The official Biddenden Parish Council website
Meetings are held at the old village hall on the second Tuesday of each month at 7.30pm.
Biddenden in Kent is a quiet, typical Wealden village with one of the prettiest unspoilt main streets in England and a wealth of genuine examples of mediaeval to 17th century architecture. The first recorded mention is a 10th century charter quoting Biddenden as a "Den" belonging to Brabourne. During the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries, when the cloth trade was flourishing in this part of Kent, Biddenden grew in prosperity and as a result many buildings of significant architectural importance were built. The weavers' houses on the south side of the High Street are fine examples of Kentish half-timbered buildings The first floors were once continuous workrooms, built like this so the looms could be placed next to the broad windows so the craftsmen had enough light. There is a carved head from a wrecked ship of the Armada over one of the doors. The north side houses were originally half-timbered, but were given new fronts in the 18th century. The Red Lion is thought to have been built by a soldier returning from Agincourt in 1415.
The village was also home to the famous Siamese twin sisters, Elisa and Mary Chulkhurst, who lived there for 34 years in the 12th century. The sisters, who were known as the 'Biddenden Maids', left a charitable endowment to the poor and needy of the village which is still honoured to this day. All Saints' Church dates from Saxon times, the earliest parts remaining today are the nave, chancel and south aisle dating from the late 13th century. Biddenden Vineyards at Little Whatmans contain 22 acres of Kent's oldest commercial vineyard, while Chart Hills Golf Club has an 18-hole international standard golf course.
*Information courtesy of Ashford Borough Council.
News
December 2009
Traffic Calming: North Street, Biddenden now boasts a new flashing speed sign. On approaching the sign the motorist is advised of the speed at which their vehicle is travelling.
November 1 2009
Biddenden resident, Spencer Conway, set off November 1st 2009 on a circumnavigation of Africa by motorbike in aid of Save the Children. For further information or to sponsor him please visit www.africa-bike-adventure.com
Biddenden Parish Plan 2005
To provide the Parish Council with an action plan for critical issues, as identified by the Steering Group through parish-wide consultation (click for details).
Biddenden Parish Plan revisited 2009
The initial 2005 Biddenden Plan revisited and updated for 2009 (click for details).
Biddenden Parish Council Information Publication Scheme
Information about; who and what we are, what we spend and how we spend it, what our priorities are and how we are doing, how we make decisions, our policies and procedures, lists and registers, the services we offer, additional information. (click for details).
Useful Information
Concessionary Free Travel Scheme for Senior Citizens and Disabled People