The picturesque village is bursting with activities and annual events and has become a haven for many famous faces
Escape the hustle and bustle of every day life and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Aldington, a picturesque village brimming with celebrities. Nestled in the heart of rural Kent, this idyllic village and civil parish – where you can ‘isolate yourself from the outside world’ – spans just 18.23 km2 and is home to a little over 1,500 residents.
Despite its modest size, Aldington is a bustling hub of activity, hosting annual events like the Soap Box Derby that attract visitors from all over the country. The village boasts a strong sense of community, complete with its own football team and pitch, tennis courts, a children’s play area, an outdoor adult gym, and Ofsted-approved schools.
It’s no wonder that this charming spot has become a sanctuary for A-listers, with stars such as Vic Reeves, Julian Clary, and the late Paul O’Grady calling it home. Rumour has it that comedian Alan Carr also resides in the village, although this has never been confirmed, reports the Mirror.
No visit to Aldington would be complete without a trip to Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, offering an ‘unforgettable safari experience set against hundreds of acres of stunning Kentish savannah’. Here, you can enjoy close encounters with tigers, lions, wolves, and even the occasional rhino.
The breeding sanctuary, which is not a zoo but a haven for rare and endangered animals, also offers guests the chance to stay in glamping pods or wooden lodges – allowing you to wake up to views reminiscent of the Serengeti. For those who love the great outdoors, there are countless nearby walks showcasing the untouched countryside.
And for early risers wanting to enjoy a sunrise coffee and a spot of window shopping – Ashford’s Designer Outlet is just a 15-minute drive away. “Another appealing aspect is Aldington village’s rich history, with over 50 buildings of historical or architectural significance located within the parish, including the former homes of Noel Coward and Joseph Conrad,” said experts at Stevens and Co.
“Today, Aldington boasts an incredibly low crime rate, so it might surprise you to learn that the village has a strong link with smuggling folklore, specifically The Aldington Gang – notorious smugglers who once roamed Kent’s shores conducting their business, before making The Walnut Tree in Aldington their base and drop-off point for their contraband.”
Aldington is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from London, but taking the train can halve this journey time. Direct trains depart from the capital every few hours.
Despite its small size, Aldington offers a variety of holiday rentals to fit your budget. For instance, a weekend stay (Friday, January 9-11) in a one-bedroom holiday home will cost you £230, based on two people sharing.
A larger three-bedroom property is priced at £512 for the exact same dates.*Prices based on Booking.com listings at the time of writing.
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