A stunning daytrip destination in the UK has drawn comparisons to the Maldives – and it’s just an hour’s drive from London. St Andrews Lakes is located in Halling, a small village in Kent’s Medway district.
The popular spot is a former quarry which has been transformed into a lake reserve where visitors able to enjoy sandy beaches and a wide variety of watersports and activities. There’s all manner of fun things to try, including the inflatable Aqua Park assault course, with a much smaller version for children aged 2-6.
You can also rent a pedalo, paddleboard or kayak, zoom along a zipwire or try a sailing course.
It even boasts a 7.3m-high, four-sided climbing wall, described as a “fun challenge for both adults and children”.
But there are also beaches for those wanting a more relaxing time, complete with parasols and sunloungers.
Sunseekers can either kick back with a cold drink or take a dip in the spring-fed waters (once you’ve completed an induction with the team there).
Its Wellness Centre also has Nordic-style sauna with a view of the water, as well as hot tubs, a cold plunge lagoon, as a cosy Relaxation Area to kick back in.
Charges do apply, including for use of the beach, and operating hours between activies vary. Some of the sites activities are also seasonal.
You can find the pricing for all the services and activities they offer here.
Photos on St Andrews Lakes’ Instagram account show sunloungers looking out across clear blue waters, and visitors enjoying the water on boats and paddleboards.
According to travel guide blog Muddy Stilettos, the lakes are referred to as the “Maldives of Kent”, with the outlet describing it as one of “Kent’s best hidden gems”.
