Sevenoaks
The ‘Seven Oaks’ in question in this charming town’s name derive from seven oak trees which were situated near a chapel at what is now The Vine, one of the oldest cricket grounds in the UK and still such a focal point of the area. Many replacements for the original trees have been planted over the centuries since they were originally recorded.
Charming, characterful and historic, Sevenoaks is, unsurprisingly given its proximity to the capital and yet having an abundance of green spaces, prime commuter belt territory. If that means plenty of folk can be seen on the railway platforms during the weekdays, it also means it is a busy and thriving centre of retail and leisure opportunities at weekends and during the holidays. In short, Sevenoaks is a lovely town to call home.
What a Property Buying Agent Can Purchase
£1m buys: A four-bedroom detached period property in the town, or a spacious three-bedroom detached property.
£2m buys: A six-bedroom detached house with grounds in a sought after location.
£3m buys: A five-bedroom detached house with grounds on an exclusive estate.
Best Hotels in Sevenoaks
Donnington Manor Hotel (www.donningtonmanorhotel.co.uk) is a deluxe, four star hotel situated in a 15th Century manor house just ten minutes from the town centre. The Bakery Restaurant and Rooms (www.thebakeryrestaurant.com) does what it says on the tin – offering modern cuisine with a place to stay for the night too. A little further afield, Brandshatch Place (www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/brandshatchplace) is a sophisticated country house hotel with excellent spa facilities.
Best Restaurants in Sevenoaks
With a fun and funky name and a menu of Thai classics mixed with innovative takes on Asian fusion dishes, the Giggling Squid (www.gigglingsquid.com/restaurant/sevenoaks/) is a great spot. The Vine (www.vinerestaurant.co.uk) has a fabulous menu of contemporary classics served in a relaxed setting. The Little Garden (www.littlegardensevenoaks.com) is a restaurant, bar and grill which is always a popular spot and deservedly so for its atmosphere, great menu and lovely interior.
Best Schools in Sevenoaks
Sevenoaks School (www.sevenoaksschool.org) is a co-educational day and boarding school for 11 to 18-year-olds which has an excellent academic record. Walthamstow Hall (www.walthamstow-hall.co.uk) is an independent girls’ school which offers places from 3 to 18 years old on two separate sites in the town. The New Beacon School (www.newbeacon.org.uk) is a boys' preparatory school with a clear mission an excellent teaching record and consequently a first class academic record.
Buying Agents Fact
The village of Chiddingstone, near Sevenoaks, is entirely owned by the National Trust – with the exception of its church and its castle. It is the most accurate example of a surviving Tudor village in the county.
How to Get to Sevenoaks from Central London
Train: 35 mins to London Charing Cross
Car: Just over one hour to central London
Helicopter: approximately 35 minutes from Battersea Heliport