Smarden

Smarden is a vibrant, caring community with plenty to offer. As a village there are many local organisations and activities which builds upon its already strong community spirit.

Thought by many to be the most beautiful village in Kent, Smarden was awarded Village of the Year for the South East of England in 2008 and prior to this won many awards as the Best Kept Village in Kent.

Much of the village centre is a designated conservation area and the parish has 155 listed buildings. Rich in 14th and 15th century buildings which were part of the weaving industry, Smarden has an interesting history. The 14th/15th century church is known as the “Barn of Kent” because of its wide scissor-beamed roof unsupported by pillars.

In 1576 Queen Elizabeth I confirmed a Charter granted by Edward III in 1332 for a weekly market to be held in Smarden each Monday and for an annual fair of 5 days at Michaelmas.

The village offers a Post Office, Butcher’s Shop, Gallery and Vintage Fusion bric-a-brac shop as well as 3 separate pubs – The Bell being a particular favourite haunt for the Young Farmers! There is a Primary School and Pre-school, a Toddler Group, and a Youth Club as well as offering a range of Adult Learning opportunities.

Smarden has a modern Charter Hall, opened in 2007 and a fantastic Sports Pavilion opened in June 2017, as well as playing fields. Sporting clubs in Smarden are popular and include a cricket club, a tennis club, an adult football club as well as a junior football club.

Other groups include the WI, St Michael’s Guild, Bell Ringers, Gardeners Society, the Smarden Players and an Over 60’s group.