Away from the fairways, Kent has much to offer, from world-class iconic attractions, such as Canterbury Cathedral, Dover Castle and the new Turner Contemporary in Margate, to little gems and hidden treasures, including the mysterious tunnels of Chislehurst Caves hewn by the Druids, Romans and Saxons, which were also used as hidden shelters in the Second World War.
KENT – Following last year’s Open Championship, held at Royal St Georges Golf Club, Kent has seen an 85% increase in the number of UK golfers booking golf packages and tee times at the county’s 97 courses.
Shepherd Neame, the renowned Kent-based brewer, pub and hotel operator, is among those offering accommodation for golf tourists, which has invested significantly in its estate.
Recent acquisitions include the iconic Bell hotel in Sandwich, a favourite with visiting golfers, the Camden Arms hotel in Pembury, near Royal Tunbridge Wells, and the Fayreness hotel in Broadstairs, which boasts a magnificent cliff-top location at Kingsgate Bay.
These additions mean that Shepherd Neame now has more than 468 rooms across its managed and tenanted estate, making it the biggest independent accommodation provider in Kent.
“We have always sought out opportunities within the Kentish heartland, striving to offer the best quality proposition to golfers visiting our county in terms of both food and accommodation,” commented Nigel Bunting, Retail Director at Shepherd Neame.
“At Shepherd Neame, we endeavour to provide each visitor with a unique experience. From intimate inns to high-end boutique hotels, each property is characterful and oozes individuality to leave a lasting expression of Kent with each golfer visiting this world-class golfing destination.”
The additions to Shepherd Neame’s accommodation portfolio are further supplemented by The Lodge at Prince’s Golf Club that opened in May 2012, ideal for Links connoisseurs, and, in the future, by a new 5* hotel and spa at The London Golf Club, for which planning permission has already been granted. Both facilities are perfectly positioned to welcome in-bound golf enthusiasts thanks to their proximity to London, France and the Continent.
“These establishments underline Kent’s status as a world-class golf destination with a wide range of accommodation for all tastes, budgets and lengths of stay,” added Nigel Bunting.
