Events

A Day in Bletchingley – FULL

18th October 2018, 10:15 - 15:30

The charming village of Bletchingley, which dates from mediaeval times, is well worth discovering. Positioned as it is on the A25 to the east of Redhill, most people just drive through without realizing what is hidden either side of the road.

The existence of the village can be traced back as far as Saxon times and was subsequently mentioned in the Domesday Book. It is still possible to find signs of this long history today; parts of the Church date back to 1100 with considerable enlargements in the 13th century.

In 1225 there is mention of Bletchingley as a borough. In the middle ages a borough was created either by the King or one of the Lords as a potentially profitable element in the development of their estates. After the 14th century Bletchingley began to lose its importance as a borough. However, at one point it managed to achieve the status of a rotten borough! Parliamentary elections were held in what is now the White Hart.

A number of public footpaths and bridleways can be found both to the north and south of the village which not only allow access to the countryside but also provide the opportunity to stumble across some other interesting buildings. The house at Place Farm formed the gatehouse of Blechingley Place; a great Tudor house, which Anne of Cleves occupied after her marriage to Henry VIII, was annulled. This long history means that it is still possible to see several buildings that date back to early 1500 in the High Street area.

Mr David Martin of The Bletchingley Conservation and Historical Society is going to take us on a guided tour of the village.  Parking is available at the village hall, and we will assemble here at 10.15 ready for a 10.30 departure on our walk.

The walk around the village will be on paved walkways without any significant inclines. Children could join the event, but it is not designed for them.  Not suitable for dogs.  Although we will go inside the church, the event is largely outdoors so please come dressed for the prevailing weather conditions.

We have made arrangements to have lunch at the Red Lion where you can choose from their menu – cost not included in the event price.  We will be asking you to pre-order when you receive your confirmation of booking nearer the time, but pay on the day.

We highly recommend the afternoon walk as it will take in Brewer Street and gives views of The Old Rectory (1786).  For this, you will need walking shoes although it is not anticipated to be very rough or muddy underfoot, and there will be no stiles.  The walk is approximately 3 miles long and reasonably flat.

The cost of the event will be £7 for members, £9 for non-members which includes a donation to the Bletchingley Conservation and Historical Society.

Booking is essential. If you would like to join us, you can book your place online at the bottom of the page OR complete and return the downloadable slip (in green below) to arrive at Warren Farm Barns by Friday 12th October. Please include your e-mail address or a stamped addressed envelope so you may be sent full details, directions and locations for the visit.

BOOKING FORM

For further details and enquiries, contact us at info@surreyhillssociety.org or on mobile 07530-949302.

Please note that the Surrey Hills Society and its Event partners accept no responsibility for any loss, damage or personal injury during events. Participants are requested to wear appropriate clothing and footwear and take due care and attention.
The Society uses members’ photographs on social media and on our website. If you are not happy to have your photo taken during this event, please notify us in writing prior to the event and make the event organiser aware on the day.

By continuing and making a booking you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to the Terms & Conditions specified in our Cancellation Policy and Responsibility Statement, both of which can be viewed by clicking here


Bookings

This event is fully booked. If you wish to have your name on our waiting list, please let us know via email or contact form.

×
X

Forgot Password?

Join Us