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The head of water from this 16 acre lake once powered the giant hammer of John Browne's forge, the flames of which could be seen about the country at 10 miles distance.
John Browne's forge was one of the major iron foundries in the area, all that now remains is Furnace Pond formed by damming a stream to provide the head of water which powered the giant hammer of the forge.
The Browne family were great Wealden ironmasters in the 1600’s and the cannons made in Horsmonden and other parts of the Weald can be found all over the world.
It is reputed that John Browne, titled ‘The Kings Gunfounder’, actually managed to supply guns to both sides during the Civil War. A replica small cannon stands over the door of the Gun and Spitroast Inn.
Today, it's a much quieter place with pleasant walks, fishing and birdwatching being the main activities today.
(Horsmonden village website)

The iron industry thrived in the Weald of Kent, Sussex & Surrey from Pre-Roman times until the Industrial revolution. The industry was based on Iron ore from the Cretaceous rocks of the area and charcoal from the woodlands. The remains of the industry can still be seen in the many Hammer ponds in the area and woodland names such as Furnace, Minepit etc. The use of coal not charcoal saw the demise of the industry.
Wikipedia: Link