We hope you'll enjoy browsing our blog, where you'll find a wealth of information about our charming self-catering holiday cottages at Hawthorn Farm: the stunning surrounding countryside, the miles of nearby coastline, and the historic City of Canterbury with its magnificent Cathedral, plus the many picturesque local towns and villages…
In the following Blog articles you'll discover hidden gems, local events, and insider tips to make the most of your stay. Whether you're a seasoned visitor or a first-time guest, we hope our blog inspires you to make the happiest of memories in your holiday cottage, and to explore all that our beautiful corner of the world has to offer.
Your Perfect Winter Getaway
Whilst it can be beautiful and serene, winter can also be a challenging time of year for many. The shorter days and colder temperatures can lead to feelings of low mood and decreased energy levels. Additionally, the season, while joyful for some, can be a source of stress and anxiety for others.
It's so important to be kind to ourselves during this time of year. Sometimes, all we need is an escape from the demands of everyday life - so whether you're dreaming of a cosy retreat, or a snowy get-away-from-it-all adventure, a winter holiday cottage stay in Kent can offer the perfect tonic!
A picture is worth a thousand words
East Kent, with its stunning coastline, historic towns, picturesque villages, orchards and expansive countryside views, offers a wealth of photographic opportunities for both amateur and professional photographers alike.
So whether you've got all the kit and take your photography seriously, or whether you like to snap away on your mobile phone to upload images to Instagram, your holiday photos can be a beautiful reminder of your trip!
Here are some tips to inspire your next photography adventure in East Kent and help you capture some stunning memories:
Quick and Easy Dishes for a Perfect Winter Stay
Who says you need to be a "Masterchef" champion to create delicious winter warming meals? With a few simple ingredients and a cosy cottage kitchen, you can create hearty and comforting dishes that will warm you up from the inside out.
Here are a few quick and easy recipes that you can make during your winter getaway:
A Guide to East Kent's Interesting and Quirky Names
Let's face it, the UK is full of quirky, funny and downright strange names! And East Kent is no exception... The iconic "Ham Sandwich" road sign is probably one of the most photographed landmarks in this area.
Why? Because there's something enthralling about our place names, as they're a reflection of a rich history, cultural identity, linguistic diversity - and often our unique sense of humour. Whatever their origins, these quirky names add a touch of charm and character to our landscape, and continue to captivate people all over the world!
Here are some of our favourite local place names, and a bit more information about them:
Plan your perfect Kent getaway: How to make the most of your annual leave
With the promise of warmer days on the horizon, it's time to start dreaming of your next escape. Kent, a hidden gem in the South East of England, offers a diverse range of experiences, from historic castles to stunning coastal walks.
At Hawthorn Farm Cottages, we've got everything you need for a memorable stay. Our cosy cottages, perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends, are the ideal base to explore all that Kent has to offer at any time of year.
To help you make the most of your time off, we've put together a handy guide to the 2025 UK bank holidays and some tips on how to maximize your leave.
More than just a fun name!
A short 10 minute drive from Hawthorn Farm, Sandwich is a historic town nestled on the Kent coast. It's a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, charm, and coastal beauty. With its picturesque streets, medieval architecture, and stunning waterfront, it's the perfect destination for a leisurely day trip or a longer holiday.
We are often asked about which came first - the place name, or the name of the humble "sarnie" - now in common parlance around the world...
We look forward to welcoming you
to Hawthorn Farm Cottages soon!