Old Soar Manor, Plaxtol, Kent
This is rare survival of 13th century domestic architecture and gives an illuminating impression of the life of a rich medieval family. The manor belonged to the Culpeppers, a leading Kentish family in the Middle Ages who were major landowners. It was built in c1290. Manor houses of this period were based around a great hall, with a central fire from which the smoke rose to the open rafters. Family and servants would have eaten in the hall and servants slept on the floor. The manorial court was also held here. This site is now in the care of English Heritage (2011). Find out more.
