Village associations

Otford is extremely fortunate to have a vibrant community, with many groups and associations offering a wide range of activities. This year, several of these societies will be at the fete. Be sure to visit their stalls. There will be fun and interesting activities for all ages, and they’d love to see you there!

Come and visit us and find out more about what we do and the benefits of becoming a member.

The site of Archbishop's Palace in Otford, Kent, dates back to 821 but it was in 1512-22 that Archbishop Warham built one of the largest palaces in England, comparable in size to Hampton Court. Unfortunately, in the 17th Century, the buildings fell into disrepair. Now all that remains is part of the North Range - the North West corner Tower, part of the Northern Gatehouse and connecting wall which has been turned into a row of three small cottages. The local community indicated it would like to see this significant and iconic historical building conserved and developed as a focal point for the Darent Valley as a whole. To that end, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation - The Archbishop's Palace Conservation Trust (APCT) - has been established (Registration number 1173486) to conserve the site and buildings and operate it as a self-sustaining community resource. The Trust signed a 99-year lease with SDC in September 2019. The long-term project aims to create an interpretation centre, not only for Otford, but for the Darent Valley and communities in south and east London, exploiting the proven link between well-being and engagement with heritage. The Palace is located in the centre of the Darent Valley. Because of the close proximity of London and the high population of North West Kent, the potential visitor audience to the Darent Valley is huge. Over half a million people live within 5km of the Valley boundary. This number increases to 1.3 million within 10km (the area includes London suburbs with high levels of multiple deprivation) and to 3.2 million within a 16km radius. We aim to create a space that can be used to attract visitors help them to connect with the historic environment and generate a modest revenue to service ongoing restoration. The interpretation of the Darent Valley and of the Palace itself will be designed to reduce the barriers for people who have traditionally be underserved by heritage. We will act as a catalyst to attract more visitors to the area and thus increase prosperity.

otford allotments association

From home-grown vegetable plants to herbaceous border perennials, the Otford Allotment Association plant stall is must-visit for gardeners and allotmenteers. All plants are raised by members of the Association and prices start from just 50p! ❗Be sure to arrive early to get choice pickings and leave your purchases in our 'plant creche’ while you enjoy the Fete❗