insideKENT Magazine Issue 31 - October 2014 | Page 101

TOWNSPOTLIGHT

S P O T L I G H T

O N

KINGS HILL
Kings Hill is one of the newest towns in Kent, and has a lot to offer those who
wish to live, work or play there. With great restaurants, an assortment of activities,
and housing to suit all needs, it’s a fantastic place to explore. BY LISAMARIE LAMB

history in brief

things to do

The building of the village of Kings
Hill was started in 1989 using land that
had been previously used by RAF West
Malling. Although the original plan
was more focused towards office
building and commercial spaces, it
was soon realised that housing was
going to be essential in order to allow
these businesses to thrive, and to
make this area of the Borough of
Tonbridge and Malling successful in
boosting the Kentish economy.

There is plenty to do in Kings Hill, and whatever
you enjoy there is bound to be something for you
to join in with. It is this community spirit that
makes Kings Hill so attractive.

Kings Hill is not yet completed, and
current plans estimate that there will
be 2,750 homes here by the time the
town is finished. The latest planning
application was submitted in March
2014, and includes new homes,
schools, an extension to the
community centre, a skate park, and
additional parking.

Kings Hill Golf Club – The David Williams
designed par 72 golf course on Discovery Drive
is exceptional. Known as the best draining inland
course in the south of England, if you love golf,
or if you want to start learning, there is no finer
place to play. Not only are there a number of
competitions and fixtures held here, there are
also some truly expert professionals to get your
game up to scratch. Even if golf is not your
preferred hobby, the clubhouse and restaurant
are open to non-members and the food is
excellent. Locally sourced and freshly prepared,
it is certainly worth trying.
Kings Hill Cricket Club – If you love the sound
of leather on willow then you’ll be impressed by
the Kings Hill Cricket Club which was established
in 2006. A beautiful new (2010) weather-boarded
cricket pavilion and a well-tended green are
surrounded by pretty cottage-like houses, and
the entire view looks like the quintessential English
village, but with absolutely 21st-century amenities.

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Opened by ‘Deadly’ Derek Underwood, the Kings
Hill Cricket Club started as it meant to go on,
and is now a focal point in the town where many
locals choose to meet up for an evening’s
entertainment.
Warren Woods Nature Park – With 46 acres of
woodland to explore, Warren Woods Nature Park
is a beautiful, peaceful, and fascinating place to
enjoy either alone or with friends and family. There
are dedicated picnic areas so why not pack some
lunch and go for a good long walk along the
numerous footpaths that crisscross the area?
You can find yourself in Wateringbury, East Malling,
or Teston, or stay more local and enjoy the
different flora and fauna that live there.
Tiddlers and Toddlers – For the little ones there
is a fun and interactive class that takes place in
the well appointed community centre every
Monday morning. Winner of awards and popular
throughout the town, Tiddlers and Toddlers is all
about using fun to teach. While the babies and
toddlers are learning, playing, and making friends,
the parents can have a chat, a well deserved cup
of coffee, and some time out to themselves. This
group is run by two mums, so you can rest
assured that it is just what your child (and you)
need.