Tenterden in Kent is known as the Jewel of the Weald, but is often overlooked by tourists passing through the area
Tenterden, a quaint market town in Kent with a rich history, often features on lists of the UK’s top places to live.
However, despite its modest population of just over 8,000 and being only half an hour from the coast, it often slips under the radar of tourists passing through the area.
Referred to as the Jewel of the Weald, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty just outside Ashford was once covered in forest. The town is at the heart of the UK’s wine industry, home to several vineyards including Chapel Down, Biddenden, Sandhurst, Gusbourne and Harbourne.
It has repeatedly secured a place on Muddy Stilettos’ list of the best places to live in the UK and has been dubbed one of Kent’s most stylish towns by Furniturebox. Its broad, historic high street is lined with broadleaf trees and set back from the road are Victorian and Georgian homes and businesses, built with traditional Kent tile and weatherboard.
The town prides itself on a range of independent shops such as jewellers, gift shops, florists and more, all offering views of the 12th-century tower at the 15th-century parish church of St Mildred. Local attractions include the Kent and East Sussex Railway Museum, Smallhythe Place, the Tenterden Family Fun Trail, and Tenterden Museum.
The area also plays host to a variety of seasonal events such as a Christmas Market, Folk Festival, the Spirit of Tenterden Festival, and Tributes in the Park. Additionally, London Beach Golf Club and Spa, and Tenterden Golf Club offer more leisure activities.
Walking and cycling trails through the High Weald countryside are available, along with stillwater trout fishing at Tenterden Trout Waters, according to the Express.
With VisitEngland recommended restaurant Flackley Ash and hotel Coldharbour Cottage, there’s certainly no lack of dining and accommodation options. The high street also boasts a selection of pubs and restaurants.
Rightmove and Zoopla report that the average house price in the town over the past year is approximately £490,000. The town’s name, Tenterden, has its roots in the old English ‘Tenet Waraden’, translating to a clearing in the forest belonging to the men of Thanet.
Founded in the 12th century, Tenterden was historically a port where the sea extended up the River Rother valley. Its prosperity stemmed from ship building and the wool trade.
