The Borough was once possibly referred to as ‘Downton Street’ (source: The Rich Man In His Castle, The Poor Man At His Gate (article by David and Michelle Moody, Wiltshire Family History Society magazine, Issue 116, January 2010)

PEVSNER: 'This is the continuation of the High Street across the Avon to the W. In fact it is not an extension but a made New Town, created by Peter des Roches, Bishop of Winchester, probably c1205. The name Borough applies to it by rights. Such New Towns were made, before the great age of the French bastides, because burgesses paid their dues in cash whereas on all manors with their villages the lord of the manor. That is here the Bishop, had all the trouble with feudal labour and marketing of products. Of course, such New Towns - and there were many of them throughout the C13, could only be successful in an age of expanding population and economy. Two long rows of houses are placed at an uncommonly wide distance. A broad strip of grass between them. No special houses.'

The Borough was originally a separate settlement from the old village of Downton, which perhaps explains the unusually fierce pride shown in being either a Top Ender or a Bottom Ender. It was laid out in the early 13th century by Peter de Roches as a market town for produce from his manor in Downton, and represented in Parliament by two MPs until the Reformation Act of 1832.

Downton’s MPs included Robert ‘Bonnie Bobby’ Shafto, Sir Walter Raleigh’s brother Carew and Lord Stowell (who could apparently drink any given quantity of Port). The poet Southey was elected in 1826 but declined the seat.

Voting rights were derived from the ownership of houses or land in The Borough and wealthy landowners bought up these properties, or burgages, in order to control their representatives.

Burgage numbers were originally painted on properties, but this made them too easy to manipulate, and in the 19th century Lord Radnor had stone blocks, with the numbers inscribed, inserted into the cottages he owned. A number of these can still be seen in The Borough, as well as a modern replica above the Newcourt Carrier (see entry under Moulds Bridge). There is one surviving painted number – at 103 The Borough (Creel Cottage).

The Borough Mace was made in London by Gabriel Sleath in 1714. At the abolition of The Borough as a separate entity the then mayor, Mr Hobbs, refused to hand back the mace and took it with him to Shirley – to a house he named Mace Cottage. It was later discovered in a Southampton pawn shop and returned to the village by the Earl of Radnor in 1921.

The large Borough Greens, traditionally used for fairs up until the 21st Century are rented by Lonfgord Estate to Downton Parish Council for a nominal rent, for the general benefit of the village.

NORTH SIDE (from junction with The Headlands)

Entrance to The Bull Hotel Car Park to Bull Hotel (see entry under The Headlands)

Long Close Park

Formerly the home of Downton Football Club and Downton Cricket Club. The former wooden pavilion adjacent to the gate at the eastern end of the field was demolished and replaced in the early 1980s with that at the western end, accessed via the Bull car park.

Please see entry under Brian Whitehead Sports Association in Wick Lane for more on Downton Football Cub.

17 The Borough (The Old Police House)

As the name suggests, this was the former village police station.

Former occupiers: Robert Smith (1930s); F J 'Gasher' Waite (1950s); Constable Goodship (1950s); Jack Commons (1960s); Chris Ford (1960s).

19-29 (Odds) The Borough

This is a block of flats for the elderly, built on the former site of a row of now demolished cottages.

Former occupiers (of cottages): Mrs Haydon.

Former occupiers (of number 19): Bob Smith; Linda Eastman (1980s-90s).

31 The Borough (Spring Cottage)

Formerly Lacemakers Cottage

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III.

Listing description: Semi-detached cottage. Late C17. English bond brick, thatched roof with brick stacks. Through passage. Single storey and attic, 2 windows. Central planked door, either side is 3-light casement. 2-brick plat band to first floor; two eyebrow dormers with 3-light casements. Left return has oval window and single casement to ground floor, 2- brick plat band add one single casement to first floor. Interior has internal timber-frame, chamfered beams, open fireplaces with chamfered lintels to ground and first floors.

Burgage Number 31.

Former Occupiers: John Gray; Henry Gray (1960s-1976)

Ros Bennett: I think of Downton with great fondness as my maternal family originated in the village. I was particularly interested to see Lacemakers Cottage, which was the home of my great uncle, Henry Gray, until his death in 1976 when it was sold. It was originally purchased by my great grandfather (John Gray), and my nan (Phyllis) and her brother (Henry) were raised there. My nan worked at a large house in the village (not sure of it’s name but Downton House rings a bell?) as a seamstress, much to my grandfather’s horror. He felt that working was not the done thing for young women in those days, but she was always strong minded (and a great seamstress!) and that continued throughout her life!

My nan married William George Day (my grandfather) who lived in a white cottage opposite Lacemakers Cottage but I am unsure of it’s name. They were married in Downton Baptist Church (see entry under South Lane) and my mother (Myra Day) and her brother (Arthur) both spent their early life in the village, moving later to Gosport as a result of my grandfather’s work - he was a naval seaman.

I have very fond memories of visiting the cottage to see Uncle Henry as a child. He always said the same thing – ‘If I’d known you were coming I’d have tidied up!’ but if you had seen the cottage you would have realised he would have needed a good six months notice to achieve this, as it was always piled high with junk and various electrical equipment.

I am sure that ‘Lacemakers Cottage’ was what it was called - I guess its been renamed. The reason I recall the name is that my great great (I think that’s enough greats!) grandmother on my paternal side was a lace maker from Beer in Devon and the coincidence has always struck me!

As a child I was horrified by the toilet facilities at the cottage, which consisted of a bucket at the bottom of the garden (I suspect they are much improved now!) and I was fascinated by the well, which had ferns growing in it and contained the purest water I had ever tasted. I also remember the thatch at the rear, which came down to around two feet off the ground. His kitchen was at the back and he had a small gas stove in the eaves under an open patch in the ceiling, I was convinced he was going to burn the house down, but he never did! I remember too the round window at the side, which I was told was used to serve ale through, although I am not sure of the context of this.

Until not long before his death Henry used to run the local discos and was a ‘whizz’ with anything electrical - although I think the use of the word ‘disco’ is dubious and suspect that they bore little resemblance to discos as we know them today. I also recall him telling me one day that the Rolling Stones had moved into a house opposite - I had my doubts and my own vision of what the occupants looked like, but am sure he believed this! The point is that he was full of energy and enthusiasm to the end, with his small stature, ruddy features and shock of white hair - just like my nan. He never married but he did have a long standing lady friend whose name escapes me.

When Henry died I had hoped to move into The Lacemaker’s Cottage, as I have always felt an affinity with the village and that my roots are there. However, the timing wasn’t right, I had a home and business in Surrey (where I grew up) and was expecting my daughter. It was with great sadness that I watched it sold (I believe it was for £12,500 if my memory is correct!) but I still visit the village occasionally and view it with fondness.

For a little more on Ros’ great uncle Henry Gray, please see the entry under the Magna Mazda Garage, The Headlands.

33 The Borough (Inglenook Cottage)

Formerly a grade III listed building. Former listing description: C.18. Burgage Number 20.

35 The Borough (Park View)

Formerly Park Side.

Former occupiers: Ernest W Street (1950s-1960s); Kenneth Blake (Paraffin Distributor – The ‘Esso Blue’ man) (1964-1968) (Telephone number Downton 478 in 1968); Tony Ashford.

Bonvalot Memorial Gardens

In 1921 two acres of land were given to the Parish Council by Mrs Emily Bonvalot of Wick House in memory of her son, Second Lieutenant Edward St Laurent Bonvalot, who had been killed in World War One. The land had not belonged to the Wick House estate but was specifically purchased by Mrs Bonvalot for the purpose.

The gardens were opened by Mrs Bonvalot and her younger son Alfred on 5 August 1922. In September 1922 George Brown was appointed their first caretaker on a wage of 16 shillings (80p) a week during the spring and summer and 8 shillings (40p) a week during the autumn and winter.

Second Lieutenant Bonvalot, of the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards had been killed in action at the Battle of Loos in October 1915. A sundial was also erected in his memory towards the middle of the gardens. This has recently been restored and now stands adjacent to the railings at the eastern end. Mrs Bonvalot continued to contribute to the upkeep of the gardens until her death in 1933, when she bequeathed a further £70 to the Parish Council for the long term upkeep of the sundial.

Children’s swings were installed in the gardens in 1928 and a captured German gun was displayed until 1929. In 1935 a shelter was constructed to mark the Silver Jubilee of King George V. In 1963 the formal flower beds and shrubberies were removed and three years later a number of unsafe trees were felled. Additional land, adjacent to Long Close, was purchased in 1967 and the layout of the gardens was changed to provide more recreational facilities.

Public Conveniences

Downton Memorial Hall

The hall is on the site of a building constructed in 1840 as the British School for boys, on land donated by the Earl of Radnor. In December 1893 the school was handed over to the Downton School Board. It was officially closed in 1894 but the building remained in use until February 1896, when the new school was opened in Gravel Close. The old school then became the Public Hall.

In 1919 it was decided to place the village war memorial at the hall. A front portico designed by Bernard Masters was constructed by Wort and Way, and Downer and Bailey carried out other alterations to the building, including an extension to the rear designed by Michael Harding.

The memorial was first dedicated on the afternoon of Easter Sunday, 27 March 1921. A plaque listing the names of those lost in World War One was unveiled by the Earl of Radnor, and the last post was played by William ‘Churby’ Bundy DCM, Walter Bundy and George Whatley, who had all served with the Wiltshire Regiment during the conflict.

Further plaques were added following World War Two and the Korean and Suez conflicts of the 1950s.

For all the older and more interesting buildings in the village, this is where I feel the strongest connection with its history. I recognise these names - I have known people who share some of them for all of my life. I can see them sitting at the same desks as I did, playing in the same fields, walking in the same lanes, laughing in the same pubs. When I read them I don’t see soldiers, I see kids from Downton.

Percy Aylett; Frederick Bailey; Ernest Batchelor; Frederick Batchelor; Reuben Batchelor; Frederick Bennett; John Berney; Charles Bishop; Edward Blake; Edward Bonvalot; Ralph Bundy; Robert Bundy; Whittaker Coombs; Richard Crisp; Aubrey Dickenson; Prince Eastman; George Elliott; George Forder; Cecil Grace; Evelyn Graves; William Gunstone; Arthur Haydon; William Haydon; George Hobbs; Geoffrey Hunt; Arthur Jolliffe; Arthur Keeley; Charles Keeley; William Kingsbury; Peter McCarthy; William Mitchell; Fred Moody; Percy Moody; Alfred Morgan; Cecil Morgan; Walter Mouland; Albert Musselwhite; Fred Newman; Reginald Nicklen; Harry Noble; Albert Patience; Cecil Phillips; Henry Phillips; Arthur Priddice; William Reynolds; Percy Ridout; Harry Senior; Violet Shelley; Albert Sheppard; Ernest Smith; Arthur Steward; William Stickley; Edwin Swanborough; Arthur Viney; Harry Winton; George Wyndham.

Ernest Batchelor, Frederick Bennett and Albert Sheppard are also listed on the War Memorial in Salisbury’s Guildhall Square, as are Charles Goodridge and George Fulton, both of whom were born in Downton. Whittaker Coombs is also listed on the Memorial at Bratton. Arthur Jolliffe is also listed on the Memorial at Fordingbridge. Harry Noble is also listed on the Memorial at Lake.

Wooden boards Inside the hall list all the local men who served in World War One. Among the many acts to have appeared on the stage of the Memorial Hall are The Troggs (prior to their chart success of the mid-1960s) and comedian Mike Reid (after his of the mid-1970s).

The Bunny

The ditch that can be seen running between the Memorial Hall and the rear entrance to the Primary School is known as The Bunny, a local name derived from 'bunnell', an old name for such a ditch.

The ditch can be seen continuing on the opposite side of The Borough, between the Electricity Sub-Station and Fairfield House. In between, the water is carried through pipes under the road and green, where a hump can be seen.

The part of the ditch under the green was only covered over quite recently and a popular old village pastime had been Jumping The Bunny - particularly challenging when wearing fancy dress on New Year's Eve! There is a second Bunny in The Borough to the east.

Rear entrance to Downton C of E (Voluntary Aided) Primary School (see entry under Gravel Close)

39 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from Grade III - listed as a group with 41 and 43 The Borough.

Listing description: One house, now two cottages. C17 and C18. Flemish bond brick, thatched with brick stacks. Single storey and attic, 3 windows. Two C20 doors, No 39 has chamfered wooden case, three 2-light casements to ground floor. No 43 has C20 door and 2-light casements. Three 2-light casements to attic. To left is single-storey weather boarded extension, under same thatched roof. Right return has C20 casement and external stack. Interior of No 41 has chamfered beams with ogee stops and open fireplace with chamfered lintel. Formerly timber-framed, refaced in brick and open to roof with smoke bay, replaced by smoke hood and floor inserted in C17. C18 brick chimney.

Burgage Number 59.

41 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from Grade III - listed as a group with 39 and 43 The Borough. See 39 The Borough for listing description.

Burgage Number 59.

Former Occupiers: Sid 'Blackie' Blake.

43 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from Grade III - listed as a group with 39 and 41 The Borough. See 39 The Borough for listing description.

Burgage Number 59.

Former Occupiers: Mrs Isaacs.

45 The Borough (Borough Cross Cottage)

Burgage Number 60.

Former occupiers: Kenneth M Murray (1964).

47 The Borough (White Cottage)

Former Occupiers: Mr Moody.

- Here is the junction with Gravel Close -

49A and 49B The Borough

This pair of semi-detached houses are constructed on the former site of a now demolished cafe, ran by Mr and Mrs Newman, who also ran the adjacent shop.

51 The Borough (Cymbeline)

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Detached cottage. C17. Flemish bond brick, thatched with hip to right and brick stacks. One bay to east with cross range. One storey and attic, 1 window. C19 brick front with lean-to extension, two C20 bay windows and one 3-light leaded casement to attic. Left return has C20 extension with door and C20 casement, 2-light casement to attic. Left return has external stack. Rear has outshut and C20 extension. Interior has chamfered beams, open fireplaces on ground and first floor with chamfered lintels, winding stairs to south side of fireplace. Roof with clasped purlins.

This property has a Victorian letter box in its wall and was formerly partly used as a shop, ran by Mr and Mrs Newman, who also ran the adjacent cafe.

Former Occupiers: George and Ellen ‘Fanny’ Newman.

53 The Borough

53 The Borough is a row of shop premises with a large flat over, with a rear access to Gravel Close, constructed on the site of a row of demolished thatched cottages. The bricked up fireplace of one of the cottages can be seen in the end wall of 51 The Borough, to the left of the forecourt of the shops.

Current occupiers (of shops): Hair Design; A J Bass Opticians; Beverley’s Creative Cakes; Beautique.

Former occupiers (of cottages): Fanny Pretty.

Former occupiers (of shops): Downton Electrical Services Ltd (John Coundley and Alan Spreadbury - Electrical, Radio and Television Engineers) (Telephone number Downton 284 in 1964- 1968).

55 The Borough

55 and 57 The Borough are a pair of semi-detached houses, constructed on the site of a pair of demolished thatched cottages.

57 The Borough

See 55 The Borough.

59 The Borough

Destroyed by fire in July 2010.

A grade II listed building, upgraded from Grade III - listed as a pair with 61 The Borough.

Listing description: Pair of cottages. C16 cruck-built cottage, with C17 timber-framed bay to east, mid-C17 refacing of front. Timber-framing faced with Flemish bond brick, thatched, two brick stacks. 4 bays. Single storey and attic, 3 windows. C20 porch to left of No 59. No 61 has planked door to right, boarded-up door in centre, three 3-light and one 2- light casements. Attic has three 3- light leaded casements. Right return has 3-light casement to ground floor and 2-light leaded casement to attic. Left return is rendered timber-frame. Rear has 3-light and 2-light casements. Interiors have open fireplaces with chamfered lintels on brick jambs. Partly concealed full crucks in No 61 represent remains of 3- bay plan with central open hall; closed trusses divide hall from flanking bays and smoke-blackening of timbers restricted to roof above hall. Roof of hall and east bay have curved wind braces.

61 The Borough

Destroyed by fire in July 2010.

A grade II listed building, upgraded from Grade III - listed as a pair with 59 The Borough. See 61 The Borough for listing description.

Moulds Bridge

Also formerly known as Kingston Bridge, the bridge crosses the Newcourt Carrier, cut to improve drainage to the water meadows to the north in the 17th century. A cottage with Burgage rights was demolished to accommodate the Carrier, but the land retained the rights! A modern replica of the Burgage stone (number 3) can be seen in the wall at the east of the northern side of the bridge.

The current bridge was built in 1969 in order to accommodate the weight of modern traffic. Get yourself a pinch of salt…it has been said that the old bridge was so weak that people using buses had to get off, walk over the bridge, and then get back on on t’other side.

Land to the east of Moulds Bridge was used as a tanyard during the 18th Century.

On 20 November 1918, as part of the village’s Armistice celebrations, an effigy of the Kaiser was burnt on a bonfire in a meadow to the south east of Moulds Bridge.

63 The Borough

65 The Borough

67 The Borough

69 The Borough

Currently occupied by The Cottage Loaf with a flat (69a The Borough) above.

Former occupiers: Ernest William Street (Ironmonger and Grocer and Provisions Merchant (1935-1953) (Telephone number Downton 125 in 1953); Halifax Building Society.

71 The Borough

73 The Borough (Wistaria)

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage in row. Early C19. Flemish bond brick, Welsh slate roof, brick stacks. Symmetrical 2-storey, 2-window front. 6-panelled central door in panelled reveals with flat wooden hood on brackets, either side is one 12-pane sash with segmental head, to right is C20 door. First floor has two 12-pane sashes, all flush. Deep eaves. Interior not inspected.

Former occupiers: Herbert Newman (1953); B George Newman (1964).

75 The Borough

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage in row. Early C19. Plastered brick, tiled roof, brick stack. 2-storey, 2-window. Central C20 door, to left is canted bay with 12-pane sash, to right is 2- light casement. First floor has one 3- light and one 2-light casement. Interior not inspected.

77 The Borough

Formerly 24 The Borough.

Burgage Number 24.

Former occupiers: Bertram Smith.

79 The Borough (Hurdles)

Formerly The Free and Easy public house and a grocer's shop operated by Mrs Lockyer.

Former occupiers: Colonel John P Lloyd DSO OBE (1964)

81 The Borough (Sarum Cottage)

Former Owners or Occupiers: Originally owned by the Radnor Estate; Clara Mary Mitchell (1942); Daisy Augusta Perry (1942-1946); Daisy Augusta Joyner (1946-1983); Tony James Frederick Perry (1983-1984); Phillip Perry (1983- 1989).

83 The Borough

A new dwelling constructed on the site of Mr Miles’ legendary ‘shell house’. During the 1960s and 1970s coach parties of tourists visiting the New Forest and Salisbury would make a special excursion to view the model village he had created out of broken tiles, pottery and crockery. Remnants can still be seen on the boundary walls of the property.

1-10 Horsehoe Court

Formerly an Ushers public house, The Three Horseshoes, now converted into flats.

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Late C18.

There was a blacksmith’s forge on the site in the 17th Century, operated by a Mr Edsall.

The wartime landlord of the Shoes, Harry Phillips, was a Lieutenant in the Wiltshire Regiment of the Home Guard. He was sadly killed in an accident on Salisbury Plain in 1942, when a pilot demonstrating a new machine gun missed the dummies he was aiming at and mowed down a line of officers instead! After Harry was killed, his wife Rose took over the pub and after the war she handed the reins over to their son Walter. Another son, Cecil, of the RAF Volunteer Reserve, was killed in North Africa in 1943.

Former occupiers (of public house): Harry Parrish (1935); Harry and Rose Phillips; Walter Phillips; Frank Jefferson (Telephone Downton 201) (1953); R G and Y P Light (Telephone Downton 201) (1968).

87 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building, listed as a pair with 89 The Borough as Two cottages to East of Three Horseshoes. Former listing description: C18.

Burgage Number 28.

89 The Borough

See 87 The Borough.

Burgage Number 28.

91 The Borough

91A The Borough

93 The Borough

Burgage Number 29.

95 The Borough

Former occupiers: Arthur Downer (Decorator) (1964).

Burgage Number 29.

97 The Borough

This is now an annexe to 99 The Borough, constructed on the site of the demolished former National Westminster Bank.

99 The Borough

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 101 The Borough.

Listing description: Shop and house. Late C18. Flemish bond brick with vitrified headers, tiled roof, brick stacks. One storey and attic, 3 windows. To left is 4-panelled door in latticed porch with 4-pane sashes to either side, to right is early C20 shop front. Three-brick plat band at first floor level. Roof has coped verges with kneelers, three gabled dormers with 2-light casements. Right return has single casement to first floor and blocked window to attic. Rear wing has 6-panelled door, 2-light and 3-light casements with segmental heads. Interior not inspected.

Burgage Number 8.

Former occupiers: Mr Kibble; Mike Hooper.

101 The Borough (Borough House)

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 99 The Borough. See 99 The Borough for listing description.

This house was formerly used as one of Stevens’ drapery shops (Telephone Downton 20362 in the 1970s). The old shop front can now be seen in the Breamore Countryside Museum.

Former occupiers: Sold by the Right Honourable Jacob, Earl of Radnor to Mr E W Stevens in 1918. Remained in the Stevens family until 1985 and was then owned briefly by R J Sands and then R J Buckett, prior to the current occupiers.

103 The Borough (Creel Cottage)

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Two cottages, now detached single cottage. Right part C17, early C18 to left, with late C18 extension to centre. Timber-frame, refaced in English bond brick, tiled roof with hip to left, axial brick stack. C17 baffle-entry. Single-storey and attic. 4 windows. C20 door to left with 2-light and 3-light segmental- headed casements, to right are two C20 casements and large C20 window. Attic to left has two 2-light casements, to right are two 2-light casements. Right return has one 3-light casement to attic. To rear are C20 casements and glazed door. Interior has chamfered beams with runout stops.

The part of the building closest to the bridge was formerly The Iron Bridge Basket Works, established in 1801 by Mr Eastman. At that date it was purely a basket works but 50 years later the company produced its first wicker chair.

The American Eastmans of Kodak fame are descended from Downton Eastmans.

Burgage Number 16.

Former Occupiers: Albert Eastman (Basket Maker) (1935-1956).

- Here is the footpath across New Court Meadows to Charlton-All-Saints -

New Court Meadows

Also known as Goose or Catherine Meads.

On purchasing New Court in the 17th century, Sir Joseph Ashe introduced the then cutting edge concept of the man made water meadow to the village.

Water was taken off the main rivers into channels known as carriers. Hatches were then used to direct the water into sluices, which carried it along the top of ridges from where it spilled over into the pasture. Drains cut between the sluices then carried the water back into the river. The continual flow of water protected the pasture from frost, which allowed the growth of grass a month earlier than had previously been the case – thereby improving grazing. The hatches were controlled by the village Drowner – now there’s an occupation I would like to put on my passport application.

The main carriers are still in place and flowing. The Newcourt Carrier runs close to the western edge of the meadows and passes under The Borough at Moulds Bridge. The Downton or Wild Weir (aka The Mill Stream), which was in fact in existence prior to the 17th century developments, runs along the opposite side and passes under Tannery Bridge. The hatches at Weir Gaps are still in place and across the meadows there are several relics of retaining walls and other hatches. The shape of the ridges and ditches of the sluices and drains can be clearly seen.

Although some of the ditches closer to the river and carriers still get a little damp now and again, the meadows are sadly defunct. Up until the 1970s most of the channels were still flowing, albeit that they were not fully maintained. The meadows had a lush appearance and there were several areas where tall reeds grew. As a consequence it was a haven for several species of birds, insects and reptiles. The water filled ditches were an excellent place to find Crayfish, Bullheads and Loaches - and discarded clay pipes.

I firmly believe that if the meadows had continued to be properly maintained there would have been no need for the multi-million pound Flood Protection Scheme to be built in the village. But what do I know - I am just a simple country boy.

On the night of 16 November 1940, German aircraft dropped two land mines in the Downton area, one of which fell in the meadows and caused superficial damage to several properties in the area, including the Borough Cross.

- You are now leaving The Bottom End -

Iron Bridge

A grade II listed building - listed as County Bridge.

Listing description: Road bridge over River Avon. 1820 by J. Peniston. Brick with cast-iron railings. Three segmental arches with stone cutwaters, balustrade has cast-iron stick balusters, attached to limestone piers with weathered cappings, at either end. Stone tablet on south side with date 1820. C20 wooden footway on north side, over river. Plans at Wiltshire Records Office.

Of the three road bridges in the main village, this is the only one that crosses the natural River Avon.

During World War Two white lines were painted in the road on the Western side of the bridge, to indicate where tank traps should be erected in the event of an invasion.

- You are now entering The Top End -

105 The Borough

Formerly Frogpond Cottage.

107 The Borough

Former occupiers: 'Dappy' Bundy.

109 The Borough

Formerly a shop and the last venue of the Unionist (Conservative) Club.

Former occupiers: George Blackburn Nettleton (Drapers); Hickman Brothers; Mitchells (Printers).

111 The Borough

115 The Borough

In the 1970s part of the building was used as a shop by Poem Antiques, who also has a workshop at Witherington Farm (see separate entry under Standlynch).

Former occupiers: Albert Blackwell.

1 Mill Race View

2 Mill Race View

Bunny

This is the second, and less well known, Bunny in The Borough, the first being further to the west. Bunny is a local name for a drainage ditch, deriving from 'bunnell', an old name for such a ditch. The ditch can be seen on the opposite side of the road. It passes through pipes under the road and the gardens of Mill Race View, the latter section having only been covered over when the dwellings were built.

3 Mill Race View

4 Mill Race View

5 Mill Race View

119 The Borough

Formerly used as a flower shop and cycle dealers.

Former occupiers: Mr Philpott (Cycle Dealer); Eddie Nicholas (Cycle Dealer); Isobel Stone (Florist).

121 The Borough

Former occupiers: Henry Raymond 'Harry' Hepper (Downton's last Stationmaster) (1950s-1960s).

123 The Borough

Former occupiers: Scotts (Wool shop); Fox & Sons (Estate Agents).

125 The Borough (Meadowlands House)

Former occupiers: Roy Coppock (1935); Walter James Bussey (1953).

127A and 127B The Borough

A single property now converted into flats.

Formerly Morgan’s Toilet Saloon.

129 The Borough

Currently occupied by Anthony’s Hair Fashions and a bric-a-brac shop.

The walls around the modern day garden were formerly those of Mont Edsall's blacksmith's shop, which was the last in operation in the village.

Former occupiers: Cleeves (Boot Repairers); Robert Morgan (Tobacconist).

In 1968 Anthony’s Hair Fashions telephone number was Downton 384.

- Here is a private footpath for access to the Church -

Tannery Bridge

Also known as Mill Bridge.

The bridge crosses the Downton or Wild Weir (aka The Mill Stream).

Villagers may recall that a new bridge was built during 2007 and 2008. The notice board at the western end was used by the contractors for posting updates on the works in progress. Once the project was completed the board was left for use by the Parish Council.

SOUTH SIDE (from junction with The Headlands)

2 The Borough (The Headlands Garage)

This site has previously been used as a Non-Conformist chapel, the British School for girls and a soap boiler’s premises. The wooden barrier along the adjacent track to the east is still known as School Rails. The garage use was first operated by Mr R Crisp.

The school was established in 1847 and there was also a separate infants’ school here by 1857. On 6 November 1867 the three adjoining houses were burned down and the school was only saved by the demolition of a ‘hut room’ and wooden fencing, before the fire could spread. A wooden shed was constructed as temporary replacement for the ‘hut room’. The main school consisted of two rooms, both of which were repaired in 1873.

In September 1892 the infants were moved out of the school to a room in South Lane but this was unsatisfactory. On 16 January 1894 the school was handed over to the School Board and in February 1896 children from both this and the old school on the Memorial Hall site were relocated to the new school in Gravel Close.

In the 1920s the telephone number of R Crisp Ltd was Downton 26.

4 The Borough (Pitt House)

This house was built on the site of a gravel pit in the 18th Century. The garden of the property grew steadily larger until the Lord of The Manor felt compelled to drive in posts to mark its boundaries.

Former occupiers: Joseph Batten (1930s); A R Woodford (1950s).

6 The Borough (Salmar)

8 The Borough

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 10 The Borough.

Listing description: Pair of cottages at end of row. A/I:E /1700 on stone tablet on front. Flemish bond brick, thatched roof, brick stacks. One storey and attic, 3 windows. No 8 has planked door in chamfered wooden case, No 10 has C20 door to left, 2-light recessed chamfered mullioned window to No 8, No 10 has two 2-light casements. Attic has eyebrow dormers with 2-light casements. Right return is rendered. Rear of No 8 has planked door and 2- light casements, No 10 has C20 porch and 2-light casements. Interior of No 10 altered, No 8 has planked doors, wooden latch on door to winding stairs which are to south side of blocked open fireplace, chamfered ceiling beam.

Former Occupiers: Peter Haydon.

10 The Borough

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 8 The Borough. See 8 The Borough for listing description.

Burgage Number 56.

Former Occupiers: Ron Grant (1950s).

12 The Borough

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 14 The Borough.

Listing description: Pair of cottages in row. Late C17. Square-panelled timber-framing with brick nogging, and straight bracing, thatched roof, brick stacks. 4-bay, originally baffle- entry. One storey and attic, 4 windows. Two planked doors, three 2- light casements and one single casement. Attic has two 3-light casements to No 12 and two 2-light casements to No 14. Interior has chamfered beams with step and runout stops and chamfered joists, No 12 has winding stairs beside the open fireplace.

Former Occupiers: Mr Burt.

14 The Borough (Topps Cottage)

A grade II listed building - listed as a pair with 12 The Borough. See 12 The Borough for listing description.

Former occupiers: Mr McCarthy (1964).

16 The Borough (Well Cottage)

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage in row. Late C17. Timber-framed and brick, thatched roof with brick stack to right. One storey and attic, 2 windows. C20 wooden door, two 2-light casements to ground floor and to attic eyebrow dormers. Projecting wing to rear, with C20 casements. Interior not accessible at time of survey (December 1984).

Former Occupiers: Miss M Page (1960s).

18 The Borough (Jasmine Cottage)

A grade II listed building - formerly listed as 78 The Borough.

Listing description: Cottage at end of row. C17. Timber-framed with brick refacing to left, thatched roof, brick stacks. 3 bays. One storey and attic, 2 windows. Planked door to left, 3- light and 2-light casement. Eyebrow dormers to attic with 2-light and 3- light casement. Left return has casement to attic. Rear has 2-light and 3-light casements and single- storey brick and tile extension to right, with planked door. Interior has chamfered beams.

Former occupiers: Miss Linnell (1960s).

20 The Borough (Minton Cottage)

Formerly 75 The Borough. A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Detached cottage, set back behind Number 18. C18. Flemish bond brick with vitrified headers, thatched roof with hip to right, brick stack to left. Entrance to rear. 2-storey, 3-window front. Three 2-light segmental-headed casements to ground floor and two 2- light casements to first floor. Left return is windowless. Rear has C20 door in flat-roofed extension to left and all C20 casements. Interior not inspected.

Former occupiers: Henry Arlott (1960s); Miss Sadler.

22 The Borough

Constructed on the site of Hedley Weeks' builders yard.

24 The Borough (Dormers Cottage)

Former occupiers: George Stephens (1960s).

26 The Borough (Walnut Cottage)

Former Occupiers: Mrs Weeks.

28 The Borough (Tamarisk Cottage)

Burgage Number 31.

Former Occupiers: Charlie Chalk (1930s- 1960s).

30 The Borough

Burgage Number 31.

Former Occupiers: Edward Bishop (1930s- 1950s).

32 The Borough

Former Occupiers: Edmund Bishop (Blacksmith) (1930s-1950s); Harry 'Dappy' Bundy.

34 The Borough (Blacksmiths Cottage)

The lower part of the cottage, at its western end, was formerly used as a forge.

36 The Borough

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage in row. Early C18. Flemish bond brick, thatched roof, brick stack. One storey and attic, 3 windows. 6-panelled door to right, either side is 16-pane sash in moulded architrave, with flat arch. 2-brick plat band to first floor level, two eyebrow dormers with 2- light casements. Interior not accessible at time of survey (November 1984).

38 The Borough

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage in row. Early C18. Monk bond brick, thatched roof, brick stack. One storey and attic, one window. Planked door to left, 3-light casement with segmental head to right, 2-brick plat band to first floor. Eyebrow dormer with one 3- light casement. Interior not accessible at time of survey (November 1984).

Burgage Number 78.

40 The Borough

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Cottage at end of row. Early C18. Flemish bond brick, thatched roof with brick stack. 2- storey, 2-window. C20 door and two 2- light casements to ground floor, 2- brick plat band and two 2-light casements to first floor. Rear has one 2-light casement to attic, to left is single-storey extension with tiled roof. C20 flat-roofed extension. Interior has chamfered beam with step and runout stops.

- Here is a footpath to Trafalgar School for Downton (see entry under Breamore Road) -

42 The Borough (Foxes Sleep)

44 The Borough

46 The Borough (Gem Cottage)

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III - listed as a pair with 48 The Borough.

Listing description: Pair of cottages at end of row. Early C19. Rendered brick, thatched roof with brick stacks. One storey and attic, 4 windows. Two planked doors with segmental heads, three 2-light and one 3-light casement to ground floor. Attic has eyebrow dormers with four 2- light casements. Interior not accessible at time of survey (November 1984).

Burgage Number 30.

Former occupiers: Mrs F Hummerston (1960s); Jack Sherwood.

48 The Borough (Cherry Tree Cottage)

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III - listed as a pair with 46 The Borough. See 46 The Borough for listing description.

Burgage Number 30.

Former occupiers: Albert E ‘Stubby’ Sherwood (1960s-1980s).

50 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III.

Listing description: Cottage in row. C16. Rendered timber-frame, thatched roof, brick stack. Baffle-entry. One storey and attic, 3 windows. 4- panelled door to left and C20 door to right, to left is one 2-light casement and to right are two C20 casements. To left is gable of cross wing with one 2- light casement, to right is eyebrow dormer with one 2-light casement. 2- storey rear wing has C20 metal casements. Interior has open fireplace with chamfered lintel on brick jambs. The cottage may have originated as an open-hall plan.

Burgage Number 50.

52 The Borough (Fishers Cottage)

Burgage Number 50.

Former Occupiers: Jack 'Mutt' Moody (1960s-1980s).

54 The Borough

Formerly known as Presscombe.

Former Occupiers: Herbert Charles Weeks (Smallholder) (1930s-1950s).

56 The Borough (Great Gable)

58 The Borough

Electricity Sub-Station

The Bunny

See entry under East Side.

The Pound

In the days before cattle grids, as recently as the mid-1960s, animals often wandered into the village from the New Forest. The old village pound was located on the green adjacent to The Bunny. Stray animals were locked up here and their owners had to pay for the food they had eaten once they were reclaimed.

60 The Borough (Fairfield House)

Colonel Marriott-Smith of Fairfield House rejoined the army (the Royal Field Artillery) at the outbreak of World War One. He was later awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

Former occupiers: Colonel Marriott- Smith; Mrs E M Fisher (1935); Brigadier Arthur F Fisher CBE DSO (1953); George Bridgeford (1964)

- Here is the junction with South Lane -

62 The Borough (The White Horse)

Also (affectionately if not officially) known as The Hoss or The Gee Gee.

A grade II* listed building - listed as a pair with 64 The Borough.

Listing description: Inn and shop. Late C15 open hall with cross wing, early C16 range to east, rebuilt c.1700. Timber-framing faced in Flemish bond brick with vitrified headers, tiled roof with brick stacks. 4-bay cross wing to west, central hall range with screens passage and 6-bay range to east. 2-storey, 5-window front of c.1700. To left is C19 shop front with 4-panelled door to Number 64, to left of central range is tall 6- panelled and studded door, in beaded case with porch on Tuscan columns, to left are two cross windows. Cross wing to right projects slightly to front; half-glazed door in panelled reveals with flat wooden hood on brackets, blind window to right and two plate- glass sashes to left. Stone plat band to first floor, to left is cross window, two blind windows and French window over main door, to right are three 6-pane sashes and one blind window; all with flat arches. Two round arched niches to first floor of left part have busts of King John and Queen Isabella, probably C18 replicas of C13 busts. Coved eaves cornice. Right return has three 6-pane sashes and two pairs of plate-glass sashes, 3- brick plat band to first floor; three 6-pane sashes, and one blind window. To rear is cross wing projecting to left, now services to inn, in English bond brick, with C20 windows. Single- storey extension to left is former slaughter house with half-hipped roof and segmental-headed openings. Main range has tall elliptical-arched opening to left with half-glazed door, to right is elliptical-arched opening with C20 window, both with keystones and imposts, to right are three small casements and C20 door, gabled dormer to catslide roof.
Interior retains screens passage, probably used as through-way for horses. Complete original roof structure over all three parts of building; cross wing has 4-bay roof, formerly open, with one tier of clasped purlins and central closed truss with cranked tie-beam and arched 'v' queen struts to cambered collar. Central 2-bay open hall range with screens passage has roof with one tier of clasped purlins and similar trusses to cross wing, but with cambered ties and collars, east 6-bay range of 2 storeys has Western screens passage and roof with two tiers of clasped chamfered, purlins, all with curved wind braces and varying trusses, including a good arch-braced collar truss with fine moulding to soffit, to west. C17 inserted floor to central range has chamfered beam with step and runout stops. The newel to spiral staircase survives minus the treads. 4-panelled C19 doors.

PEVSNER: ‘Two niches in which Perpendicular heads.’

Burgage Number 55.

The first hostel, or inn, in Downton is mentioned in 1503 and this was possibly the White Horse. It is likely that one existed before this but no record of it has survived. The White Horse was first recorded by name in 1599.

‘There are few more pleasant inns to drop into’ (Brian Vesey-Fitzgerald - The Hampshire Avon) (Cassell and Company 1950)

The pub was previously owned by the Huntsman Brewery.

The outbuildings at the rear of the White Horse were once possible referred to as ‘Barn Close’ (source: The Rich Man In His Castle, The Poor Man At His Gate (article by David and Michelle Moody, Wiltshire Family History Society magazine, Issue 116, January 2010)

Former occupiers: Mrs Read; George Aylett; George N Jones (1935-1953); Ronald George Hayter (1953); Gerald G White (1964); Tommy Whitmore (1960s- 1970s); Alan Moss (‘Moss From The Hoss’) (1980s).

64 The Borough

A grade II* listed building - listed as a pair with 62 The Borough. See 62 The Borough for listing description.

Currently occupied by Pets Pad.

Former occupiers: Mrs Read; George N Jones (Butcher) (1953-1964); Downton Press (Printers - Telephone Downton 20490) (1970s).

The Borough Cross

A grade II listed building.

Listing description: Borough cross. C14, restored 1787, 1897 and 1953. Limestone. Three worn hexagonal steps up to square plinth with chamfered corners, octagonal shaft with small cross. Latin inscription on riser of middle step and inscription tablets on bottom step commemorating restorations; 1897 repair paid for by Helen, Countess of Radnor; 1953 restoration to celebrate the Coronation. Downton was granted borough status and market charter by Peter des Roches, Bishop of Winchester c.1205. Very similar cross to that in the churchyard. Ancient Monument, Wiltshire, Number 294.

The area in which the Cross is situated was once known as King John's Square. During the 1800s the shaft of the cross supported an oil street lamp. The cross itself was restored in 1897 (to mark Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee) and 1953 (Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation - having been damaged by a mine in November 1940 (see entry under New Court Meadows)), and the area was also refurbished to mark the new Millennium.

The Downton Mummers Play took place here at Christmas up until the 1920s. It is a traditional starting point and destination for marches and processions, as well as a pick-up point for away matches.

66 The Borough (The Co-Operative Foodstore)

A 1960s shop with flats above, constructed on the site of the former Co-Operative Society shop, previously occupied by Mitchell and Baker. The access to the car park at the rear was the site of a now demolished cottage.

The old shop had been a grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.18. This would have been graded II but for the shop front.

The demolished cottage had also been a grade III listed building. Former listing description: Late C.18.

Former occupiers: Mitchell and Bakers Corn and Provisions; Salisbury Co- Operative Society Ltd (Telephone Downton 503) (1935-1964).

70 The Borough (Lloyds TSB Bank)

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.19.

Former occupiers: L H and M Hill (Chemists and Photographers - Telephone Downton 116) (1950s- 1960s).

72 The Borough (Leicester House)

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III.

Listing description: Semi-Detached house. Mid C17, early C18 bay added to east, refaced c.1800. Painted Flemish bond brick, Welsh slate roof with brick stacks. 2-storey, 3-window front. Central 4-panelled door with side lights and classical surround, to either side is one 3-light casement. First floor has one 2-light and two 3- light casements. To rear are two 2- light casements and 4-panelled door, pointed stair window with Y-tracery. Interior has chamfered beam with ogee stops, fireplace with chamfered lintel to west room, mid-C18 stairs with turned balusters. Formerly timber- framed 2-bay cottage.

Burgage Number 5.

Former occupiers: L H Hill (Until 1970); Peter and Shirley Waddington (1970-2007).

Peter Waddington started the Cuckoo Fair and was president until his death in 2005. His widow Shirley then held the post until her death in 2007.

74 The Borough (Avon Side)

A bit of a misnomer as it is in fact beside the Newcourt Carrier.

Moulds Bridge

See entry under East Side.

76 The Borough (Herons Walk)

This dwelling is constructed on the site of the demolished former Army Cadet Hut.

78 The Borough (Basildon)

Reginald Weller's baker's shop and cafe, cottages and a set of hoardings were previously located in the area of 78 to 84 The Borough.

80 The Borough

See 78 The Borough.

82 The Borough (Maray)

See 78 The Borough.

84 The Borough

See 78 The Borough.

86 The Borough (Caxton House)

Formerly a shop, last occupied as such by Anneke’s Fashions. Previously a bakers.

Burgage Number 84.

In the 1970s Anneke’s Fashions telephone number was Downton 20646.

Former Occupiers: Bert Street (Shoe Repairer); Anneke's Fashions.

88 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.18.

Burgage Number 84.

Former occupiers: Clarence 'Mike' Lane (1960s-1990s).

90 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III. Listed as a pair with 92 The Borough.

Listing description: Pair of cottages in row. C17, rebuilt in C18. Flemish bond brick, thatched roof. 2-storey, 4- window. No 90 has central planked door, No 92 has C20 door to left of centre, No 90 has two C20 casements, No 92 has one 2-light and 3-light casement. 2-brick plat band to first floor; four 2-light casements and one 1-light casement. Large C17 grouped axial brick stack. No 90 has C20 rear extension, No 92 has 2-light leaded casement to attic to rear and flat- roofed C20 extension. Interior of No 90 retains original plan with winding stairs in south west corner, chamfered beam with ogee stops, supported on chamfered post at west end. No 92 has chamfered beam with step and runout stops. Probably originally timber- framed, rebuilt in brick in C18.

Burgage Number 2.

92 The Borough

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III. Listed as a pair with 90 The Borough. See 90 The Borough for listing description.

Burgage Number 2.

94 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.18.

Burgage Number 54.

96 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.18.

Burgage Number 54.

98 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.18.

100 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.19.

Formerly Miss Fanstone's groceries shop.

102 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Early C.19.

19-21 Green Lane

See entry under Green Lane.

- Here is the junction with Green Lane -

Electricity Sub-Station

A fenced electricity sub-station was formerly sited on the green in front of what is now The Old Granary.

1-7 The Old Granary

Formerly 108-110 The Borough. Converted to residential use c1990.

Former occupiers: Charles Fosters; Hardings (Grain Merchants); Hickman Brothers (Downton) Ltd (Corn, Cattle Food and Fertilizer Merchants (1953- 1964); Critchcraft; Logan Homecare.

In 1953 Hickman Brothers telephone number was Downton 232. By 1964 they had four lines - Downton 532, 534, 535 and 53.6

112 The Borough

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Former listing description: Late C.18 - early C.19.

114 The Borough (River Cottage)

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III.

Listing description: Cottage at end of row. Mid C18. Flemish bond brick, tiled roof with brick stack to left. 2- storey, 2-window. C20 central door, 2- light segmental-headed casement to either side. First floor has two 2- light casements and one blocked window. To left is English bond brick extension with half-hipped tiled roof and C20 casement. Rear not accessible at time of survey (November 1984). Interior said to have open fireplace with chamfered lintel, timber-framed partition, planked doors with wooden latches.

Former occupiers: Mrs Bailey (1935); Miss Bailey (1953); John M Gwyther (1964).

- You are now leaving The Bottom End -

Iron Bridge

See entry under East Side.

- You are now entering The Top End -

116 The Borough (Bridge House)

There were originally cottages and a shop on this site. After they had been demolished the remaining field provided good access to the river for fishing and bathing purposes.

Former occupiers (of old cottages and shop): Reg Bailey; Jimmy Williams (Barber); (of Bridge House): John and Helen Faith; Ted and Helen Maxted.

118 The Borough

120 The Borough

122 The Borough

124 The Borough (Maroubra)

Former occupiers: Stanley A Bishop (1964).

Bunny

See entry under East Side.

126 The Borough (Brook House)

Former occupiers: Ernest Frank Faris (Butcher) (1920s-1953); Mrs Faris (1964).

128 The Borough

130 The Borough (Danewell House)

Formerly a Grade III listed building. Listed with 132 The Borough. Former listing description: C.18.

Burgage Number 7.

132 The Borough (St Georges Cottage)

See 130 The Borough.

Burgage Number 7.

Former occupiers: Miss I M Phillpot (Music Teacher) (1950s).

134 The Borough (Dragon House)

Formerly The George and Dragon public house.

A grade II listed building, upgraded from grade III.

Listing description: Cottage at end of row. Mid C18. Painted English bond brick, tiled roof with gable-end brick stacks. 2-storey and attic, 3-window. C20 central door with flat stone hood on cast-iron brackets, 3-light C20 casement to either side and blocked door to left. First floor has 3-brick plat band to right half, two 2-light, one 1-light casement and one blocked window. Moulded wooden eaves cornice. Three dormers with 2-light leaded casements. Left return is windowless. To rear is lean-to tiled roofed extension, C20 French windows, first floor has two 2-light casements, two C20 dormers to attic. Interior has chamfered beams with ogee stops, open fireplace with chamfered lintel on English bond brick jambs. Stairs with square newel, first floor has planked doors, C17 reset chip-carved panel with lozenge decoration at top of stairs. Planked door in attic with wooden latch. Formerly a public house.

Former occupiers: Sir Thomas R Berney Bart. MC (1953-1964).

136 The Borough

A grade II listed building. Upgraded from grade III

Listing description: Detached cottage. Late C18. Flemish bond brick, tiled roof, brick stack to left. 2-storey, 3- window. Central planked door in beaded case. 2-light casement to left, 3- light casement to right, both segmental-headed. 3-brick plat band to first floor; two 2-light casements and one C20 casement. Rear has C20 casements. Interior not inspected.

Burgage Number 52.

Former occupiers: The Eastman Sisters (1950s).

140 The Borough (Casterbridge House)

There was previously a basket works in this area.

142 The Borough (Lulstead House)

144 The Borough (The Mill House)

American officers were billeted here during World War Two. On returning home drunk one evening one of them started firing his pistol in the hallway – a bullet hole can still be seen in the floor tiling.

Former occupiers: Mrs Hunt (1935).

Tannery Bridge

See entry under East Side.