Staunton

Staunton, "the place of the stones", was the ancient name given by the Anglo-Saxons. The village has stones of ancient origins and of mysterious forms, these are the Buck, Toad, Broad, Long and Queen Stone, all of which have origins dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. The Buckstone lies in Highmeadow Woods near the village. The huge rock on the summit of Buckstone Hill is said to have been used in Druid ceremonies, and actually used to rock before it was dislodged in 1885. This point is at 915 feet and one can view panoramic scenery such as views over the Forest of dean, Highmeadow Woods and the Black Mountains. The woods around Staunton are not actually part of the Royal Forest but are part of the Manor of Staunton.

In the churchyard of All Saints Church, you will see the grave of David Mushet (1772-1847). With his son, he developed interest in the iron industry of Dean and laid much of the groundwork for the impending steel industry in Britain.

The village offers a hostelry that serves food, with a garden.

Tourist Information

Ancient standing stones can be seen in the parish.Wye Valley

Nearest Bank

The nearest banks are at Coleford. Lloyds Bank and the Midland Bank.

Shops

The nearest main shopping area is in Coleford

Local Schools

The local secondary school is Lakers School, Berry Hill, Coleford

Churches

This is one of the oldest churches on the borders of the Forest of Dean, built in the early part of the 12th century, however, alterations and additions have been made throughout the middle ages and a 19th century restoration was also carried out. The central tower is the most striking external feature as well as the sundial on the south porch.

One of the most interesting features inside the church is the corkscrew staircase which leads to the unusual c1500 stone pulpit. There are also two fonts, one of which is 15th century whereas the other is believed to be a hollowed out Roman altar. Some medieval glass survives in a tiny upper window in the chancel east wall. Also in the chancel there is a 13th century tombstone with an incised cross and chalice. The churchyard contains a memorial to David Mushet who was a metallurgist whose experiments revolutionised the steel industry. Also in the churchyard, there are little almshouses given by benedict Hall in the 17th century.

Old Church Records for family historians