How did the road get its name?
The Hop Gardens is so-called because hops were grown in this vicinity from the 1870s until the beginning of the 20th century. Arthur Savory, the tenant farmer at nearby Aldington Manor, introduced hops to the area. In Worcestershire and Herefordshire hops were grown in “hopyards”, rather than “hop gardens” as they are called in Kent and other parts of England. But perhaps it was felt that the owners of these new homes would prefer to live in a garden than a yard!
When did housing development begin?
Six detached houses were built in the 1970s on the corner of Chapel Lane, Mill Lane and Main Street, on the site of an 18th-century house and farm buildings called Ivy House which were demolished. Planning permission was granted in February 1972. Two old cottages, which had been part of the Ivy House complex, survived. The cottage adjoining Chapel Lane was given the address of Chapel Lane, the other half being given the address of The Hop Gardens.
Numbering system
The houses are numbered 1-6. The cottage is called Chapel Cottage.
19th century ownership
The land was originally owned by Thomas Byrd who lived at Ivy House.
Who lived on this road in the 19th and early 20th century?
This street on the 1841 census, 1851 census, 1861 census, 1871 census, 1881 census, 1891 census, 1901 census, 1911 census, 1921 census and 1939 Register.
Photo Surveys
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