Biddenden is a quiet, typical Wealden village with one of the prettiest un spoilt 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.
Facilities
Golf Courses
Public Houses & Restaurants
Baptist Church
Garden Centre
Village Hall
Recreation Ground with Children's Play area
Part-time Doctors Surgery (in Village Hall)
Squash Courts
Primary School
Anglican (Parish) Church
General Stores, Post Office
ESI Electrical is a family owned business, with a base in Biddenden. Jamie Morgan is a twin born in Biddenden, with four generations living in the parish. Jamie still has family in the village, his parents Graham and Cathy, run Bit'z and PC's on the Sissinghurst Road (a small computer repair and website business) and grandparents still run and own Birchley House Farm and Medhurst Farm on the Benenden side of the village.
