Why Hawkhurst?

 The ancient Wealden village of Hawkhurst is widely known for its beautiful surroundings and long history, not least for the notorious Hawkhurst Gang of ruthless smugglers who terrorized the neighbourhood in the 18th century.

Hawkhurst sign (image (c) John Hunt)

Hawkhurst today consists of two districts: The Moor with its beautiful Parish Church and village green, and Highgate with its village shops, centred on the attractive two hundred year old Colonnade. The heritage is all around you throughout the village, and is made easily enjoyable by exploring the Hawkhurst Heritage Trail.

St Laurence Church (image (c) John Hunt)

Hawkhurst is ideally placed, set as it is within the inspiring landscape of the High Weald, within easy reach of the sea, of interesting historical towns like Rye, Tunbridge Wells, Battle and Hastings, and of excellent countryside attractions; including Bedgebury National Pinetum, Bewl Water reservoir and world famous houses and gardens.

View of Hawkhurst (image (c) John Hunt)

Nearer at hand the village is surrounded by ancient woodlands, orchards and pasture land, all easily accessible by walking some of the many surrounding public footbaths. And if at the end of the day you are looking to relax over a pint of Kentish ale, or sample some excellent local food, Hawkhurst can supply that too.

So come and discover the Crossroads of the Weald.

Activities in and around Hawkhurst

Hawkhurst is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the High Weald as well as some of the country's most famous houses, castles and gardens. Click on the links below for walking and cycling routes in the area.

High Weald Countryside

• Walking
• Cycling

Planning your stay

Whether you are in Hawkhurst for the day, or planning a longer stay, click the links below to find places to stay, to eat and drink and things to do in the area.

The Moor (image (c) John Hunt)

• Where to stay in and around Hawkhurst
• Where to Eat and Drink
• Attractions around Hawkhurst
• How to get to Hawkhurst

More information

For more information on visiting hawkhurst and the surrounding area, see the Visit Kent website here

Information on Hawkhurst can be found at our own website www.hawkhurst-happens.org.uk

Click here to download a copy of the Hawkhurst leaflet (PDF file 2.8mb)

Hawkhurst Alpacas (image (c) John Hunt)

Our local visitor information centre can be found at:

Royal Tunbridge Wells Tourism Information Centre
The Old Fish Market
The Pantiles
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Kent TN2 5TN
Tel: 01892 515675
Web: www.visittunbridgewells.com

Hawkhurst is located within the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Visit www.highweald.org for more information.

Hawkhurst is situated approximately half way between Tunbridge Wells & Rye.
For further information on Tunbridge Wells and surrounding areas go to www.visitheartofkent.com
For further information on Rye and surrounding areas go to www.1066country.co.uk

Hawkhurst is one of the destinations working with the Hidden Britain project here in the South East.
Click here to find out more about Hidden Britain.