Location
Hawthorn Farm is located in East Kent, in the heart of Kentish orchard country, in the hamlet of Ware. We are very close to the pretty village of Ash, and a short drive from the picturesque village of Wingham, and the historic town of Sandwich. The farm sits in a remote and peaceful setting, and yet it is also perfectly located within easy reach of some fantastic blue flag sandy beaches, championship golf courses, wildlife parks, ports/marinas, charming seaside towns and of course the historic Cathedral City of Canterbury.
Being less than 30 minutes from the Channel Ports and Tunnel, Hawthorn Farm is also a perfect base for anyone wanting to enjoy a day trip to France. Or if you're visiting from mainland Europe, it's an easy to reach and perfect location for exploring Kent, London and the South of England.
History
Hawthorn Farm was once known as "New Farm". The main farm house (our home) and Pear Tree Cottage (the annexe to the farm house) were originally converted from a large barn with the adjoining stables about 30 years ago. The other four cottages were converted more recently from farm buildings for the use of labourers and fruit pickers working in the many acres of surrounding orchards. The previous owners ran the holiday cottages business for 11 years or so, before we took it over in September 2016.
The Farm Grounds
Hawthorn Farm now includes just under four acres of land, including paddocks, hay/wildflower meadows, landscaped gardens and large shared playing field - with plenty of space for children to play outside. The holiday cottages have unique and uninterrupted views of the paddocks, meadows and surrounding fruit orchards. So you can enjoy an afternoon picnic under the shade of a parasol, or put your feet up with a cold glass of something nice, whilst watching the sun go down on those long summer evenings...
The Accommodation
Our four charmingly renovated self-catering cottages and luxury annexe sleep from 2 to 5 people, and provide the ideal accommodation, not just for family holidays - but also as a handy base for cycling or walking holidays; a quiet idyll for a romantic break in the countryside; or a comfy holiday home from home for anyone seeking some much needed rest and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. There's definitely something to please everyone!
We welcome well behaved pets in two of our holiday cottages (Foxglove and Primrose), so your dogs (or other pets) can enjoy your holiday too... just make sure to let us know who you'll be bringing along with you, so we can tell Rosie and Sam, our resident donkeys to expect visitors and to prepare their welcome pack!
Local food and drink
There's a choice of farm shops and independent grocery stores near to Hawthorn Farm, where you can buy a wide range of award-winning locally grown fruit and veg, as well as Kent-made produce and essential groceries. We can even arrange a welcome hamper with a selection of finest Kentish produce for your first evening meal and/or breakfast.
If you prefer someone else to cook for you, there are lots of highly recommended country pubs, restaurants, cafes, bistros and takeaways within a few miles. You really will be spoilt for choice. Sampling the local produce is a must at least once when you're visiting The Garden of England!
We are passionate about supporting and showcasing the quality and diversity of independent Kent businesses/produce, and the unique beauty of this county. We'll happily share our knowledge of the local area with you and help you to plan a stay to remember!