The County of Kent is world famous as the "Garden of England" and Kingsdown is a coastal village abutting the "White Cliffs" of Dover. Situated between Dover, with its famous medieval Castle and Channel ports, and Walmer and Deal with their Tudor rose shaped Castles of the sixteenth century, Kingsdown is ideally positioned for those who enjoy sea bathing, walking (the Saxon Shore Way), playing golf, or visiting the many historic and charming towns, villages and gardens of Kent.

The medieval Cinque Port town of Sandwhich, with the Royal St George's Golf Course, is 20 minutes drive. Folkestone and the Channel Tunnel with the Shuttle train service to and from France and the mainland of the Continental Europe, at Calais, are 30 minutes away. The International train station at Ashford is 40 minutes away: it is possible to catch or leave the Eurostar passenger trains there for train journeys connecting with the mainland European train network. Half an hour's drive away is the city of Canterbury with its Cathedral dating from the eleventh century; Archbishop Thomas Becket was murdered there in 1170.

Surrounded by an "Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty", Sparrow court is a brick and flint country house dating from the beginning of the 1700's and is situated on the edge of this peaceful village. The garden is charming. For breakfasts, the emphasis is on local produce and the jams and marmalade are home made. For lunches and evening meals there are pleasant pubs and restaurants in the area, personally recommended by the Maudes.

GRADE

• South East England Tourist Board 3 Diamonds

PRICES: As from 16 February 2001

Bed and Breakfast from 25.00 per person per night.

• 1 x Double room with private bathroom
• 1 x Twin room with private bathroom
• Colour television in both bedrooms
• Tea and coffe making facilities
• Cot and high chair available
• Off road parking