THE thought of driving on the ''wrong'' side of the road brings many a continental jaunt to a halt long before the spare bulbs and warning triangle are packed in the boot of the car. But for the less perturbed it still means a journey of around 550 miles from Scotland's central belt to Dover.
Inevitable traffic queues on our motorways, coupled with the necessary stops, can easily account for a journey of around 10 hours. This, if immediately followed by a ferry crossing and adjustment to continental driving, can lead to strain and exhaustion.
On a recent journey to France I was more than happy to see the Dartford Bridge disappear into the background. It had been a hot, dry day with the usual
tailbacks on the M6 but thankfully I was within 30 minutes of a pre-arranged stop in Kent. I had ''done'' France before on the overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg but this time that route didn't suit my destination.
The Jarvis Pembury Hotel is located outside the attractive spa town of Tunbridge Wells. It was built six years ago and has as a distinguishing feature a main entrance resemblant of an oust house. But perhaps more important on this occasion was that the hotel's facilities fitted the requirements precisely.
Bedrooms are bright and airy with many looking on to orchards or attractive garden grounds that have summer seats giving a quiet spot to relax. It was peace on earth, right down to the chirruping birds. And ensuite facilities included a shower that did not need a degree in plumbing to work - a rarity today.
In the Oust Bar ''real ales'' were on tap at #2.20 a pint; a reminder of the higher cost of living in Kent. Several escapees from the wedding suite were in bright spirits here, however, there was plenty of space and beer for everyone.
Charles Mallows designed and built the original dower house on which the Pembury Hotel is now located. It is from him that the restaurant takes its name. Here, a cottage-style atmosphere has been created, helped by the use of rusts and greens on walls and in carpets. Mature shrubs in the gardens put views from the windows in the shade but it all adds to the botanical dimension and does not detract from the dining experience.
The restaurant holds around 60 in comfort but diners will appreciate more than anything the attention that is put into the creation of some of its dishes.
British hotels have come a long way in the services that they now offer guests and few can survive without leisure facilities. The Pembury has a lagoon-style swimming pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and sunbeds. An additional
service provides an extensive range of treatments in the hotel's beauty room.
Guests may choose from a menu of pandering which include facial massage, waxing, pedicure and manicure. Plans for a gymnasium to meet the demands of guests are at an advanced stage.
n The cost of an overnight stay at the Jarvis Pembury hotel is: B&B #42.50; DBB #49.50; room rate, #80 per night. Some rooms have adjoining doors and are ideal for the family. They are available at an extra #30. Certain ground floor rooms have been adapted for disabled people. The Jarvis Pembury hotel is located just off the A21 Hastings Road. Telephone 01892 823567.
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