Aston Clinton: Where Roman Roads Cross the Chilterns
Aston Clinton is a village and civil parish in the Vale of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, England, situated approximately 4 miles east of the county town of Aylesbury, at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. It is believed to have originated at the crossing of two Roman roads: Akeman Street and the Icknield Way, both of which still pass through the village as main roads.
The settlement was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Estone" (meaning "eastern estate"). The manor took the name de Clinton after 1237, when it came under the ownership of the de Clinton family, giving rise to "Aston de Clinton" and eventually Aston Clinton. Among its later lords were the Hastings, Barrington, and Gerard families, as well as Gerard Lake, 1st Viscount Lake. In the 19th century the estate was acquired by Sir Anthony de Rothschild, who built a grand manor house (since demolished) and funded the construction of a village school. The parish church of St Michael and All Angels has origins in the 12th century, with additions through the 13th and 14th centuries and a full restoration in 1867.
One of the village's lesser-known claims to fame is its connection to the Aston Martin car: the marque took its name partly from nearby Aston Hill, where early hillclimb competitions were held. The historic Bell Inn, a Grade II listed building from the 18th century, was once renowned as one of the finest hotel-restaurants in southern England, having hosted guests including Jackie Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor.
Points of interest: - Population: Approx. 3,540 inhabitants (2001 census). - Distance: 4 miles east of Aylesbury; close to Tring and the Wendover Woods. - Attractions: Church of St Michael and All Angels, the Bell Inn (Grade II listed), Aston Hill, Wendover Woods.