Why move to... Staplehurst?

The village of Staplehurst is a wonderful place to live in Kent, especially if you’re looking for life in the countryside that’s still within easy reach of bigger towns – and Wards can help you find your new home.

Staplehurst

What are Staplehurst’s nearest towns?

Staplehurst lies less than ten miles south of Maidstone. It’s nestled in the middle of Ashford and Tunbridge Wells, both some twenty-odd miles in each direction.

Nearby villages include

  • The picturesque Sissingnhurst and Headcorn. 
  • Biddenden and its vineyards are less than ten miles away.

Transport links from Staplehurst

London is within easy reach from Staplehurst station. It’s on Ashford’s mainline to Charing Cross and Cannon Street via Tonbridge, and under an hour’s journey – so good news for commuters.

There are ten bus stops on Maidstone Road for the number 5 Arriva service which connects Staplehurst to Maidstone and then Cranbrook, Hawkhurst and Sandhurst.

The A229 runs all the way to Maidstone via Linton and Loose and connects you to the M20 London bound, with access to the M26, M25 and Gatwick and Heathrow airports.

Eating and drinking in Staplehurst

When it comes to typical English pubs, head to the Lord Raglan for British staples, like fish and chips, pies and steaks. During the winter, curl up next to a roaring fire or head out to the garden during the summer. The King’s Head is a 17th-century pub serving a range of premium lagers and traditional cask ales from Britain’s oldest brewery, Shepherd Neame. If you fancy something spicier, head to Jumeira on The Parade for a delicious curry. The cafe at Frankie's Farmshop provides a relaxed atmosphere to catch up over a coffee or pot of tea.

Things to do in Staplehurst

This part of Kent has perfect grape-growing soil and fantastic weather ideal for producing delicious wines. Staplehurst is home to Hush Heath Estate, a family-run vineyard that produces award-winning vino and a great day out for grown-ups. 

Google ‘things to do in Staplehurst’ and the top hits are centred around local wine tours. That being said, Sissinghurst Castle and it’s renowned gardens is a ten-minute drive away and The Big Cat Sanctuary in nearby Smarden hosts open days throughout the year and both make for great days out.

Staplehurst schools

Staplehurst School on Gybbon Rise is the village’s primary school whereas older children attend High Weald Academy and Cranbrook School.

House prices in Staplehurst

  • Large detached houses: £500,00 - £750,000+
  • Detached houses: £275,000 - £500,000
  • Semi-detached: £200,000-£450,000
  • Terraces and cottages: £200,000-£400,000
  • Flats: £120,000-£450,000

Renting in Staplehurst

  • £600-£700pcm for a flat.
  • £750-£1,300pcm for a 2-3 bedroom house.

Best Fish and Chips

According to TripAdvisor, Chequers Fish Bar is a quality chippy in the heart of the community that serves generous portions.

Entertainment

Your nearest cinema is Odeon in Maidstone. If you move to Staplehurst, your nearest leisure facilities will most likely be the Weald Sports Centre in Cranbrook.

Local Supermarkets

Larger supermarkets can be found out of town, but local shops include SPAR and McColl’s for necessities, like bread, milk and a Subway sandwich.

Famous residents of Staplehurst

TV’s Harry Hill grew up in Staplehurst and went to various schools in the area as a child.

What you may not know about Staplehurst… 

On 9th June 1895 at 3:13 pm, the infamous Staplehurst rail crash took place after the train derailed while crossing a viaduct. Sadly, ten people died and forty were injured. Among the passengers were Charles Dickens and his mistress Ellen Ternan. Although uninjured, the accident affected him hugely and it was said that he never fully recovered from the ordeal.

So, do you see yourself living here in Staplehurst? Have a chat with our local Staplehurst branch or take a look at current Staplehurst properties.