KINGSHOATH COTTAGE

For  seasonal updates of things to do see our blog

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There is so much to see and do in the area — something for everyone — and you don’t have to spend a fortune. Here are just a few ideas to help you make the most of your stay.

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Why not start by simply relaxing with a glass of wine or a cup of tea and cake while watching the wildlife in the back garden? Our friendly robin, Alf, is a regular visitor — see if you can spot him during your stay.

 

Alternatively, if you’re feeling sociable, relax in the traditional local pub, approximately 450 yards up the road. The Rose and Crown is a friendly country pub serving simple home-cooked food, along with a fine selection of local and guest real ales. Newspapers can usually be found at the end of the bar if you fancy catching up on the latest UK news. Food is served until 9pm, although we wouldn’t recommend leaving your order until 8:59! Sunday lunch is particularly good, with generous portions, though the pub can get busy for sunday lunch so best to book. Local live music nights, often on the third Monday of the month. If you play an instrument, go along and join in the group are very friendly.  The pub also has a small function room available for groups by prior booking.

 

Beach lovers are spoilt for choice. Whether you fancy sunbathing, a brisk walk, paddling in the sea, or flying a kite, Camber Sands is only around 15 minutes away. Whatever the season, the beach offers simple pleasures and plenty of fun. A little tip if you’re planning to fly a kite — buy a decent one, as the wind at Camber can be surprisingly strong at times, unless you’re happy to watch it disappear into the distance! The beach is generally very safe, but as always, please pay attention to local safety notices when entering the sea.

 

For walkers, there is a folder at the cottage with plenty of local walk suggestions, including coastal routes. There’s also a lovely short walk directly across the road, where you may spot deer and rabbits. Whether you fancy a gentle stroll or a longer hike, there are routes ranging from 1 mile to over 30 miles. Cycling is excellent too.   Bedgebury National Pinetum is good for the off roaders.

 

On a clear evening, the cottage garden is wonderful for stargazing. Turn off the lights, sit back, and look up — you’ll soon start to see the night sky come alive with stars. It’s a lovely way for children (and adults!) to appreciate the wonders of space. If astronomy interests you, we highly recommend the Herstmonceux Science Centre, which offers hands-on science activities for all ages. We’re still not sure who enjoyed it more — us or the kids!

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The ancient towns of Battle, Rye, and Tenterden are all just a short drive away. Browse the independent shops and antique stores, soak up the history, or stop for coffee and something to eat. There’s also a vineyard on the road into Tenterden well worth a visit — Alternatively, book a tour at Carr Taylor its interesting insight and the sparkling wine comes highly recommended. You may be surprised by just how many vineyards there are in this part of the country, helped by the area’s surprisingly good climate.

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Families and steam train enthusiasts will love the Kent & East Sussex Railway, where you can travel from Northiam to Bodiam Castle or Tenterden. Look out for special events throughout the year.

Canoes can be hired near the bridge at Newenden, where you can also hire boats or take the ferry. If you’re feeling energetic, you can walk along the riverbank to Bodiam and then catch the steam train back — plenty of options for a great day out.

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For the more adventurous, horse riding is available locally, with options for beginners through to experienced riders, including lessons and countryside hacks.

 

Tennis lovers can enjoy the local public court just up the road. Contact the Rose and Crown for details.

 

For cinema lovers, the Kino cinemas in Hawkhurst and Rye are both excellent. Comfortable, relaxed, and complete with a bar, they make a lovely alternative to the usual multiplex experience. Kino often offers two-for-one tickets on Tuesdays, making it very affordable. Rye also makes for a lovely evening out before or after a film.

 

If you’re interested in Winnie-the-Pooh and A.A. Milne, you can visit the famous Hundred Acre Wood and even play Pooh Sticks where the author once did with his son. Nearby Groombridge is another fantastic family day out, with forest adventures suitable for all ages.

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Bewl Water Aqua Park is ideal for anyone who enjoys outdoor water activities and usually runs from April onwards.  Well worth looking at Bewl's website if you have active water-loving children.  It’s also a beautiful spot for a picnic or a long lakeside walk, with a café serving plenty of treats along the way.

 

The area is home to some excellent restaurants. You’ll find recommendations in the cottage folder, along with local “What’s On” magazines available in nearby shops. If you really want to indulge, it may even be possible to arrange for a private chef to cook for you at the cottage — just ask for details.

 

If the weather turns rainy, Slap Dash at the Barn in Hawkhurst offers ceramic painting sessions that are ideal for children (and surprisingly enjoyable for adults too!).

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Sussex and Kent are spoilt for opportunities to see animals from Big Cats at Headcorn, Port Lympne Reserve, Raindeer centre and many more.  

 

Fishing can also be great fun, especially for younger children. It’s inexpensive, relaxing, and makes for a lovely family activity. Child-sized rods and bait are available locally.

 

In August, the village hosts a traditional summer fête wonderfully old-fashioned fun for all ages.

 

October brings the Northiam Bonfire celebrations, with a parade through the village followed by fireworks and a bonfire.

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In November, try a little “chestnutting” along the road towards the Rose and Crown, where chestnut trees overhang the A28.

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A visit to Northiam village where you can visit the tree where Queen Elizabeth I is said to have rested on her way to Rye in 1573, and explore Northiam Park, where Sir Winston Churchill met Allied leaders while planning the Second Front during World War II. There are also swings and a good rope slide for children.

 

If you enjoy swimming on a rainy day, Tenterden Leisure Centre is excellent. The pool is warm, there’s a slide and wave machine for children, and spectators can relax with a coffee from the viewing area.  Have a look on their website for details.  

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Rye is a delight to wander around, with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and fascinating history. Many visitors are surprised to discover that Rye was once a busy port, despite now sitting inland on a hill.

 

Battle, famously named after the Battle of Hastings in 1066, is another fascinating place to explore. There are some lovely seafood restaurants along the high street, and “Cook” is perfect if you fancy an easy but delicious evening meal back at the cottage.

 

Winchelsea, built by Edward I in 1283, is one of the smallest towns in England to have its own mayor. Quiet and charming, it’s a lovely base for gentle walks and exploring the countryside.

 

Hastings is packed with character and history. Once one of the original medieval Cinque Ports, it still has one of the largest beach-launched fishing fleets in Europe. Hastings Castle, the Old Town, independent shops, galleries, pubs, and live music venues all make it a fantastic day out. We particularly love wandering around the quirky streets and discovering somewhere new each visit.

For children, Hastings seafront also has a funfair, crazy golf, and the Fishing Museum, which gives a fascinating insight into the town’s fishing heritage.

 

One of our own family favourites is to drive to Hastings station, park nearby, and take the coastal train to Eastbourne. It’s a wonderfully relaxing journey along the coast. Once there, enjoy the pier, seafront, and town before heading back. It’s a simple day out that doesn’t need to cost a fortune.

 

For budding scientists of any age, Herstmonceux Observatory Science Centre is a real must-visit. It’s interactive, educational, and genuinely fun for both children and adults.

 

If you’d like to cycle but don’t want to bring your own bikes, there are several local hire options, including e-bikes around Rye.

 

Golfers are also well catered for, with several excellent courses nearby. Just ask if you’d like recommendations.

 

At Christmas time, Rye Christmas Festival is a lovely seasonal outing, with market stalls, crafts, festive food, and entertainment for all ages.

 

For a little retail therapy, the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet at Ashford is worth a visit, especially if you’re arriving early from Europe before check-in.

 

A day trip to London is also very possible. Please contact us and ask for info, we will advise on the best value possible options.

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This is just the tip of the iceberg of things to do!