Leigh, Kent

Leigh is a historic village in Kent, situated six miles south of Sevenoaks and three miles west of Tonbridge. Its name originates from the Old English word “leah,” meaning a forest glade or clearing, reflecting its origins as a hamlet dating back to the late 11th century. The village expanded notably in the 19th century, with many distinctive buildings constructed by the Baily and Morley families, including Hall Place, built in 1876 and occasionally open to the public.

At the heart of Leigh lies a large village green, alongside the 13th-century parish church dedicated to St Mary. The village’s land was historically owned by notable families such as Sir John de Pulteney in the 14th century and later the Sidney family until the early 20th century. The arrival of the Tonbridge to Redhill railway in 1842, located just south of the village, contributed to its growth.

Leigh railway station, originally opened as “Leigh Halt” in 1911, serves the village on the Redhill to Tonbridge line. The parish also includes the hamlet of Charcott and the site of the former Penshurst Airfield, which operated mainly as a military airfield during the early to mid-20th century before its buildings were removed in 1991.

The Fleur De Lis pub, originally built as cottages in 1855, stands as a local landmark. Leigh’s rich history is reflected in its architecture and landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into its evolution from a medieval clearing to a thriving village.