My wife and I have been England-lovers for as long as I can remember. Even before we were together or married, we travelled to England together as friends. The last couple of years however we only went to England on a few occasions, time to head back!
Last fall Break, we travelled to Kent for a short one night trip. I discovered this cute little sheep farm in the countryside just outside the city of Canterbury, in the quaint little village of Elmsted.
We first travelled by car to Calais where we boarded the Shuttle. Such an easy way of travelling to the UK, I absolutely love it. Maybe one of the main reasons being I really haven’t got sea legs…;-)
Elmsted Court Farmhouse is located next to the church and is a 200 acre sheep and arable farm. The late 14th century farmhouse has been converted into a charming two room bed and breakfast. Hostess Carol is a friendly and welcoming lady and makes a mean breakfast.
As we arrived pretty late in the evening, the only thing we had time for that Sunday night was dinner. ‘Three lefts and a right’ and then you are in The Five bells Inn, Carol said. So we headed out and were very pleased with the tasty pub food and great ambience we encountered. That lamb stew was absolutely divine!
The next morning we first had a lovely breakfast in the formal dining room of the farm house before taking a short stroll in and around the o-so-peaceful village of Elmsted.
After that it was time to head to Canterbury. The Park and Ride options available are cheap and so easy to use! In less than 10 minutes you are in the heart of the city.
A must see in this pretty little town is of course Canterbury Cathedral which is a stunning piece of architecture and part of a world heritage site. It is also the seat of the archbishop of Canterbury. Entrance is not cheap (12 pounds) but definitely worth while as you can spend quite some time there.
Canterbury also offers great shopping (important if you are traveling with byevamaria) and is a great place to just wander around. The sun was out that day so we enjoyed every minute of it.
Lunch was had at the lovely Veg Box Café, a great place for healthy, simple vegetarian and vegan food, made with the best local and organic produce.
No day without coffee and luckily in Canterbury you are spoiled for choice. We absolutely loved Lost Sheep coffee and Micro-Roastery.
Can’t wait to head back to the UK!
