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 Ash: 
Formerly on the main thoroughfare from Canterbury to Sandwich, Ash would
have seen many famous historical travellers, including the Kings and
Queens of England. It has now been bypassed and enjoys the gentle bustle
of local village life. Once part of the Royal manor of Wingham and having been given to the See
of Canterbury in 850 AD by King Athelstan, Ash became a separate
parish in 1282. It is one of the largest in Kent The lovely church of St
Nicholas was probably built on the site of an early saxon building, and
dates partly from the 12th century. The highly visible tower and steeple
were once used as navigation aids. They now house a ring of 10 bells.
There is a collection of medieval monumental effigies inside and amongst
the brasses you will find one to Jane Kerriel (c 1455) which reveals a
unique horse-shoe head-dress. In Ash Street you can discover 11 of the
12 original manor houses and several medieval houses amongst many fine
period homes. The Chequer Inn was a timbered hall house dating from
c1500. Just opposite is a car park and public convenience. There are a
few shops, hairdressers and a post office. The vineyard at Ash Coombe
offers tastings and tours.
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