Goudhurst and Kilndown Millennium Walk
This is a six mile walk starting in the village of Goudhurst with superb views across the Weald of Kent. The route is fairly well signposted, but it is advisable to purchase Ordnance Survey Explorer map 136. If you rely on the latter please bear in mind that this was printed 10 years ago and some of the footpaths have been re-routed. Most of the route is on footpaths, some of which can be muddy and there is a small amount of road walking involved where you must be careful and keep an eye on children and dogs.
This route joins the High Weald landscape trail which goes north to Horsmonden and south to Cranbrook.
Bewl Water Walking
Taking around 5 hours it is possible to walk round Bewl water. The track is 12½ miles and passes through some of the wealds most beautiful countryside including managed woodland and lush meadows. Part of the route circumnavigates the reservoir on quiet country lanes, and offers the opportunity to pop into local pubs for a quick drink or a bite to eat. Alternatively pack a picnic and enjoy the vistas from many of the vantage points along the way. On occasions the pathway can be muddy and suitable footwear is essential for both mountain bikers and walkers alike.
Goudhurst Village
The place name of Goudhurst is derived from the Old English guo hyrst, meaning Battle Hill, or the wooded hill on which a battle has been fought. The name commemorates a battle fought on this high ground in Saxon times.
The most recent local battle was in 1747, which led to the end of the notorious Hawkhurst Gang, a criminal organization involved in smuggling throughout southeast England from 1735 until 1749.
Smuggling had generally been supported by the local population, providing employment and much need wages, however the murderous brutality of the Hawkhurst Gang had gone a step too far.
"General" George Sturt, a former army corporal formed the Goudhurst Militia to put an end to the smugglers' grip over the local economy. Enraged by this defiance Thomas Kingsmill, a native of the town, threatened to burn the town and kill the residents. On the 21st of April 1747 the gang attacked, the militia were well prepared and the first volley of fire around the church led to the death of Kingsmill's brother George. Two more smugglers died before the gang finally withdrew. The gang were latter all rounded up and hanged.
Stay at Bedgebury camping and spend time walking around the historic village of Goudhurst.
