Mersham, Kent

Mersham is a large agricultural village and civil parish near Ashford in Kent, England, with a population of just over 1,100. The parish includes the area of Cheesman’s Green, now known as Finberry. The village has a rich history dating back to Saxon times and is mentioned in the Domesday Book. For over 500 years, it was owned by the Archbishops of Canterbury.

The village is notable for its Anglican church dedicated to St. John the Baptist, a Grade I listed building that stands on the site of a Saxon church and features Norman architecture. Mersham has strong historical ties to the Knatchbull family, who have lived there since the time of Henry VIII. Sir Norton Knatchbull, a notable family member, founded Ashford Grammar School in 1638.

Geographically, Mersham lies close to major transport routes, including High Speed 1 and the M20 motorway. The East Stour river runs through the parish, where two water mills are located; one, Swanton Mill, remains operational. Part of Hatch Park, a medieval deer park and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), is also within the parish boundaries.

In the 19th century, Mersham was described as a farming and orchard community with a fair held on Whit Friday. The village retains much of its rural character while being closely connected to the nearby market town of Ashford.