Discover Staplehurst

Staplehurst lies on a low but clearly defined ridge above the clay lowlands of the Low Weald. The landscape gives the village a distinct topographical setting. Near Staplehurst, the A229 from Rochester to Hastings follows the route of the Roman road between Rochester and Bodiam. Distinct from this is the original settlement pattern: Staplehurst developed as a linear settlement along the main road and originally extended from the parish church to Loddenden Manor. Here, “linear” describes development along a road; the named endpoints give a tangible sense of the settlement’s original extent. The landform, historic road route and settlement development therefore offer three different perspectives on the village.

Local history and building dates

Clothmaking became more important in Staplehurst during the 15th and 16th centuries. A later period in the village’s history is marked by the opening of Staplehurst railway station: it opened in 1842 as a station on the South Eastern Railway. Historic buildings also offer clues to different periods. The King’s Head is one of the oldest non-ecclesiastical buildings in the area and is dated to the period from 1370 to 1400. Fuller House is a 16th-century house with an extension dating from the early 17th century. The Church of All Saints is a parish church whose fabric dates from the late 12th to the 15th century. The historic inn building of the King’s Head Hotel dates from the 16th century and was altered in 1671 and during the 18th and 19th centuries. The later extension to Fuller House is individually dated; the changes to the King’s Head Hotel span several subsequent periods.

Open spaces and nature

Another way to explore Staplehurst is through its open spaces. Surrenden Field, also known as King George VI Playing Field, is a public open space near the centre of Staplehurst, leased for public recreation. Access points include Surrenden Road, Bathurst Road and the Nicholson Walk footpath from the High Street. As access arrangements may change, check the parish council’s latest information before your visit. A nature reserve has been established at Wimpey Field, with a comprehensive ten-year management plan agreed with the Medway Valley Countryside Partnership. Management arrangements may be updated over time. The two places therefore have different focuses: public recreation at Surrenden Field and nature conservation management at Wimpey Field.

Walks and local events

The Staplehurst Footpath Group is a local point of contact for walks. The parish meeting report of 16 May 2025 notes that the group welcomes occasional walkers and regularly organises walks on the second Sunday of each month. As the schedule may change, check the latest dates in advance. The walking year from May 2024 to April 2025 included local walks starting from the village. The month provides a time reference, while the local walks have a distinct connection to the village. The report of 16 May 2025 also records a monthly market at Staplehurst Community Centre. Market arrangements may change; check the latest information if you plan to include a market visit in your trip.

Discover more destinations: Dartford, West Peckham, Wye, Sandhurst, Dover, Horsmonden, Wingham, Smeeth

For the broader travel overview: Kent.