Tenterden has a fascinating history, a wealth of architecture, and excellent shopping. Come and explore! See how the Georgian buildings mingle with tall Victorian houses and tiny cottages; brick and stucco blend easily alongside traditional Kent tile and weatherboard. If you are a painter bring your easel and sketchpad, you won’t be disappointed.
There are shops, cafes, restaurants, pubs, each with a unique character. Find a quiet spot in a café or pub, and when the sun is shining follow the tables and chairs outside, relax and watch the world go by. Tenterden has no shortage of places to eat and drink. Did I mention the tree-lined greens? You might have the impression that you are walking through a park rather than through a town centre High Street.
Let me tell you a bit more about the shops. We have many quirky independent shops rubbing shoulders with some familiar high street chains. Charity shops for bargain hunters, antiques for browsers and cognoscenti, all the way up to sophisticated emporia for the more discerning. Market day is Friday. And there are book fairs and craft fairs some Saturdays, check MyTenterden/Events for dates.
Be traditional and stay in a hotel, guest house or B&B overnight, or for a weekend or longer. You might even find a bargain AirBnB.
You are never far from a footpath in Tenterden so bring your walking shoes or boots. There are plenty of footpath maps and suggested walks online.
Leave the car behind and go back a hundred years. Steam trains from Tenterden Town Station go all the way to Bodiam Castle through wonderful countryside (bring your National Trust cards). Continuing the theme of National Trust don’t forget Smallhythe Place and Sissinghurst Castle. For garden lovers Hole Park Gardens and, Great Dixter House and Gardens are close by.
All through the summer there are special events mostly revolving around food, real ale, cider and music, check My Tenterden for dates. In the autumn the famous 4-day Tenterden Folk Festival is the highlight of the first October weekend.
In Tenterden you are well positioned to visit the many surrounding vineyards and local food producers and farms. Why not have lunch at Chapel Down and try the wines that Will and Kate enjoyed at the Royal Wedding.
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