01 December 2007
Sally Howard
Elmsted, just outside of Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom.
Not strictly within outer-London’s M25 boundaries, but the perfect spot to escape the big-city hustle and bustle – and still be within an easy train trip back into the city from Wye and Ashford stations (plus you can catch the Eurostar to Paris at the latter). Little Gains Cottage is also the definition of English rural idyll – it’s a Grade II National Trust-listed, 16th-century Tudor cottage situated in the heart of “the garden of England”. Lovingly restored, the property is immaculate – from its exposed beams to antique furniture and a wood fire. Great for those looking to combine big-city delights and a rural wind-down – with trout fishing, horseriding, cricket and tennis all available nearby. Or perhaps you might like to splash about on the shore at nearby Camber Sands before donning your flat cap for a pint of Kentish ale. In summer, you get to kick back on the cottage’s abundant private land and taste the life of the British landed gentry.
Top choice for: would-be aristos.
Source: Qantas The Australian Way December 2007