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Historic Towns & Picturesque Villages

A picture of Bath

Bath

a Historic City in the county of Somerset

Pictures of Upchurch

in the county of Kent

About Upchurch

This is an historic, interesting village which was once home to Edmund Drake, father of Sir Francis, who became vicar of the local church in 1560. Originally from Devon, Edmund had quite a turbulent life, he married and had twelve children of which Francis was the only child to develop outstanding talents as a fearless seafaring Admiral, who gained the attention of Royalty and the admiration of the World.

Edmund Drake remained in Upchurch from 1560 until his death some seven years later. In accordance with his wish, he lies buried in Upchurch churchyard.

The village occupies a pleasant location close to the Medway marshes, with access to Halstow Creek on the lovely Medway river. The area has an established history of Roman occupation as evidenced by the finding of a Roman cemetery and relics from various Roman potteries. Another pottery was established in 1909, this was known as Upchurch Pottery, which became noted through supplying goods to Liberty's and other famous London stores.

In 1877 a macabre discovery of bones was made in the crypt beneath the 14th century church. Centuries ago it was usual for remains to be kept either in the crypt or channel house if the churchyard was full. Upon discovery, the bones were re-interred. This church is well worth a visit, it has an unusual "candle-snuffer" steeple and other interesting architectural features. Inside the church there are two tablets dedicated to the men who lost their lives in WWI and WWII.

These days, this pleasant place with its gaily painted village sign acts as a dormitory village for residents working in the large town's of Gillingham and Maidstone. It is also attractive to visiting yachtsmen who enjoy exploring the little creeks of the Medway. The village provides for fishing and golf and for bird watchers there is an interesting RSPB site.

Visitors wishing to stay to explore the region will fins ample hotel accommodation in the area, pleasant inns, pubs and shops.

Recommended towns & villages near Upchurch

Looking towards Minster Cliffs and the Leas  Minster, Isle of Sheppey

Sheerness (22 Pictures) in the county of Kent

(6.7 miles, 10.8 km, direction NE of Upchurch)

This is the port to which Nelson's body was brought home following his untimely death after his glorious victory at the Battle of Trafalgar...

The 700 yr old medieval bridge at Aylesford, Kent

Aylesford (50 Pictures) a Picturesque Village in the county of Kent

(8.8 miles, 14.2 km, direction SW of Upchurch)

Aylesford is a large village in Kent, 4 miles NW of the county town of Maidstone. It sits on the river Medway, and has many interesting and historic buildings including the 14th.....

A picture of Faversham

Faversham (80 Pictures) a Historic Market Town in the county of Kent

(11.3 miles, 18.1 km, direction E of Upchurch)

There is record of settlements in the area in pre-historic times, it is known that the Romans and the Anglo-Saxons both established villages...

The Tower of St. Clements Church, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex

Leigh-on-Sea (58 Pictures) a Seaside Town in the county of Essex

(11.5 miles, 18.5 km, direction N of Upchurch)

At Leigh, visitors will find a small sandy beach and a narrow High Street containing lovely old fishermen's cottages. The resort is situated close to Leigh Marsh Nature Reserve and Two Tree Island, a lonely expanse of windswept grass and saltings...

Southend On Sea Pier, Essex

Southend-on-Sea (123 Pictures) a Seaside Town in the county of Essex

(11.8 miles, 18.9 km, direction N of Upchurch)

Southend-on-Sea is mostly known for its long pier and large amusement park - Adventure Island, which has rides to suit all tastes and all ages...

All towns & villages in Kent
Complete A to Z of towns & villages in England

Nearby attractions..

Number Three Slipway, Chatham Dockyard

Chatham Historic Dockyard (122 Pictures)

(5.4 miles, 8.6 km, direction W)

Set in a stunning 80-acre estate The Historic Dockyard Chatham will excite and entertain you - whatever your age! Explore the.....

Upnor Castle

Upnor Castle (61 Pictures)

(5.7 miles, 9.2 km, direction NW)

The romantic ruins of this fabled centuries old fortress occupies one of the most delightful sites in England. The castle was.....

Rochester Cathedral

Rochester Cathedral (104 Pictures)

(6.2 miles, 9.9 km, direction W)

Rochester Cathedral is awesome in its beauty, matching this is an impressive history stretching back to when the cathedral was.....

Charles Dickens Chalet, Rochester, Kent

Charles Dickens Chalet (4 Pictures)

(6.2 miles, 10.0 km, direction W)

Unfortunately due to its fragility, the Dickens Chalet is not open to the public although it can be viewed from outside. The.....

Rochester Castle

Rochester Castle (88 Pictures)

(6.4 miles, 10.3 km, direction W)

The impressive ruins of Rochester Castle at the side of the Medway River make up one of the most spectacular riverside views in.....

Sunset at Emley

Isle of Sheppey (21 Pictures)

(7.6 miles, 12.3 km, direction E)

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Leeds Castle in Kent

Leeds Castle (333 Pictures)

(8.9 miles, 14.2 km, direction S)

Listed in the Domesday Book, this castle has been a Norman stronghold, a royal residence for six of England's medieval queens, a.....


All attractions in Upchurch
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