Hop Farm

Hops have been grown on the farm since at least the 16th century. It was purchased in 1574 by William Lambarde who transferred the farm's ownership the following year to the Worshipful Company of Drapers, with the intention that the rental from the farm should be used to help fund a set of almshouses in Greenwich which he had established. The farm remained in the ownership of the Drapers' Company for over 300 years and became a major producer of hops for the brewing industry, in particular supplying Whitbread. During the late 19th century the farm was rented by Edward White, described as the "father of the hop industry" and as a "legend" in the industry. He expanded the farm and was…