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The Saxons established this unusual and picturesque town in the south eastern corner of Surrey. The ancient settlement first appeared on a map in 871 AD and was then known as Leangafeld. Still somewhat secluded by the countryside, Lingfield sits on high ground and was once surrounded by branches of the Eden Brook. The village formed at opposing corners of four roads whose junctions form a quadrilateral. These areas grew and expanded until combining in the 1880s. An original corner of the community contains the ancient parish church and a collection of medieval buildings.
A conservation area now surrounds the church and the site once held a secular college in the early 1400s. Though largely agriculturally based, Lingfield was a prosperous medieval community and contained many substantially sized homes.
Unlike most English villages, Lingfield's town centre consists of a medieval cross, village pond and an old cage. The cross once marked the borders of two vast estates. The old cage, constructed in 1773, was Lingfield's earliest form of jail and was used as punishment for minor crimes. The cell was last used in 1882.
Lingfield is probably most well known for its horse racing course, which was constructed in 1890.
Activities and Attractions
Strolling around the old part of town, visitors encounter many buildings constructed during the Middle Ages including the St. Peter and St. Paul parish church. The walls by the west door consist of construction from the original Saxon building. The rare double nave church contains architecture, brasses and statues spanning centuries of history.
Spend a day at the races at the local horse racing course. The facility offers tours showing behind the scene events that commonly occur before and after the races. Visit the areas where horses and jockeys prepare for a race. Get a close up look at the parade ring and the winner's enclosure. The site also regularly hosts musical events following races.
Located along the River Eden, the Haxted Watermill Museum allows visitors to explore the history and workings of an authentic medieval mill. One half of the mill originated in 1580 and was added onto in 1794. The facility also contains a bar and restaurant. Pole rentals enable guests to try their hand at angling in the river.
The nearby Chiddlestone Castle not only provides the chance to tour a grand medieval estate, but the opportunity to view rare collections comprised of artefacts from all over the world. In addition to traditional Jacobite art, the facility contains extensive exhibits of Buddhist, Egyptian and Oriental objects.
Places to Stay and Dining
Hotels include popular chain facilities within walking distance of the racecourse. Besides fitness centres, pools and spas, some venues additionally have special jogging trails. Elite thermal suites provide the chance to relax in an aromatherapy bath or in an invigorating mud chamber.
The Bengal Village offers a unique dining experience in a modern facility having 16 aquariums. Guests experience the diverse tastes of India in meals prepared with chicken, lamb or prawns. Choose meals specially seasoned that provide tastes ranging from sweet to hot and spicy.
Accommodation in Lingfield
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