Events at: Westerham Hall

The Victorian Railways of Kent

A presentation by Tony Riley on the complex history behind the development of Kent’s railways. Tony Riley has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the topic as well as a great collection of old photographs. We will hear how our railway structure was created, especially as it was undertaken with no government funding and even without an overall blueprint.

The Orpheus Centre

A presentation by Ann Lovelace on the inspiring work of the Orpheus Centre, an independent specialist college in Godstone. The Centre focuses on developing independent skills and confidence of young people between 18 and 25 with learning and/or physical disabilities. The personalised study programmes for students are based on developing skills through performing and visual arts to make dramatic improvements in their lives.

The Magic, Mystery and Madness of Travelling in Latin America

A presentation by Latin America travel specialist David Gilmour.   David’s introduction to Latin America will include past travellers’ tales; Columbus claimed to have seen a mermaid; One of Magellan’s crew caught sight of a giant off the coast of Argentina; Raleigh talked of an encounter with a tribe of headless men in the jungles of South America and more. He …

AGM and Talk on Kent Wildlife Trust & Greensands Commons

We look forward to seeing Members at the AGM to hear reports on the activities during the last year and to learn about the Committee’s plans for 2019. Members will be able to express views and ask questions about the Society’s plans. A presentation by Andrew Willmore, Project Manager of the Sevenoaks Greensand Commons Project.  Andrew will tell us about the Kent …

The Magical Mystery of Houdini

The return of the charismatic Joe Mendell following his much appreciated and humorous talk on The American Presidents in Bits and Pieces.  This time, Joe will tell the story of the greatest magician of his era and with some surprises too. What made him so special? Why was he so good? We will find out on 8th February.

Carriage Driving: The Story

A presentation by Sara Howe, who runs Bradbourne Carriage Driving Centre in Sevenoaks. She has been a top international carriage driver since 2003, representing Great Britain as a team member in 7 World Championships and is a bronze medal winner. This is an opportunity to hear about the history and drama of the sport.

The Mistresses of King Charles II

The talk will cover the many mistresses of the King and how they vied for position and the privileges the position gave them. The speaker is John Halligan, a well known London Guide and Freeman of the City of London. John will also explain how some of the mistresses have links with the aristocracy today.    

Women Aviators

Anna Astin’s presentation on Women Aviators. Anna is well know for her presentations on Women in Motoring and The Women of the First World War. It promises to be another interesting and entertaining evening.