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The first mention of Ardleigh Green comes from the 14th century. The name derives from the Old English name Haddeleye. It translates to heath glade or clearing, presumably from the heath plants that grew there. Another theory connects the name with the de Badele family that lived in this side of East London in 1325. The name later changed to Hardley Green. The area was known by this name until 1883. In the 17th century, Spencer’s Arms inn was a popular gathering place for agricultural workers. Hardley Court and other villas were built in the 19th century. The opening of Squirrel’s Heath station kick-started the urban development in 1910.
In 1927, EA Coryn and Sons housing builders developed Haynes Park estate. Ardleigh Green Road was initially called Haynes Park Road. The first local junior and infants schools opened in 1933. The schools got outstanding Ofsted rating. In 1946, Hardley Court served as a teacher training college. In 1950, Havering College was established on the site of the old estate. Today’s college has two more campuses in addition to the original one. More than 12,000 students attend classes here. Hardley Court was renamed Ardleigh House. In 1960, it was demolished. The new building serves as a community center.
One of the main attractions is the Ardleigh Green Cricket Club. It’s a sports club that was founded in 1940 and has won several prizes including two cups. The Ardleigh pub welcomes locals and tourists with a generous selection of foods and drinks. Several nearby inns and pubs are popular among sports fans. The pubs also host live music shows and have attractive features such as beer gardens where one can enjoy real ale, real cider, and other alcoholic drinks. Some of the Ardleigh Green pubs are dog friendly for those who want to take their canine companions with them.