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Hawthorne Cottage
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324
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Sleeps:
4
, Start day:
Any
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East Peckham, Near Tonbridge, Kent.
When the traditional industry of hop growing and brewing was abundant in this glorious part of Kent, these charming cottages were part of the former Whitbread Hop Farm estate and used for the storage of hop picking carts. Once one of the centres of Wealden hop growing and the last stronghold of large-scale, good old-fashioned hand picking of hops, the farm is now home to the famous Whitbread Shire horses that pull the Lord Mayor of London's golden coach, each year.
Boasting the largest group of Victorian oast houses and galleried barns in the world, the farm is now one of the South East's most popular family attractions. A trip down memory lane at the Hop Story Museum gives a wonderful insight into the bygone days of hop picking. 'Hopper Specials' trains to Kent gave working-class Londoners the much-needed opportunity to earn some cash, as well as giving them and their children the benefit of a 'holiday' in the country. The family atmosphere and the fun of sitting chatting around the cooking fires in the evenings was another attraction. Sundays were a day off and visitors came from London to join in the fun in the countryside. If they had the money the adults would go off to the local pubs!
East Peckham has three pubs surviving from the days when hop pickers thronged to the area. One such pub is The Man of Kent, a delightful Grade II listed traditional Coaching Inn dating back to 1588, with many attractive features, including low-beamed ceilings, oak doors and a large wood burning inglenook fireplace. Located next to the River Bourne you can sit and relax, enjoying a fresh bite to eat by the river.
A rural haven, you will never be short of things to do whilst staying at the cottages. The surrounding area roundabout is laced with footpaths and well worth exploring. Walks lead from outside your door, yet you are still within easy reach of the County town of Maidstone with its medieval buildings, cultural attractions, global cuisine and vibrant nightlife.
The cottage is furnished with guests' comfort and relaxation in mind. Entrance lobby, adjacent shower room, and airy living/dining/ kitchen. Stairs to first floor with en-suite double bedroom and twin bedroom. Side patio with pots of plants and flowers making a special spot for relaxing.
Agent's Note:
There is an outside utility room with washing machine, tumble dryer and chest freezer.
| Hawthorne Cottage : £ PER WEEK | | 2012 | |
| 6 January - 30 March | 395 | 31 March - 22 June | 445 | | 23 June - 7 September | 545 | 8 September - 26 October | 445 | | 27 October - 14 December | 395 | 15 December - 4 January | 545 |
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| Excellant property, the owners made us very welcome. We will be coming back next year for definate. Tony and Helen Seale - as australia | |
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| +44 (0)1892 510117 |
