Wingham: History, Walking Trails and Wildlife Experiences

Wingham’s medieval architecture, walking trails and Wingham Wildlife Park offer different reasons to visit. If you’re looking for hotels in Wingham, you can decide whether historic village buildings, a walk or a wildlife experience should shape your stay.

Churches and Village History

The Church of St Mary in Wingham is a Grade I listed building. St Mary the Virgin is a medieval church and has been at the heart of village life since at least the 13th century. Archbishop Peckham founded a college in Wingham in 1286; many of the village’s older buildings date from that period.

St Mary the Virgin is usually open daily from 10:00 to 16:00, or until dusk if that comes earlier. Check the opening hours before making a special trip to visit. A church guide is available inside.

The Red Lion also has a long history as a building and place of use. This Grade II* listed inn has a main building dating from around 1400. The building may have incorporated parts of Wingham College. In the past, it served as a market house and a Manor Court House; until 1883, it was used as a Sessions House.

Wingham Court and Garden Wall is a 15th-century house that was extended in 1574. The dates span several centuries: the college was founded in 1286, followed by the Red Lion’s main building around 1400; Wingham Court and Garden Wall dates from the 15th century and was extended later.

Walks Around Wingham

Wingham Walks No 1 is an easy, one-mile walk with access for all. It leads to St Mary’s Church and follows a public footpath to a bridge over the river. Check the route conditions locally before setting out.

The Wingham Health Walk explores the countryside around the village and is taken at a moderate pace. The meeting point is outside Wingham Church, but it may occasionally change, so confirm it in advance.

Different details may help you choose between the two walks: Walks No 1 specifies its length and difficulty, while the Health Walk focuses on its moderate pace, surroundings and meeting point.

Wingham Wildlife Park and the Roman Villa

During the Tiger Experience at Wingham Wildlife Park, participants can feed a tiger using feeding tongs. The experience can be booked, but availability may change. Check in advance whether it is offered during your visit.

The site of Wingham Roman Villa may be on private land and has no visible remains. Do not enter the property there without permission.

Discover more destinations: Newchurch, Boughton Monchelsea, Ulcombe, Kings Hill, Throwley Forstal, Smeeth, Five Oak Green, Tudeley

For the wider travel guide: Kent.