An aerial photo of Brenchley – you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a storybook from hundreds of years ago (Image: AFP via Getty Images/Ben Stansall)
For those who relish a stroll through the scenic Kent countryside followed by a sumptuous Sunday roast beside a welcoming open log fire, The Hopbine Inn is your ideal destination.
Nestled between two charming villages, it offers the perfect chance for some delightful exploration.
Situated snugly between the enchanting historic village of Brenchley and the picturesque Matfield with its impressive village green, The Hopbine Inn epitomises the quintessential country pub.
Housed in a beautiful red-brick building adorned with hung tiles, it proudly lives up to its claim of being “all that a country pub should be.”
However, if you’re planning a jaunt to this idyllic spot, take note that while walk-ins are greeted with open arms, the pub’s staff recommend booking ahead “for peak times”. A satisfied patron advised “booking is essential – but for a good reason”.
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The cosiest pub with an open fire and fantastic food, The Hopbine in Matfield (Image: The Hopbine)
The Hopbine Inn is a haven for lovers of hearty, home-cooked fare, especially renowned for its Sunday roasts. Served from noon until 4pm, the roasts are accompanied by rosemary-infused roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, and a medley of seasonal vegetables.
Diners visiting the pub on weekdays will find a varied and delicious menu, with handcrafted pizzas from a wood-fired over, alongside Spanish-inspired tapas, and some more traditional pub favourites
And for those in search of a quality drink, The Hopbine doesn’t disappoint; it features a well-stocked cellar with an extensive selection of cask and keg ales, and ciders sourced from local producers like Tonbridge Brewery and Longman Brewery, not to mention a variety of lagers, reports .
The much-loved boasts an impressive 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor, garnered from 146 reviews. Patrons lavish praise on the establishment’s diverse offerings, including its delectable roast lunches, warm wood fire, mouth-watering pizzas, steak nights, and an array of fine ales and beers..
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A recent review, dated November 24, extols the virtues of The Hopbine, describing it as “consistently great”. The reviewer, a frequent visitor, enthuses: “Visited many times for food in the last few years and it’s consistently excellent. Sunday roasts are by far the best in the area, evening meals are great, the whole squid/cuttle fish is awesome, and the pizzas are great too. Highly recommended.”
Conveniently located near Tunbridge Wells, The Hopbine is easily accessible. Another reviewer, who recently enjoyed Sunday lunch at the establishment, notes: “Back to The Hopbine but this time for Sunday lunch. Crowded as always – booking is essential – but for a reason. The roasts were excellent – far above the average pub roast. Special mention to the cauliflower cheese which was sublime.”
The Hopbine also offers a special Christmas Day lunch menu, ensuring a memorable holiday experience for patrons. During the summer months, the picturesque leafy garden, complete with a children’s play area featuring an enchanting treehouse, climbing wall, and grassy expanse, provides an idyllic setting for families.
On sunny days, the inviting suntrap of a terrace, adorned with large umbrellas for shade, beckons patrons to linger and enjoy the warm atmosphere. The journey to the area is quite simple.
Matfield is beautiful with a duck pond’ lovely homes and what is believed to be the largest village green in Kent (Image: KentLive)
Just head south down the A21 from Tunbridge Wells, and take a left to Paddock Wood through winding country roads, canopies of trees and hedgerows. And being near the A21, you can head off in all directions if you want to explore other places, whether that’s more rural gems or towns.
Another nearby hidden gem is Cinderhill Community Woodland – there’s 30 spectacular acres of rare heathland, grassland, woods and streams to explore.
It is owned and managed for people and nature, by Kent Wildlife Trust. There is a network of well-managed paths, taking you past flora and fauna.
There are more than 60 bird species, including cuckoo, song thrush, turtle doves, bullfinch woodcocks, willow tits and the green woodpecker, so keep your ears and eyes open. Trees to see include ash, alder hazel and sweet chestnut.