Benenden is situated in the Weald of Kent, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is surrounded by scenic farmland 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 Garden of England and should be enjoyed at leisure.

Things to Do and See in Benenden

Here are some must-see attractions and activities to make the most of your visit:

As you wander through the village, take time to appreciate the unique architecture of the cottages. Some of these quaint homes feature Kent peg tiles hanging on the upper half of their walls. Crafted from local clays and the brick earths of the Weald and Canterbury, these tiles come in an array of warm hues, adding to the village’s authentic charm.

Discover the Jacobean house that once belonged to Lord Cranbrook, a local aristocrat. This historic building later became Benenden School for Girls, attended by none other than Princess Anne. Find out more about Tunbridge Wells’ Royal Connections.

Pay your respects at the splendid war memorial, a poignant tribute to the armed forces personnel who served during the two World Wars. It’s a place of reflection and remembrance. See the Parish Council page for full details.

Benenden

A Sense of Community

Kent Cricket Direct

Our Cricket Team

In the summer months, the cricket team plays matches on the village green. It’s a quintessential Kentish scene, and you can enjoy the game while taking in the cosy atmosphere of The Bull pub or exploring the historic village church nearby.

From historic havens to lively hubs, pubs in and around Benenden offer a perfect pint and traditional British food for every mood. Raise a glass to charming village vibes!

hemsted park theatre from outside

Hemsted Park

Discover Hemsted Park, a leading performing arts venue based on the stunning 250-acre site of Benenden School. These multi-purpose spaces allow a wide array of events, ranging from side-splitting stand-up comedy to grand orchestral performances, and from professional theatrical productions to enchanting children’s ballet shows

Explore the Surrounding Area

While Benenden village itself is a destination worth exploring, it also serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader region of Kent.
Benenden is the perfect place to stay for an active holiday and explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds the village.

It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of walking trails. For foodie enthusiasts, the area is surrounded by vineyards and farm shops.

The nearby historic town of Cranbrook, renowned for its architecture and Windmill, is also a must visit while in the area.

From quaint B&B’s to self-catered private accommodation, find your prefect place to stay in Benenden.

Benenden Church

A Glimpse into Benenden’s History

Beneden has a rich history dating back centuries. The village name is derived from the Old English ‘Bynning denn’, meaning ‘Bynna’s wooded pasture’.

The village is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, a testament to its enduring presence, where it’s mentioned that Benindene (the village’s name from 1086 to c.1100 BC) was one of only four places in the Weald to have a church.

Today, the centrepiece of the village remains the beautiful St. George’s Church, a Grade I listed building with origins dating to the 12th century. Its remarkable architecture and peaceful churchyard makes it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking a moment of reflection. The Church boasts a magnificent ring of twelve bells in its church tower, a rarity in a country parish. Only Canterbury Cathedral itself can rival this impressive collection of bells.

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