Longhope
Longhope was already inhabited by the 11th century
and the Manor of Hope is mentioned in the Domesday Book.
The name itself means long, enclosed valley. Travelling
from the Forest, one of the first houses reached is
Harts Barn, which was built by the descendants of John
the Sergeant, who was granted lands at Hope by William
the Conqueror on condition that he provided hounds when
the King came to hunt hart in the Dean Forest. Other
houses of historical interest include Royal Spring,
where Charles I is said to have stopped for refreshment
in 1642 after the battle of Powick Bridge near Worcester.
At one end of the village, you will see All Saints
Church which dates back to the 12th century, though
it was heavily restored in the Victorian era. The arms
of William III can be seen over the door and beneath
the chancel lies members of the Probyn family who for
many years were the lords of the Manor.
Opposite the church, Court Leet was once the local
court and the adjacent timbered cottage was the gaol.
In the centre of the village, the recreation ground
was bought by public subscription in memory of those
killed in the World War and on the first Saturday in
July, all activity in the village and surrounding area
is centred on the Fete. Food can also be enjoyed at
one of the local hostelries.
For more information on Longhope visit http://www.longhopevillage.co.uk.
Photographs
of the Village beatutiful cottages, the church,
and the war memorial.
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