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STUART KIRK / TENTERDEN PHOTOGRAPHY
TENTERDEN
WE VISIT TENTERDEN From steam railways to star appearances, we pay a visit to Tenterden to discover what makes this jewel shine… KNOWN AS THE ‘jewel of the Weald,’
Tenterden, which nestles right in the heart of the Weald of Kent has a rich history. Named as one of the Cinque Ports in the 13th century, the town was once an important place for wool trading. Back then, it had easy links to the sea at Smallhythe – an area which is now lush green fields and vineyards. In 1449 Tenterden was incorporated into the Confederation of Cinque Ports as an extension of Rye and ships built at Smallhythe were then used to assist the town against French raiders. One of the most historic landmarks in the town is St Mildred’s church. Thought to have been built in around 1180, the church was consequently developed over several centuries, with the north arcade of the chancel built in around 1200, but most of the chancel, nave and aisles were created in the 13th to 15th centuries. The tower of the church, a prominent Kentish landmark, is thought to have been built by architect Thomas Stanley. Tenterden has an authentic charm
and much of the town remains unchanged, with few modern developments spoiling the picturesque High Street. The tree-lined main road boasts boutiques, cafés and homeware stores and there’s never a time of year when the town isn’t buzzing. Come Christmas with its many festive shopping events Tenterden is the place to go to find unique gifts, while in the summer months it’s perfect for sourcing everything from antique picnic hampers to wedding outfits. One thing the town has an abundance of is eateries and hostelries. Enjoy an alfresco lunch and watch the world go by in one of the pavement cafes, or spend an evening being wined and dined in one of its many restaurants. There are flavours from all over the world to cater for all tastes, including Indian, Italian, Chinese and even Turkish eateries. Four pubs sit in the centre of the town, where craft beers, locally produced food and boutique accommodation can all be found. While the town has something of an
exclusive feel, this could be down to the list of prestigious names associated with Tenterden. Nowadays, celebrity sightings aren’t uncommon, with the likes of Denise Van Outen, Vic Reeves and Dr Who’s Tom Baker often seen strolling the streets, as well as past sightings of Robbie Williams and Gwen Stefani, but there are also plenty of other people of note who were born and bred in the town. In 1422, it’s believed that William Caxton, the first English person to work as a printer and the first to introduce a printing press into England was born in Tenterden. Actress Dame Ellen Terry, who was once the leading Shakespearean actress in Britain was also a Tenterden resident, living in Smallhythe Place which is now owned by the National Trust. Continuing with theatre, Sir Donald Sinden, famed for his stage and television acting as well as his literary works lived in the town for most of his adult life until he sadly passed away in 2014. The town’s theatre, situated on
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