Just south of the nearby Borough Green, nestled in the Tonbridge and Malling borough of Kent, sits the village and civil parish of Ightham. Significantly more affluent than its neighbour, Ightham’s built environment is dotted with grand country manors with prices ranging over £2 million, large town-houses, and characterful cottages. With a history that spans thousands of years, affluence, and proximity to major transport hubs - Ightham marries country charm with urban connectivity.

Ightham, pronounced ‘eye-tum’, was not recorded in the 1086 Domesday Book although its history spans back much further than the Norman conquest of Britain. Its unusual name comes from the fact it is related to a personal Saxon name, ‘Uhta’. Major archaeological discoveries at the nearby Oldbury Hill conducted in 1890 uncovered an Iron Hillfort in the area, possibly dating back as far as 100 BC! There were also flint workshops that were uncovered in 1905, further pointing to Palaeolithic human presence in the area! Whilst not recorded in the Domesday, it was in the Textus Roffensis of the 12th century; meaning the formal parish as we know it today has medieval roots.

Its medieval origins are even more apparent with the Ightham Mote, a medieval moated manor house located to the south of the village. A Grade I listed building, with some features even a Scheduled Monument, the site is now owned and managed by the National Trust. The manor itself is dated back to 1340-1360, with many 16th century additions and amendments. Despite these amendments, the Ightham Mote is one of the most well preserved medieval buildings, and is a great representation of 14th century medieval architecture!

As stated, Ightham is an affluent village town close in proximity to major transport links; both by rail and through the M26 motorway. Therefore Ightham has been majorly sought after for re-locaters, although development has often been slow and met with significant local push back. However, in the Tonbridge and Malling’s Local Plan, the borough has designated provisions for the contruction of up to forty new homes in the Ightham area!