The town’s name comes from the Old English word Seouenaca, the name given to a small chapel near seven oak trees.

Today, the spot where Saxons flocked to worship is home to the Vine Cricket Ground, just a two-minute walk from the town centre.

Over the years the trees have fallen victim to storms, vandals and the passage of time but seven still stand – and probably always will.

A market was opened in the 13th century, while the building of Knole House and Sevenoaks School two centuries later helped establish what is now a bustling and affluent commuter town with a population just shy of 30,000.

Over the years it has been home to author HG Wells and Princess Diana, who went to West Heath School.

Don’t miss: The Stag Community Arts Centre encapsulates everything which makes the town unique in a charming setting. Set in the beating heart of Sevenoaks, the Stag has two cinema screens, an alternative performance space and a 448-seat theatre, with the largest stage in the South East. Extensive investment in recent years has lifted the venue to lofty new heights, with everyone from Stewart Lee to Mr Mistoffelees performing there in recent times. This summer look out for Kentish Opera’s La Traviata and also West End hit Les Miserables. More at www.stagsevenoaks.co.uk

Take time to explore: A short stroll down the road from the town centre, Knole Park offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of the shops and restaurants. The 15th centre, 365-room manor house, with its 26-acre walled garden is a fascinating history lesson but if you get tired of climbing its 52 staircases the surrounding 1,000-acre park with its 350 wild deer is a great place to get lost.

Best-kept secret: A short hop from Sevenoaks lies one of Kent’s best and least known pubs. In the landlord’s own words the Old House at Ightham is stuck in a time warp with absolutely no desire to escape. The extensive selection of ales will titillate the taste buds of even the most discerning beer drinker while the quality of conversation will make you wonder why you’ve left it so long to visit. More details at www.oldhouse.pub

Getting there: Sevenoaks is just off Junction 5 of the M25 and is regularly served by trains heading into the capital, which take about half an hour. The station is 15 minutes out of town but regular bus services link both. Next year, Transport for London will extend its Oyster card service to the town.