Congregational Church, Forest Road, Hawkenbury, Royal Tunbridge Wells

The main part of the building, which is of brick, with stone facings, consists of large Hall, 38 feet by 33 feet, with a platform and nicely fitted with comfortable seats, heating apparatus, etc. On either side are aisles of lower elevation, which are divided from the main body of the hall by ornamental arcades. These contain space which are partitioned off for the accommodation of Sunday classes. so that this work can be carried on with fall efficiency, while, if required, the partition. can be thrown back to form a dado. The total seating accommodation is about 270. At the rear is an infant classroom. with gallery, which will hold about 40 children, and is entered by a separate doorway. The building is provided with a kitchen, with coppers, etc., for the purpose of tea meetings. The interior of the building presents a very nice appearance, the roof being of stained and ornamental match-boarding, while the windows are filled with cathedral tinted glass. The work has been carried out by Messrs Strange and Sons, builders, from the plans of Messrs Potts, Sulman, and Hennings, architects, of London. The grounds outside are divided by asphalt paths, and in the course of time will be laid out with shrubs. The building was formally opened last evening, and the special services will be continued on Sunday. [Kent and Sussex Courier 5 July 1889 page 5]

Further development occurred in 1907 with the addition of a schoolroom and in 1926 with the construction of the church hall. In 1972 it became part of the United Reformed Church.

Referednce        Kent and Sussex Courier 5 July 1889 page 5