Tucked between Borough Green and Sevenoaks, St Mary’s Platt is a small village that’s full of quiet charm and countryside beauty.
Though modest in size, it carries a long and rich history. Winding lanes, traditional homes, and a close-knit community help create a timeless feel.
From its welcoming parish church to the surrounding walks and green spaces, the village offers a calming escape from the busyness of modern life. It may be hidden from the main road, but it leaves a lasting impression on those who find it.
The name “Platt” comes from an old word once used for nut orchards. These orchards once filled the landscape, offering food and work to local families. Like those trees, the village has grown strong over time. shaped by care, community, and tradition.
Before 1842, people in the village travelled to St George’s Church in Wrotham for Sunday services. That changed when William Lambard donated land and the rector of Wrotham raised funds for a new church. Built in 1841–42, the Church of St Mary the Virgin became the centre of village life. Its early English design, shaped like a cross, still stands proudly today. In 1864, Admiral Randolf added a church clock that continues to chime the hours [1].
The First World War left a deep mark on this peaceful place. Around 200 men from St Mary’s Platt signed up to fight. A quarter of them never came home. To remember their bravery, the village built Platt Memorial Hall in 1922. The land was donated by Jude Hanbury of Wateringbury, and the bricks came from Thomas Pascall’s Platt Brickyard. The project was funded by local donations.
For more than 80 years, the hall served the community. It held meetings, events, dances, and fundraisers. But by the 2000s, it needed major repairs. So, in 2016, a new hall was built nearby. Every brick of the war memorial was carefully moved and rebuilt at the front of the new building. It’s a lasting sign of how this village remembers the past while looking to the future [2].
St Mary’s Platt may feel like a hidden corner of Kent, but reaching it is easy by road or rail. Whether you’re driving through the countryside or arriving by train, the journey offers peaceful views and a welcome change of pace.
This route is just over a mile long and takes around 4 minutes, offering lovely views across rural Kent.
This journey from the M20 takes about 35–40 minutes (next), depending on traffic, and passes through some of Kent’s prettiest countryside.
The nearest station is Borough Green & Wrotham, served by Southeastern trains. Direct services run from London Victoria and Maidstone East. Once you arrive, it’s a short taxi ride or a gentle 25-minute walk to the village.
Bus 221 links St Mary’s Platt to nearby areas, including Wrotham Heath, Borough Green, Tonbridge, and Tunbridge Wells. Times can vary, especially in rural areas, so it’s best to check a travel app or online timetable before your journey [3].
Every village needs a good pub, and in St Mary’s Platt, that place is The Blue Anchor (Grange Rd, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8ND) [4]. This much-loved local has been at the heart of village life since 1742. With its cosy interior, friendly service, and generous portions, it’s as dependable as an old friend.
The food here is a highlight. Traditional British dishes fill the menu, with favourites like fish and chips, Stilton-topped burgers, duck rolls, and rich roast dinners. There’s even a special pie menu, locals recommend the beef and ale pie for good reason.
On Sundays, the pub draws in visitors from nearby towns for its classic roast. There’s also a well-stocked bar, free Wi-Fi, and a spacious beer garden that’s perfect on sunny days. Whether you’re catching up with friends or simply enjoying the view, it’s a great spot to unwind.
St Mary’s Platt has much to explore, from quiet woodland walks to beautiful historic buildings.
At the heart of the village stands St Mary the Virgin Church (Long Mill Ln, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8NE) [5], built in 1843 [6]. Set on a hill, the church looks out over the village, and the churchyard leads directly to Platt Wood, a 43-acre stretch of woodland. With its tall trees and peaceful paths, the wood feels like a natural cathedral. It also forms part of the Weald Way, making it popular with walkers and nature lovers.
A short drive away is Great Comp Garden (Comp Ln, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8QS) [7], a hidden gem spread over seven acres. This beautifully kept garden features rare plants, romantic ruins, and quiet woodland walks. Seasonal blooms like magnolias, rhododendrons and salvias fill the space with colour. There’s also The Old Dairy Tearooms [8], where visitors can enjoy lunch, tea, or homemade cake [9].
The local primary school, Platt Church of England Primary School (Platt C of E Primary School, Maidstone Rd, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8FH) [10], plays a big role in village life. It’s a small, one-form-entry school with around 170 pupils. Rooted in Christian values, the school encourages every child to grow with confidence and kindness [11].
The school’s vision is based on the parable of the mustard seed, small beginnings that grow into something strong and lasting. Pupils are supported to become thoughtful, responsible individuals, with the values of Care, Learn and Forgive at the core of everyday learning.
Platt Primary was rated positively in both its SIAMS inspection in July 2023 and its Ofsted inspection in October 2024, showing a clear commitment to high standards. For families thinking of moving to the area, there are currently a few spaces available for Reception entry in September 2025.
When families in and around St Mary’s Platt face difficult times, having a local, compassionate funeral director makes all the difference. Just 1.2 miles away, the Welham Jones Borough Green branch offers caring support to residents and visitors alike.
Located at 43 Western Road, Borough Green, the branch serves St Mary’s Platt and nearby villages including Wrotham, Longfield, Shipbourne, Stansted, Meopham, Fawkham Green, and Ightham.
Welham Jones provides a wide range of funeral services, carefully arranged to meet different needs and wishes:
Every detail is handled with dignity and respect. The team treats every person in their care as if they were a member of their own family. Washing, dressing, embalming (if chosen), and personal touches like placing items in the coffin are done with great care. Faith and cultural traditions are always honoured.
Because the Borough Green branch is so close to St Mary’s Platt, the team understands the village, its traditions, and its people. Many families choose St Mary the Virgin Church in the village for funeral services. Set on a quiet hill, the church offers a peaceful and meaningful setting. The surrounding churchyard also provides a calm, natural place for burial.
For those choosing cremation, Welham Jones can assist with nearby options and help families create a lasting memorial.
Welham Jones has long-standing ties to the St Mary’s Platt community. The team often works with Revd Lorraine Turner and her parish, helping to create services that truly reflect each person’s life.
Their role in the community goes beyond their professional work. One heartfelt example is when Melisa, daughter of team member Pamela Pines, collected hundreds of Christmas gifts for local children. Moments like these reflect how Welham Jones is part of the village’s shared story, much more than just a business.
For families in St Mary’s Platt and nearby areas, Welham Jones offers the quiet reassurance of a neighbour, always nearby, always ready to help, and always putting people first.
Travelling from St Mary’s Platt to Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials in Borough Green [source] is a short and straightforward journey by car.
Begin by heading north-west along Long Mill Lane, leaving the village in the direction of Greenlands. After a brief drive of around 0.2 miles, you’ll reach a junction.
Turn left onto Maidstone Road (A25) and continue along this main road. The route takes you past local homes and green spaces as you make your way towards Borough Green. After just under a mile, you’ll come to a roundabout.
At the roundabout, take the second exit onto Western Road (A227). This will lead you into the centre of Borough Green. Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials is located shortly after on the right-hand side at 43 Western Road.
The entire journey typically takes around four minutes and passes through a scenic part of Kent’s countryside, making it both quick and pleasant.
[1] “Platt adn its History” from the Platt Memorial Hall website, http://plattmemorialhall.org/warmemorial/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/platt_history.pdf
[2] “Local History” via the Platt Memorial Hall website, http://plattmemorialhall.org/warmemorial/local-history/
[3] “How to Get to St Mary’s Platt in Tonbridge And Malling by Bus or Train?” via the Moovit website, https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-St_Mary_s_Platt-London_and_South_East-site_6773307-2122
[4] The Blue Anchor (Grange Rd, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8ND), Google Maps, https://maps.app.goo.gl/eAY59kohnUA8FKbn7
[5] St Mary the Virgin Church (Long Mill Ln, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8NE), Google Maps, https://maps.app.goo.gl/e4utdqmxGDG3WbAC7
[6] St Mary the Virgin Church website https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/16926/
[7] Great Comp Garden (Comp Ln, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8QS), Google Maps, https://maps.app.goo.gl/TmPYAuGssmm6RAQ27
[8] The Old Dairy Tearoom (Great Comp Garden), Great, Comp Ln, Sevenoaks TN15 8QS, https://maps.app.goo.gl/PxcPqY36EGTtgfca8
[9] The Old Dairy Tearoom (Great Comp Garden), via the Great Comp Garden website https://www.greatcompgarden.co.uk/tearoom/
[10] Platt Church of England Primary School (Platt C of E Primary School, Maidstone Rd, St Mary’s Platt, Sevenoaks TN15 8FH), Google Maps, https://maps.app.goo.gl/BSShXqRTe6szP6pw6
[11] Platt Church of England Primary School website https://www.platt.kent.sch.uk/
