Littlebourne’s 14th Century Barn and Art Exhibition

Littlebourne Barn is a superb example of a 14th century aisled barn and is one of the largest and most original barns of its kind still standing in the UK. 

Tucked away in the heart of the picturesque village of Littlebourne, the barn is located adjacent to St Vincent’s church. The construction comprises a thatched roof, aisle with seven and a half bays, and two large entrances for wagons. It is 172 feet long and 76 feet wide. 

The barn was purchased by Canterbury City Council in 1991 with assistance from English Heritage. It is cared for by a local volunteer group working through the barn committee.

Its Grade 1 listing means it is a site of exceptional national, architectural or historical importance. Grade 1 listed buildings are rare because of their historical importance.

Littlebourne Barn enjoys organised events and lettings to local and national groups for suitable uses throughout the year. All proceeds from these contribute towards its upkeep. More details can be found at www.littlebournebarn.co.uk

Littlebourne village offers a range of facilities including a community Post Office shop, pub and accommodation. There is direct walking access to beautiful countryside including the wonderful Little Stour chalk stream right from the Barn. The lovely villages of Wickhambreaux and Ickham are just over a kilometer's walk away across the fields (or 1 minute drive) .

Refreshments including cakes, savouries, tea and coffee will be served at the Barn Pantry.

Timings & Tours

Saturday 07 September:

1000-1600

Sunday 08 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

The Barn, Church Road, Littlebourne, Canterbury, Kent, Ct3 1UA

Directions:

Navigation tools: What3words: inhaled.spindles.diagram Google maps: 51.277265, 1.167780 Access to Littlebourne and the Barn is straightforward. From Canterbury, take the A257 towards Sandwich out of Canterbury and after 4 miles you enter Littlebourne. At the bottom of The Hill turn left into Jubilee Road. At the ‘T’ junction at the end of Jubilee Road go straight across Church Road and turn right into the parking area under the trees in front of the barn. You can also access from the A2. Take the Bridge turn off and head towards Littlebourne and Howletts Wildlife park. After reaching Littlebourne - there are two sharp bends - take a left onto the A257 and then after 300m turn right onto Jubilee Road - then follow as above. There are also regular bus services from Canterbury bus station to Littlebourne on Nos. 42 and 11.

Contact on day:

Barn Committee members via Tim Bostock (Annette Broadbridge, Graham Duplock)

Telephone number:

+447484322706

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

There is really no maximum number of visitors, although for those coming by car parking and other facilities may be limited. The barn's grounds allow some 15-20 cars (tbd) and parking is also available within the village.

Additional information

No smoking or fires are allowed anywhere near the barn or on its premises.

Max no of people per tour:

15

Est. tour duration:

1 hour(s) 30 minute(s)

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