Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The steep descending path drops down the forward left-hand slope of
this promontory meadow. A waymark post directs from below, and on
the way to it care should be exercised, especially if the grass is damp. A
kissing gate and a set of steps lead onto a lane. Go straight across and
down the continuing footpath which brings you to a road leading left into
Wotton-under-Edge
, where there is a choice of accommodation, refresh-
ments, shops, a post office, and so on.
At the first junction bear right. The road curves round to become the
High Street, and this in turn comes to Long Street. From here bear left into
Church Street, then right at the bottom to take a raised footpath leading
to an alleyway called the Cloud, which leads to a crossing alleyway (Shin-
bone Alley). Turn left and wander up to the churchyard of the handsome
Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin (grid ref: 760935).
WOTTON-UNDER-EDGE
First mentioned in a royal charter dated AD940 - its Saxon name means 'the farm
in the wood'. The original village was almost completely destroyed by fire during the
reign of King John as a reprisal for Lord Berkeley's part in the lead up to Magna Carta.
The rebuilt town achieved the status of a borough in 1253, and grew to become an
important wool town with several productive mills situated along the stream that runs
through it. The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin is worth visiting. Dating from 1283
it is said to replace one that was destroyed during the earlier burning of the town.
Katherine, Lady Berkeley, has a fine brass. It was she who gave Wotton the distinction
of having the first school founded by a woman (in 1384). Isaac Pitman, who deve-
loped his shorthand system here, was the first master at another Wotton school, the
British School on the corner of Bear Lane. The oldest house in the town is said to be
the former Ram Inn (built 1350, to the south of the church), while the 17th-century
gabled almshouses in Church Street have within their courtyard a lovely chapel con-
taining some splendid stained glass. All in all the town is a pleasing mixture of past and
present, tucked against the wooded wolds. Tourist information: The Heritage Centre,
The Chipping, Wotton-under-Edge 01453 521541.
