014 FOCUS ON FORDWICH


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Britain’s smallest town &


steeped in history


With a population of just 370, Britain’s smallest town is both picturesque and packed with history


Kaz Russell-Graham F


rom Roman times to the present day, Fordwich has witnessed upwards of 2,000 years of comings and goings. Located at the highest navigable point


of the River Stour, it became the port for Canterbury and a disembarking point for travellers, including pilgrims from overseas. At times it would have bustled with boats and trade. Indeed, a customs document from 1286 records goods as diverse as pitch, yarn, ginger, lead, liquorice and wine – likely


taken by wagon to be consumed by folk in Canterbury. Yet one historic cargo remains visible for all to see: stone used to rebuild Canterbury Cathedral between the 11th and 15th centuries was imported from Caen in France, all of it coming through Fordwich. In 1292 the town became a limb of the Cinque Port of Sandwich: in return for supplying men to build and fight for royal ships it received special privileges, such as the right to administer justice within its own boundaries and exemption from national taxes. In proud memory


of this honour, Fordwich still appoints a mayor, and ship money of 3s 4d is ceremonially paid to Sandwich each year.


Fordwich Today


Adorning the banks of the Stour, but often a ‘rat run’ for cars, Fordwich has a good feeling of community and many listed buildings to admire – with the Manor House, home of artist Alfred Palmer from 1906-1939, a prime example. Slip out of Canterbury (you can even walk or cycle) and


Watergate House (CT2 0DB)


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