The village name probably derives from an original dedication of the church to a 5th-century nun, Cein, or her sister Ceingar, who were daughters of Brychan, king of Brycheiniog.

[2] Kentchurch Court is a historic house and Grade I listed building, dating back largely to the 14th century.

It was enlarged in the late 17th or early 18th century, and was partly remodelled in the Gothic revival style by John Nash after 1795.

The estate contains a large deer park, dating from the time when the land was owned by the Knights Templar.

[5] Family members included Sir John Scudamore, who acted as constable and steward of a number of royal castles in south Wales at the start of the 15th century.