The Weald
'The Weald' is an area of the UK that covers the counties of Kent, Surrey and Sussex. It is about 30 miles south of London and the south coast of England and is recognised as an area of outstanding beauty.
It is an historical area and was known to the Saxons in 900AD when it was called Andreadesweald and spanned the area from the Kent marshes to the New Forest in Hampshire.
Bayham Abbey is a 'wonder of the Weald' an is currently owned and managed by English Heritage. It is situated on the borders of Kent and Surrex and is set in the valley of the River Tiese. It is a romantic and engaging ruin and well worth a visit. The area of High Weald is another attraction in this area. It is an historic area with a fine landscape of rolling hills and fantastic views. It is home to valleys, woods fields peppered with traditional cottages and farms. Bedgebury Forest in another part of the Weald that draws many visitors. It offers various pursuits including walking, cycling, horse riding and orienteering for a variety of age groups. It has a new visitor centre and facilities are open all year round.
High Weald has plenty of beautiful gardens to delight visitors and particularly notable of these is Marle Place Gardens in Brenchley. Bedgebury forest has a fantastic array of trees in the National Pinetum, including rare and endangered species.
Scotney Castle is said to play host to one of England's most beautiful gardens and features 6 separate gardens.
