History
Westerham's origins date back to days of the Domesday Book. It is also historically a market town. Westerham received a market charter in 1227. Westerham's history has been influenced by great figures who have lived in the town or in the surrounding area such as Winston Churchill and General James Wolfe. Today, Westerham still retains it's small town charm and is a great location for individuals who want to see attractions in the surrounding areas such as Quebec House, Sqyrre Court, or Hever Castle, the house of Anne Boleyn.
Attractions
Westerham has many attractions within the town proper as well as surrounding area which gives visitors plenty of things of to do. Browsing the shops on High Street which sell a variety of crafts and other goods is a popular past time. There are also rural walking paths in the surrounding area. The panoramic views of the countryside are spectacular.
Another attraction is the Chartwell House. Chartwell and its affiliation with Winston Churchill make it one of the most popular attractions in the area and is a main draw for visitors who happen to be visiting Westerham. However, the house is worth the trip. Bought by the former prime minister in 1924 as a primary residence until his death, the property today has remained very much in the same manner it was in since he has passed away.
Another historic house in the area is Sqyrre Court, which has been owned by the same family for the past 280 years. The house itself dates to the late 17th century. The manor was built in a Georgian Style and houses a collection of Italian, Dutch and English paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries. Some artefacts that belonged to General James Wolfe, a native of the area and a friend of the Warde family during the 17th century are also here as well. The manor also has extensive formal gardens as well.
Another attraction in the countryside is the Westerham Brewery which is steeped in history as well. Although just established in 2004, the brewery used yeast preserved by National Collection of Yeast Cultures from the historic Black Eagle Brewery. It's famous for its signature beer, the British Bulldog.
Food and Lodgings
Despite it's small town character, Westerham does have a variety of dining options available. There is traditional English food offered at many establishments. There are also other restaurants offering other types of cuisine such as Indian. Several hotels and inns in the area also have dining areas that are open to the public as well.
For an option that is steeped in history, head over to the Grasshopper on the Green, a pub and restaurant establishment that dates back 700 years. Grasshopper on the Green was originally founded as a coaching inn and station. Today, the architectural details still remain but the pub now includes a restaurant, and several bars in the downstairs area.
For accommodation, there are many options in Westerham as well as the surrounding area which includes the nearby town of Sevenoaks. The types of accommodations vary from self-catering accommodation, guesthouses, hotels, and bed and breakfast establishments.
Accommodation in Westerham
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