Car Hire Orpington

Orpington Mini Guide

Is Orpington in London or Kent?
Historically it is part of Kent and the Kent countryside is just outside the town. Today it’s part of the London Borough of Bromley. Its position makes it a great place to live in or for staying in as transport links into London are quick and easy and the tranquillity of Kent is but minutes away. Orpington is a historic town dating back many millennia and plenty of evidence of its early days can be seen in the area. It has a large traveller community left over from the days when Romany people came to help pick the fruit from the orchards of the ‘Garden of England’.

How do I get to Orpington?
If travelling by air you could either use London City Airport and take the train link out to Orpington, or Gatwick Airport followed by the train or by car around the M25. By train from other parts of the UK it’s best to get into London, use the underground to get to London Bridge Station and catch the direct train to Orpington.

What Should I see When I’m Staying in Orpington?
Many people start with a visit to Orpington Priory which, as well as worth visiting in its own right as a Medieval Hall House, is a museum dedicated to telling the history of Orpington, tied up in the agricultural heritage of the area. From there, head to All Saints, one of Britain’s oldest churches which was built on pre-Saxon foundations, some of which are still visible. The church was dedicated in 1173 and, despite being struck by lightning in the 19th century, remains a beautiful example of an ancient church. In the graveyard there’s a part called Canadian Corner which is the final resting place of Canadian soldiers who were treated but sadly died in the hospital during the war.

Orpington’s history dates back to Stone Age times but the best evidence of its past is seen at Ramsden School where work uncovered an Iron Age farm can be viewed by prior appointment. If you have a hire car you should visit Orpington Priory which was built as a medieval hall house.

Today, it has been beautifully restored and houses a museum telling the story of how agriculture became the life blood of the area. Outside the building, the grounds are now a public park, great for picnics or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings.