Goudhurst Village Pond and Green

At the top of Goudhurst's steep High Street, beside the parish church, lies the village pond and small green, a much-photographed corner of the High Weald. Ringed by tile-hung and weatherboarded cottages, a few benches and mature trees, the pond is home to ducks and a favourite pause for walkers coming up the hill from the surrounding countryside.

Goudhurst grew wealthy in the medieval period on the back of the Wealden cloth trade, and its position on a ridge above the orchards and hop gardens gives the village long views south towards Bedgebury Forest and the Sussex border. The green and pond sit at the heart of a conservation area that includes the Star & Eagle Inn, several tea rooms and independent shops, all a short stroll from the church.

It's a natural stopping point on a walk around the village or a day exploring the surrounding Weald, with Bedgebury Pinetum, Scotney Castle and Finchcocks all within easy reach. The 23 bus from Maidstone terminates in Goudhurst, making this an easy day trip without a car.