Before the days of state provision for the old, infirm or poor it was common for wealthy individuals to bequeath money or property to the local parish or to set up independent institutions to assist those in need locally.

Many ancient parishes have such institutions and many almshouses still survive. However it is unusual to find one founded as early as 1752 still in its original form, carrying out its original function, so close to London.

Hopton's Almshouses were founded from a trust set up by the will of Charles Hopton and provided accommodation for 26 residents, financial grants and fuel.