Location: Village pond, Matfield
End Location: Pond, Goudhurst

Grid Reference: TQ659419 (OS Map)
End Grid Reference: (OS Map)
OS Map:Explorer 136, Landranger 188

Distance: 6 miles
Time: 3.5 hours
Terrain: Easy walking. There is short steep climb out of Brenchley and a longer climb up to Goudhurst.
Directions/Transport: This walk starts opposite the village pond at the heart of Matfield and winds its way along footpaths and lanes to emerge through the churchyard at Brenchley. The departure from the village along a sunken lane is as attractive as the arrival. Leaving orchards behind south of Palmers Green, the landscape changes to one of parkland and stately homes, Shirrenden, Sprivers and Rectory Park. Ponds worthy of a stop are found on the approach to all three.

Horsmonden Church, built for a scattered congregation, remains isolated and is worthy of the detour. The route from the church to Goudhurst largely follows a quiet rural lane. Having crossed the River Teise the route climbs steeply to the hilltop village, the focal point the large, squat sandstone Church of St Mary's.

A climb to the top of the church tower, a stroll around the Weald of Kent gallery or a stop by the duck pond are pleasant ways to while away the time whilst waiting for the bus or taxi back to your starting point.

Download:   pdf Orchards & Hops (180.28 kB)

Bus Information: 297, 2 hourly service Tunbridge Wells to Tenterden, Mon-Sat, and 3 journeys on Sunday. Phone travelline for info
Train Information: Frequent services to Tunbridge Wells, Paddock Wood and Marden. For further information phone 08457 484950
Waymarking: High Weald Landscape Trail discs
Services: Shops and pubs at Goudhurst and Matfield. A Post Office, 2 pubs and toilets at Brenchley.