizza from Il Pakkero, or Mexican inspired dishes from California Cravings with your new work mates? Now, who else’s stomach’s rumbling...?
Getting a little sick of the sight from your dining room table? We hear you! Sounds like you need to switch up your scenery, and where better to do so than at a venue literally named ‘The View’? Yes, this beautiful beach-side boutique hotel in Folkestone boats spectacular sea views across the English Channel – a welcome change from the usual WFH set-up. With comfortable bedrooms, high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and an onsite bar and restaurant, there are few places better placed to spend a few days escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday 9-5 life…
What better way to wind down on a working day than surrounded by wonderful wildlife and golden light? Sounds idyllic, right? Join our friends at Canoe Wild as they guide you on one of their Wildlife Sunset Tours, running once fortnightly between April and October. Unwind during a gentle guided paddle as you watch the river wildlife settle, accompanied by a beautiful sunset over the lake to end your day. And, for those brave enough to take to the water during the colder months, Canoe Wild will soon be launching a series of Winter Guided Paddles, offering a chance to canoe the River Stour during the winter. Tours start 28th November, and will be run on Sundays, offering a picture-perfect way to beat those pesky Sunday blues!
We can’t think of many places better suited to soak up popular coffee culture than the Insta-worthy seaside spot of Whitstable. Yes, this charming coastal town is positively overflowing with cool cafes, delightful delis, and picture-perfect pubs that are certain to add the feel-good-factor back into a dreaded day of admin catch-up. Head straight to The Kitchen in Whitstable to get your order in for a seasonal coffee (syrups include gingerbread, cinnamon, and toffee crunch…), and absolutely don’t leave without treating yourself to a slab of homemade cake. Alternatively, enjoy a ‘working lunch’ at ‘The Neppy’ (The Old Neptune) – one of only a handful of pubs to be found on the beaches of Britain. Coastal views + caffeine = optimal efficiency, no?
Just a stone’s throw from Ashford International Station (with high-speed services into and out of London, thanks to Southeastern), there are very few places better located for a little work-cation than the brand-new Hampton by Hilton in Ashford. With modern guest rooms, a free hot breakfast, and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity, you’ll find yourself ticking through those to-do’s at lightening speed, leaving your evenings wide-open ready to explore the exciting eateries and superb shopping facilities right on your doorstep in Ashford.
Found yourself in charge of planning the next company ‘away day’, and want to find something that will not only test the team, but will also leave a lasting impression? As a social enterprise, Primal Roots believe in the restorative power of fitness and nature, as a tool to achieve more than just improvements in health and wellbeing. Teaming up with the stunning White Cliffs Retreat, this energetic enterprise is now delivering unique retreats along the Kent coastline, using outdoor fitness to empower participants with a sense of joy and wonder at the force of nature. From running along the top of the iconic White Cliffs of Dover to a fitness class in nature’s playground, this is a side to White Cliffs Country we’ve certainly never seen before, and an experience that has us lacing up our trainers to join one of Primal Roots’ upcoming retreats already…
We’re all hyper-aware of how incredibly important it is to take regular breaks away from your screen - not only for our mental health, but for our productivity levels too. Our next suggestion offers the ideal chance to put your phone on aeroplane mode for an hour or two and escape the stress of dreaded deadlines. Recharge your batteries at Bedgebury Pinetum where you’ll have the chance to take part in a running tour with the Bedgebury Forest Runners, Pilates in the Pinetum with coach Amanda, or simply to switch-off and enjoy a walk amongst wildlife via one of the forest’s peaceful trails.
The charming city of Canterbury makes for an ideal weekend escape but trust us when we say we just know that you’ll want to stay put by the time Sunday night rolls around. Located close to the city, the Holiday Inn Express, Canterbury is a brilliant base for any business breaks. With all the amenities you could need during your trip, including Wi-Fi, restaurant, and bar, you’ll be set-up for a successful stay, giving you even more time to hit up all those historical highlights you couldn’t quite cram into Saturday and Sunday…
Time for another screen break (see, we told you it was important to have them regularly!), and this one’s for those walking workers among you. Grab your closest colleagues, ditch the map, and allow Hike South East to guide you on small group walks through the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Enjoy breath-taking views across the countryside, wander through woodland and pasture along the Greensand Way, and pass Churchill’s iconic home of Chartwell just outside of Westerham. Along the way, you’ll be treated to tales of the famous people who have called this glorious area home and will be given an overview of the area’s geology, wildlife, history, and geography to really enrich your hike.
So, we’ve sorted the working week for you, but what about when 5pm rolls around on Friday? If you’re looking for the place to enjoy a post-work wind down in Kent, look no further than the Folkestone Harbour Arm. This former railway station and ferry terminal has been comprehensively and imaginatively restored, quickly establishing itself as a favourite food, drink, and entertainment destination. With a whole host of venues serving everything from Champagne and craft beer to Greek mezze and hand-stretched pizzas, we promise you’ll like to be beside the seaside when the weekend arrives in this special spot!
