A ramble and picnic at Matfield Green - photo by by David Hodgkinson Enjoy the delights of one of Kent's prettiest villages - photo by David Hodgkinson

A village neatly settled in the folds of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Kent.

Near to Royal Tunbridge Wells, it is definitely a contender for the quaintest English village with chocolate-box village green, cricket pitch, and endearing duck pond encircled by graceful Georgian houses.

Siegfried Sassoon, the famous World War I poet, was born and grew up in Matfield. His book, ‘The Old Century’ describes his life in this very area before 1914. Have a fascinating read to grasp the feel of the landscape and development of the area.

Sassoon delighted in his home, Weirleigh, and the bucolic life here. He played cricket on the green as often as he could, as it is still played today.

Perfectly poised rural base

Only 6 miles from Royal Tunbridge Wells and 3 miles from Paddock Wood (the nearest rail station), Matfield is also right next door to another cute village called Brenchley.

Surrounded by the charming attractions of the Weald of Kent, Matfield makes the perfect place to stay if you are after a rural idyll.

Things to do in Matfield

Cycling, horse riding, walking, stunning gardens, local flavours and country pubs; if you aren’t delighted with Matfield then we’ll eat our hat!

The area around the village is entwined with beautiful walking trails through farmland, orchards and woodlands. See the link at the bottom for local walking trails.

Once a centre for the thatching industry as well as iron foundries, Cinderhill Woodland and Foal Hurst Wood (wheelchair friendly) are today, still tranquil nature reserves for walking.

A circular cycling route starting and ending in Royal Tunbridge Wells is 37½ km which will take you through Lamberhurst, Horsmonden and Matfield.

Sustrans cycle route 18 will also take you through the wider region with Matfield en-route described as a “picture postcard village”.

Fly fishing can be savoured at Spring Hill Trout Waters. Refreshments and “good advice” available!

Sassoon’s inspiration

As if proof of its prettiness is needed, the village centre is in a Conservation area, it was Kent Village of the Year in 2010 and the houses dating from the 1700s are so picturesque.

Said to have the largest village green in Kent, go for a ramble, enjoy the unspoilt prettiness and have a picnic. Have lunch or afternoon tea to realise the perfect traditional, English country village experience – in Matfield.

Nearby enchanting gardens are Marle Place and Scotney Castle in Lamberhurst. The advanced search can provide your own poetic inspiration to take back your most captivating memories.

Book your country retreat accommodation now!

External links

With thanks to the Brenchley and Matfield website where the local walks can be found.

www.Cycle-route.com

Sustrans Route 18

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