Hi, my name is Laurain
My Husband (Mick) and I purchased the land behind Mick’s family home in 2011, motivated by a shared dream of creating holiday homes. This venture meant we could escape the daily grind of travelling to London for work. We both worked in the building trade and met on a construction site in Canary Wharf in 1999.
Determined to bring our vision to life, we rolled up our sleeves and built the cottages ourselves. The process was both challenging and rewarding, filled with countless hours of hard work, sweat, and a few friendly arguments over design choices. Each cottage was crafted with care, reflecting our shared commitment to quality and comfort.
As we laid the foundations, we envisioned a space where families could gather, relax, and create lasting memories. Our dedication paid off as the cottages quickly became popular among vacationers seeking a peaceful retreat. We take pride in knowing that each guest who stays with us is part of a journey that began with a simple idea between two friends.
Now, as we look back, we are always grateful for the opportunity to merge our passion for building with our desire to create a welcoming space for others. The land behind Mick’s family home has transformed, but our friendship and shared vision remain as strong as ever.
All the very best, Laurain
We are always around for guests if they require us. If you wish to help feed the animals, please ask. We do like to give our guests space, but we don’t mind a chat.
Our specially made “Hampers” at Stable Oak Cottages
Where we source our food, our products and how it all comes together to create our hampers
G.M&M Johns Family Butchers of Charing was established in 1989, opening their first shop in Walmer Kent. They are an entirely family run business, with three generations of butchers. In 1992, they were awarded a royal warrant, supplying HRH Queen Mother during her time at Walmer Castle. In 2010, they opened their second shop in the historic village of Charing, which luckily for us is only 5 minutes down the road! We use these guys for all our breakfast favourites!
We are so very lucky to have this amazing trout farm and fishery located down our lane. Alison and Paul are the proud (and lovely) owners of the farm, which is the only one of its kind in Kent. They produce delicious, freshly prepared trout and smoked foods, including oak smoked bacon, smoked trout and trout pate. Truly a small family business, started by Paul’s parents over 40 years ago! Their farm shop is open Friday to Sunday each week.
Not only does the lane produce food but the soap products in your cottage are also local, so local that in fact they are our neighbours! My Cottage Cosmetics use naturally sourced springwater for their skincare formulations to cleanse and moisturise your skin. The springwater is from a chalk stream called the Selesdene, which runs off the North Downs just behind us here. They use 100% natural ingredients, 100% botanical based for scent and colours and so are all vegan friendly!
If you like any particular product, then do let us know as we can always order some for you to take home!
And now time for us to show off a little bit….
Eggs – All happily laid by our chickens here which I am sure you will see roaming freely around our land.
Baking is what I enjoy doing and I always try to do as much as I can when I get the chance! Lovingly baked items include –
Cakes
Bread
Butter
Sausage rolls
Fruit and savoury scones