With spring approaching, the prospects for day trips become more and more attractive. Whether you're a fan of golden beaches or prefer a quiet coastal walk, Kent offers something for everyone.
If you're looking for a destination that combines natural beauty with easy accessibility, Chiddingstone is the perfect choice. Surrounded by lush countryside, this medieval village is one of the oldest and most attractive in the county.
In fact, it is so deeply ingrained in history that almost all of its structures, except for the schools, castles and the Church of Our Lady Mary, are under the control of the National Trust. Past strike tudor buildings like general stores and post offices stroll through the narrow cobblestone lanes of Chidding Stone, revealing why they have been protected by heritage protection trusts since 1939.
However, Chiddingstone, which is regularly promoted as one of the region's most photogenic spots, isn't just an Instagram-worthy view. History lovers are equally fascinated by the picturesque streets of the village.
According to Mylondon, more than 70% of buildings date back to at least two centuries ago to the early 16th century. The village is even a record of many 1086 investigations in England and Wales, as requested by King William's Conqueror King, a book by Domesday.
There is a tulip tree in Chidding Stone Village in Kent (Image: Diamond Jeaser by Creative Commons)
A luxurious old semi-injured house in the village of Chidding Stone in 1935 (Image: Getty)
Chiddingstone's stunning architecture has attracted visitors for years, and it's easy to see why. It houses what is believed to be the Tulip Tree, the country's oldest feature shop, founded during the reign of King Henry VI in 1453. Incredibly, the store was once owned by Anne Bolin's father.
Speaking of incredible history, former owner Nicoletta Fahee Wilson told BBC News there is an unusually wide hinged door at the entrance.
And the historical wonders don't stop there – the strange secret hides quaint lanes from Chiding Stone, the main avenue of Chiddingstone. This unique rock formation is rumoured to have leased its name to a historic village, but its true purpose remains shrouded in mystery.
Was it a druid altar or an Anglo-Saxon boundary stone?
The most widely accepted story says it served as a public rebel site. There, witches and other villains, including so-called persistent wives, face the community's caveat.
Film and TV buffs may feel that Chiddingstone is familiar to you. It provided a production background like rooms with views, Willow Wind, Larkins and Elizabeth R.
The latter showed us the wonders of Chidding Stone Castle, a local wonder with breathtaking grounds – open daily throughout the year – notable collections and £3 parking fees.
Visitors will be welcomed again from March 1st, in addition to the reopening of the castle itself, collections and gift shops while the castle tea room is spending its winter break.
Chiddingstone Castle is simply beautiful (Image: Oast House Archive/CC by-sa 2.0)
In the meantime, the charming Tulip Tree Tea Room in the remodeled coach house can provide fun space during the afternoon's distance. The property boasts impressive 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor, based on 321 reviews.
A satisfied customer said, “We went to Chidding Stone for a morning walk and stopped by for breakfast. They opened and we didn't have long to make a table and cake selection inside. It was. We enjoyed our breakfast sandwich.”
Another patron praised “the best generous slice of cake I've ever had.”
In this review, he stated, “The staff were great and the atmosphere was cozy if it was a bit cold, but it was a very chilly morning. I was thrilled to be able to sit with the spaniel.”
Tearoom's website states, “If it's a chilly or beautiful flower courtyard and a quiet backyard, have a wooden burner for when the weather gets better,” and that “in the lead.” “A quiet dog is always welcome.”
Watching the world pass by in the beautiful Ziding Stone village (Image: Michael Cole/Corbis via Getty Images)
Located four miles east of Edenbridge, with stone throws from an equally picturesque village in Pensharst, the area is a haven for history and nature lovers. It's an ideal location for a historic mini-break, as Pensharst offers its spectacular, imposing home and nearby Heber and Tonbridge each offer its own castle.
For those who want to extend their stay, the village's ancient buildings offer unique accommodation options. With seven bedrooms, a spacious communal area and garden, the Horsehouse or Tudor Wing is perfect for celebrating a special occasion.
The latter also boasts tennis courts and swimming pools. For duo looking for a romantic getaway, the charming thatchi cottage B&B in nearby Heber is a great option.
It offers three self-contained rooms called log sheds, tool sheds and potting sheds, each with its own private patio garden. However, if you are considering making Chiddingstone a permanent resident, it is worth noting that the average price of homes sold in the area over the past year is £625,000, according to right-body data. .
