A Local’s Guide to the Best of Kent Near The Saddlery Barn Retreat

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One of the best things about staying at The Saddlery is how much is within easy reach. We’re tucked into the Kent countryside near Charing, close to Pluckley, Smarden and Wye, and honestly, most guests never need to drive more than twenty minutes to fill a full day.

Start with the vineyard

Westwell Wine Estates is our most-recommended stop — a small, family-run winery on the chalk slopes of the North Downs. Book direct with us and you’ll get a discount code for their tour, finishing with a tasting on the terrace.

Walk it off

Hothfield Heathlands is one of the last true heathlands in Kent, and you can step onto it almost straight from our door. It’s dog-friendly throughout, with an easy all-weather trail if you want something gentle, or longer circular routes if you’d rather stretch your legs properly.

Wander a village or two

Pluckley, Smarden and Chilham are some of the prettiest villages in the county — timber-framed houses, quiet lanes, and proper old pubs like The Dering Arms and The Chequers Inn if you fancy lunch along the way.

A change of pace

For something livelier, The Curious Brewery in Ashford does a great evening out, or head to the coast at Hythe for a ride on the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway.

Whatever the mix, the idea is the same — a slow, easy few days with the countryside doing most of the work. Check availability and come see for yourself.