The countdown to Christmas is now well and truly on but if you’re still looking forlast-minute present ideas, then there’s plenty of inspiration at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park in Maidstone.  Pop in and pick up some stocking or hamper fillers from the gift shop, situated in the country’s last working coal-fired Oast house, or give the gift of a Kentish experience that will last the whole year.

Stocking and hamper fillers

Just landed in time for Christmas and new for 2019, Kent Life Classic Bitter (4.1% ABV) is definitely one for the beer lover.  Brewed in Burton upon Trent by the Heritage Brewing Company, it’s made with Kent Life’s own hops harvested from September’s Hops n Harvest festival and dried in the coal-fired Oast house.  A traditional pale bitter with a dry yet smooth palate and lingering bitter finish, a 500ml bottle retails at £3.75.

Make up a festive beer selection by adding Heritage Gold (4.8% ABV), a light amber coloured smooth drinking best bitter with a mild to medium bitterness and biscuit notes and It’s a Cracker (ABV4.4%), a deep mahogany bitter with hints of hedgerow nuts and a slightsmokiness.  The shop also stocks a choice of award-winning Kentish cider and juices.

Young bakers will love the Christmas Pudding in a Mug, a quick-bake, ready-made mix, great for a first pudding making experience.  For those that prefer eating to baking, Kent Life branded miniature Christmas puds, iced cakes, honey, jams and chutney make tempting treats for hampers.

Pooches in need of pampering with dog-friendly festive treats will enjoy ‘Iced Woofins’ and ‘Pupcorn’ from the Barking Bakery.   There is also a host of toys and homeware from cuddly farm animals, cute reindeer Christmas tree decorations and Christmas magnet craft kits.

Give the gift of a Kentish experience                    

For the family who has everything, gifting an experience, which gives fun family time making memories throughout the year, might just be top of their Christmas list.  Kent Life’s annual family membership (2+2) is just £99 and includes unlimited free entry to the grounds and buildings all year long, plus free entry to the annual Hops n Harvest Beer Festival. 

For the child with too many toys, Kent Life’s Adopt an Animal scheme is just the ticket. From £20 per year, the recipient can help keep one of the many farmyard animals fed, watered, clean and well housed throughout all the seasons.  An adoption pack includes a ready to frame photo of their furry friend – choose from Alpacas, Donkeys, Goats, Horses, Pigs and Sheep – along with a certificate, a complimentary ticket to visit, a fact sheet and seasonal updates about their new friend. 

For more information www.kentlife.org.uk.