The George Fentham Trusts were established in 1698 by the will of George Fentham dated 1690. It is a charity supporting residents within the Parish of Hampton-in-Arden. What is commonly referred to as ‘the Fentham Trust’ is made up of:

  • George Fentham Hampton-In-Arden Endowed Charity (1098618)
  • Educational Foundation of George Fentham (528816)

The trustees are the same for both charities, although the areas of benefit are slightly different, and distribution of any grants is co-ordinated accordingly.

You can find out more about the charities by browsing this website, by emailing us at clerk@georgefenthamtrust.org.uk or calling us on 01675 443850.  To apply for a grant for yourself or someone else, please complete this form

Soho Tavern and Parking Issues 

The George Fentham trustees are concerned about the problems on Marsh Lane and issues around the Soho Tavern. Most of our trustees live in the village and some need to go down Marsh Lane so we are very aware of the issues.

These issues have been caused by the popularity of the Soho Tavern since the lease was assigned to them by the previous leaseholder. Our position as landlord is governed by and limited to the terms of the lease.

For parking we have tried to alleviate the problems by allowing customers of Soho Tavern to park in the Fentham Hall carpark and overflow carpark when the hall is not in use. But even this is not sufficient to cope with the number of customers during busy periods.  We have no control over the number of customers allowed to use the Soho Tavern or the parking on Marsh Lane. We have tried to manage the number of customers by asking the Soho Tavern to introduce a booking system.

The number of customers is regulated by the Fire Department and the planning approvals given by SMBC.  Planning approvals include review by the Highways Authority.

Having said that, we have been taking professional advice and are continuing to work with SMBC, Soho Tavern and the Parish Council, and have spent a considerable time and effort into trying to resolve the problems, and we will continue to focus on the issues and do what we can.

Concerned residents should contact our ward councillor and SMBC Licensing Department.

Updated 10/07/2025