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Benenden
by Lynda Grigsby
Benenden
Benenden is situated in the Weald of Kent, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is surrounded by scenic pastures and woodland where there are many walks to explore.
If you’re looking for a beautiful small rural Kent village with a village green, overlooked by a majestic medieval church, then you must visit Benenden.
Nestled between Sandhurst and Cranbrook, the village is in the heart of the rural Garden of England and an experience to be enjoyed at leisure.
A True Kentish Rural Scene
Imagine sitting on the Green relaxing back on a wooden bench with a cool apple juice, made in Kent of course, listening to the gentle tap of leather on willow. This is Benenden enjoying the summer cricket.
You can refuel you and your friends and family at the stylish local pub, The Bull at Benenden, or the community shop-café.
The Woodcock Inn is less than 2 miles from the centre of the village tucked away down a narrow country lane where the promise is to “treat you like a local”.
The Green is used throughout the year for a number of village events including the traditional summer fete in June.
Things to see in Benenden
Take in the historic church of St George which was one of few in the area named in the Domesday Book in 1086.
Linger over the cottages, some of which are built with Kent peg tiles hung on the top half of the walls.
These unique tiles were historically made from local clays and the brick earths of the Weald and Canterbury, with an array of hues from brown red to tangerine like the flames in a kiln.
The use of local material and craftsmanship means the village retains its authenticity to this day. Solid architecture with chunky chimneys, occasional painted beams and white clapboard - a chocolate box's dream!
Lord Cranbrook, a local aristocrat, paid to refront many of the village houses in the 19th century and the Jacobean house of his Lordship later became Benenden School for Girls, where Princess Anne was a pupil.
Things to do in Benenden
Hemsted Forest is 2 miles from the centre of the village. This is extensive woodlands carefully managed by the Forestry Commission for a large number of bird species and dormice. It is free to wander in and admire the wildlife and trees.
Hemsted Equestrian Centre also welcomes visitors. Whether you are an experienced galloper or a first time horse rider, the staff offer accompanied hacks through Hemsted Forest. Why not give it a go and feel the wonderful fresh air fanning your cheeks?
Handy hints
Search for your perfect place to stay and other attractions in the local area in the panel on the right, including Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Hole Park Gardens, and the villages of Hawkhurst and Cranbrook.
The handy map tab on the 'Things to do' page will help you plan your trip.
Tags: Benenden, Benenden Village, Village of Benenden
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Number of items: 164
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Pashley Manor Gardens
Type
Garden
Ticehurst, Wadhurst
At Pashley you will discover 11 acres of beautiful borders and vistas - the culmination of a lifetime of passion for gardening and an admiration of the tradition of the English country garden.
Bewl Water
Type
Lake / Reservoir
Lamberhurst
Set in the heart of the High Weald and surrounded by 800 acres of outstanding natural beauty, Bewl Water is the perfect place to watch the seasons change and to enjoy some healthy family fun for all ages.
Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest
Type
Forest
Goudhurst
Bedgebury National Pinetum & Forest is a magnificent place for healthy outdoor activities.
Cranbrook Union Windmill
Type
Windmill
Cranbrook
The tallest surviving smock mill in the British Isles, measuring 72 feet to the top of the cap.
UK Electric Bike Hire & Tours
Type
Cycling
Biddenden
Why not try an electric bike, zipping between vineyards or maybe stop at an iconic castle or a world-famous garden? Our routes take you along the quiet lanes of the Weald of Kent, passing oast houses and Wealden hall houses, farmsteads and ancient woodland. You can stop at a village pub for…
Hole Park Gardens
Type
Garden
Rolvenden
15 acres of spectacular gardens and woodlands. Spectacular bluebell wood.
The Queen's Hall Theatre
Type
Theatre
Cranbrook
Providing entertainment in the heart of the Kent Weald.
Kino Cinema Hawkhurst
Type
Cinema
Hawkhurst
Kino is the UK's first purely digital cinema with the full HD experience.
St. Mary's Church Goudhurst
Type
Church / Chapel
Cranbrook
The church on the hill above the village.
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
Type
Garden
Cranbrook
Famous, stunning gardens set in the remains of a large Elizabethan house amidst the unspoilt Weald countryside.
Hawkhurst Fish Farm
Type
Fish Farm
Hawkhurst
Carp fishing for the family with a choice of 7 lakes, cafe and pottery.
Scotney Castle
Type
Garden
Lamberhurst
Not one but two houses! Victorian country house and ruined 14th century moated castle set in one of England's most romantic 'picturesque' style gardens.
Biddenden Vineyards
Type
Vineyard
Biddenden
Biddenden Vineyards is the oldest commercial vineyard in Kent, established in 1969. It has grown to 23 acres, producing White, Red, Rosé and Sparkling English Wines. The vinyard is also known for producing cider and pressed juices. <br /><br />The vinyard and shop are open to visitors all year…
Merriments Gardens Ltd
Type
Garden
Hurst Green
The gardens at Merriments in the rolling Sussex countryside never fail to delight.
Weald Sports Centre
Type
Leisure / Swimming Pool
Cranbrook
High quality sporting facilities to include swimming pool, sports hall, fitness studio, exercise studio and creche.
