Old Soar Manor facts for kids
Old Soar Manor is a special old house found near Plaxtol in Kent, England. It's a small stone house built way back in the 1200s! Today, it's looked after by two important groups: English Heritage and the National Trust. These groups help protect historic places for everyone to enjoy. Old Soar Manor is so important that it's listed as a Grade I building, which means it's a very significant historical site in England.
What is Old Soar Manor?
Old Soar Manor is a type of old home called a manor house. These were often the main homes of wealthy families in the past. This particular manor was built in the year 1290. That's over 700 years ago! It was first owned by a family known as the Culpeppers. Imagine living in a house that old!
The Great Hall and Farmhouse
When Old Soar Manor was first built, its most important room was a large space called the "great hall." This was where the family would eat, entertain guests, and spend most of their time. However, the great hall isn't there anymore. It was taken down in 1780.
In its place, a red-brick farmhouse was built. This farmhouse is also a historic building, listed as Grade II. Even though the original great hall is gone, the farmhouse helps tell the story of how the site has changed over hundreds of years.
What You Can See Today
When you visit Old Soar Manor today, you can still explore some of the original parts of the 13th-century building. These include:
- The solar: This was a private living room, often used by the lord or lady of the manor. It was a cozy space away from the busy great hall.
- The latrine: This was the medieval toilet! It's a fascinating glimpse into how people lived long ago.
- The chapel: This was a small, private church or prayer room within the manor. It shows the importance of faith in daily life during that time.
These remaining parts give us a wonderful look into what life was like in a medieval manor house. It's like stepping back in time!
