insideKENT Magazine Issue 145 - May 2024 | Page 56

GUIDE
Penshurst Place & Gardens

When one pictures the much-loved Hursts , meandering country roads and beautifully kept buildings proudly preserving their historic features are what ’ s likely to spring to mind . Collectively holding over 1,000 years of written history and remembered particularly in the iron and hop industries , these beautiful villages - made up of Goudhurst , Staplehurst , Sissinghurst , Hawkhurst and Sandhurst - boasting warm Kentish communities , captivating history and bucolic beauty , encompass much that The Garden of England is known for .

Making for the most enchanting of explorations , many avid ramblers and nature enthusiasts gather at The Hurst ’ s scenic walking routes , while families and foodies delight in the sophisticated yet traditional pubs and cosy cafés lining its well-trodden high streets .
Marrying long-established , timeless character with newness in the form of innovative businesses seamlessly , this corner of the county is certainly worthy of its admiration and is perfect for your next Kentish adventure .
“ Within reach of Sussex-by-the-sea and lively London sits Kent ’ s glorious The Hursts . Head beyond our coffee shop in Staplehurst towards Goudhurst or Sissinghurst and you ’ ll be treated with vast countryside , amazing farms and their accompanying shops such as Paley , quintessential pubs , contemporary eats , vineyards including Balfour and Biddenden and beautiful historic villages such as Cranbrook . There are even lakes for wild swimming , forests for roaming and castles to explore !”
KATE AND GREG , FOUNDERS OF KIN COFFEE
Top
THE HURSTS
Picks
TOP PUB
THE EIGHT BELLS An inviting 18th-century pub loved for its rustic country food . Enjoy real ales , a friendly ambience and warm service in the Moor of Hawkhurst .
TOP ACTIVITY
SLAP ‘ N DASH CERAMICS Perfect for trying something new with friends and family ; unleash your inner artist with pottery painting at Hawkhurst-based Slap ‘ n Dash . Be sure to check out the exciting calendar of workshops , too .
TOP RESTAURANT
BLEÙ STEAKHOUSE Incredibly stylish and indulgent , this elevated Staplehurst gem is certain to please any discerning foodie with its gourmet cuts and unique flavours .
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