insideKENT Magazine Issue 82 - January 2019 | Page 40

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT
SPOTLIGHT ON BEXLEY CONT.
ST MARY THE VIRGIN
NEW BRIDGE BEXLEY VILLAGE
Things to Do
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Bexley Village Shops
Bexley Village has a wealth of shops that make it a
pleasure to stroll around, whether you are looking
for something specific, or simply want to gain some
gift-giving inspiration; you might even like to treat
yourself ! Shops include Chex (for ladies’ fashion),
Village Kids (f or children’s wear), Pilkington’s (a
jewellers specialising in Rolex watches) and Labelled
With Love (a fab ulous gift shop) as w ell as man y
more. Danson House
Danson House, located in lovely Danson Park in
Welling, just three miles from Bexley Village, is a
beautiful Grade I listed Palladian villa, which was
officially re-opened by HM Queen Elizabeth II in
July 2005. This house was originally built by Sir John
Boyd in 1766; it was created specifically for his second
wife, Catherine Chapone, and was designed by the
architect Sir Robert Taylor, perhaps most famous
for having been the architect for the Bank of England.
St Mary The Virgin
A church has existed on this site for more than 800
years, and St Mary The Virgin is a beautiful place
to visit. Welcoming and friendly with a long history,
there is always something new to discover here. Plus,
there are often church events being held tha t will
give you more insight into the village itself and the
surrounding area. The Museum Collection at Hall Place
This diverse and fascinating museum is located in
Hall Place, and it hosts two superb exhibitions each
year, in addition to its collection of over 50,000
interesting objects. The exhibition could be anything
from history to anthropology; furniture making to
ecology; but whatever it is it will be sure to give you
an insight into the subject in a wa y you had never
looked at it before.
Red House
Red House, a National Trust property in Bexleyheath,
was the home of the famous writer and artist William
Morris. Mor ris f ounded the Arts and Crafts
movement, and this house pays homage to his style
and creativity. The building was designed by Philip
Webb and completed in 1860. Interesting features
include stained g lass windows, paintings, and of
course the iconic Morris repeating pattern.