Goudhurst
| Goudhurst | |
|---|---|
| Administration | |
| Borough: | Tunbridge Wells |
| County: | Kent |
| Region: | South East England |
| Nation: | England |
| Other | |
| Ceremonial County: | Kent |
| Traditional County: | Kent |
| Postal County: | Kent |
Goudhurst is a village in Kent on the Weald, about 12 miles south of Maidstone. It stands on a crossroads, where there is a large village pond.
Table of contents |
History
The church in Goudhurst probably existed long before 1119, its earliest recorded date. The church has been altered and restored many times over the centuries. Until 1637 it had a tall spire which was eventually destroyed by lightening. During the Victorian era the church was restored by the architect Richard Carpenter The village was one of those involved in the Wealden iron industry; it was a centre for the growing of hops; and also of weaving. A group of weavers' cottages stands opposite the church.
The Battle of Goudhurst in 1747 led to the end of the Hawkhurst Gang of smugglers.
Bedgebury
Bedgebury is one of the oldest estates in Kent: having given its name to the de Bedgebury family, it passed into the hands of the Culpeper family in 1450. When the estate was sold in 1680, a new house was built which itself became a girls' school in the 1920s.
Bedgebury Pinetum is nearby. It was acquired by the Forestry Commission in 1924.
Railway
The branch railway line, now closed, from Paddock Wood had a station for the village. It was opened on 1 October 1892, and was originally named 'Hope Mill for Goudhurst and Lamberhurst'. It was some distance from the latter.
External links
Categories: Villages in Kent