Cranbrook is a small but utterly beautiful town in the heart of the Weald of Kent. Weatherboarded houses, Tudor buildings and Victorian cottages line the roads. At its heart is the mighty St Dunstan’s, Cathedral of the Weald. Cranbrook is home to diverse and interesting shops, coffee houses and a windmill. I feel incredibly lucky to call Cranbrook home, surrounded by breathtakingly picturesque countryside.
As a food writer who has lived here for 10 years, I have thoroughly tested the pubs local to Cranbrook and I am delighted to share some of my favourites with you.
In Cranbrook itself, is the Kent CAMRA Pub of the Year, Larkins’ Alehouse. This small bar boasts a huge and ever-changing choice of real ales and beers on tap. If you aren’t a beer drinker, then you can choose from a good selection of wines, including those from a couple of local Kent vineyards. It is always busy with locals, and a favourite place for an after-work drink with friends.
Venture a mile out of Cranbrook to the world famous Sissinghurst Castle Garden created by Vita Sackville West. A must see and set in magnificent countryside. Work up a hunger and thirst exploring, then venture to The Milk House in the heart of the village. It has a huge and very pretty outdoor seating area with places for children to play, a lively bar and an elegant dining room. The pizza shack in the Garden is open throughout the summer, but you can also enjoy the most delicious high-end food. The seasonal menu is carefully designed by the chef/owner Dane. A great place to bring the family for a relaxed get together or come for a special meal. It also has rooms if you want to make a weekend of it.
Between Sissinghurst and Biddenden lies the The Three Chimneys. This is a traditional ancient country pub. The front of the building dates back from 1420, and you can certainly feel the history as you wander inside, ducking your head to avoid hitting the beams. It’s cosy, full of nooks and crannies and little corners. There is an airy extension at the back overlooking a large garden. The food is delicious and the service excellent with charming staff.
On the other side of Cranbrook is the very pretty village of Goudhurst, with its’ huge duck pond and enormous village church towering over the village. A stone’s throw away from the beautiful church is The Star and Eagle, a traditional Tudor English cosy pub, with a terrace overlooking the Weald of Kent. The pub itself has ancient dark wood panelled walls, beams and rumours of smugglers tunnels – used by the famous Hawkhurst gang centuries ago. The Star and Eagle is a wonderful place to find good food and drink, and a warm welcome. A lovely place to stay too.
Your local guide
Charlotte Butterworth
Food & recipe write, caterer, cookery teacher and food stylist
Charlotte Butterworth is a private chef, food writer and cookery teacher based in Cranbrook. She also runs a self contained Air BnB with fantastic views across the Weald. You can find her recipes and recommendations on social media or email at Charlotte@butterworth.co.uk
