Stalisfield, Kent

Stalisfield is a village in Kent, situated about 1½ miles north of Charing and 5 miles south-west of Faversham. The parish includes the hamlet of Stalisfield Green, which lies high on the North Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, approximately 650 feet above sea level near the escarpment above Charing.

Historically, Stalisfield was recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Stanefelle’, meaning Stonefield. It passed through various hands including Odo, Earl of Kent, the Knights Hospitallers, and several notable families such as the St. Legers and the Heads. Darbies Court, a Grade II listed building dating back to the 15th century, remains a significant historic residence in the parish.

The Church of St Mary, built in the 13th century, is Grade II* listed and was originally part of the diocese of Canterbury. The church of Ore was once a chapel to the parish but has since become independent.

A highlight of Stalisfield is the Plough Inn, a Grade II listed Wealden hall house constructed between 1350 and 1450. Renowned for serving only Kentish beers and ciders from traditional hand pumps, it has received accolades including ‘Kent’s best pub’ in 2009 and holds two AA rosettes for food excellence.

In 2014, a new village hall was opened beside the village green, replacing a First World War officers’ mess hut relocated from Throwley Airfield after the war. This modern facility serves as a community focal point while respecting the village’s historical roots.