Join the society
If you live in Luddesdown, Sole Street or Cobham, or have connections with the area please complete the form to apply for membership - its free!
Get in touch
The Village
What’s On & Where to Go in Luddesdown
Welcome to the ultimate guide to exploring Luddesdown! Whether you’re looking for great food, scenic walks, historic sites, or local events, we’ve got you covered.
Culinary Delights
The Lion
This traditional country pub, The Lion, is a hidden gem. It offers a fine selection of English wines and exquisite dining, and its unique charm will surely intrigue you.
The Cock Inn
It is an authentic ale pub with a historic atmosphere. “No food served”. Open Monday – Friday from 4 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 2 pm.
Where to Stay
If you’re visiting Luddesdown and looking for accommodation, here are some great places to stay nearby.
Whether you’re after a cozy B&B or a traditional inn, these options ensure a comfortable stay near Luddesdown.
North Downs Barn
Location: Cuxton, Kent
A charming B&B located in a converted barn, blending rustic charm with modern amenities.
The Leather Bottle
Location: Cobham, Kent
This historic inn dating back to the 16th century offers comfortable rooms and traditional British cuisine.
The Darnley Arms
Location: Cobham, Kent
The Darnley Arms, located in Cobham, Kent, is a cozy pub with guest rooms that provide a warm and friendly atmosphere, ensuring you feel welcomed and at ease during your stay.
Greenhollow
Location: Sole Street, Kent
A bed and breakfast in a tranquil garden offers personalised service and hearty breakfasts.
Recommended Restaurants
The Leather Bottle. Cobham
It is famous for its Dickensian heritage, with a lovely beer garden and great food.
Bartellas. Meopham
This restaurant and cocktail lounge offers Mediterranean-inspired food and a modern interior. Quality steaks and fresh seafood.
The Cricketers Inn. Meopham
This family-friendly inn has outdoor seating and a global menu of traditional and modern dishes.
Minel. Meopham
Meze Grill, Bar & Restaurant. Meditteranean style food from the Turkish rustic to the simplicity of Italian
Bowleys at The Plough. Trottiscliffe
A refined dining experience with locally sourced, seasonal dishes.
The George. Tottiscliffe
The George welcomes you to a traditional, friendly dining experience combining great food and a cosy family atmosphere.
The Royal Oak. New Ash Green
Traditional Family Pub Fine locally sourced food in a bright, simple style
Village Events
Luddesdowne Bank Holiday May Fair
Traditional fair with food, music, and family entertainment.
Farmers’ Market at The Loin
Fresh local produce is regularly featured at The Loin pub.
New Year’s Day Walk
Start the year with a guided village walk and drinks at The Loin. 1st January
Key Village Dates
Spring Village Clean-Up
Help keep our village beautiful! Bring gloves & bin bags.
Autumn Village Clean-Up
A pre-winter effort to keep our surroundings pristine.
Guided Talks & Historic Sites
Court Lodge Guided Talks
A fascinating tour of this medieval property, its architecture, and its historical significance.
Silverhand Estate Vineyard Tours & Talks
Explore English winemaking vineyard history and enjoy a wine-tasting session.
Dode Church Guided Tours
Step back to a 12th-century Norman church, restored after centuries of abandonment.
Discover the Natural Beauty of Luddesdowne on Foot
Luddesdown and its surrounding areas offer a diverse range of scenic walks, catering to different preferences. Whether you prefer short countryside loops or longer historical trails, we have a list of the best walking routes, including maps and details to help you explore the stunning Kent landscape.
Luddesdown Trek
- Distance: 8.3 miles (13.36 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Shorne Woods, Cobham village, Luddesdown countryside
- Map & Info: Luddesdown Trek
Camer Park and Luddesdown Circular
- Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Woodland trails, panoramic countryside views
- Map & Info: Camer Park & Luddesdown Circular
Cobham to Luddesdown Circular Walk
- Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Darnley Mausoleum, historic villages, downland scenery
- Map & Info: Cobham to Luddesdown Walk
Coldrum Stones and Luddesdown Walk
- Distance: 13 miles (20.5 km)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Neolithic Coldrum Stones, North Downs views, woodland paths
- Map & Info: Luddesdown
Meopham and Luddesdown Walk
- Distance: 3.3 miles (5.2 km)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Forest paths, scenic countryside
- Map & Info: Meopham & Luddesdown Walk
The Darnley Trail
- Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Shorne Woods, Darnley Mausoleum, Cobham village
- Map & Info: Darnley Trail
Holly Hill, Luddesdown, Cobham, and Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve
- Distance: 8 miles (12.9 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Diverse landscapes, including woodlands, open fields, and nature reserves
- Map & Info: Holly Hill, Luddesdown, Cobham, and Ranscombe Farm Nature Reserve
Luddesdown and Cobham Hike (Includes North Downs Way)
- Distance: 10 miles (16 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (due to some steep sections)
- Highlights: Vineyards, the hamlet of Luddesdown, isolated woodlands, sections of the Wealdway and the North Downs Way, and Cobham Mausoleum
- Map & Info: Luddesdown and Cobham Hike
Sole Street Circular
- Distance: 7 miles (11.3 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Chalk hills, vineyards, quiet valleys, and scenic views within the North Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Map & Info: Sole Street Circular
Rochester, Cobham Park, Luddesdown, Halling, and Cuxton Circular (Includes North Downs Way)
- Distance: 14 miles (22.5 km)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Rural scenery, historic sites, and diverse landscapes despite proximity to major Kent conurbations. Includes sections of the North Downs Way.
- Map & Info: Rochester to Cuxton Circular
Meopham Circular (with an option to Rochester via Luddesdown)
- Distance: 12.1 miles (19.5 km); an alternative ending to Rochester adds approximately 0.1 miles (0.2 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Ancient woodlands, parklands, nature reserves, and an optional extension to finish in historic Rochester, passing through Luddesdown along the way.
- Map & Info: Meopham Circular or to Rochester
Trosley Country Park Circular Walk (Includes North Downs Way)
- Distance: Up to 2.5 miles (4 km)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Chalk grassland slopes, diverse wildlife, and sections of the North Downs Way
- Map & Info: Trosley Country Park
Each of these walks showcases different aspects of the stunning countryside around Luddesdown, from historical landmarks to tranquil woodland paths. Whether you’re looking for a stroll or a full-day hike, there’s something for everyone.
For more walking routes and updates, visit Explore Kent.
Tip
Many trails pass by pubs, offering the perfect opportunity for a ‘walk & dine experience ‘. After a refreshing walk, you can enjoy a delicious meal and a well-deserved rest at a nearby pub.