Tenterden Town Guide
Leaflet produced by Tenterden Town Council
Tenterden: The Jewel of the Weald
A Brief History
Tenterden, known as the “Jewel of the Weald,” has a rich history dating back to the 10th century. Once a centre for the wool trade and later shipbuilding on the River Rother, its prosperity shaped the town’s character, with landmarks like St Mildred’s Church reflecting its past. Today, Tenterden blends heritage with modern charm, offering Georgian architecture, independent shops, vibrant events and beautiful surrounding countryside.
Travel to Tenterden
Getting to Tenterden is easy! Buses are run regularly by Stagecoach, Arriva and Hams Travel. The nearest mainline train stations are Ashford International and Headcorn. Tenterden is also easily reached by road, with good connections from the A21, A28, A262, and nearby M20.
Things to do
Tenterden offers plenty to see and do, from scenic walking trails through the Weald of Kent to a vibrant High Street filled with independent boutiques, cosy cafés, and delis. The town hosts seasonal fairs and festivals throughout the year, while nearby vineyards like Chapel Down and Gusbourne invite visitors to enjoy tours and tastings of award-winning English wines. Beyond Tenterden, attractions such as Bodiam Castle, Sissinghurst Gardens, and the Rare Breeds Centre provide even more to explore, making it the perfect base for discovering the best of Kent.
Key Locations in Tenterden
- Kent & East Sussex Railway
The Kent & East Sussex Railway offers visitors an authentic steam and diesel-powered railway experience through 10½ miles of Wealden countryside in the beautiful Rother Valley. - Col. Stephens Railway Museum
The museum celebrates Colonel Holman Stephens, the pioneering engineer behind rural light railways like the Kent & East Sussex Railway. - Tenterden & District Museum
Opened in 1976 and run entirely by volunteers, the museum is housed in an historic weather-boarded building and offers interactive exhibits, an audio guide and a digital archive - a fascinating insight into Tenterden’s past. - St Mildred’s Church
St Mildred’s Church, a striking medieval landmark in Tenterden, has stood since c.1180, its towering presence evolving to welcome the community today. - Millennium Garden
A hidden gem in Tenterden, the Millennium Garden offers a peaceful retreat just off the High Street. Accessed through an historic passageway. - Tenterden Leisure Centre
A hub for fitness and fun, the leisure centre offers a gym, lane pool, wave pool and flume ride, making it perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike. - Kiln Field Nature Reserve
Kiln Field Nature Reserve is a tranquil 1.8-hectare haven with woodland, wildflowers, a pond dipping platform, and wildlife-friendly features such as bat and owl boxes. - Tenterden Recreation Ground
Tenterden Recreation Ground offers green space, play areas, sports facilities and a venue for events. - Tenterden Town Hall
A stunning Grade II listed building dating back to the 1790s. The Town Hall hosts events, weddings and community services in its elegant Georgian spaces. - Sinden Theatre
The Sinden, a 290-seat theatre in Tenterden, offers diverse performances, a lively bar and a charming, intimate atmosphere. - St Michaels Recreation Ground
A well-maintained community space featuring a play park, public toilets and a half-pipe ramp. Managed by Tenterden Town Council, it’s a great spot for outdoor fun. - Smallhythe Place
Once a thriving shipbuilder’s home, Smallhythe Place later became the beloved residence of actress Ellen Terry. It now displays a fascinating collection reflecting her extraordinary career and private life. - Chapel Down Vineyard
Chapel Down, England’s leading wine producer, crafts award-winning wines that showcase the best of English winemaking. Tours and experiences make it a popular destination for visitors.