The Harty Estate in Eastchurch, England

The Harty Estate's restaurant holds a 2AA Rosette award and sources most of its fruit, vegetables and herbs from its own kitchen garden. The menu offers a plot-to-plate philosophy with dishes like partridge wellington and Wagu beef fore rib. Guests notice that the food is grown on site or locally sourced, and the chef adapts dishes for dietary needs like saturated fat restrictions.

The hotel offers individually styled luxury B&B rooms, such as the Superior King Room with estuary views and the twin room (Room 1) which includes complimentary slippers, coffee pods, and fresh home-made carrot cake. Each room has a private bathroom with powerful shower and branded toiletries that can be purchased from reception. Some rooms are located above the pub and have real wood carved furniture, while others are in cottages on the estate with resident ducks outside the door.

The Harty Estate sits on the edge of the Swale National Nature Reserve, a significant birdwatching location with miles of walking trails. Blue Flag beaches on the Isle of Sheppey are within a short drive, and the historic towns of Faversham and Canterbury are 50 km away. Guests can access the Elmley Visitors Centre (9 km) and Brogdale Collections (36 km) for further countryside exploration.

Guests can enjoy cycling along the coastal paths, hiking across the marsh to the ancient Harty village church, and fishing in the Swale estuary. The hotel provides bicycle parking and a picnic area for outdoor lunches. On-site treatment rooms offer wellness services such as massage, while the property also has a kitchen garden open for wandering.

The Harty Estate is a dedicated wedding venue with a dedicated event coordination team that handles everything from planning meetings to the day itself. The barn-style ceremony space features estuary views and a gazebo for outdoor vows. Guests consistently praise the staff such as Maxine and Sam for making the day run smoothly, and the venue can host up to large wedding parties with a hog roast buffet and evening fire pit.

Dining: 2AA Rosette restaurant with kitchen garden produce

Rooms: Superior King Room with estuary views

Location: Adjacent to Swale Nature Reserve, near Blue Flag beaches

Wellness: On-site treatment rooms for massage and relaxation

Weddings: Dedicated coordinator for full planning and fire pit evenings

Activities: Cycling, hiking, fishing, birdwatching trails