The Telegraph: 'The 10 prettiest villages in Kent'

'Take a tour of the county’s finest spots, chosen by our local expert and heavy on proper pubs, timber-framed houses and immaculate gardens.'

At number 2 is the village of Elham...

'Hunkered in the rolling Elham Valley in the heart of the North Downs, locals argue that Elham boasts the perfect location, being 20 minutes from both a city (Canterbury) and the beach (Folkestone). Indeed, many visitors to the picturesque chalk valley arrive on foot, following the 22½-mile Elham Valley Way, which starts in Hythe and finishes at Canterbury Cathedral.

'The village is home to no fewer than 43 listed buildings, including the medieval Church of St Mary the Virgin, several rose-bestrewn timber-framed Tudor houses and two 15th-century pubs. It all feels cared-for but not twee. The tastefully refurbished Kings Arms bags prime spot on the little square in front of the church. The self-described gastropub was scooping awards within months of opening.

'Did you know?

Famous Elham residents include the actress Audrey Hepburn (when she was a child), cricketer Leslie Ames and former prime minister Anthony Eden. The latter lived in the 15th-century Park Gate, a timbered house in lovely gardens, where he entertained Winston Churchill. The house is currently available to buy, for those looking for a piece of leafy Kent to call their own.'

Park Gate is a fine example of a Grade II Listed 15th century farmhouse with significant later additions set amid mature gardens and grounds of circa 5.8 acres in a peaceful rural setting accompanied by outbuildings and separate cottage, and is on the market with Jackson-Stops Sevenoaks with a guide price of £1,950,000.

https://www.jackson-stops.co.uk/properties/18641810/sales/sevenoaks

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/united-kingdom/england/kent/the-10-prettiest-villages-in-kent/