Welcome to the Friends of Kent Churches

2024 is our 75th ANNIVERSARY

Founded in 1949 as a Registered Charity (No. 207021) and run by volunteers we are dedicated to preserving Kent’s amazing churches and helping maintain them in good condition. We give grants to about 25 churches each year generally amounting to more than £130,000 per annum. These grants principally come from funds raised through Ride & Stride and legacies with the support of our Members. We have over 400 Members who enjoy the opportunity to learn about Kent’s church heritage through church visits and lectures. We are pleased to be supported by our Patrons: The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Rochester, the Lord -Lieutenant of Kent and the Lady Kingsdown.

For details of our 75th Anniversary Legacy Appeal and the need for your help – see LEGACIES

About us

Kent has an extremely rich ecclesiastical heritage of more than 800 churches, chapels and meeting houses. Click to find out more About Us.

Join us

There is a wealth of history, architecture, monuments, stained glass and many other interesting features to explore in the churches of Kent. Click on Join Us to find out more about the benefits of Membership.

Grants

Our grants play a very important part in maintaining Kent’s church heritage. To find out more about the grant application process and grants we have given in the past click on Grants.

Kent churches

Kent has possibly the oldest Parish church still in use in England. We have more numerous brass collections than any other County and many outstanding monuments that in other Countries might be in museums. There are many examples of medieval stained glass but also brilliant modern glazing schemes. Click Kent Churches to find out more.

News

A collection of all our recent Visits and Lectures, Newsletters, and Annual Reports

Ride & Stride

The Friends of Kent Churches sponsored Ride & Stride event takes place on the second Saturday in September every year. It is the most important fund raising event of the year involving hundreds of cyclists and walkers and the vast majority of churches in Kent. Many Members take part or sponsor other participants. To find out more visit the Kent Ride & Stride website.