Sevenoaks

Sevenoaks is a town in Kent, in the South East of England. Sevenoaks is a fairly traditional market town, although these days, given its proximity to London, it is known largely as a commuter town. It is the perfect place to explore the Darenth Valley, especially if you like gentle country walks with plenty of rustic pubs along the way.

Understand
Contrary to popular belief the town isn't named after the seven oak trees that stood alongside the cricket pitch (six of which were destroyed in the great storm of 1987); the town's name is instead derived from the Anglo Saxon word seouenaca, the name given to a small chapel in Knole Park around 800 AD.

The district of Sevenoaks consists of 29 villages and small towns including of Chiddingstone, Edenbridge and Hever.

Otford is a quintessential village, nestled in the Kent countryside. It was mentioned in the Domesday book and was the site of an old Saxon battle.

By car
Sevenoaks is very near Junction 5 of the M25 where the M26 meets the M25. The M26 (or A25) leads to Maidstone, and the A21 heads south to Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Hastings.

By train


Fare and timetable information is available from South East Trains or by telephoning +44 8457 484950 (premium number).

Get around
Sevenoaks is not a large town, and the centre can easily be travelled on foot. As with most other towns in England, the town is well serviced by buses and taxis.

By bus
Arriva is the bus company that operates in Sevenoaks. Timetables and fares are available on their website. Buy your ticket from the driver when you board the bus.

By taxi
The main taxi rank is at the train station, although you can order a taxi by telephone to pick you up from anywhere.

For pre-booked journeys, try:

Do

 * Hike: Otford is a waypoint on the North Downs Way, the Pilgrims Way and the Darenth Valley footpath. All of which are highly recommended, especially in summer. Paths get muddy in winter and after heavy rain.
 * Hike: Otford is a waypoint on the North Downs Way, the Pilgrims Way and the Darenth Valley footpath. All of which are highly recommended, especially in summer. Paths get muddy in winter and after heavy rain.



Buy
There are a few antique shops in Otford.

Sleep

 * Hever Castle has rooms, B&B double from £180. Open Mar-Dec, no dogs.

Connect
As of March 2022, Sevenoaks has 4G from EE and Three, and 5G from O2 and Vodafone.