Hawkhurst
A witness before a 1745 Committee of Enquiry estimated there were 20,000 smugglers operating in Britain at that time. An infamous group, the "Holkhourst Genge", terrorised the surrounding area between 1735 and 1749. They were the most notorious of the Kent gangs, and were feared all along the south coast of England. At Poole in Dorset, where they had launched an armed attack on the customs house (to take back a consignment of tea that had been confiscated), several were hanged including Thomas Kingsmill, one of the gang's leaders.
A number of inns and local houses in Hawkhurst claim associations with the gang: high taxation on luxury goods in the early 18th century had led to an upsurge in smuggling, and the gang brought in brandy, silk and tobacco up from Rye and Hastings to be stowed away in hidden cellars and passages, before being sold off to the local gentry. It was reputed that when needed for a smuggling run, 500 mounted and armed men could be assembled within the hour. The Battle of Goudhurst eventually brought their career to an end.
The ancient Wealden village of Hawkhurst is widely known for its beautiful surroundings and long history, not least for the notorious Hawkhurst Gang of ruthless smugglers who terrorized the neighbourhood in the 18th century.
Hawkhurst today consists of two districts: The Moor with its beautiful Parish Church and village green, and Highgate with its village shops, centred on the attractive two hundred year old Colonnade. The heritage is all around you throughout the village, and is made easily enjoyable by exploring the Hawkhurst Heritage Trail.
Hawkhurst is ideally placed, set as it is within the inspiring landscape of the High Weald, within easy reach of the sea, of interesting historical towns like Rye, Tunbridge Wells, Battle and Hastings, and excellent countryside attractions; including Bedgebury National Pinetum, Bewl Water reservoir and world famous houses and gardens.
Nearer at hand, the village is surrounded by ancient woodlands, orchards and pasture land, all easily accessible by walking some of the many surrounding public footbaths. And if at the end of the day you are looking to relax over a pint of Kentish ale, or sample some excellent local food, Hawkhurst can supply that too.
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