The Old Smock Mill Benenden is set in some of Kent's most beautiful countryside with breathtaking views across the Wealden landscape in all directions. Built in the early 1800's, it was one of a pair that originally stood in the area; the other having disappeared many years ago.
The Windmill originally known as the Old Smock Mill but latterly as Beacon Mill stands in a delightful ‘cottage-style' Kent garden in Benenden which can be viewed from the wide, oak staging encircling the building at first floor level. The holiday let accommodation is reached by going up the outside oak steps to the front door. The holiday let sleeps a romantic two guests and is unique in its interior with large heavy beams and high ceilings where the original machinery can be seen. To welcome you fresh flowers, picked from the garden, fill glass jars along with a thoughtful basket from the owners containing a selection of produce, in season, including fresh brown eggs from their friendly organic chickens. The ground floor is private and is for family use but both areas are totally self contained |
The original function of the mill is clear in the heavy beams that support the giant spur wheel and throughout, original machinery together with items salvaged from the restoration work, have been preserved where possible. The result is a breathtaking fusion of ancient and modern – the character and of the old in harmony with comfort and convenience of stylish eclectic furniture.
The Old Smock Mill is an ideal base to explore the delights of the Garden of England. To escape the hustle and bustle of life for a romantic getaway. There are a number of National trust properties close by, notably Sissinghurst Castle Gardens, Bodiam Castle as well as Pashley Manor, Great Dixter House & Gardens, and Bedgebury Pinetum. It lies on the Tunbridge Wells (no.18 ) cycle route and the area is criss-crossed by a network of footpaths and bridleways. The River Rother is within easy reach where rowing boats may be hired from the Lime Wharf cafe, great place for breakfast too. Visit our Ideas page for some other inspiring places to visit. The Cinque Port town of Tenterden with its assortment of shops and restaurants is 5 miles away as is the beautiful Market Town of Cranbrook . The villages of Rolvenden and Benenden are both under a mile away. Both villages have excellent pubs called The Bull where food is served. Other great places to eat: The West House Biddenden Michelin starred restaurant The Great House Hawkhurst - good food The Poet Matfield our personal favourite for fine dining The Salehurst Halt Salehurst lovely relaxed pub. The Three Chimenys Biddenden - great food lovely surroundings Nearest train station is Staplehurst with a fast link to London of just under 1 hr. The coast is 14 miles away where the enchanting Cinque port town of Rye lies with its cobbled streets or Hastings with its iconic net huts, quirky shops and the Jerwood Gallery. |