Kent is just as magical in the winter as it is in spring and summer, so don't miss the chance to see the Garden of England in a whole new light.

Visit Kent is reminding visitors and residents that there is plenty to see and do across the county during the winter months – and those who don't venture outside could be missing some truly stunning sights.

“The beauty of Kent's rural villages, sweeping countryside, and elegant heritage sites does not fade as the temperature drops,” said Visit Kent chief executive Sandra Matthews-Marsh. “Imagine roaring log fires, sparkling lights and frost-bitten grounds at National Trust properties such as Knole House, Ightham Mote and Scotney Castle.

“There are countless activities and experiences to enjoy as many of Kent's attractions are open all year round. There are also some great entrance and travel offers available at this time of year, so it pays to venture into the Garden in the winter.”

Kent has more than 4,000 miles of walking routes, so wrap up the family and blow away the festive cobwebs with a trek through our ancient woodland or along our crisp coastal paths, and Kent's scores of formal gardens are also full of seasonal sights.

And there's no need to fear the chill in the air as there are plenty of cosy Kentish pubs waiting to keep you warm during your winter walks. You can even sup a special seasonal Amber Ale from England's oldest brewer Shepherd Neame.

Whether you are a visitor or a Kent resident, why not rediscover Kent this winter?

COMPETITION
To highlight just how much the county has to offer at this time of year, Visit Kent is running a competition to win a warming winter break in Kent, complete with days out, cosy accommodation and even some warming ales to keep the chills away!

We've teamed up with the four star country manor Chilston Park and some of our other partners around Kent to offer two people an incredible prize, including:

• Overnight stay at Chilston Park Hotel including dinner in the Culpepper Restaurant & breakfast
• Free entry into any three National Trust properties in Kent
• Two bottles of Shepherd Neame's Amber Ale

One lucky runner-up will win a three course Table d'Hôte dinner at the Brasserie on the Bay restaurant at Prince's Golf Club, Sandwich (two AA Rosettes).

To enter and for full terms and conditions, visit www.visitkent.co.uk/winter

ENDS
For further media information, please contact Visit Kent PR Manager Sinead Hanna at Sinead.Hanna@visitkent.co.uk or call 01227 812914. For images of Kent in winter, go to https://www.flickr.com/photos/visitkent/sets/72157629331547211/ 

Notes to Editors
Visit Kent Ltd is the Destination Management Organisation for Kent (the Garden of England), championing the county's £3.2 billion tourism industry and supporting more than 64,000 jobs.
It is recognised as one of the country's leading DMOs, targeting UK and overseas markets to raise Kent's profile as a premier destination, improving quality and skills within the industry, and growing investment in tourism. Visit Kent is a public/private sector partnership supported by Kent County Council, Medway Council, district and borough councils, and the leading sector tourism businesses in Kent.

For further information visit www.visitkent.co.uk (consumer) or www.visitkentbusiness.co.uk (business), or tweet @visitkent.