As spring approaches, the prospect of day trips becomes increasingly enticing. Whether you’re a fan of golden beaches or prefer tranquil coastal walks, Kent offers something for everyone.
If you’re seeking a destination that combines natural beauty with easy accessibility, Chiddingstone is the perfect choice. This medieval village, nestled amidst verdant countryside, is one of the oldest and most charming in the county.
In fact, it’s so steeped in history that almost all its structures — barring the school, castle, and St Mary the Virgin Church — are under the stewardship of the National Trust. A stroll down Chiddingstone’s narrow, cobbled lanes, past striking Tudor edifices like the General Store and Post Office, reveals why it has been safeguarded by the heritage conservation trust since 1939.
Regularly touted as one of the region’s most photogenic spots, Chiddingstone isn’t just about Instagram-worthy views, though. History enthusiasts will be equally captivated by the village’s picturesque streets.
Over 70 per cent of the buildings are at least two centuries old, with some dating back to the early 16th century, according to MyLondon. The village even boasts a mention in the Domesday Book – the record of the 1086 survey of much of England and Wales, as requested by King William The Conqueror.
Kent’s Chiddingstone village store The Tulip Tree (Image: diamond geezer via Creative Commons)
Fine old half-timbered houses in the village of Chiddingstone in 1935 (Image: Getty)
Chiddingstone’s stunning architecture has been drawing visitors for years, and it’s easy to see why. It houses what is believed to be the country’s oldest functioning shop – The Tulip Tree – established in 1453 during the reign of Henry VI. Incredibly, the store was once owned by Anne Boleyn’s father.
Speaking about it’s staggering history, previous owner Nicoletta Fahie-Wilson told BBC News that the entrance has an unusually wide-hinged door, which some speculate may have been widened to allow for Henry VIII to walk through when visiting the Boleyns.
And the historical wonder doesn’t stop there – a curious secret hides down a quaint lane off Chiddingstone’s main thoroughfare—the Chiding Stone. This peculiar rock formation is rumoured to have lent its name to the historic village, though its true purpose remains shrouded in mystery.
Was it a druidic altar or an Anglo-Saxon boundary stone?
The most widely accepted tale says it served as a site for public reprimand, where witches and other miscreants, including so-called nagging wives, faced communal scorn.
Film and television buffs may also find Chiddingstone familiar; it has provided the backdrop for productions like A Room With A View, The Wind in The Willows, The Larkins, and Elizabeth R, as well as the popular auction series Flog It!
The latter showcased the splendour of Chiddingstone Castle, a local marvel with its breathtaking grounds — open daily throughout the year — remarkable collections, and a parking fee of £3.
While the castle’s tea room is taking a winter break, it will welcome visitors again from March 1, alongside the reopening of the castle itself, its collections, and the gift shop.
Chiddingstone Castle is simply beautiful (Image: Oast House Archive/CC BY-SA 2.0)
In the meantime, the charming Tulip Tree tea room, located in a converted coach house, can provide a delightful space to while away the afternoon. The establishment boasts an impressive four out of five stars on Tripadvisor, based on 321 reviews.
One satisfied customer shared their experience: “Went to Chiddingstone for a morning walk and we stopped for breakfast. It was not long before they opened and we had a table inside and our choice of cake. We enjoyed our breakfast sandwiches.”
Another patron praised “The best generous slice of cake I have ever had”.
The review further detailed the visit, noting, “Staff were nice and the atmosphere was cosy, if a little cold, but it was a very frosty morning. We were thrilled to be able to be seated inside with our spaniel”.
The tearoom’s website states that they “have a wood burner should it be chilly or a beautiful flowery courtyard and quiet back garden for when the weather is kind” and that “quiet well-behaved dogs on a lead [are] always welcome”.
Watching the world go by in beautiful Chiddingstone village (Image: Michael Cole/Corbis via Getty Images)
Nestled just four miles east of Edenbridge and a stone’s throw from the equally picturesque village of Penshurst, this area is a haven for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With Penshurst boasting a grand stately home and nearby Hever and Tonbridge each offering their own castles, it’s an ideal spot for a historical mini-break.
For those looking to extend their stay, the village’s ancient buildings provide unique accommodation options. Hoath House or Tudor Wing, both featuring seven bedrooms, spacious communal areas, and gardens, are perfect for celebrating special occasions.
The latter even boasts a tennis court and swimming pool. For duos seeking a romantic getaway, the charming Thatched Cottage B&B in nearby Hever is an excellent option.
It provides three self-contained rooms dubbed The Log Shed, The Tool Shed and The Potting Shed, each featuring its own private patio garden. However, if you’re contemplating making Chiddingstone your permanent residence, it’s worth noting that the average price of homes sold in the area over the past year stands at a hefty £625,000, as per Rightmove data.