The Church of All Saints in Hartley brings together features from the 12th and 14th centuries. The Church of St Francis De Sales has a different architectural history: it is now housed in a timber barn with several aisles. Other places and activities include the Shrine of Our Lady of Hartley, Hartley Wood and the Hartley Health Walks. These themes can provide different focuses for planning a visit—from architectural history and religious heritage to walking and horse riding.

Church architecture and medieval details

The nave of the Church of All Saints dates from the 12th century, while the chancel dates from the 14th century. The comparison in dates therefore concerns two parts of the same church building. The nave contains two Norman windows. The fittings on the south door probably also date from the 12th century. The churchyard has 18th-century headstones decorated with cherubs.

For those interested in architecture, the different dates within a single building provide a useful focus: the dates do not apply to the entire church as a whole, but to different features. This helps place the contrast between the nave and chancel in context, while the windows and door fittings add specific details. The headstones in the churchyard offer a further perspective on the site’s design.

A barn as a Roman Catholic church

The Church of St Francis De Sales is now housed in a timber barn with several aisles at Middle Farm. The barn probably dates from the 17th century and is now used as a Roman Catholic church. The focus here differs from that at All Saints: the architectural interest lies not in the dates of different features, but in the barn’s present-day use as a church.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Hartley is located in the Church of St Francis De Sales. The building and the shrine are therefore part of the same religious focal point. The two churches offer different themes for comparison: at All Saints, the differing dates of the nave and chancel; at St Francis, the barn’s conversion and the shrine within the church.

Woodland, walks and horse riding

Hartley Wood is the largest wood in Hartley and offers a different focus from the churches. Those who want to experience the area beyond its architectural history will find a distinct connection with nature here. The Parish Council also provides a list of the Hartley Health Walks. As route details may change, check the information before setting out for a walk.

The Northfield Ride enables local riders to ride away from public roads. Membership arrangements may change, so check the current rules before planning a visit. The two outdoor activities are quite different: the Hartley Health Walks are for walking, while the Northfield Ride enables local riders to ride away from public roads. Your choice of activity is therefore the key consideration when planning.

For the wider travel overview: Kent.