Attractions and Places To See around Smarden - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Smarden include a blend of historical architecture, cultural sites, and natural features. This charming village in Kent is known for its rich history and a designated conservation area in its center. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and exploring points of interest. Smarden provides a variety of experiences for visitors interested in history, nature, and local culture.
Best attractions and places to see around Smarden
- The most popular attractions is Lenham Cross, a natural monument that is cut into the ground, with its light background standing out from the surrounding green. It commemorates the victims of the First World War.
- Another must-see spot is Sissinghurst Castle Garden, a historical site and garden. This location is a sanctuary dedicated to beauty, created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson.
- Visitors also love Leeds Castle, a castle. This grandiose fortress is nestled in picturesque countryside and surrounded by water, boasting a rich history as a Norman stronghold and a palace for English royalty.
- Smarden is known for its historical architecture, cultural sites, and natural features. Visitors can explore medieval Wealden hall houses, historic pubs, and the designated conservation area in the village center.
- The attractions around Smarden are appreciated by the komoot community, with 67 upvotes and 114 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Sissinghurst Castle Garden
Highlight • Castle
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Lenham Cross
Highlight • Natural Monument
This hiking highlight, however, is sure to take a top spot in the ranking of the most unusual crosses. It does not tower up, but is quite the opposite, cut into the ground so that the light background of this lying monument stands out clearly from the surrounding green of the lawn. The basic idea of such a design - known in technical jargon as geoglyps - is similar to the "Nazca Lines" in South America, which are thousands of years older; or, to give a much closer example, the "White Horse" on Uffington Hill (see komoot.com/de-de/highlight/283565 ).
The sad reason for its construction is to commemorate the victims of the First World War.
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Pilgrims' Way
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Leeds Castle
Highlight (Segment) • Castle
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St George's Church, Benenden
Highlight • Religious Site
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Tips from the Community
Gorgeous views, but it's a technical ride, the surface on Pilgrim Way is not maintained. However, can be done with gravel bikes with minimum 35mm tires on dry days. 40mm+ would be more appropriate. To be avoided on wet days.
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A relatively modern chalk symbol sculpted in the hillside
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As said in a previous post, there are section of this route that are stunning as it runs along the ridges of various valleys on it's way to Winchester and beyond on the section I did from Canterbury to Guildford many parts were incredibly muddy and very hard to traverse even on a gravel bike.
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Describing Sissinghurst Castle and Garden is not easy. Words like historical, poetic, iconic, beautiful, colorful, breathtaking almost come close to reality. It is a sanctuary dedicated to beauty. Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson fell in love with Sissinghurst Castle and created a now world-famous garden in a very unique way.
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Anyone who wants to walk the "Pilgrim's Way" with Canterbury Cathedral as their destination, not just as a long-distance hiking trail for pleasure (whether on foot or the faster option by bike), but also consciously follow the medieval tradition as a pilgrim, may find some inspiration on this website =>> https://www.pilgrimways.org.uk/the-pilgrims-way-winchester-southwark-to-canterbury
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The attentive hiker or pilgrim has repeatedly encountered a wide variety of types of crosses on his way: made of stone (often granite) or wood, with or without the body of the crucified Christ, artistically decorated or deliberately kept simple, towering high and thus dominating the surroundings from afar or rather smaller... This hiking highlight, however, is sure to take a top spot in the ranking of the most unusual crosses. It does not tower up, but is quite the opposite, cut into the ground so that the light background of this lying monument stands out clearly from the surrounding green of the lawn. The basic idea of such a design - known in technical jargon as geoglyps - is similar to the "Nazca Lines" in South America, which are thousands of years older; or, to give a much closer example, the "White Horse" on Uffington Hill (see https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/283565 ). The sad reason for its construction is to commemorate the victims of the First World War.
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The attentive hiker or pilgrim has repeatedly encountered a wide variety of types of crosses on his way: made of stone (often granite) or wood, with or without the body of the crucified Christ, artistically decorated or deliberately kept simple, towering high and thus dominating the surroundings from afar or rather smaller... This hiking highlight, however, is sure to take a top spot in the ranking of the most unusual crosses. It does not tower up, but is quite the opposite, cut into the ground so that the light background of this lying monument stands out clearly from the surrounding green of the lawn. The basic idea of such a design - known in technical jargon as geoglyps - is similar to the "Nazca Lines" in South America, which are thousands of years older; or, to give a much closer example, the "White Horse" on Uffington Hill (see https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/283565 ). The sad reason for its construction is to commemorate the victims of the First World War.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore within Smarden village?
Smarden village is rich in history. You can visit St Michael the Archangel Church, known as the "Barn of Kent" for its wide nave and impressive scissor-beam roof. The village also features several well-preserved medieval Wealden hall houses, ancient coaching inns like The Chequers Inn and The Bell, and one of Kent's finest surviving cloth halls on Headcorn Road.
Are there any unique natural landmarks or monuments near Smarden?
Yes, a notable unique landmark is Lenham Cross. This natural monument is cut into the ground, with its light background standing out from the surrounding green. It commemorates the victims of the First World War and is a truly distinctive sight.
What family-friendly attractions are available around Smarden?
For families, the Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden offers unique visitor experiences focused on conservation and rescue. Nearby, the Kent and East Sussex Railway provides a heritage railway experience, and the Rare Breeds Centre is a farm attraction with animal petting and tractor rides. Sissinghurst Castle Garden and Leeds Castle also offer family-friendly activities and extensive grounds to explore.
Where can I find art or local crafts in Smarden?
The West End House Gallery in Smarden village showcases a diverse range of original artworks, including paintings, prints, ceramics, jewelry, glass, and textiles, all run by local artists.
What makes Smarden's village center special?
Smarden's village center is a designated conservation area, celebrated for its numerous attractive historic cottages and tranquil atmosphere. It boasts around thirty listed buildings, reflecting its rich history and charm.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near Smarden?
Yes, the countryside around Smarden offers pleasant walking opportunities on quiet country lanes with scenic views. For a more mysterious experience, Dering Woods, also known as "Screaming" Wood, offers two waymarked trails for exploring nature and wildlife. You can also explore the historic Pilgrims' Way, which passes nearby.
What are some notable castles or gardens to visit near Smarden?
You can visit the world-renowned Sissinghurst Castle Garden, a sanctuary dedicated to beauty created by Vita Sackville-West and Harold Nicolson. Another must-see is Leeds Castle, often called the 'loveliest castle in the world,' with a rich history as a Norman stronghold and royal palace. Additionally, Scotney Castle features a ruined medieval castle and Victorian mansion amidst beautiful parkland.
Can I go cycling or mountain biking near Smarden?
Absolutely! There are several routes for cycling and mountain biking in the area. For mountain biking, you can find trails like the 'Hemsted Forest loop' or 'Lenham Cross – The Bowl Inn loop'. If you prefer road cycling, options include the 'Biddenden Vineyards loop' or 'View of Sissinghurst Castle loop'. You can find more details and routes in the MTB Trails around Smarden, Cycling around Smarden, and Road Cycling Routes around Smarden guides.
What is the historical significance of Smarden?
Smarden has a rich history, having been granted market rights by Edward II in 1332 and reaffirmed by Elizabeth I. The village was also involved in Jack Cade's rebellion in 1450. Its name originates from Saxon words meaning 'butter valley' and 'pasture', hinting at its pastoral past. It has also received accolades such as "Village of the Year for the South East of England".
Are there any other historic churches or religious buildings nearby?
Beyond Smarden's own St Michael the Archangel Church, you can visit St George's Church, Benenden. This 14th-century church occupies a prime position at the head of Benenden village green and is a Grade II-listed building with a fascinating history of restoration.
What kind of wildlife conservation efforts can I learn about in Smarden?
The Big Cat Sanctuary in Smarden is a globally recognized center dedicated to the conservation and rescue of wild cats. They participate in accredited global breeding programs, collaborate on animal welfare initiatives, and conduct rescue operations, offering a unique insight into wildlife protection.
What are some lesser-known historical buildings or sites to discover?
Beyond the main attractions, Romden Castle in Smarden is a historic building with walls potentially dating back to the 13th-14th centuries, featuring a 16th-century tower. Exploring the designated conservation area of Smarden village itself will reveal numerous attractive historic cottages and Wealden hall houses.
Most popular attractions around Smarden
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