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Tenterden
The Jewel of the Weald |
| Dating
back to Saxon times, Tenterden first became prosperous as
a centre for the manufacture of broadcloth. At this time Tenterden
had access to the sea, the ports of Smallhythe and Reading
Street using the timber from the Wealden forest to build ships.
By the 14th century Smallhythe had become a major ship-building
centre, an industry that continued until the middle of the
16th century.
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| Tenterden
is historically the centre of a large rural economy and it
still retains the quiet charm of a typical Wealden market
town with a population of about 6000. It has rightly been
described as the "Jewel of the Weald" and "the most delightful
country town in Kent".
When
the Cinque Port of Rye found itself unable to fulfill its
obligations to supply its quota of ships and men for the use
of the |
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Crown, it turned to Tenterden for help..In 1449 the Town and
Hundred of Tenterden received its Charter of Incorporation
as a limb of Rye and a member of the Confederation of the
Cinque Ports. |
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The
Town enjoyed all the ancient customs and privileges of the
Cinque Ports including the right to elect a Bailiff every
year. In 1600 Queen Elizabeth gave the Town a new charter,
under which the title of Bailiff was changed to Mayor. |
In
the 15th and 16th centuries changes in the coastline of
south east England brought about the decline of the power
of the Cinque Ports, and Tenterden gradually lost its maritime
associations. Its later prosperity came from agriculture,
especially sheep, hops and fruit and its growing importance
as a service centre for the surrounding rural area.
Today
Tenterden has much to offer its many visitors. The beautiful
tree lined High Street is a pleasure to shop in, with a
wealth of independent retailers, antiques and other specialist
shops. You may wish to relax in one of the old inns or tea
shops, or enjoy the varied cuisine of one of the Towns top-class
restaurants. |
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Visit
the Parish Church of St.Mildred, begun in the 12th century, with
its 15th century pinnacled tower in Bethersden marble dominating
the town. Tenterden and District Museum, in Station Road covers
1000 years of local history including many items relating to the
Cinque Ports. At Smallhythe just two miles from Tenterden is Smallhythe
Place the home of the famous actress, Dame Ellen Terry.
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Tenterden
is the home of The Kent and East Sussex Railway. From Tenterden
Town station young and old alike can enjoy a nostalgic trip
through several miles of beautiful countryside aboard one
of the line's full size steam trains. The line now runs to the historic Bodiam Castle and also hosts many 'special events' weekends throughout the year. |
You will be
assured of a warm welcome in Tenterden and especially at Quince
Cottage which Heather and John Crease have equipped and maintain
to be a comfortable "home from home".
For
further information regarding Tenterden please contact the Tenterden
Tourist Information Office on 01580 763572 or fax: 01580 766863
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