The Square-shaped Heart
The quaint village of Lenham is nestled discreetly at the foot of the North Downs between the Kentish towns of Maidstone and Ashford.
At the heart of the community lies the historically-immersed Village Square which displays a wealth of period architecture and traditional amenities that have been graciously preserved through the generations. The Square today is the main focus of village life for residents and is a modestly popular destination for visitors, who can choose to stay overnight in the The Dog and Bear Hotel; a long-established pub and restaurant which is also a popular social venue for the local dwellers alike. |
Medieval Market Village
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Although sadly no longer in existence today, local trade was once facilitated by a local agricultural market held regularly in the Square. Lenham is mentioned in the Domesday book and it is believed that the market itself originated in the Medieval era (circa 1088). In the late nineteenth century Lenham was considered to be 'a small town and large parish' and was divided into two sections; East and West Lenham. The village gives rise to two rivers; the river Len which flows towards Medway and the Great Stour east. Now comparably smaller than the neighbouring towns, it is warmly regarded as a village although its diverse range of amenities and size give it credence above that of a typical English village and the Square still hosts the occasional Sunday market for old time's sake. |
Vintage Insights
Despite natural progression and development within the village, there remains a wealth of history and charm, much of which can still be effortlessly recognised from historical photographs.
Each of these absorbing images give a fascinating insight into the multitude of purpose that the Square has provided over the years and demonstrates how wonderfully the historic architecture has been enhanced and preserved.