This old ford is at the centre of a popular north-west Kent village which can trace its roots back to at least 864 AD. The bridge over the river is very narrow so deliveries to the pub and light industry on the west side of the river here (i.e. from where I have taken this shot) have to go via the ford.
In the background you can see St Martin of Tours Church, which dates back to the 11th century (and which was built on the the site of an earlier Saxon church). It was built by the son of William d'Eynsford, who had been granted the surrounding lands after fighting on the winning side in the Battle of Hastings in 1066.
Many thanks to all who have left comments over the past few days - I really appreciate it.