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Old Soar Manor, Kent

Old Soar Manor, near Borough Green in Kent was built around 1290, and survives from the reign of Edward I. What remains was once part of a fortified house built by the powerful Culpepper family, and was unusually built in stone as a declaration of wealth, as well as a means of defense. Although a large part of Old Soar Manor has now gone, its sturdy stone construction has contributed to the rare survival of an undercroft, a solar room, and house chapel. The inclusion of their own personal little church must have made the Culpepper's feel particularly special.

The house speaks of a devout yet violent society. Edward I was a cunning and ruthless monarch who kept order amongst his potentially rebellious barons through intimidation and fear. He set the tone for an age of aggressive expansion of English royal power, first over England's own nobles, and then over Scotland and Wales. The house reflects its time, and is clearly designed to be defended. The only way into the building is through the undercroft and up a tight, easily defended spiral staircase. The house is showing off wealth, and yet it does not do this with the exuberant architecture that we see in later and more peaceful periods, in the turrets and spires of Tudor Longleat for example. Old Soar Manor has the solidity of a bunker. Artistic embellishment was a thing of the future.

 

 

Directions: Old Soar Manor takes some finding, but its great rarity and rather brooding presence rewards the search. Follow the A25 two miles south of Borough Green, and then follow signs for the A227 and Plaxtol. The property is signposted from Plaxtol. The approach is along a narrow lane, and there is no designated parking. We parked in the lane nearby.

 

Address: Old Soar Manor, Plaxtol, Borough Green, Kent TN15 0QX

Opening Times: Old Soar Manor is open from April 1st to September 30th, 10am - 6pm every day except Fridays.

 

 

Access: This property is not recommended to people with mobility problems.

Contact:

telephone: 01732 810378

e-mail: oldsoarmanor@nationaltrust.org.uk

web site: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/old-soar-manor/