Water Trough Near Biggin Hill War Memorial At The Junction Of Jail Lane And Main Road

This is a cattle trough with a human drinking fountain located near the Biggin Hill War Memorial at the junction of Jail Lane and Main Road. It was likely built after 1912, as it first appears on the 1932 Ordnance Survey map. The trough is made of concrete and is long and rectangular, supported by two rectangular blocks, with low bollards in front of these supports. One end features an ogee-shaped gable and has a semi-circular bowl attached for the drinking fountain. The side of the trough has an inscription that reads 'METROPOLITAN DRINKING FOUNTAIN / & CATTLE TROUGH ASSOCIATION'. Currently, the cattle trough is being used as a planting bed.

The Metropolitan Drinking Fountain Association was established in 1859 by Samuel Gurney MP. In 1867, in response to growing concerns for animal welfare, the association began installing water troughs for cattle, which is when 'Cattle Trough' was added to its name. These troughs continued to be installed into the 1930s, as horses were still commonly used for tasks like delivering milk and groceries in urban areas.

This early 20th-century cattle trough, erected by the Metropolitan Drinking Fountain and Cattle Trough Association, is a notable piece of street furniture that retains both its cattle trough and drinking fountain elements and is likely still in its original location.