THE LOWDOWN

Are you after a dining experience like no other? The Small Holding in Kilndown is an award-winning restaurant, offering wonderful home-grown and reared produce, hence the name. It’s one of a few dining destinations in the UK to receive a Michelin Green Star – the award recognises restaurants with a focus on environmental practices.

We are not alone in our love of this amazing eatery (which won Best Restaurant in Kent in our Muddy Stilettos Awards in 2019 and 2021). Owned by Will Devlin, who is one of Kent’s most exciting chefs, this rustic restaurant is situated in one acre of beautiful countryside with the mission of growing, rearing and foraging as much of the food that’s cooked as possible being at the heart of its ethos.

THE LOCATION

You’ll find it tucked down a country lane in Kilndown, (between Lamberhurst and Cranbrook). It’s off the beaten track yet easy enough to get to, not being far from the A21.

FOOD & DRINK

With Lunch and Dinner Tasting Menus on offer, the ever changing menu is defined by hyper-seasonal ingredients, responsibly sourced. There is no traditional menu, instead, guests are offered a multi-course dining experience with the best ingredients harvested that day. Will and the team work with the seasons, foraging and preserving throughout the year. Making their own bread, butter, charcuterie and preserves.

There’s a sunny decked area overlooking the smallholding at the front, so it’s perfect for weekend walkers and inside there’s a cosy bar, wooden floorboards and old farm equipment decorating the walls. Kids are welcome but the surroundings and menu are fairly grown up. Makes the perfect date-night option and definitely one for the foodies.

Images by Key & Quill