THE APARTMENT AT SOLLEY FARM HOUSE Nestled in the heart of a peaceful conservation area and just one mile from Sandwich, The Apartment at Solley Farm House is at the centre of a charming village opposite the village duck pond and an ancient Norman church, this picturesque setting is the perfect base for a holiday of fun, relaxation and discovery on the Kent Channel coast. |
There’s more to Sandwich beyond two slices of bread! In fact, this Kent town is filled with plenty of history, from the Romans to the RAF, and there’s plenty to do and see beyond its borders.
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1. History
Described by English Heritage as “the most symbolically important of all Roman sites in Britain”, Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre is certainly a sight not to be missed. Containing four centuries of history, the area has played a hugely important role throughout time – the invading Roman forces even came ashore to Britain here first! And its location is still ideal in the twenty-first century, being just an eight-minute drive or forty-minute walk from the town.
If it’s the more recent side to history you prefer, then head over to the Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum. Just a twenty-minute drive from Sandwich, the museum houses historic artefacts from the Second World War and was built on one of the last surviving airfields which was involved with the Battle of Britain. And the brave ones among you can even fly their simulator, and experience what it was like to fly a Spitfire, using authentic World War Two controls in a realistic cockpit!
2. Out and about
And if history isn’t your cup of tea, Sandwich still has you covered with plenty of beautiful locations. Goodnestone Park Gardens is the place to go for any gardening enthusiasts you might be travelling with, covering around fifteen acres there’s plenty to be inspired by; from the walled to the woodland garden. And any bookish guests will be sure to want a look around since Jane Austen started writing Pride and Prejudice after staying at the Park in 1796.
For any wine lovers, the award winning Barnsolè Vineyard is a must visit for both the views and the refreshments! Drop in for a free tasting or book a tour with the winemaker to learn even more about the history of English wine and Barnsolè. You can even pick up a bottle to bring home after your holiday.
But for those who prefer to really get stuck into nature, have a look at visiting Betteshanger Park. With cycling, geocaching, orienteering and a play area available, it’s great for all ages. And if you want to plan ahead, why not book an archery session, go fossil hunting or send the kids off to forest school? Check the website for details about seasonal events at the park to see what your trip could coincide with!
3. Things to do nearby
If you’re keen to venture out to explore nearby areas, then Deal is perfect! Roughly twenty minutes by car, Deal Castle is great for history buffs. Built by order of King Henry VIII, learn how it progressed from an artillery fortress into a genteel residence and the wars the Castle fought through. There’s even a cycle path linking Deal and nearby Walmer Castle if you want to learn even more!
But if you’d rather see history on the big screen, then why not head to the Museum of the Moving Image? The not-for-profit museum catalogues the history of cinema – from its incarnation of candle-lit magic lanterns to the blockbusters we’re so familiar with nowadays! At just a two-minute walk from Deal Railway Station, it’s great for those travelling without a car, whilst their on-site garden and licensed café means you won’t go home hungry.
And when you’re looking for a souvenir of your trip to Sandwich, Deal Saturday market is ideal. Pick up homemade soap from local vendors or grab a bite to eat. Located on the high street, it’s great for having a wander around the town afterwards.