In preparation for a talk on the Wealden hall houses of Southfleet, I decided to take some photographs for my PowerPoint presentation. At the last moment George decided to accompany me. We started in Red Street, first photographing Chapter Farmhouse and then the Black Lion pub. We then made our way to the church area, where by chance we met an old friend Terry Poole. He had lived in the village all his life and was happy to show us around and tell us something of the buildings and history. Our last port of call was the Wheatsheaf pub, where we took the opportunity to quench our thirst.
Chapter Farmhouse – the Royal Commission describes this as ‘a good example of a Wealden house’.
Black Lion public house – formally with a tiled roof but now thatched.
Court Lodge dates from the 15th century but has since been much altered.
Friary Court – formally the rectory and probably built by Thomas de Alkham, rector of Southfleet from 1323.
A view showing the cross wing at Friary Court
The Limes – much altered in the 18th century.
The Ship Inn – a 16th century timber frame that was resurfaced with red brick in the 19th century and has now been painted white.
Church House – 16th century or earlier, refaced with red brick in the 18th century
Church Cottages – at some point this Wealden house was split into three cottages but is now two.
The rear of Church Cottages – the neighbours are quiet!
The Wheatsheaf – the date on the wall is 1414. It was the first pub in Kent to enforce a smoking ban.
The Wheatsheaf – George ordering refreshments!