Whispers of saints and kings echo through Kemsing. This unassuming Kent village holds a history richer than its tranquil setting suggests. Kemsing boasts a fascinating past intertwined with royalty and religious figures. It was the birthplace of Saint Edith of Wilton. She was a daughter of the Anglo-Saxon King Edgar I. Legend claims her presence blessed the village well with healing powers. A plaque near the well in the heart of Kemsing recounts this story.
The Church of St Mary in Kemsing stands as a testament to the village’s enduring spirit. Its Saxon origins hint at a time long before the Norman conquest. The church itself is dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. This is a somewhat surprising dedication considering St Edith’s strong connection to Kemsing. The church’s oldest altar frontals are from 1888. Created by the Sisters of Bethany they add to the building’s rich history. A tall lancet window contains a Madonna roundel dating back to 1220. This exquisite piece of glasswork is one of the church’s treasures.
Beyond its religious significance Kemsing has a regal past. The lordship of Kemsing was held by King Henry II. He passed it on to Baldwin of Béthune the Earl of Albemarle. The manor later passed through the hands of influential families. These included the de Grandison and Fynes families. It even became part of the estates of Baron Say and Sele. In the reign of Edward IV Kemsing was owned by Sir Geoffry Boleyn. He was the father of Queen Anne Boleyn. Later it briefly belonged to Anne of Cleves before being granted by Elizabeth I to Sir Henry Carey. Finally it ended up in the possession of the Duke of Dorset.
The historic centre of Kemsing clusters around St Edith’s Well. Here you will find the 1921 war memorial. It is a Grade II listed structure designed by Godfrey Pinkerton. Nearby stands St Edith’s Hall another Grade II listed building. This one also designed by Godfrey Pinkerton. Its front showcases a statue of Saint Edith. A clock chimes the hours bearing the inscription ‘Tis mine/Each passing hour to tell/ ‘Tis thine/To use it ill or well. This building served as a hospital during World War I. It was staffed by the Kent Voluntary Aid Detachment. Wounded soldiers from the Western Front were treated here.
Kemsing’s story is one of continuous evolution. From its Saxon origins to its royal connections it maintains its charm. The village is a blend of history tradition and modern life. Explore Kemsing and discover the layers of its captivating past for yourself. Remember to visit the well. Maybe you too will feel the lingering touch of Saint Edith.