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Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
The Kent seaside town with top-rated beach where more Londoners are moving
A popular Kent seaside town, known for its scenic beach and colourful houses, is attracting a growing number of Londoners looking to relocate. Just a 90-minute drive from London and near the busy coastal town of Folkestone, Sandgate offers a blend of historic charm and coastal views, while remaining relatively accessible via Folkestone Central or Folkestone West stations. Sandgate offers a blend of historic charm and coastal views. (Image: Tom Bastin/Flickr) Previously, The Times named Sandgate's shingle beach - with its views of France and nearby attractions - one of the top 50 beaches to visit in the UK in 2024. Carlo Martella, founder of estate agency Your Key Move, told The Express that around 60 per cent of homes in the area are now being bought by Londoners. Previously, The Times named Sandgate's shingle beach one of the top 50 beaches to visit in the UK in 2024. (Image: Random_Fotos/Flickr) Sandgate has a rich history, from its smuggling past to royal connections - including King Henry VIII, who built Sandgate Castle between 1539 and 1540 as a coastal fort to defend the Kent shoreline. Today, remnants of the 480-year-old castle still remain and are visible to visitors. Henry VIII built Sandgate Castle between 1539 and 1540 as a coastal fort to defend the Kent shoreline.. (Image: Barry Marsh/Flickr) Just a short drive away lies the larger seaside town of Folkestone, best known for its tropical-looking beaches, heritage railway station, and scenic seaside walks. Sandgate is also a rising culinary spot, home to a variety of eateries, coffee shops, and a local food market all competing for your attention. Carlo Martella, founder of estate agency Your Key Move, told The Express that around 60 per cent of homes in the area are now being bought by Londoners. (Image: grassrootsgroundswell/Flickr) This small Kent village showcases a mix of historic architecture, from the Tudor-era castle to a Napoleonic garrison built in the 18th century. Other notable Londoners have made Sandgate their home too—such as Bromley-born author H.G. Wells, who lived at Spade House, a Grade II-listed building also known as Wells House. Its High Street features an array of independent shops, cafés, boutiques and antique stores, and the town also offers access to nearby Enbrook Park, a peaceful green space enjoyed by locals.
Daily Mirror
20 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
I visited pretty UK town with lavender fields just 30 minutes from London
The town of Sevenoaks in Kent is a historic gem with a 600-year-old castle, while lavender fields are a short journey away. From Charing Cross station, a direct 34-minute train ride whisks you away to Sevenoaks, a gem in the heart of Kent. Here, you can discover quaint independent shops, cosy cafes, a delightful bookshop, and expansive parklands that house deer and a castle with six centuries of history. The train fare is a mere £8.40. My journey began with a leisurely walk around the town centre, where The Shambles, a hidden 17th-century snickleway boasting sun-dappled paths and buildings reminiscent of the 18th century, was a definite highlight. The local bookshop in Sevenoaks, which bears a striking resemblance to the Notting Hill Bookshop, was another standout. With its charming decor, an array of limited editions, and a snug café offering tea for just £2.90 and cakes from £2.50, it's a must-visit. A half-hour stroll through the town centre, past intriguing sites like St. Nicholas Church and Jane Austen's uncle's house, led me to Knole Park. As the last medieval deer park in Kent, it sprawls over 1,000 acres and offers numerous hiking trails, but my main aim was to see the deer. I had the chance to observe many deer up close, enjoying a tranquil picnic while watching fawns frolicking with their mothers and stags flaunting their impressive antlers. Afterwards, I admired the 600-year-old Knole House, once a Royal residence of Henry VIII, from the outside, reports MyLondon. One courtyard is open for free exploration, and it's truly stunning. Entry to the estate, managed by the National Trust, starts at £9, but if your primary interest lies in deer-watching, this isn't necessary. Afterwards, I hopped on a train to Eynsford for just £2.40. I embarked on a picturesque half-hour hike through a scenic valley, passing by a Roman villa and Lullingstone World Garden. The pinnacle of the day trip was reaching Castle Farm's lavender fields. For a mere £7, you can stroll through the fragrant fields while bees busily work around you. Remember to book in advance, and dogs on leads are more than welcome. It was an utterly unique experience, with the vibrant purple fields offering fantastic photo opportunities. There's also the option of a guided Lavender and Distillery tour for £15, but for me, simply being enveloped by nature was enough. There's also a shop selling lavender and other local products, as well as a coffee and ice cream cart that's open all year round. You'll find a wide array of lavender products, from sleep tea to bunches and shortbread. I indulged in the lavender gelato, which had a subtle hint of lemon, and it was the perfect treat for a warm day. A tub of ice cream is priced at £2.50. While the lavender has already been harvested for the year, Castle Farm offers apple picking in September and a pumpkin display. The Norfolk Royal Apple, known as the 'Disney Snow White Apple,' is a unique variety grown here. Castle Farm is the only commercial grower of this rare apple, which thrives in the chalky soil of the North Downs. Keep your eyes peeled for the start of the apple-picking season. Following a visit to Castle Farm, a picturesque half-hour stroll leads to Shoreham station where a train back to London can be caught for £8. This journey is slightly lengthier at 46 minutes and arrives at Blackfriars. This day trip from London provides excellent value and a range of activities, making it the perfect city escape. UK and European trains, including affordable Eurostar tickets, can be booked via Trainline. Coaches can be reserved through National Express or GoEuro. Accommodation options are available on and
STV News
a day ago
- Entertainment
- STV News
Paintings celebrate 800 years of Britain's ‘first environmental laws'
Paintings celebrating 800 years of Britain's 'first environmental laws' are going on display in London. An exhibition commemorating eight centuries of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest is opening at the Society of Antiquaries in Burlington House, London. As part of the exhibition, Dan Llywelyn Hall, the youngest artist to paint a portrait of the late Queen, has been commissioned to produce four pictures depicting trees across Great Britain. All the trees included in the work, entitled the Totems to the Charter, were alive at the time the Charter of the Forest was signed. It includes one tree said to have witnessed the signing of the first Magna Carta in 1215. PA Media The Charter of the Forest, which Mr Llywelyn Hall described as the 'first bit of environmental legislation,' was a crucial appendix to Magna Carta, which ultimately paved the way for our right to access woodland. The Magna Carta was republished several times, with the final version created in February 1225, issued with a version of the Charter. Some elements of the forest laws remained in force until the 1970s. One of Mr Llywelyn Hall's pictures depicts the Ankerwycke Yew, an ancient tree close to the ruins of St Mary's Priory in Surrey, which is believed to be 1,400 to 2,500 years old. While the signing of the original Magna Carta in 1215 is largely believed to have taken place in nearby Runnymede, the National Trust has said that some people believe the sealing actually took place by the tree. How much history has the Ankerwycke Yew seen? It's thought that King John signed the Magna Carta beneath its branches and King Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn there. Thought to be at least 2,000 years old, it continues to thrive. #FactFriday — The Tree Council (@TheTreeCouncil) August 6, 2021 The yew is also said to be one of the places where Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn. Mr Llywelyn Hall has also captured the Caledonian Forest Pines of Scotland, which are descended from the first pines in the country, which arrived around 7,000BC. The Glen Loyne Pine depicted is one of the oldest that remains and a veteran of its species. The artist has also painted Curley Oak of the Wentwood Forest in Wales, which is more than 1,000 years old and the oldest Oak in that country. Mr Llywelyn Hall described the oak as sitting squat, nestled in a dense pine forest and 'oozing with atmosphere and an otherworldly presence'. The artist's final picture is of Beech trees near the Lost Pond in Epping Forest, some of the oldest in the world of the species. If you 'find' Lost Pond in #EppingForest you can also visit this incredible coppard beech tree, located nearby. This special tree is believed to be the oldest tree in this unique, ancient woodland. 💚🌳 — Epping Forest (@CoLEppingForest) June 13, 2021 He described the 'vast sprawl' of the Lost Pond Beech as depicted as an 'ominous guardian'. Mr Llywelyn Hall said: 'The Totems to the Charter are the silent witnesses; the ancient veteran trees that were around at the time of the signing, 800 years ago. 'The Charter of the Forest is the first bit of environmental legislation that ultimately paved the way for our rights of way and access to our cherished ancient woodland. 'These rare, silent witnesses are largely the accidental survivors in dense forests; embodying history myth and legend; not to mention extraordinary eco-systems of their own. 'They deserve more reverence and protection than any man made structure.' The paintings, which go on display from July 25 to September 19, will be sold to raise funds for the Society of Antiquaries library and collection as well as the charities Trees for Life and Trees for Cities. Steve Micklewright, chief executive of rewilding charity Trees for Life, said Totems celebrated a landmark charter which recognised 'the essential relationship between humanity and woodlands'. 'We are delighted that this exhibition will bring more attention to our native woodlands and the vital role they play in supporting nature and people,' he said. During the reign of King John, who signed the first Magna Carta of 1215, large swathes of England were designated royal forest and set aside solely for the king's use. PA Media The Charter of the Forest charter granted rights to land, food and fuel to a wide cross-section of English society, from barons to commoners. While Magna Carta and the charter were English documents, chapters did deal with grievances with Welsh rulers and the King of Scotland. It is believed to be the first document in which English and Welsh law appear together and shows the Welsh, Scots and English sharing political ideas and procedures. STV News is now on WhatsApp Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News
Glasgow Times
2 days ago
- General
- Glasgow Times
Paintings celebrate 800 years of Britain's ‘first environmental laws'
An exhibition commemorating eight centuries of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest is opening at the Society of Antiquaries in Burlington House, London. As part of the exhibition, Dan Llywelyn Hall, the youngest artist to paint a portrait of the late Queen, has been commissioned to produce four pictures depicting trees across Great Britain. All the trees included in the work, entitled the Totems to the Charter, were alive at the time the Charter of the Forest was signed. It includes one tree said to have witnessed the signing of the first Magna Carta in 1215. The Magna Carta Memorial at Runnymede in Surrey (Alamy/PA) The Charter of the Forest, which Mr Llywelyn Hall described as the 'first bit of environmental legislation,' was a crucial appendix to Magna Carta, which ultimately paved the way for our right to access woodland. The Magna Carta was republished several times, with the final version created in February 1225, issued with a version of the Charter. Some elements of the forest laws remained in force until the 1970s. One of Mr Llywelyn Hall's pictures depicts the Ankerwycke Yew, an ancient tree close to the ruins of St Mary's Priory in Surrey, which is believed to be 1,400 to 2,500 years old. While the signing of the original Magna Carta in 1215 is largely believed to have taken place in nearby Runnymede, the National Trust has said that some people believe the sealing actually took place by the tree. How much history has the Ankerwycke Yew seen? It's thought that King John signed the Magna Carta beneath its branches and King Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn there. Thought to be at least 2,000 years old, it continues to thrive. #FactFriday — The Tree Council (@TheTreeCouncil) August 6, 2021 The yew is also said to be one of the places where Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn. Mr Llywelyn Hall has also captured the Caledonian Forest Pines of Scotland, which are descended from the first pines in the country, which arrived around 7,000BC. The Glen Loyne Pine depicted is one of the oldest that remains and a veteran of its species. The artist has also painted Curley Oak of the Wentwood Forest in Wales, which is more than 1,000 years old and the oldest Oak in that country. Mr Llywelyn Hall described the oak as sitting squat, nestled in a dense pine forest and 'oozing with atmosphere and an otherworldly presence'. The artist's final picture is of Beech trees near the Lost Pond in Epping Forest, some of the oldest in the world of the species. If you 'find' Lost Pond in #EppingForest you can also visit this incredible coppard beech tree, located nearby. This special tree is believed to be the oldest tree in this unique, ancient woodland. 💚🌳 — Epping Forest (@CoLEppingForest) June 13, 2021 He described the 'vast sprawl' of the Lost Pond Beech as depicted as an 'ominous guardian'. Mr Llywelyn Hall said: 'The Totems to the Charter are the silent witnesses; the ancient veteran trees that were around at the time of the signing, 800 years ago. 'The Charter of the Forest is the first bit of environmental legislation that ultimately paved the way for our rights of way and access to our cherished ancient woodland. 'These rare, silent witnesses are largely the accidental survivors in dense forests; embodying history myth and legend; not to mention extraordinary eco-systems of their own. 'They deserve more reverence and protection than any man made structure.' The paintings, which go on display from July 25 to September 19, will be sold to raise funds for the Society of Antiquaries library and collection as well as the charities Trees for Life and Trees for Cities. Steve Micklewright, chief executive of rewilding charity Trees for Life, said Totems celebrated a landmark charter which recognised 'the essential relationship between humanity and woodlands'. 'We are delighted that this exhibition will bring more attention to our native woodlands and the vital role they play in supporting nature and people,' he said. During the reign of King John, who signed the first Magna Carta of 1215, large swathes of England were designated royal forest and set aside solely for the king's use. A piece of the final version of the Magna Carta created in February 1225 (PA) The Charter of the Forest charter granted rights to land, food and fuel to a wide cross-section of English society, from barons to commoners. While Magna Carta and the charter were English documents, chapters did deal with grievances with Welsh rulers and the King of Scotland. It is believed to be the first document in which English and Welsh law appear together and shows the Welsh, Scots and English sharing political ideas and procedures.
Rhyl Journal
2 days ago
- General
- Rhyl Journal
Paintings celebrate 800 years of Britain's ‘first environmental laws'
An exhibition commemorating eight centuries of Magna Carta and the Charter of the Forest is opening at the Society of Antiquaries in Burlington House, London. As part of the exhibition, Dan Llywelyn Hall, the youngest artist to paint a portrait of the late Queen, has been commissioned to produce four pictures depicting trees across Great Britain. All the trees included in the work, entitled the Totems to the Charter, were alive at the time the Charter of the Forest was signed. It includes one tree said to have witnessed the signing of the first Magna Carta in 1215. The Charter of the Forest, which Mr Llywelyn Hall described as the 'first bit of environmental legislation,' was a crucial appendix to Magna Carta, which ultimately paved the way for our right to access woodland. The Magna Carta was republished several times, with the final version created in February 1225, issued with a version of the Charter. Some elements of the forest laws remained in force until the 1970s. One of Mr Llywelyn Hall's pictures depicts the Ankerwycke Yew, an ancient tree close to the ruins of St Mary's Priory in Surrey, which is believed to be 1,400 to 2,500 years old. While the signing of the original Magna Carta in 1215 is largely believed to have taken place in nearby Runnymede, the National Trust has said that some people believe the sealing actually took place by the tree. How much history has the Ankerwycke Yew seen? It's thought that King John signed the Magna Carta beneath its branches and King Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn there. Thought to be at least 2,000 years old, it continues to thrive. #FactFriday — The Tree Council (@TheTreeCouncil) August 6, 2021 The yew is also said to be one of the places where Henry VIII courted Anne Boleyn. Mr Llywelyn Hall has also captured the Caledonian Forest Pines of Scotland, which are descended from the first pines in the country, which arrived around 7,000BC. The Glen Loyne Pine depicted is one of the oldest that remains and a veteran of its species. The artist has also painted Curley Oak of the Wentwood Forest in Wales, which is more than 1,000 years old and the oldest Oak in that country. Mr Llywelyn Hall described the oak as sitting squat, nestled in a dense pine forest and 'oozing with atmosphere and an otherworldly presence'. The artist's final picture is of Beech trees near the Lost Pond in Epping Forest, some of the oldest in the world of the species. If you 'find' Lost Pond in #EppingForest you can also visit this incredible coppard beech tree, located nearby. This special tree is believed to be the oldest tree in this unique, ancient woodland. 💚🌳 — Epping Forest (@CoLEppingForest) June 13, 2021 He described the 'vast sprawl' of the Lost Pond Beech as depicted as an 'ominous guardian'. Mr Llywelyn Hall said: 'The Totems to the Charter are the silent witnesses; the ancient veteran trees that were around at the time of the signing, 800 years ago. 'The Charter of the Forest is the first bit of environmental legislation that ultimately paved the way for our rights of way and access to our cherished ancient woodland. 'These rare, silent witnesses are largely the accidental survivors in dense forests; embodying history myth and legend; not to mention extraordinary eco-systems of their own. 'They deserve more reverence and protection than any man made structure.' The paintings, which go on display from July 25 to September 19, will be sold to raise funds for the Society of Antiquaries library and collection as well as the charities Trees for Life and Trees for Cities. Steve Micklewright, chief executive of rewilding charity Trees for Life, said Totems celebrated a landmark charter which recognised 'the essential relationship between humanity and woodlands'. 'We are delighted that this exhibition will bring more attention to our native woodlands and the vital role they play in supporting nature and people,' he said. During the reign of King John, who signed the first Magna Carta of 1215, large swathes of England were designated royal forest and set aside solely for the king's use. The Charter of the Forest charter granted rights to land, food and fuel to a wide cross-section of English society, from barons to commoners. While Magna Carta and the charter were English documents, chapters did deal with grievances with Welsh rulers and the King of Scotland. It is believed to be the first document in which English and Welsh law appear together and shows the Welsh, Scots and English sharing political ideas and procedures.
