The arden was an extensive area of forest located near the geographic center of England, with dense broadleaf woodland such as oak and lime. It was bounded by the Roman roads Icknield Street, Watling Street and Fosse Way, the prehistoric salt track of Coughton and, by tradition, by the Knights Templar’s preceptory at Temple Balsall.
The woods here still abound in wildflowers, wildlife and birds. Residents work to maintain their natural beauty by participating in annual woods cleanups and ivy “pulls.” Theatre, arts and craftsmanship generate the close-knit character of the community. The 111th Arden Fair will be held on Saturday, September 1 this year.
Located at 1807 Millers Road, the Arden Craft Shop Museum is open to the public 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. It is the center for dinners, musical and theatrical performances, meetings, and other community gatherings.
Utopia Off Harvey Road
The Village of Arden was founded in 1900 as a Single Tax community, influenced by the economic philosophy of Henry George, the Arts and Crafts movement of William Morris, and the Garden City movement of Ebenezer Howard. Half of the land is forests and greens, which are not taxed. Today, the town’s pristine, well-maintained forests provide opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature study. It is also a center for music and art, with a theater and an outdoor amphitheater. The community is committed to being a sustainable and healthy place to live, work and play.