Stanford Westenhanger and Historic villages at the edge
of the North Downs.
Stanford Westenhanger and Historic villages at the edge
of the North Downs.
Stanford Westenhanger and Historic villages at the edge
of the North Downs.
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welcome

Stanford & Westenhanger

Welcome to The Stanford and Westenhanger History Society. As two small villages divided by a motorway and mainline railway , they play an important part in the history of the County of Kent

Historic villages at the edge of the North Downs

About the Society

Over the centuries Stanford and Westenhanger have seen many changes to their environment. The area has been occupied by people since early Roman times, through the medieval period, then dominated by the Churches, to Royalty taking over ownership of the fortified manor of Westenhanger Castle. The arrival of the railway, the brick factory and the area's main source of income, farming, all made changes to the villages. The area is steeped in history.

Of course, life does not stand still and there are many changes proposed for our community with the development of Otterpool garden town and related building.

It is for this reason the History Society has been formed; to gather as much information about the area as possible for the sake of future generations and their interest in our history. Some people have spent many years living in the villages and we would like to appeal to them for their photos or stories. Those who went to the local school, those who were married in the lovely church or any connection they may have had with the area over the years, would be welcomed.

events

Activities

The Society engages in several types of activity, including...

Surveys

Contact us if you would be interested in taking part in a building or churchyard survey

Talks

Talks are held regularly in the Stanford Parish Room at Folkestone Racecourse

Research

If you would like to research the history of the villages, get in touch

Archiving

Let us know if you would like to volunteer to assist with cataloguing the Society's archive

Join the Society

Membership costs £10 per year and renews on 31 January every year. Members get free admission to talks (usually £5).

To join, come along to a talk or click the button below to contact us.

gallery

Pictures From Events

Here are a few images from events we have hosted.