Nettlebed is a village in the Chiltern Hills about 4 1⁄2 miles (7 km) northwest of Henley-on-Thames in Oxfordshire and 6 miles (10 km) southeast of Wallingford. The 2011 Census recorded a parish population of 727.
The earliest known records of the name 'Nettlebed' are from the 13th century. The Inquisitiones post mortem record it as Netelbedde in AD 1252 and 1276. The name does mean a nettlebed: a place overgrown with nettles.
Nettlebed village is on an ancient route through the Chiltern Hills between Henley and Wallingford, which for centuries was part of a major route between London and Oxford.
Nettlebed's strategic position led to its having several pubs, inns and coaching inns. They included the White Hart (middle right shot), which is 17th-century, the Bull Inn and Sun Inn, which are 18th-century. Only the White Hart in the High Street is still trading.
The church was built 1845-46, replacing a church dating back to medieval times. It has some attractive modern stained glass.
Bricks, tiles and pottery were made in Nettlebed from the second half of the 14th century until the 1930s, and there are the remains of a kiln in the village.
Nettlebed was one of a number of attractive villages that I passed through during a long walk from Benson, and which made an interesting place to explore. It contains an interesting mix of old and modern buildings.
What an interesting story and such an unusual name for the village. I love the old church. I made some nettle soup a few years ago and served it to the local parishioners at our soup luch club. It was well received!
Great collage. thanks for sharing
Thank you all for your lovely comments and favs, they are very much appreciated.
Nettlebed is a village full of interest, but sadly the ancient route through the village is now a busy main road, which detracts a little.
Ian
Thank you Bri - there were so many attractive buildings in Nettlebed it cried out for a collage.
Ian
Thank you Vesna, I'm pleased that you like it.
Ian