Paddock Wood is 7 miles (11.7km) from Royal Tunbridge Wells and neighbours the quaint villages of Matfield and Brenchley.

A Brief History

The small town of Paddock Wood grew up around the railway in 1842 which provided access for local fruit growers and hop farmers to London and the coast. Pickers used to come on their annual summer ‘holiday’ to this area and spent the summer in the surrounding hop gardens.

The area has a long history in the hop and fruit growing industries. The oast houses are a reminder of this heritage and can be seen frequently in the area around Paddock Wood. These eccentric looking buildings were used to dry the hops with the topmost cylinder turning in the wind to allow the air to circulate. Nowadays some people are lucky enough to live in them, even though they are a furnishing challenge!

Today, Paddock Wood continues to be a hub for the country’s hop growing industry and so for fruit and vegetable distribution. The town supplies large national supermarkets, small real ale and cider makers as well businesses across Europe. Local produce continues to be important to the nearby region too. You might spot roadside stalls selling seasonal fruit and vegetables including apples, strawberries, asparagus, and cherries.

Things To Do in Paddock Wood

The town itself has a good selection of small independent shops including the family run department store of Barsleys which is over 120 years old and the House of Portmeirion where you can find quintessentially British crockery and more.

Walking

Depart from the Victorian station, built in 1842. Beyond the town, embark on a captivating nature trail that transforms with the seasons: spring’s bluebell carpet, summer’s lush pastures, autumn’s fiery hues, and winter’s frosted wonderland.

Witness remnants of the town’s hop-picking heyday with its iconic oast houses, and follow a path through verdant woodlands, fragrant orchards, and open countryside, where Paddock Wood’s legacy of fresh produce thrives. Pass the Paddock Wood cemetery where Charles Dicken’s daughter Dorothy is buried.

Explore the Surrounding Area

Nearby must-visits (within 30 minutes’ drive) include Salomon’s Estate in Southborough, The Pantiles, The Amelia Scott (Museum) and Spa Valley Railway in Royal Tunbridge Wells as well as the castles and gardens of Scotney and Sissinghurst. The market town of Tonbridge is easily accessible via train (15 minutes) so be sure to visit the medieval castle or take a boat ride along the river Medway.

And whilst you are exploring, see if you can find out Paddock Wood’s connection with one of our most famous writers, Charles Dickens!

Camping is available at the Hop Farm but if you want to stay somewhere more robust in this rural area of the Garden of England check the accommodation pages.

The Hop Pickers Line Heritage Trail

Unveil the secrets of Kent’s charming countryside aboard the historic “Hop Pickers’ Line”, a single-track steam railway that chugged through idyllic villages from 1892 to 1961. Imagine thousands of Londoners escaping the city for their annual hop-picking “holiday”, weaving through orchards and fields alongside locals.

Though the tracks fell silent decades ago, the spirit of the line lives on! Lace up your walking boots and explore the network of public footpaths that trace its route. Immerse yourself in stunning scenery – rolling hills, quaint villages, and tranquil landscapes – once traversed by the iconic steam train.

This is your chance to step back in time, breathe in the fresh air, and discover the rich heritage of Kent’s “Garden of England”. So, pack your picnic basket, lace up your boots, and embark on your own “Hop Pickers’ Line” adventure!

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