Lamberhurst
The village of Lamberhurst nestles in a valley in the High Weald, just inside the Kent border with East Sussex, on the A21. A former coaching stop for travellers to Hastings, Lamberhurst dates back at least to Saxon times, and its 14th Century church gives outstanding views across acres of farmland. The village was once renowned for its ironworks, which supplied the railings for St Paul's Cathedral. In the 1800s, its main occupation was hop-growing. Now it has introduced vines, with great success: wines from Lamberhurst (and Biddenden) are well-regarded, and the vineyard provides free tastings. Walking hereabouts is a pleasure with country roads leading the visitor past fields, woodlands, oast houses and cottages. There's a golf course too. In Lamberhurst itself, the 16th Century Owl House, a one-time smugglers' den, has beautiful gardens. Even more sensational are the country house and grounds of Scotney Castle, a riot of colourful plants, flowers and shrubs surrounding a 14th Century castle ruin with a rounded tower and a moat filled with water lilies. Bewl Water Reservoir, a mile from Lamberhurst, is the south's largest lake. Its attractions include walks, boat trips, sailing, cycling, fishing, watersports of all kinds and an adventure playground.
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