Perhaps, it’s the echo of cattle trading that still lingers in the air of Westerham. The town’s history whispers tales of markets and homesteads. Today, we find ourselves in Westerham, a town brimming with history. It is nestled in the Sevenoaks District of Kent. Westerham’s story stretches back centuries.
Westerham appears in the Domesday Book as Oistreham. This Norman name reflects its ancient roots. The name Westerham means a westerly homestead. The River Darent flows through Westerham. It once powered three watermills.
Evidence suggests settlements around Westerham existed for thousands of years. A Celtic fortification and a Roman road were found nearby. The first Norman lord of Westerham was Eustace II of Boulogne. In 1227, Henry III granted Westerham a market charter. It became a major center for cattle trading in Kent. This tradition continued until 1961.
St Mary’s Church is thought to date back to the 13th century. It displays a royal arms of King Edward VI. The Latin phrase next to the arms reads “VIVAT REX CURAT LEX”. It means “Long live the King, custodian of the law”.
James Wolfe was born in Westerham in 1727. He lived at Quebec House. Streets and buildings are named after him. St Mary’s Church has his baptismal font and a memorial window. Alice Liddell, the inspiration for “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland”, lived in Westerham. She resided in the Vicarage for a short period.
John Lennon once stopped at a Westerham antiques shop. He bought a poster for Pablo Fanque’s Circus Royal. This poster inspired The Beatles song “Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite!”.
Westerham was home to the Black Eagle Brewery. It closed in 1965. Yeast from the brewery is now used by the Westerham Brewery. Winston Churchill purchased Chartwell, just outside Westerham, in 1922. It was his home for most of his life. A statue of Churchill stands on Westerham’s village green.
Westerham Cricket Club was founded in 1831. Westerham Football Club was founded in 1888. Both clubs are located at King George V Playing Field.
So, as you wander through Westerham, remember its rich past. From ancient settlements to famous residents. From bustling markets to quiet country lanes. Westerham offers a glimpse into England’s vibrant history.