Valence House

Yesterday I visited Valence House, the only surviving manor house in Dagenham, for the first in several years. Valence House is home to Barking and Dagenham's local history museum. It reopened in June 2010 after a major refurbishment. The house, which dates back to Medieval times and is still partially surrounded by a moat, has been repaired and redecorated, and has exciting new displays which tell the story of Barking and Dagenham and its people throughout the ages (including lots about Barking Abbey).

I was particularly pleased to see that there are displays highlighting the many well-known people - two England Managers, an Archbishop of Canterbury, a Royal Academician, entertainers, singers, sportspeople, novelists and more - who have come from or lived in the borough, together with artefacts relating to them. This was a particular pleasure because featuring such folk was a suggestion which I made to the Council while in the borough.

After touring the museum, you can relax in the tranquil surroundings of the herb garden. The creation of this garden was part of environmental improvements aimed at enhancing the attractions in the grounds. The layout follows plans produced by historic gardens consultant Virginia Nightingale. The central feature is a green pergola, surrounded by formal beds of roses and herbs. Towards the edge of the area are less formal features such as a sculpture garden and a refreshments patio.

Visits can be rounded by taking refreshments in the Oasis Cafe and browsing the gift shop (both located in the new Visitor Centre). Barking and Dagenham Archives and Local Studies Centre also reopened in July 2010 in spacious new premises in the Valence House Visitor Centre.

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Billy Bragg - A13 (Trunk Road To The Sea).