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Would the predicted snow come early or would the sun shine for our visit to Faversham we wondered as we waited in the Village Hall car park looking up at the heavens?

How fortunate that we were duly blessed with a lovely balmy spring day which enhanced our enjoyment of the tour of this extremely interesting town. Most of us were quite unaware that such a gem was on the doorstep.

Our group was met by the very welcoming staff of the Shepherd Neame Brewery visitors centre, had coffee and met up with our tour guide, Steve, a very erudite and informative man. Amazingly he has only resided in Faversham for the last six years but fell in love with the town and has become an authority on its history.

At the Tourist Centre we learnt about the gunpowder industry and the two breweries that existed in the town – there were once ninety pubs open for business!

Faversham boasts the longest medieval street; an art deco cinema; medieval architecture galore; an Elizabethan town hall and a wonderful church, and these were just a few of the sights we were introduced to as most unfortunately time ran out for us in the morning.

Too soon it was time to return to the brewery for lunch and the next part of our trip – a tour of the brewery. This was led by Jenny, who also gave a very interesting talk as we made our way around and up and down to follow the timeless process of beer making.

After the leg work Jenny instructed us in the art of tasting – not too sure that any publican would be pleased with that procedure in the pub! A truly excellent day out; and thanks go to Christine Wethered for organising it all.

POST SCRIPT – during the first three Saturdays in July many of the medieval houses are open for viewing – and most of us intend to return to see the interiors rather than looking in with a nose pressed up against the window! This is run by Faversham Tourist Board which sells a map of the town identifying participating houses (this acts as the entry ticket). Highly recommended!

Linda Barnes
Committee Member
HAWKINGE, ACRISE & PADDLESWORTH WI