This wonderful barn conversion lays nestled in the heart of the pretty hamlet of Godmersham, boasting stunning Kentish countryside views and superb trails and walks. Being a mere 8 miles from the historical and vibrant city of Canterbury and less than 3 miles from the stunning Chilham Castle, this cottage is the ideal base to absorb and discover the culture of rural Kent. The village of Godmersham is found on the Great Stour River, where it cuts through the infamous North Downs, one of Kent's many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With the villages of Chartham and Wye also being in close proximity, there are an abundance of sights and activities to experience.

Godmersham Park House is possibly Godmersham's most well-known asset, having previously been owned by Edward Knight, the brother of the illustrious novelist Jane Austen. Austen spent many a time in the mansion between 1794 and 1813 and possibly based "Persuasion" and "Mansfield Park" on her experiences of local Kentish society. "Pride and Prejudice" is also said to portray characters and scenes from Godmersham Village. Although the house is not open to the public, there are wonderful walks through the grounds to enjoy.

Chilham is one of the most picturesque villages in Kent. Regularly used for filming with its picture perfect medieval square most recently it was used as the village in "Emma" in 2009, "Miss Marple" in 2006 and "A Canterbury Tale" in 1944, which was filmed along the Pilgrim's Way. Even the famous David Suchet has paid a visit to the village in the form of "Poirot" in 1995, which was filmed in the main square, and along the approach to Chilham Castle. Ian Fleming also mentions the village in his James Bond novel "Moonraker". There are a couple of pubs in the village and for the energetic a very pretty walk to the village through the Kent countryside, from the holiday cottage.

If you're after something for the children, then this is the perfect base. For swimming and leisure activities, there are large leisure centres both at Faversham and Ashford, which are about 20 minutes drive away. For the more daring, why not take a dip in the sea? 20 mins drive away is the blue flag beach of Whitstable, famous for the "Tankerton Slopes". As the name suggests, the grass slopes down towards the beach where prettily coloured beach huts perch on the edge of the beach and the path which leads right along the coast, to neighbouring towns. Howletts Wild Animal Park is also a mere ten minute drive from Godmersham, the famous home of the zoo founded by John Aspinall and with a large colony of gorillas.

The renowned city of Canterbury is less than a 15 minute drive away and is a must-see in terms of attractions and sights. The architectural beauty of Canterbury Cathedral, which dates back to 597 AD, is a wonder to behold and would be the highlight of any holiday or break. In 1170 Archbishop Thomas Beckett was brutally murdered on the steps of the alter in the Cathedral and thousands of Pilgrims pay homage each year. Other attractions include, The King's mile, St Dunstan's, West Gate Towers, Northgate and The Canterbury Tales. If you're feeling weary and wish to experience the sights without tiring your feet, you can take one of the River Tours and absorb the City by boat along the River Stour. There are museums, walking trails or guided walks to help you enjoy the narrow winding cobbled lanes. Canterbury is steeped in tradition but is also a modern and chic city with welcoming bars, pubs, nightclubs, fine restaurants, and a High Street with independent and high street stores.

Looking to wine and dine? Or keen to know what the best restaurants in the area are?!

Meal Mole is an exciting food website that attracts all food lovers and travellers. Please see the link below to see their reviews on places to dine at in Canterbury.

http://mealmole.com/country/united-kingdom/canterbury

Check out our website for more places to visit in Kent.