Fountain House

Goudhurst, one of the highest situated and most often mis-pronounced Wealden villages in this part of Kent and Sussex, has commanding views, a rich agricultural history and the feeling that once here, there’s little need to leave.

Fountain House, which sleeps six in three bedrooms, is at the centre of the village’s main street, a beautifully presented Grade II listed home where centuries of history meet the comforts of modern country living. Believed to have once served as a cloth hall before becoming the (undoubtedly popular) Fountain Head Inn in the 18th century, this characterful timber-framed building is surrounded by historic houses, pubs and the rolling countryside of the Kentish Weald. It is also the antidote to modern city living. It’s dark at night with little or no street lighting, you can still tie your horse up at the pub (should you have one) and yes, it has its own Morris dancers who dance in the spring on Mayday and are still performing for crowds on Fireworks night.

Three inviting bedrooms offer flexible accommodation for families and friends, with a super king-size master bedroom and twin room on the first floor, and a spacious king-size bedroom on the ground floor. There are two bathrooms, including one with a traditional roll-top bath and separate shower. Outside, the private courtyard terrace provides a secluded spot for morning coffee, alfresco meals or an evening glass of wine after exploring the countryside, with one well-behaved four-legged companion welcome to join the stay.

The spacious kitchen and dining room form a welcoming heart to the home, perfect for relaxed breakfasts and leisurely evenings around the table. The comfortable sitting room, with its leather sofas and warming wood-burning stove, is made for slower evenings together, while the charming library offers a peaceful corner to settle down with a book.

From its front door, guests at Fountain House step out into that view across to London and Sussex. During the summer months the Church Tower charges a small fee to view the village rooftops but it’s so worth the climb. Recovery in the local pub over lunch may be necessary or guests can set off on one of the brilliant walks that connect the ring of hilltop villages nearby. Oast houses, orchards and the remaining hop gardens all feature across the Kentish countryside with the hills giving a good work out to work up an appetite. Further afield, the celebrated gardens of Sissinghurst Castle and Scotney Castle are within easy reach, while Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest offers beautiful walking and cycling trails. The nearby market town of Cranbrook and the historic Pantiles in Royal Tunbridge Wells provide plenty of opportunities for independent shopping, cafés and more dining out.