A charming little market town in Kent with a rich history frequently features on lists of the UK's best places to live. But, with a modest population of just over 8,000 and being only half an hour from the coast, Tenterden often goes unnoticed by tourists passing through the area.
Known as the Jewel of the Weald, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty a little outside of Ashford was once blanketed in forest. The town is at the heart of the UK's wine industry, hosting several vineyards including Chapel Down, Biddenden, Sandhurst, Gusbourne and Harbourne.
It has, on more than one occasion, earned a spot on Muddy Stilettos' list of the best places to live in the UK and has been named one of Kent's most stylish towns by Furniturebox. Its wide, historic high street is lined with broadleaf trees and set back from the road are Victorian and Georgian homes and businesses, constructed with traditional Kent tile and weatherboard.
The town boasts a variety of independent shops such as jewellers, gift shops, florists and more, all offering views of the 12th-century tower at the 15th-century parish church of St Mildred. Attractions in the area include the Kent and East Sussex Railway Museum, Smallhythe Place, the Tenterden Family Fun Trail, and Tenterden Museum.
The area also hosts several seasonal events including a Christmas Market, Folk Festival, the Spirit of Tenterden Festival, and Tributes in the Park. Meanwhile, more leisure opportunities can be had at London Beach Golf Club and Spa, and Tenterden Golf Club.
There are also walking and cycling trails through the High Weald countryside and stillwater trout fishing at Tenterden Trout Waters, reports the Express. With VisitEngland recommended restaurant Flackley Ash and hotel Coldharbour Cottage, there's no shortage of places to eat and stay. The high street is also home to a number of pubs and restaurants.
According to Rightmove and Zoopla, the average house price in the town over the past year is around £490,000. The town's name, Tenterden, originates from the old English 'Tenet Waraden', which means a clearing in the forest belonging to the men of Thanet.
Established in the 12th century, Tenterden was once a port where the sea reached up the River Rother valley. Its wealth came from ship building and the wool trade.
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