Guests often ask us when the best time to visit is, and honestly, the countryside around The Saddlery earns its keep in every season — it just changes character.
Spring
This is when the Kent Downs properly wake up. Snowdrops and daffodils give way to bluebells through the woodlands near Godinton House, and Westwell Wines opens back up for the season. Cooler evenings still mean the fire pit gets plenty of use.
Summer
Long, warm days are made for the heathland walks at Hothfield, a vineyard terrace afternoon, or a day trip to the coast at Hythe. The barn’s private garden comes into its own too — breakfast outside, evenings that don’t want to end.
Autumn
Our favourite, if we’re honest. The villages around us — Pluckley, Smarden, Chilham — are at their best with the trees turning, and there’s nothing quite like a walk followed by a fire pit evening and a glass of something local.
Winter
Quieter, cosier, and exactly what a barn with oak beams and underfloor heating was built for. Countryside walks are crisp and empty, and a night by the fire with the dog at your feet is hard to beat.
There’s no wrong time, really — just a different version of slow. Check availability for your dates and see what the season has in store.
