Cranbrook is the very definition of quaint – its narrow streets flanked by weatherboarded houses and eclectic shops, overlooked by the gleaming white sails of one of the finest working windmills in the country.

The small Kent market town earned its place as the epicentre of the Weald of Kent’s cloth industry in medieval times, but canvas was king in the second half of the 19th century when a notable group of painters, dubbed the Cranbrook Colony, set up in the area.

And while the town might have been named after the cranes that used to flock there, nowadays it is a destination that draws culture vultures with its rich history, top restaurants and rural charm. It’s also surrounded by stunning countryside.

Don’t miss: One of the most talked about restaurants in Kent, Apicius, is tucked away in Stone Street. Owned by Michelin star-winning chef Timothy Johnson, who has worked for the likes of Gary Rhodes, the unpretentious eatery has won a reputation for serving up creative British cuisine. Just like the town itself the menu is small but perfectly formed, and with regularly changing seasonal dishes. Think mouth-watering raviolis, robust game and sensational sorbets. Booking advised on 01580 714666.

Time to explore: Just a short walk from the High Street is Cranbrook Museum, with hundreds of historical gems laid out over three floors in a 15th century house. The carefully curated exhibition tells the town’s story using artefacts from bygone industries and rural life, including period costumes, military memorabilia, and works of the Cranbrook Colony artists. It is free to visit. For more go to www.cranbrookmuseum.org

Best-kept secret: There’s no missing the Union Mill, the tallest working smock mill in England, which dominates the town’s skyline. But what you might not know is that you can get a front row seat to watch flour being ground thanks to a dedicated band of volunteers who open it up regularly to the public. Once inside the 200-year-old structure, visitors can scale a ladder to each floor, where they can learn about the mill’s inner workings. For opening times, go to www.unionmill.org.uk

Getting there: The nearest railway station is at Staplehurst – a five-mile trip to Cranbrook which is easiest by taxi. For those with a car, it is reachable via the A229, 20 miles south of Junction 7 of the M20. What’s more, there is plenty of free parking in the town centre.