Biddenden
The pretty village of Biddenden is set in the picturesque Kent countryside – a typical Wealden village with plenty to offer.
My favourite stop for a Chinese takeaway or a top quality dinner at the West House if I am feeling flush.
- Population 2,571
- Parish website
- Wikipedia page
- Map
- Property for sale in Biddenden
A key feature of the village is the latticed windowed weavers cottages that run the full length of the south side of the high street, which is flanked on both sides by fossilized stone quarried a long time ago from nearby Bethersden.
Upon entering the village, there is an attractive sign which has been carved and painted by a local crafts man. The sign features a set of Siamese twins known as the Biddenden Maids who were born conjoined at the shoulders and hips in 1100.
The village is famous as the birthplace of the Biddenden Maids, a story which rests on legend as well as on fact. These two sisters, Marie and Eliza Chulhurst, are believed to have left about 20 acres of land to the church wardens so that the rent from farming it could pay for a dole of bread and cheese to be given at Easter to the most needy villagers. This charity was given High Court approval in 1656 and has continued its work ever since.
In remembrance of the twins, the tradition Biddenden biscuit or ‘dole’ is distributed each year on Easter Monday bearing an effigy of the two female figures it represents.
The village high street is lined with some extremely attractive half-timbered medieval and Jacobean buildings, aligned on either side of a cobbled pavement. Many of these are old weavers cottages, as weaving was once the core economic activity of this area of the Weald for many years. This clothing heritage is remembered in the impressive Cloth Hall, just north of the green along with a collection of memorial brasses that features in the 13th/14th Century All Saints Church.
- Population 2,571
- Parish website
- Wikipedia page
- Map
Biddenden Directory
AFC Biddenden
The club plays regularly at Biddenden Recreation Ground which has great facilities including two pitches, changing rooms with showers and a bar directly next door – this is also ample parking. The club is open […]
Find out moreBiddenden Bowls Club
During the season from April to September, the club has weekly rollups, friendly matches, league games and a variety of club competitions. The club is a part of the Village Halls and Sports Group. With […]
Find out moreBiddenden Lawn Tennis Club
Located at Gordon Jones Recreation Ground, Tenterden Road, Biddenden, TN27 8BB Welcoming players of all ages and ability whilst offering affordable membership. Whether you are just starting or wanting to gain some improvement. Membership includes […]
Find out moreBiddenden Squash Club
Founded in 1975, Biddenden is a members only Squash Club with around 150 active members and is part of the ‘Kent Squash & Racketball Association’. The Club has two well-maintained and well heated squash courts […]
Find out moreBiddenden Vineyard
Original plantings of 1/3 acre have now grown to 22 acres, producing award winning White, Red, Rosé and Sparkling English Wines. The famous Biddenden Cider is also produced at the vineyard; a strong, still cider […]
Find out moreChart Hills Golf Club
Sitting in the High Weald of Kent, the course and clubhouse are easily accessible from major routes into the county and the Ashford International Station is just a 20 minute drive away. An ideal situation […]
Find out moreThe Three Chimneys Pub
Once you step through the front door, dark oak beams, aged hops and a roaring fire in the winter great you, creating an atmosphere of warmth and relaxation. – it offers you everything you would […]
Find out moreFor Sale in Biddenden
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