The topographical features of the locality consist of gently sloping terrain of the Hythe Beds with a southerly aspect and a soil of loam on greensand readily suitable for cultivation.

This together with a constant supply of water lead to the establishment of a farming settlement, probably by the Saxons, which was called knutu burna, meaning a stream with nut trees.

The rural nature of The Street results from the presence of grassed verges and banks instead of separate pavements for pedestrians, together with the abundance of planting along the frontages of properties.

This narrow track becomes a dark, damp passage being bordered by banks and overhung by trees, but in a short distance it suddenly emerges into a small valley containing a mill pond surrounded by high wire fencing.

The views outwards are restricted by the topography and as a result this valley is a distinctive environmental area, virtually isolated from the village, but retaining clear evidence of its historical associations with the settlement.