A little history of Biddestone

Biddestone, Wiltshire

Biddestone is a village in northwest Wiltshire, England, approximately 3 miles west of Chippenham and 2 miles north of Corsham. The name 'Biddestone' is derived from the Old English 'Biedinstūn' or 'Biedestūn', meaning 'Biedin/Biede's settlement'.

In 1086, Biddestone was recorded in the Domesday Book as a settlement with four households, held by Thorkil. The village's architecture predominantly features 18th-century buildings, with the Grade II* listed Manor House and Manor Farmhouse dating from the 17th century.

The parish of Biddestone was formed on 25 March 1885 from Biddestone St Peter and Biddestone St Nicholas. On 1 April 1934, the parish of Slaughterford was abolished and its area added to Biddestone; at the 1931 census, a population of 67 had been recorded for Slaughterford and 420 for Biddestone.

Biddestone's history is also marked by its association with the Quaker movement. In the 17th century, the village was known for its Quaker community, with the White Horse Inn reputedly serving as a monks' retreat house dating from the 16th century.

Today, Biddestone is a conservation area, with much of the village's architecture reflecting its historical roots. The village green, complete with a duck pond, remains a central feature, surrounded by predominantly 18th-century houses and cottages.