On June 8th (2006), my husband and I landed in Dover and were looking for a place to stay overnight. The Tourist Information Centre had a list of accommodation and the picture of The Gardeners' Rest and the description made it sound like an ideal spot.

A few minutes outside of Dover (near Deal) on the Kent coast we found a little piece of heaven! Ken and Sandra Upton welcomed us to their custom-built home on a hill in the village of Kingsdown, overlooking the English Channel and a beautiful golf course on the other side of the valley. Our huge room had a private balcony from which we could enjoy this view and admire Ken and Sandra's stunning award-winning gardens. A wonderful king-size bed made up with fine linens, fresh flowers, a generous hospitality tray, a spacious bathroom with lots of yummy toiletries and fluffy towels, delicious breakfasts (with the best coffee we had in England) in a second-floor solarium with the same magnificent views and the wonderful peace and quiet enticed us to stay two more days. We left feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

It proved to be a great location from which we could visit Dover as well as a number of other historic sites nearby including Deal Castle. As well, we enjoyed a good meal at a waterfront pub in the village and strolled along the pebble beach beside the white cliffs.

We would highly recommend The Gardeners' Rest to anyone travelling to Dover and the white cliffs. Whether you're seeing historic sights or hiking the white cliffs or cycling through the scenic Kent countryside, Ken and Sandra will take excellent care of you.

For further information, contact the Uptons at: [--]