With summer just around the corner, there is no better time than to book a trip to a PIG to make some sunshine memories! You could be exploring hidden gems, tucking into fresh Kitchen Garden pickings, or simply sitting back and basking in sunny blue skies.
Our PIG people have gathered their favourite places to visit out and about around THE PIG-in the South Downs and THE PIG-at Bridge Place this summer, to make your summer holidays one to remember!
THE PIG-at Bridge Place, Kent
Whether you mooch around our Kitchen Gardens, potter around Canterbury's historical city centre or stroll through the coastal towns past their colourful cottages, THE PIG-at Bridge Place is perfectly situated within easy reach of Kent's top hot spots.
Sip some English Fizz with Simpsons
THE PIG-at Bridge Place is nestled in the heart of the Wine Garden of England, so we really recommend visiting Simpsons Wine Estate – a wonderful family run winery right on our doorstep. They offer tours of the vineyard and tastings of their delicious English wines.
A foodie’s dream come true
Macknade Faversham is the South East’s biggest food hall, filled with all sorts of amazing food stalls! From deli counters and butchers to artisan coffees and homemade café cakes, this place celebrates the best of local and seasonal food.
Experience 600 acres of Kent safari
The largest wildlife park in Kent, Port Lympne Safari Park is a great family day out! You’ll be surrounded by 600 acres of safari, where rare and endangered animals call their home. Wander along wooden walkways, visit a land that time forgot at the Dinosaur Forest, or reconnect with your wild side and hop on a truck safari to see free roaming animals (which is included in your entry ticket!).
Quaint charms of a traditional harbour town
Whitstable makes for a perfect day out with harbour streets to explore, independent boutique stores to have a mooch in, and plenty of restaurants to choose from when you’re feeling a little peckish. Not to mention the town’s main claim to fame: oysters. They are celebrated every year at their Oyster Festival!
Relax along the water
What better way to explore Canterbury in the summer than with an award-winning river tour! Sit back, relax, and take in the sun’s rays as you cruise along the river, taking in the sights as you go.
THE PIG-in the South Downs, West Sussex
THE PIG-in the South Downs is nestled high up in the South Downs, a place known for its National Park with plenty of great walks, historic towns and harbours, stunning south coastline and fabulous English wines.
Taste the grapes of a local English vineyard
Visiting a vineyard is a must! With 140 vineyards, Sussex is the top wine producing region in the UK. From the Digby Tasting Rooms in Arundel, to Wiston Estate, Rathfinny Wine Estate and even our own vineyard here at THE PIG, the South Downs is an incredibly exciting place to visit for delicious English wines.
Breathe in the fresh sea breeze
The beautiful sandy beach of West Wittering is perfect for sea lovers! Miles of beautiful coast is awaiting you, where you will be able to witness low and high tides and incredible sunsets.
Step back in time over in Arundel
Nestled in the beautiful market town of Arundel, you’ll find Arundel Castle, where you can step back in time on a tour through the grounds and gardens and explore the home of The Duke of Norfolk. Arundel itself is home to an array of antique shops, bars, restaurants, and coffee shops – Juniper's Café is a personal favourite of ours at THE PIG-in the South Downs. You must try their cinnamon buns!
Explore the South Downs in the sun
Riverside South Downs in Amberly is the go-to place to get outside in the sunny weather! Riverside offers pretty much every activity you could think of, from bikes to hire to Kayaks and Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) to ride along the River Arun. On top of that, they also offer alfresco dining across two riverside terrace gardens, overlooking the historic Houghton Bridge.
Dive into Chichester’s history
If you’re heading into Chichester, then stopping at Chichester Cathedral is a must! The Cathedral has been the centre of life in Chichester for over 900 years and is now free for visitors to come and see the historic building. From 5th – 8th June 2024, The Festival of Flowers will be taking place here and is a spectacular sight to see some beautiful floral arrangements, handcrafted by talented florists and flower enthusiasts from across the county.
Take in the sights and sounds of nature
Wetlands Centre is situated at the foot of the Offham Hangar, a part of the Arun Valley in Arundel, and is one of nine wildfowl and wetland nature reserves. You can explore over 60 acres of reserve, whilst getting stuck in with plenty of activities happening each day – you can even take a guided boat safari trip.
Or you can just stay put with us…
Daily Kitchen Garden Tours
A must at any PIG this summer is joining our friendly team of Kitchen Gardeners for a tour of our grounds! Happening every day at 11am, these tours are free to attend and offer a great opportunity to speak to THE PIG's gardening team, peek into our polytunnels, discover our greenhouses, and see what we're growing in our fruit cages.
Potting Shed Treatments
If you’re after something a little more relaxing at THE PIGs, why not book yourself in for a bespoke treatment in the Potting Sheds – our seriously relaxing, rustic treatment rooms, tucked away in the Kitchen Gardens. Whether you opt for a facial or a massage, they make for the perfect space to switch off, melt away and unwind.
Acoustic Music Nights
If long lazy evenings with chilled acoustic music are your thing, we've got you covered! Head to your favourite PIG this summer for some live local music - the perfect way to unwind at the end of the week. No need to book these events, just swing by – entry is free. Find the next dates here.
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute road trip, or the chance to wallow in comfort at your favourite PIG by staying a little longer for less – check out our latest offers across the litter.
