Exploring Tenterden

Originally a port town, though that's hard to believe when you visit now, Tenterden is another marvellous example of British history. It's high-street is immaculately preserved, lined with trees and filled with independent cafes and shops (though it must be said that these seem to be fading somewhat, being overtaken by the popular chains you might expect to see in such a place).

One of the best examples of history that Tenterden has to offer is Smallhythe Place, which will boast it's 90th anniversary as a National Trust property on the 3rd April. Previously the dwelling of a famous Victoria actress, Smallhythe attracts a wide variety of visitors. The property celebrates Ellen's theatrical life, by hosting a number of performances in the garden and theatre throughout the year, check here for their full list of performances this year.

Smallhythe Place

Another historic site worth visiting is the Kent and East Sussex Railway which travels from Bodiam to Tenterden by steam. The Wealden Pullman offers you a chance to travel like a King, or indeed Sherlock Holmes if you book a themed trip! Travellers enjoy a three course meal, drink and top quality service so that they can fully soak up the historic atmosphere of the train. If nothing else, the site of that traditional steam train is sure to put a smile on your face!

Tenterden Train

Just along from the station, you'll find The Old Dairy, misleadingly named as it in fact houses a fantastic brewery. They produce a huge range of beers locally, but sell not just nationally but internationally to great success.

Of course, Tenterden has a habit of housing successful alcohol producers. Chapel Down is also situated on the outskirts of Tenterden and is often seen as one of the catalysts in the growing English wine market. Their sparkling wine: Three Graces is especially delicious. Not to mention that Chapel Down have also been a long-time supplier of Goupie, which you can still find in their shop!

Of course, both producers also offer tours, so you can find out exactly what goes into making such loved products.

Chapel Down

Chapel Down isn't the only place to stock Goupie in Tenterden! We can also be found in Chegworth Farm Shop, the most recent addition to the Chegworth retail outlets. Goupie had long stocked their store in Tunbridge Wells (though sadly, this has now closed), and so it was only natural that we started stocking Tenterden when they opened. We're big fans of the store with it's huge deli counter and cafe, it's definitely worth a stop if you're passing through Tenterden!

Chegworth

That rounds up our hot-spots for Tenterden! That's not to say there's not plenty more to do there. Just perusing the shops and grabbing a spot of lunch is more than enough entertainment for one day!