FAMOUS FACES

Did you see the much-anticipated return of Planet Earth III? Spotted anything familiar? The captivating documentary series takes you on a nature safari across the globe, observing great white sharks in South Africa to turtles in Australia. However, the opening of the series, presented by Sir David Attenborough, does not come from an exotic and remote location. But filmed in a quintessential English flower meadow, close to you, on the outskirts of Bromley in Kent. Yes really! It was filmed at the stunning Downe Bank Nature Reserve owned by Kent Wildlife Trust, where the renowned conservationist walked along Orchis Bank as he welcomed watchers to the new series.

Despite the global, exotic locations covered in the series, it was Downe Bank that stole the hearts of the series producers because it was the very meadow that Charles Darwin used to observe and explore while he ruminated on his theories about the natural world and evolution. Sir David Attenborough and Series Producer, Matt Brandon, agreed it was a magical place and it gave them hope that if they can protect and restore and allow nature to work its miracles, then future generations will be able to experience that magic for many years to come. Definitely a lesson that we should appreciate the wildlife we have right here on our doorstep, aren’t we lucky?

FAB COLLAB

We love when Muddy winners band together! You’ll now find Gaia Homeware‘s (Winner of Best Sustainable Lifestyle Business 2023) gorgeous wares on the shelves of Rock Paper Scissors (Winner of Best Lifestyle Store 2023), the lifestyle store and gallery space in the heart of Canterbury, that supports British makers and sells handmade and ethical products.

So what are you waiting for? Go shop Gaia Homeware’s wonderfully tactile selection of goodies from bath to dinner ware, glassware to gifting and in everything they do, being as kind to the planet as possible is priority. Whether that’s using reclaimed wood for furniture projects, sourcing products with low carbon footprints or using reusable and recyclable packing options – that’s why you made them your winners! Open Mon – Sat, 10am – 5:30pm and until 4:30pm on Sundays.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Living M Pop-Up, Bluewater, Mon 20 – Sun 26 Nov

We love Living M, the luxury skincare brand specifically created to target mid-life skin and keep it glowing whatever our busy lives, climate – and hormones – throw at us. So don’t miss them at John Lewis in Bluewater for Black Friday week so grab some fab discounts just in time for Christmas.

Bite Sized Nutrition: Gut Health Social, Macknade, Faversham, Fri 1 Dec

Christmas can be an indulgent period so if you’re looking to have a gut-friendly festive season, join this final bite size nutrition session of 2023 with Katy from Wasted Kitchen and Nutritionist Virgina Hills this December. Taking place at Macknade in Faversham, 10am – 12pm, the session is 2 hours and easy to digest with time to chat and ask questions. Tickets are £25 each.

Storytellers, The Beaney, Canterbury, 2 Dec – 25 Feb 2024

Storytellers is a group exhibition that’s all about celebrating the connection between art and storytelling. Through the works of 23 contemporary artists across various disciplines and from all walks of life, each bringing their own unique flair, Storytellers explores the idea that artworks convey narratives that spark emotions and discussions. It’s not just about pretty pictures, colours and shapes, it’s about the stories that are told. Go see!

New Year’s Eve Retreat, Stede Court, Biddenden, 30 Dec – 2 Jan 2024

Kick off 2024 the very best way at Stede Court, the exclusive luxury fitness & wellbeing retreat, set in seven acres of beautiful gardens and woodland, near picturesque Biddenden. Run by Kathryn Freeland, who has over 20 years’ experience training private clients and celebrities in London before bringing her positive energy and experience to Kent. Spend 3 nights with everything included from meals, outdoor circuits, mindfulness, walks, sauna, cold plunge, yoga plus a New Year’s Eve special dinner with music and fizz.

NOW OPEN

The Wonderworks, Margate

Britain’s leading model maker has opened an exciting new experience. Formerly the Hornby Visitor Centre, the interactive attraction will immerse visitors into the world of Hornby Hobbies’ famous hobby, toy, collectable and specialist brands through a range of educational and sensory experiences. It’s a unique interactive adventure where you can get your hands on with their incredible models and kits, enjoy fascinating displays and discover the history behind Britain’s best loved toys and hobbies.

Lakeside Lodges, Leeds Castle

Experience these new Lakeside Lodges at Leeds Castle, offering a truly unique experience with breath-taking views overlooking the Great Water which you can admire from your deck or from your own private outdoor bath. After relaxing, explore the Leeds Castle estate with over 500 acres of seasonal gardens, parkland and historic architecture. Not officially launching til Fri 8 Dec but open for bookings now.

Boutika, Tenterden

Now open on Tenterden’s High St is clothing and accessories boutique, Boutika, founded by friends Michelle and Cassie. Open Mon-Fri, 9:30am – 4:30pm, Saturdays at 9:30am – 5pm and Sundays at 11am – 3pm. Go forth and shop!

FESTIVE STAYS

Rowhill Grange & Utopia Spa, Wilmington

Want to escape for Christmas, Twixmas or New Year? This award-winning country house spa retreat has you covered! If you like your spas high-gloss and slick service then this one’s for you. Don’t lift a finger this Christmas with a feast on both days in their 2 AAA Rosette Restaurant, tasty tipple (or two!) and a luxurious room to relax in, all festively decorated. 2 nights from £1,150 or 3 nights from £1,510. Enjoy a Twixmas B&B stay including time in one of Kent’s best spas from £225 per room, per night. Or start 2024 in utter style with their New Year’s Eve Package that includes sumptuous gala dinner on the 31st, New Year’s Day breakfast and full use of the spa til 11am from £460 per room. Pamper-me time, here we come!

Albion House, Ramsgate

Looking for a weekend getaway with delicious food, sandy beaches, stunning architecture and inspiring interiors? Get the Albion House on your list, a stunning Regency building dating back to 1791 with a fascinating history. This Winter book one of their stunning seaside rooms on a Sunday night for just £100. To book, call them on 01843 606630 and quote ‘Sublime Sunday’.

The Ferry House, Isle of Sheppey

Enjoy the ultimate relaxation in the lead up to the festive season, set in this countryside retreat aside the Swale estuary, book their Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Massage package. Indulge in a homegrown, locally sourced meal, spend the night in one of their luxury Waterside or Coach House rooms, wake up to a scrumptious breakfast and then relax in one of their tranquil treatment rooms with a massage. The perfect getaway for 2, book asap!

Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, Hythe

Treat your loved ones to a truly unforgettable Christmas on safari at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve with all the details taken care of from Christmas Eve to Boxing Day. The 600-acre reserve is Kent’s biggest wildlife park makes for a very unique Christmas stay. Enjoy their stunning accommodation, gloriously festive entertainment, decadent dining (washed down with a glass of Gusbourne English Sparkling wine, of course!) and not 1 but 2 unforgettable animal experiences, this Christmas retreat is the ideal way to ensure a truly magical festive season.

Mount Ephraim Country House & Gardens, Hernhill

Treat yourself to a winter stay in Mount Ephraim’s B&B between now and 31 March 2024 and get £30 off each night’s stay via their website. Prices start at £160 per room per night with breakfast or £135 for a room only. There’s five guest rooms, aptly named after their former inhabitants, all beautifully and individually decorated with flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee making facilities, hairdryers WiFi and free parking. Get access to ten acres of gardens and enjoy a heart breakfast in the West Wing Kitchen with stunning views over the estate, it’s an ideal country retreat for couples, friends and families.

SUPPORT

Remembering the true spirit of Christmas and the joy of giving, how about this for supporting a worthwhile, local cause? Thanet’s only baby bank for vulnerable children, Mama to Mama, provide essential pre-loved items to vulnerable pregnant women, caregivers and children under 5, who are living in poverty. Since becoming a registered Charity and securing a warehouse they have doubled in size, seeing a 50% increase in referrals and due to the cost of living crisis the demand for their service is more urgent than ever. They’re fundraising as they want to be able to say YES to every call so please donate and spread the word so they can continue to provide a lifeline to children under 5 and their caregivers in poverty.

CHRISTMAS INSPO

With a new season upon us, these beautiful new designs from Catherine De Crèvecoeur are just the right boost your jewellery collection needs. Designed and handmade in Catherine’s studio in Tunbridge Wells, each piece can be worn on its own or stacked together with new or existing bracelets and necklaces so the possibilities are endless. Sustainably sourced and hand-crafted, these pieces are made from the highest quality leather and hypoallergenic gold-plated metal – meaning they might make an impact but are so lightweight you’ll hardly know you’re wearing them. Buy 2, get £5 off!

Words by Mollie Manning

Superflashy newsflash! Celeb goss, new openings and festive inspo

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