Review: Nook’s Retreats, Aldington
Stop the scroll! We’ve got inspo for your pre-Christmas trip sorted. Retreat to one of these cosy barns nestled near Ashford, the perfect spot to unwind in after a day of shopping or exploring.
THE LOCATION
Looking for a mini break or holiday with family or friends in Kent? May we introduce Nook’s Retreats – a collection of 4 recently renovated barns in the heart of Aldington, near Ashford. The village sits on the edge of Romney Marsh, which is a great place to explore, full of atmosphere and history. Book asap for a quick pre-Christmas break, the perfect spot to retreat to after a day of shopping or exploring.
THE LOWDOWN
Tastefully furnished and beautifully finished, each barn offers open plan living, one good sized double bedroom with ensuite, a private patio, access to a tennis court and a fully equipped kitchen.
Owned by local business owner, Sally Newall, who also runs successful artisan ice cream company Simply Ice Cream. The barns are located within the grounds of Sally’s property and she’s always on hand to help with any recommendations or questions you may have.
THE VIBE
One Autumn’s day in November we stayed in Willow Barn – the others are all gorgeously named Cobnut, Orchard and Oak Barn. With 1 bed, 1 bath, it’s the perfect space for two people or why not rent all 4 barns together for a group of eight? It’s a brilliant set-up as you can still be close by but still retain your own space and privacy.
Willow Barn is wonderfully cosy, decorated in soft grey tones and sits in the middle of a row of 3 single storey barns. The barns are tightly knitted together so you will hear your neighbours coming and going and all the barns are similar with 1 double bedroom with en-suite shower room and a bright open plan living area with glass doors opening out onto a small screened patio.
Inside has everything you need from linen, towels, dishwasher, coffee machine, hair dryer, TV and even ice cream treats. Every comfort has been thought of from the plush sofa, velvet armchair and the pretty accessories so it’s a real home-from-home vibe.
Outside, there’s plenty of space to sit and enjoy the fresh air or dine outside on your personal patio. There’s also a shared lawn area to the side of the driveway and even a tennis court directly behind the barns, it’s a great spot to unwind.
OUT & ABOUT
You’re covered with things on your doorstep, as the village of Aldington has a vibrant community and all the essentials with a pub, village shop and stores with fresh local produce.
Port Lympne Safari Park & Animal Reserve is only a 7 minute drive away and the traditional seaside town of Hythe with the delightful miniature steam railway, The Royal Military canal and a wonderful wide esplanade along the seafront is just 7 miles.
If you prefer a countryside ramble, the Saxon Shore Way is very close or just head out to one of the many villages on Romney Marsh and do some exploring, the 14 historic village churches are well worth a visit.
Or if you’re after some retail therapy, look no further than the Ashford Designer Outlet, where you can pick up a bargain or head to Tenterden and its quaint High St full of quirky independents and many cafés and restaurants. Perfect for Christmas shopping!
THE MUDDY VERDICT
GOOD FOR? It was the perfect place to retreat to after a day trip, it was warm and cosy and had everything we needed. Surrounded by countryside with sheep and alpacas in the fields around, you really are out in the sticks.
NOT FOR? If you’re looking to escape with more than 2 people or children in 1 barn, it’s definitely a more romantic escape.
THE DAMAGE
Stay for 2 nights Fri-Sun for £214. Or book a mid-week stay for 2 nights for £203.
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