This idyllic Kent village just an hour from south east London, now owned by the National Trust, was also the spot where Wind in the Willows was filmed.
Chiddingstone Village, located near Edenbridge in Kent, is within 60 minutes of south east London off the A21 or by train from Penshurst station in Chiddingstone Causeway, two miles from the village.
With its postcard-perfect appearance, local pub and eateries and nearby castle, Chiddingstone was bought by the National Trust in 1939 and, with the exception of some establishments, the trust has worked to maintain this historical village through conservation work.
Today the village, featuring houses with half-timbered sides, gables and stone-hung red tiles, is considered one of the ‘best preserved’ Tudor villages in the UK, dating back to Pagan times.
The houses in the village can be traced back as early as 1453, although Chiddingstone as a location can be traced back to Norman times.
With its historic houses and old-world charm, it's no wonder why this village has served as a filming location for productions like the 1996 version of The Wind and The Willows, and A Room With a View in 1985.
People who visit the village can expect to find a number of restaurants and a tearoom, as well as a traditional village inn dating back to the 15th century.
If you fancy a spot of retail therapy, stop off at the Tulip Tree Shop, which houses one of the oldest working spots in the UK dating back to 1453, selling a range of gifts, stationery and homeware including an impressive selection of Christmas decorations during the winter months.
Above the shop you’ll also find the Attic, an emporium where you can hunt for antiques and one-of-a-kind pieces.
A short walk from the village, you’ll find Chiddingstone Castle, which dates back 400 years and features a collection of Ancient Egyptian, Japanese, Jacobite, Stuart and Buddhist artefacts, along with whimsical gardens to explore.
If you find yourself needing a pub pit stop, head over to the Castle Inn a short walk from the castle, this Grade II listed building offers a cosy, countryside inn to enjoy a drink along with traditional British fare like fish and chips and a traditional Sunday roast.
If you visit the Castle Inn, be sure to stop outside Grade II* listed No.4 High Street which was added to the structure in 1997.
Anyone looking for something sweet should stop off at the Tulip Tree Tea Room, a converted coach house with a cozy wood-burning stove, serving cakes and scones as well as breakfast and lunch options and a selection of alcoholic drinks.
The village’s local church is also steeped in history, with early mentions dating back to the Domesday Book of 1086.
The current church is the fourth to be built on the site after the church was almost destroyed by a fire in 1624.
Today, visitors of the church can see the font which was carved in 1628 and the pulpit dating back to 1881.
When exploring the village, don’t miss the distinctive stone at the heart of the village – the Chidding Stone, believed to be how the village earned its name.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel