Scotney Castle National Trust

A few weeks ago I took my son to Tunbridge Wells so that he could do a days workshop, which meant I had the whole day to myself. I was really looking forward to it and planned to visit a National Trust, poodle around a village or two and have lunch.

After some research I couldn't really find too much in the immediate vicinity that tempted me, so I booked a morning and afternoon parking slot at Scotney Castle and a table at a lovely little cafe in Brenchley for lunch.

It was a very grey day but luckily no rain.

I took my sketch book with me and sat for a long time before actually putting pen to paper, scared anyone passing would sneak a peak, but I really did enjoy the time spent sketching and painting.

Lunch was lovely at the Little Bull Cafe but extremely fast, I'd barely sat down and my order was in. Although it was delicious it all felt a bit of a rush which was a shame.

Avocado and halloumi on sour dough toast

After lunch I went back to Scotney Castle for a look inside the castle itself.

A long day, quite lonely but nice day.

Crusader adventures

Last summer we seriously splashed out and brought ourselves a folding camper, made by Pennine International. Ours is a 2019 Crusader, brought second hand from Camping International. It was a big investment, a huge step up from a tent and having been told that under no circumstances were we having a caravan, a fantastic compromise.

It was pretty scary hitching and pulling what seems like a big unit on the back of the car, but after the initial journey we are definitely more confident happy campers.

It's a 6 berth Pathfinder equivalent, with a double bed at each end, a toilet, heater and hot and cold running water. It's quite amazing. 

As it was second hand, in addition to its full awning, it also came with an air porch, which is plenty big enough for the two of us and Tulip, with the added benefit of being easy to set up and pack down.

Since having the camper we've mostly stayed at Painters Farm campsite in Faversham, Kent and I love it there. Beautiful walks, gorgeous sunsets and a pub next door, what more could you ask for.

There's been a few trips that so far and hopefully a lot more adventures to come.