Smarden is a village in Kent, England, about 2.4 miles northeast of Tenterden. It has a population of around 1400 people and lies within the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It has a wide range of amenities, including a post office, shops and pubs, as well as parks and other attractions.
1. Smarden parks and places for a walk on a first date
If you and your date fancy a more outdoor-oriented first date, Smarden has plenty of great parks and places to explore. One of the most popular places is Smarden Park, which has a large lake and offers a great view of the village. Other great spots include Stile Bridge Nature Reserve, a wildlife-rich wetlands area with plenty of species of birds, plants and wildlife to observe. The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is also close by and has many lovely countryside walks available. If a more urban stroll is your thing, then the Smarden High Street is a fantastic spot to wander around, with plenty of independent stores, cafes and restaurants to choose from.
2. Places for a coffee date in Smarden
If you're looking for somewhere to grab a coffee with your date, then Smarden certainly has you covered. The village boasts plenty of coffee shops, from independent spots to national chains. Some of the most popular include Grounds Cafe, a family-run cafe serving up delicious and ethically-sourced coffee, as well as The Old Mill, a traditional tea room with plenty of treats to choose from. The local pub, The Crown Inn, also offers a great range of coffees and teas, as well as a cosy atmosphere and a range of snacks and light meals.
3. Smarden galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you and your date prefer something a bit more cultural, then why not visit one of Smarden's galleries, museums or exhibitions? There are several art galleries in Smarden, such as the Horsington Gallery which hosts exhibitions of contemporary artworks, and the Muscon Gallery which showcases a wide range of local art. Other interesting spots include the Tenterden Station Museum, which tells the story of the village's railway heritage, and the Smarden Heritage Centre, an educational centre dedicated to preserving the area's past.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Smarden
For those looking for something a bit more lively, Smarden hosts a wide range of live music and entertainment. The local pubs, The Crown Inn and The King's Head, regularly host live music nights with some of the best local talent on show. The village also has a thriving music scene, with regular open mic nights at the local cafe, Grounds Cafe. Additionally, there are also performances of classic plays at the local theatre, The Little Theatre.
5. Smarden pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
If you're looking for somewhere to grab a drink or a bite to eat with your date, then Smarden has plenty of options for you. The local pubs, The Crown Inn and The King's Head, both provide a cosy atmosphere with a great selection of drinks and food. For a more relaxed atmosphere, you could also try one of the village's cafe bars such as The Chapel Bar and The Three Horseshoes. If you're feeling adventurous, why not try the local restaurant, The Duke of Kent, which serves up a wide range of food from around the world.
6. Other date ideas to try in Smarden
If you're looking for a different kind of date, Smarden also has plenty of other ideas to try. For the more adventurous couples, why not try a spot of climbing or abseiling at the nearby High Rocks, or take a kayaking trip down the river Medway. If you're looking for something a bit more relaxed, then why not take a boat trip along the River Stour, or visit one of the local vineyards for a spot of wine tasting. You could also take a tour of the local churches and castles, or visit one of the nearby National Trust properties for a spot of cultural exploration.
