Culture vulture: what’s on where this month

Our edit of the most entertaining events happening this month

With the ongoing coronavirus situation it’s always best to check events are still going ahead before heading out. But remember, we are still allowed out in the great outdoors so how about discovering some of these gems on our doorstep…

REGAL LIFE THROUGH A LENS

A new outdoor photography exhibition opens on January 15 at Chartwell, near Westerham. Running until February 27, it features a series of handselected archive photographs which tell the story of the special relationship between the young Queen and Sir Winston Churchill, at his family home. In 2022 Her Majesty The Queen will become the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, having acceded to the throne in 1952 during Churchill’s second term as Prime Minister. The two had a close and genuine relationship, having first met when the Queen was just two years old. Churchill became the Queen’s trusted advisor through the earliest years of her reign, and she meant a great deal to him. This enduring relationship is illustrated by the photograph of her on her Coronation Day, which Churchill hung on the wall of his Study at Chartwell. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ chartwell THE GREAT OUTDOORS

The stunning Ashdown Forest is another great place to roam around. This is also located at the heart of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and it has national and international protection because of its wildlife. Nearly two thirds of its 6,500 acres are heathland, amounting to 2.5% of the UK’s extent of this rare habitat. Originally a deer hunting forest in Norman times, Ashdown Forest is now one of the largest free public access spaces in the South East – and of course it is the mythical ‘home’ of Winnie-thePooh.

A WHOLE LOTTA KNOLE

Whilst Knole’s historic interior closes during the winter months, its 1,000 acre parkland is open for business. In fact this is probably the best time to catch sight of the 350-strong resident wild deer herd who call this wonderful place home. There are plenty of guided walks around this ancient parkland to enjoy and if we have snow why not take along your sledge as the hillier parts of Knole are brilliant for tobogganing down!

DID YOU KNOW?

Knole House, just outside Sevenoaks and situated in 1000 acres of glorious grounds, is thought to have been conceived as a ‘Calendar House’ which once boasted the pleasingly Gregorian statistics of 365 rooms, 52 staircases, 12 entrances and 7 courtyards.

WALK OUT TO WINTER

Explore the historic parkland surrounding Scotney Castle in Lamberhurst, revealing iconic views of the Old Castle and mansion, and some secrets about the Scotney estate. A National Trust spokesperson says: “Blue-topped posts will lead you on a loop around the parkland, across fields and stiles. Keep an eye out for bomb craters and a ‘trompe l’oeil’ Edwardian bridge that isn’t quite what it might first seem. As you pass through open fields enveloped by impressive woodlands and distant views of traditional oast houses, the walk presents a picture-perfect slice of Kentish countryside that lifts the spirits in all weathers.” And don’t forget that Scotney’s tea-room serves a winter menu along with lots of delicious hot drinks and treats. www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ scotneycastle

DID YOU KNOW?

Bewl Water reservoir can hold more than 31,000 million litres of water – enough to provide for nearly 200 million people.

DID YOU KNOW?

Margaret Thatcher had an apartment at Scotney Castle during her time in office and that actor Richard Gere starred in a film there in 1979 called Yanks.

A GOOD ROASTING

Salomons Estate invites you to enjoy a delicious roast dinner on Sunday January 16. Whether it’s a family gettogether, a celebration, or simply an excuse to indulge, you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at this picture

Photo © National Trust Images/John Miller BEAUTIFUL BEWL

The country park at Bewl Water, located just off the A21, is the South East’s biggest reservoir and as well as all the recreational activities on offer there, it’s fair to say that it’s just a perfect place to go for a relaxing winter’s day walk. The 800 acre site is set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, right in the heart of the High Weald. Entrance costs £5 per vehicle.

MARKET VALUE

The Pantiles Markets continue this month. Held every other weekend they are a wonderful way to support local producers and makers – now more important than ever. As well as being able to source all kinds of delicious specialist and seasonal food and drink there are also lots of stalls selling art, handmade jewellery and interior items so make sure you head along one Saturday or Sunday in order to enjoy a socially distanced browse and buy to help all those independents keep going.

perfect venue which also includes a Victorian theatre, fascinating mueum and lots of great walks around its glorious grounds. A two course lunch at Salomons costs just £24.50 or three courses for £29.50. For more information on this special roast dinner date visit https:// www.salomons-estate.com