Wildlife park Port Lympne is to open a new restaurant and bar as the venue reopens its facilities following the easing of lockdown restrictions.

The Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, near Hythe, will open the doors on The Garden Room venue within the Grade II-listed mansion’s historic stable yard.

Designed by creative director Victoria Aspinall - wife of the park's boss, Damian Aspinall - it features a vaulted glass ceiling, mirrored garden walls and brass lanterns "to create a tranquil Mediterranean garden ambience".

Executive chef at the venue is Lee Edney, previously head of the kitchen at the two AA rosette Swan in West Malling and The Vines in Rochester.

All produce is sustainably-sourced, with fruit and vegetables fresh from the park’s kitchen garden at Walmestone Growers in Wingham.

Lee Edney said: “The new menu showcases the abundance of fantastic produce we’re privileged to have here in Kent. With a strong commitment to seasonality and championing local artisan suppliers, it focuses on fresh, lively flavours, offering something for all tastes.”

The Garden Room is open for evening dining, afternoon tea and Sunday brunch reservations seven days a week. Diners who book a table for Sunday brunch or afternoon tea will have complimentary access to the wildlife park.

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