Hildenborough is a village that many people will have heard of, and may have even passed through, but for those who haven’t it’s a place that’s very easy to fall in love with
We’re rather fortunate to reside in a country brimming with diverse offerings. Whether you fancy a tranquil retreat in the countryside or a lively spot in a bustling town, the county of Kent presents an array of options.
However, it’s the quaint villages that are some of the most underappreciated gems of the county. Nestled amongst Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge and Sevenoaks in the west is the charming Hildenborough. It’s a place many might traverse while journeying between Kent’s major towns, yet its name may not ring a bell – especially for those residing outside the county.
There’s a wealth of hidden treasures in this village that remain unseen unless one veers off the straight B245 road and steps out of their vehicle. One of the first sights greeting visitors from Tonbridge is the Hilden Manor. In other similar stories, there’s a small fishing village with some of UK’s best seafood but hardly any tourists.
READ MORE: Family’s EasyJet holiday worth £4k ‘ruined’ after opening hotel room doorREAD MORE: Beautiful UK resort dubbed the ‘Queen of seaside towns’ during summer
Things to do and visit in Hildenborough
This Beefeater pub and restaurant, boasting a beer garden adjacent to the main road, serves as an ideal pit stop for a quick bite during your travels. Conveniently, there’s a Premier Inn next door, making it a favoured overnight stay for those facing a lengthy journey ahead, given the proximity of the A21 and M25, reports Kent Live.
Venturing towards the other end of the village, you’ll stumble upon delightful independent cafés that are well worth a visit. Teal Café and Ridings Café have both earned rave reviews for their scrumptious food and invigorating beverages available throughout the year.
After a hearty meal and a refreshing drink, there’s nothing quite like embarking on a relaxed stroll to perhaps work off one of those scrumptious indulgences. The village is a walker’s paradise with an array of picturesque paths ensuring you’ll return home with a camera roll full of new snaps.
The Westwood park area offers a delightful walk, with the trail meandering through enchanting woodland and a vibrant floral meadow. There’s also the recreation ground at the top of the village, perfect for dog walkers seeking a more open space.
READ MORE: Inside UK’s tallest gothic tower in the world on sale as family home for £2.78m
A 35-min drive from London
A simple wander around the village immerses you in its rich history and culture as you pass various landmarks. The war memorial, standing opposite the grand church, honours Hildenborough residents who lost their lives or went missing in the two World Wars, playing a central role in the village’s annual Remembrance Day ceremonies.
The strong sense of community spirit permeates the area, making it an ideal spot for people of all ages. For families with young children, the village boasts two primary schools, while several high-achieving secondary schools are just a short journey away in neighbouring towns.
Being nestled near Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells provides Hildenborough residents with the best of both worlds. They have the option to stay local or, if they fancy a day out, they can reach one of Kent’s major towns in roughly half an hour.
But it’s not just by road that the village is accessible; it’s also conveniently located on the main train line into London. This means commuters from nearby villages like Leigh and Penshurst often dash to Hildenborough station each morning for the 35-minute journey into the capital.
Whether it’s the easy access, the local schools, or the close proximity to other towns, there are countless reasons why Hildenborough is one of Kent’s hidden gems. Next time you’re motoring along the B245 with a bit of time on your hands, why not discover it for yourself?