insideKENT Magazine Issue 33 - December 2014 | Page 135

TOWNSPOTLIGHT Dining Out Annual Events Chislehurst has a plethora of restaurants to enjoy on a night out, and there are cuisines and styles to suit every taste and every budget. Chislehurst is a village with a large heart and a fantastic community spirit, so it’s no surprise that there are a number of annual events that take place throughout the year. Here are just a few of our favourites. The Imperial Arms If you are looking for a lively, welcoming, traditional English pub, then the Imperial Arms is the place for you. With superb food, a selection of real ales, and a lovely courtyard for when the weather is good, this is where locals and visitors alike can come to eat, drink, and certainly be merry. At the weekends there is live music, and in the week there is a pub quiz as well as special deals on a lobster meal every Thursday. Open Air Cinema The open air cinema opens its doors in July on the Common next to St Nicholas Primary School. Come rain or shine, the film will still play, and no matter what is showing, taking part and even dressing up is something that is definitely encouraged. All profits go to the Trustees of the Commons, to maintain the green spaces in and around the village. Denny’s Seafood Restaurant Denny’s Seafood Restaurant is actually located inside what used to be Chislehurst Station’s waiting room, so it really is a part of the village itself (and has been since 1985). Here you can eat lobster, langoustine, crab, oysters, monkfish, and so much more – it’s fresh and seasonal and extremely popular. And for those who prefer meat or vegetables, there are non-fish dishes too. Summer Fair The annual Chislehurst Summer Fair takes place every June on Chislehurst Common, and is jampacked full of arts and crafts, stalls, games, and entertainment. It really is a community event, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to meet and greet old friends and new. Due Amici This Italian restaurant can cater to couples or larger parties, so no matter who you are with you can all enjoy the freshly made dishes that include baked stuffed mushrooms, crespelle, and lasagne. And don’t forget the dessert – the sweet trolley is laden with delicious treats! Chislehurst Rocks Chislehurst Rocks is an amazing free music event that happens every year – in 2015, it will fall on 20th June. With two stages, rides, refreshments, workshops, a fun fair, and animals, this is a music festival with a difference, and it is open to all ages making this a very special family day out at the end of each summer. Past acts include Neon District, The 286, and Night Owl. 135 Christmas Tree Festival Christmas is a special time in Chislehurst, with a number of different events taking place. One of the favourites, however, is the Christmas Tree Festival. This is where people can show off their decorating skills, and give others ideas on how it should be done. In 2013, there were over 40 trees on display, and this year should be even bigger and better. It all starts on 29th November, with dance displays, a Christmas-themed café, and various stalls. It continues until 7th December. Top Spot Prickend Pond is a lovely place to visit. It is home to a variety of ducks and geese which can be fed (although it is best to check what type of food to give them – traditional stale bread isn’t always good for pond birds), as well as being an enchanting area to walk around. Did You Know? When Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte (Napoleon III) was exiled in 1870, he came to live in Chislehurst where he remained until his death in 1873. If you want to find out more information on Chislehurst including news, events, attractions and more, visit the town's community website, www.visitchislehurst.org.uk.