Headline pls Beathere a retreat
Part conservation site, part family farm, Kent’s Elmley National Nature Reserve is a tranquil spot for relaxation or events
ELMLEY NATIONAL NATURE RESERVE on the Isle of Sheppey, North Kent – an hour’s drive from Gatwick airport and reachable by train – is a conservation site of international importance as well as a family farm. It is also the only National Nature Reserve in the country where you can stay overnight. Elmley’s proximity to London makes it a convenient retreat destination if you are based near the capital or visiting for work. The 18th-century Kingshill Farmhouse on the property was launched last summer following a year-long renovation. Sitting at the heart of the 1,335-hectare reserve, it sleeps up to 14 guests across six bedrooms and can accommodate the same number of people in a traditional meeting set-up, with breakout areas and far-reaching views across the reserve. Other accommodation options include the five-bedroom Elmley Cottage, which can sleep ten, and a small selection of secluded cabins and shepherd huts for couples or solo travellers. The property can host overnight corporate gatherings for between five and 30 people. For larger events, Kingshill Barn can hold 200 standing or 150 seated, with full event catering. elmleynaturereserve.co.uk
JUNE 2020
REBECCA DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY
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ABOVE: Dramatic views across Elmley LEFT: Kingshill Farmhouse BELOW LEFT: Kingshill Barn event space BELOW RIGHT: The kitchen at Kingshill Farmhouse
