A Local Guide to Weston
A suburb and electoral ward located in the historical city of Bath, Weston sits in the northwest of the area, and was originally part of the hundred of Bath Forum.
A Brief History of Weston
Originally a separate village, Weston became integrated into Bath as the city grew. This began with the expansion of Lower Weston which occurred during the Victorian era. In fact, the earliest known evidence of occupation in Weston has been found in the form of two Celtic caddy spoons, which are thought to date as far back as 1825.
The village’s growth throughout the 19th century saw several schools constructed in the area, as well as the famous rebuilding of the church. The Georgian expansion of Bath led to a surge of residential spaces introduced in the village.
Weston became a civil parish in 1866, extending from the River Avon to the Gloucestershire boundary north of Lansdown. The southern parts of the area did not join the city of Bath until 1911 and 1951, while the other, more rural areas became a part of the civil parishes of Chalcombe and Kelston in 1953.
Location of Weston
The suburb includes Upper Weston, Weston Village, Weston Park, and the lower slopes of Primrose Hill. Interestingly, Lower Weston – located just south of Weston Road – sits within the ward of Newbridge.
Sections of Weston are at significant risk of floods, due to the old watercourses, sinks, and springs that remain in the village. In 2013, the Weston Catchment alleviation scheme was introduced in a bid to offer some protection against flooding to the area.
Sights to See
The village sits right at the bottom of one of Bath’s seven hills, which is a prime spot for a good view of Beckford’s Tower. A Grade I listed building, the landmark was originally known as Lansdown Tower, built in neo-classical style on the famous Lansdown Hill.
Weston is also home to some stunning religious sites, including the village parish church of All Saints, which was founded sometime before 1156. The church, as it is today, dates from 1832, designed by local architect John Pinch the younger. The church tower is the only exception to his design, which dates from the 15th century.
There is also a Moravian church, which sits at the bottom of Lansdown Lane. The closest Catholic church is St. Mary’s, which can be found on Julian Road.
Things to Do
The village is fondly known by locals as one of the most tranquil spots in the city, with a friendly neighbourhood, calm atmosphere, and quiet nights broken only by the sound of the single local pub, the Old Crown. The entirety of Upper Weston even has a 20mph speed limit, so there’s no risk of noisy cars zooming past at night and disturbing the residents.
Weston has two of Bath’s most popular primary schools, Weston All Saints and St Mary’s, and is surrounded by large expanses of rolling countryside that are the perfect places for the local families to explore on long weekend walks.
Weston is home to the 66th Bath Scout Group, who come together each week at the High Street’s former school. Bath Scouts also have a campsite at Cleeve Hill, just on the edge of the village. Brownies, Rainbows, Guides, and a Boys’ Brigade Company also meet regularly in the village.
Weston also has many popular amenities on offer to its local residents, including a youth club, a recreation ground, Weston Library, and several shops and services.
For anyone looking for a weekend getaway, there is also the five-star Bath Priory Hotel, perfect for a luxurious few days relaxing amongst the beautiful 1835 Georgian manor and four acres of award-winning gardens.
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