The manor was previously owned by Odo, Earl of Kent (as the Bishop of Bayeux), but following his trial (for fraud) in 1076 his assets were re-apportioned, including Badlesmere.

[5] Forge cottage, at the northern side of the Lees, is a typical Wealden hall house dating from the late 15th century.

The village green, known as Badlesmere Lees, lies off the main road between the towns of Faversham and Ashford.

Badlesmere is used in The Meaning of Liff (book by Douglas Adams) to define "Someone who dishonestly ticks the "I have read the terms and conditions" box on a website".

[6] Author Russell Hoban repurposes Badlesmere as "Bad Mercy" in his 1980, post apocalyptic novel Riddley Walker.