Bewl Water Special Feature
Wednesday June 27 | 2018
Welcome to summer at Bewl Water
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When it comes to making the most of the warmer weather, there’s no better place to be than amidst the glorious landscapes that the Garden of England has to offer. In this exclusive supplement, we shine a spotlight on an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and uncover how Bewl Water can be the ideal way to make the most of the summer season
Supercars, sailing & camping THE summer is upon us, and we at Bewl are celebrating in style with a range of fun activities for all the family. We are very excited to be welcoming VVS UK and their followers to the first Supercar Saturday at Bewl. We’re going to be hosting Lamborghinis, Ferraris and other supercar
brands in a static show on June 30. There will be a BBQ, ice creams, bouncy castles and a chance for your little ones to drive our unique ranger cars. Alongside our pedalos and rowing boats, cycle hire, boat trips and mini golf, it is set to be an actionpacked way to truly welcome summer.
Sailing has been gaining momentum at Bewl Water this year with an influx of dinghy and windsurfing memberships to bolster the ranks. This was certainly aided by May’s Push the Boat Out event, where over 170 budding new sailors came to Bewl to have a go at the helm under the supervision of our experienced members. The reservoir is a picture at weekends with various fleets and families enjoying both casual sailing and racing. A big step in this hugely positive direction has been the introduction of the Optimist fleet – sailing under The Bewl Barbarians, a self-elected name. Within their fleet, they have some very promising young sailors with three national squad places being achieved by Bewl resident sailors. To arrange a taster and sign up for regular youth sailing sessions, get in touch with them at www.bbsc.org.uk Bewl sailors have organised safety boats on the lake every Wednesday evening from 6pm – half an hour before sunset – and Saturday afternoons between 12noon and 4pm, right up until August 25. This is the perfect opportunity to hone those skills, get advice, and meet some of our wonderful sailing community. One of the most exciting developments is the introduction of the Bewl Water campsite. Over 28 days this summer you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the reservoir once everyone has gone home in our beautiful site just a short walk from the lake. We have a fire pit and superb facilities available for the duration, providing you and your family with the perfect base to explore Bewl and beyond. While camping, you can enjoy a sumptuous evening meal overlooking the reservoir from the fabulous Boat House Bistro, open on Saturday evenings throughout the summer. Phil Daley, Activities Manager
Rural beauty & rainbow trout WITH the lake 100 per cent full, Bewl looks stunning to visitors on the Round Water Route that weaves through shady woodland with its rich green canopy and sunny meadowland, with wild flowers and butterflies in abundance. The bridleway has received its first cut back to control the nettles, brambles and blackthorn that hamper access, and numerous overhanging branches have been cleared. The coppicing of the wood behind the Boat House is now complete and is well worth a look. This six-year project has produced a healthy revitalised wood, and the differing heights of cover give vastly improved biodiversity. The rapid refill of the lake in the early months took its toll on water clarity and fishing has been varied, with both good and difficult days. Things have now settled, however, and – with the aerator line running – the water has cleared giving good sport with many fish fry-feeding close to the surface. Fish stocking continues, and to date over 26,000 pristine rainbow trout of 2 to 3 ½ lbs have been introduced this season, with 20,000 more to come. Howard McKenzie, Estates Manager
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thekn w.guide
Bewl Water Special Feature
Wednesday June 27 | 2018
One year after securing a license to hold wedding ceremonies, Bewl Water has hosted many beautiful marriages and shared lots of special moments with brides and grooms along the way BEWL prides itself as a unique wedding venue for Kent and East Sussex. Couples can choose to hold their ceremony and reception in an Area of Outstanding Natural beauty, with the reservoir and 800 acres of scenic landscape providing the perfect backdrop for that special day. Taking place in the nautical and contemporary Boat House Bistro with its panoramic views, the wedding breakfast is sure to leave a lasting impression on couples and their guests. And with a drinks reception out on the water’s edge, and rustic woodland all around, there are plenty of wonderful photo opportunities.
n Personal wedding planner to
guide you through your journey n Complimentary wedding breakfast taster n Exclusive hire of venue n Glamping accommodation available Weddings start from as little as £2,100, call 01892 890000 to enquire and book a private viewing
Testimonial
“The setting was gorgeous – totally unique to this part of the country. “All you can see from the windows that make up the far wall of the bistro is a vast, stretching view of the lake. “The bistro itself is sophisticated and modern on the inside. The service and flexibility we were offered was next to none, and
Images: JonnyNPPhotography
Key features: n 800 acres of scenic landscape n Home to the largest stretch of water in the South East n Drinks reception on the water’s edge n Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Image: John Knight | Styling: Cara Events
Picture perfect moments at Bewl
the events organiser we worked with allowed us to rearrange and decorate the space to suit us. “You can also give your guests a boat ride on the lake for a really reasonable rate, which we found perfect. “Overall, a very happy customer. Would highly recommend!” Abbie & Luke
Bewl Water Special Feature
Wednesday June 27 | 2018
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The man behind the menu Executive Head Chef Andre Woodward, who has spent 30 years in the industry, talks about his love of cooking and letting his ingredients shine…
Keeping it seasonal Bewl Water’s Boat House Bistro has fast become a popular establishment for wining and dining. Thanks to serving a market menu that changes weekly, the kitchen uses only the freshest and most seasonal produce – promising something new and exciting with every visit. For fans of the classics, the popular dishes still have their place, including the Bistro’s famous Sunday roasts…
Sample Menu: 2 courses for £19 STARTERS
Pressed Duck Confit and Chicken Terrine Served with warm blinis, fig and red onion chutney
| 3 courses for £25
MAINS
Slow-Cooked Belly of Pork (GF) Served with Bramley apple croquettes, cider jus and grilled courgettes
Crispy-Fried Halloumi (V) Served with Romesco sauce and balsamic caramel
Wild Mushroom and Spinach Wellington (V) Served with roasted new potatoes, tomato sauce and French beans
Spicy Shrimp Tostada Served with avocado, smoked chilli salsa and lime gel
8oz Sirloin Steak (GF) Served with gastro chips, baby leaf salad, Dolcelatte® and smoked garlic butter
DESSERTS
Baked Vanilla Cheesecake Served with lemon curd and berry gel
How would you define your style of cooking? I would say my style of cooking is ‘international’. Mixing cuisines to create dishes that are packed with flavour and well presented is a real passion of mine. It’s important to me that I let the ingredients shine, and the best way to do this is to keep dishes simple.
Who’s your gastronomic hero? Raymond Blanc, for his enthusiasm.
Warm Melting Chocolate Fondant Peppermint cream Anglais
Where did you gather most of your experience?
Bread and Butter Pudding Served with apricots, pecans and vanilla ice cream
Top tip for the kitchen?
OPENING TIMES: Friday 12noon-4pm (Fish & Chips only) | Saturday 12noon-9pm | Sunday 12noon-6pm To make a reservation, call 01892 893930 or email: info@bewlwater.co.uk
Roll up your sleeves with Andre The Boat House Cookery School is a bespoke service with Executive Head Chef Andre Woodward himself, so each session is tailor-made to your own needs and requirements Want to make the perfect Sunday Roast? Want to impress your loved ones with an exquisite threecourse meal? Want to treat those with a passion for food? The Bistro’s private cookery sessions make the perfect gift for loved ones or an excellent way to reward employees as part of a corporate event. Prices are from £125 and include a three-hour tutorial and a threecourse meal for two that will be created by yourself. All equipment and ingredients will be included.
When I was both the chef and proprietor at my own restaurant for ten years. Lists! I couldn’t work without them as they keep me organised.
What are three ingredients you couldn’t live without? Onions, butter, salt and pepper.
Why do you feel a changing market menu works well? I can always utilise the very best and in-season produce at all times of the year. Eat the seasons, I say.
What is your signature dish? My favourite dish to cook is a crab and crayfish risotto. I make a deliciously rich stock that has a real depth of flavour, and it’s all finished with mascarpone and lemon oil for balance.
What types of summer dishes can visitors expect to see on the menu? Lots of salads, fish, and light desserts with amazing English local fruit and berries.
Do you work with many local suppliers? I do. My butcher uses meat and poultry from farms as close
as Lamberhurst, and the fruit and vegetables come from a supplier who grows 80 per cent of their own produce. The cheese is also local. The produce to be found in Kent and Sussex really is top quality.
‘Everyone wants to be a chef at home, and everyone can be’ What’s best about working at the Boat House Bistro? It’s a stunning place to work, right on the water’s edge. We also have an amazing, hardworking team here and they’re a pleasure to work with.
What inspired you to introduce the BHB Cookery School at The Boat House? There is a growing demand for learning these skills – everyone wants to be a chef at home, and everyone can be – and where else is better to learn than in a professional kitchen?
What can the school attendees expect to come away with? Most people choose to cook a three-course meal, so we cover a variety of techniques from creating sauces, baking and knife skills to meat and fish preparation. There is so much you can learn – from making a lemon soufflé to a simple gravy or pan-fried seabass. FRESH FROM THE KITCHEN Chef Andre Woodward
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Bewl Water Special Feature
Wednesday June 27 | 2018
Make the most of the summer sun
VOUCHERS
The school holidays are nearly upon us and there’s no need to be scratching your head for how to entertain the family. Now is the time to be enjoying the great outdoors, so read on to see how Bewl Water can provide a camping experience to remember…
Offers redeemable on presentation of these vouchers
Valid: Until 01.07.18
COMPLIMENTARY TEA OR COFFEE WITH EVERY SLICE OF CAKE/SCONE PURCHASED IN THE WATERFRONT CAFÉ MON TO FRI*
Valid: 02.07.18- 08.07.18
SAVE £5. RENT A BIKE FOR THE DAY AND ONLY PAY FOR THREE HOURS
THE reservoir’s full and half-day Kids’ Camps are an affordable and fun alternative to traditional childcare options for those who are busy or work full time. Guaranteed to be action-packed, they offer a great opportunity for children to make new friends and remain active during their time away from the classroom. There are a host activities to participate in, including the Laser Tag Challenge, trips on the Bewl Belle, bike rides and so much more. Sessions run every Monday, Thursday and Friday from July 27 to August 31. Prices start from £37 for a full day and £19.50 for a half day.
FULL DAY CAMPS: Drop off from 8:30am, pick up by 5pm
HALF-DAY MORNING CAMPS: Drop off by 8:30am, pick up by 1pm
HALF-DAY AFTERNOON CAMPS: Drop off by 1pm, pick up by 5pm
For more information on Kids’ Camps, or to book, please call 01892 890 000 or email: info@bewlwater.co.uk
Valid: 16.07.18- 22.07.18
MONDAY TO WEDNESDAY FREE PARKING VOUCHER*
30% OFF FISHING BOAT HIRE WHEN BUYING TWO FISHING PERMITS MON TO FRI*
Valid: 30.07.18- 05.08.18
Valid: 23.07.18- 29.07.18
BUY THREE ICE CREAMS AND GET THE FOURTH FREE*
*Subject to Availability • Not in conjunction to any other offer • Only redeemable on days stated • Cannot be exchanged or rescheduled.
Sleep under the stars Exciting news! Bewl Water is now a destination for the ultimate camping weekend for all. With selected dates just announced, everyone is welcome to pitch their tent in the allocated camping areas to enjoy a break in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Take the time to cycle round the reservoir, lace up your walking boots, grab your fishing rod or suit up for Laser Tag. It’s also worth enjoying a trip round the lake on the Bewl Belle or setting out on a pedalo for an hour to take in the
Valid: 09.07.18- 15.07.18
3 COURSES FOR THE PRICE OF 2 ALL DAY SATURDAY IN THE BOAT HOUSE BISTRO*
Bewl Kids’ Camps
PRICING:
Adult £12 per night Child (age 4-16 years) £6 per night Infant (under 4 years) Free For information on camping and dates available, please visit www.bewlwater.co.uk/camping
September 2
Dates for the diary
BECO BIG DOG DAY OUT
A fun day out for all the family, especially for our four-legged-friends. The team at Bewl Water has joined forces with Beco Pets to give you a full day of activities around the beautiful reservoir. The day includes a treasure trail, a dog agility course, lots of fun stalls and much more.
June 30
VVS SUPERCAR SATURDAY
Join Bewl Water for their first event of 2018 – VVS Supercar Saturday is a must-see family spectacular that brings some of the world’s rarest and most exclusive supercars to the reservoir here in Kent.
September 8
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
July 1
SWIM BEWL & KIDS AQUATHLONS
After the success of its inaugural year in 2017, Swim Bewl and Kids Aquathlons returns. There are three endurance swim distances to choose from – 2km, 5km and 10km. The kids’ swim and runs offer anyone from eight years and older to race multisport in a truly stunning location.
sights from the water’s surface. After an action-packed day, you can sit back and refuel at the Bewl House Bistro before settling in for a good night’s sleep under a blanket of stars.
July 14
SUMMER AFTERNOON TEA AT THE BOAT HOUSE BISTRO
Surrounded by 800 acres of panoramic views, there is no finer place to enjoy afternoon tea than at Bewl Water. Being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and home to the largest stretch of open water in the South East, means impressive surroundings are promised.
August 4 to 5
TRIATHLON & OPEN SWIM
The popular Bewl Water Triathlon and Open Swim are back. Don’t miss this exhilarating chance to prove what you’re made of. Involving a swim in the reservoir, a 20km bike route through scenic villages, and a run overlooking Bewl Water reservoir. This event sells out every year.
This year will see the 21st annual Dragon Boat Festival at Bewl Water. The 2017 event raised over £107,000 for 50 different charities. More than 1,000 people competed in an amazing display of paddle power, excitement and fun. Since the event began in 1998, over £2.7 million has been raised for more than 400 local, national and international charities.