Penshurst, Fordcombe and Chiddingstone

Penshurst, Fordcombe and Chiddingstone ward encompasses a rural area of the High Weald, characterised by rolling countryside, scattered settlements, and historic estates. The landscape is defined by small fields, woodlands, and the River Eden, which flows through the parish. The ward includes the distinct villages of Penshurst, with its notable manor house and cricket ground, and the smaller Fordcombe, alongside the conservation area of Chiddingstone village. Agricultural land and historic parkland form a significant part of the local environment.

The area is notable for its well-preserved historic character, with many buildings constructed from local sandstone and timber framing. Chiddingstone village itself is almost entirely owned by the National Trust, maintaining a cohesive architectural style from the Tudor and Stuart periods. The local economy has strong connections to farming, forestry, and tourism linked to its heritage assets. The ward's geography places it within the Kentish Weald, away from major transport routes, contributing to its quiet, pastoral atmosphere.