Spring has finally read the room and decided to (somewhat) grace the capital with its presence, and across the city, Londoners are slowly but surely emerging from their winter hibernation.
Now, if you’re anything like me, even the slightest glimpse of sunshine will have you stuffing clothes into a (questionably sized) hand luggage bag and Googling ‘cheap flights anywhere’. However, as much as I would love to constantly be jetting off to exotic, far off places; my bank balance (and my annual leave allowance) unfortunately aren’t quite as aligned with that vision.
So, I guess it’s pretty darn convenient that we’ve discovered a nearby spot that provides all the holiday vibes, but none of the stress of having to stray too far from the capital city. Please, allow us to point you in the direction of St Andrews Lakes.
This crystal clear lake is so blue and sparkly, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported straight to somewhere in the Mediterranean. Where you actually are, however, is in Halling in Kent. Yes, you read that correctly. This breathtaking, blue lake is just a mere motorway journey from London.
A previous quarry for chalk mining, St Andrews Lakes has been transformed into a stunning lake reserve, complete with 70 acres of bright blue water, sandy beaches, a huge range of water and land-based activities and Kent’s largest inflatable aquapark. Not bad, hey?
At 30 metres deep, the lakes are perfect for diving, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and having an all-round splashing time. Have a go at some watersports, rent a pedalo for a relaxing float on the water, partake in some beach yoga, or even spend some time at the spa. It’s – quite literally – whatever floats your boat.
There’s a beach hut cafe for some well-deserved post-activity refueling and rehydrating, and when you inevitably don’t want to leave and go back to reality; there’s some on-site lodges to stay in. Consider my next staycation well and truly planned.
You’ll find St Andrews Lakes at Quarry Grove, Halling, Rochester, ME2 1BA. Find our more and plan your visit here.
