Colder days lend themselves to storytelling, and Kent is full of stories. Here’s two recommendations for a little history.
SCOTNEY CASTLE
This ruined mediaeval castle wouldn’t look amiss in a book of Arthurian legend. But although it may appear desolate with its creeping ivy and surrounding moat, we can assure you that Scotney castle comes with all the mod-cons of a National Trust site.
Explore the structure and grounds or dip into one of the Castle’s shops: delve into a book at their second-hand bookstore, Betsy’s, or take home a piece of nature with you from their plant shop.
BELMONT HOUSE
This 1769 estate in Faversham was once home to the Harris family, who collected a number of curiosities worth a visit. Browse their armoury, collection of Cazabon paintings and even their clock museum at Belmont House.
HALLOWEEN AND BONFIRE NIGHT
With so many landmarks of days past, Kent can get a little crowded when the veil is thinnest between the living and the dead! This year the holiday falls on a Thursday, making it the perfect beginning to a long weekend stay.
Leeds Castle , Walmer Castle and Hever Castle all run family-friendly activities and events this time of year. Adults and older children may also enjoy the Pluckley Ghost Walk: a hair-raising, guided walking tour of the Guinness world record holder for Britain’s most haunted town If you want to get into the history of a bigger city, try out Canterbury’s Ghost Tour, offered seven days a week and sure to get you into the spirit of October.
Sussex also has an unusually active scene of bonfire societies, with a famous procession in Lewes and Edenbridge . Find a local display online and experience the fervour of a Sussex Guy Fawkes for yourself.
