Balderton

A Scenic Village with Rich History

Balderton, located near Newark-on-Trent, is a village with a fascinating history and beautiful natural surroundings. It's a place I often walk around, enjoying the scenic lake and local paths. One of my favorite walks takes in the lake, the old railway line, and Lowfields Lane, where you can spot some alpacas. This walk is detailed on Newark Map, along with other local attractions.

For The Balderton Village Trail, Created by Cllr. Dr. Simon Forde. click HERE

Historical Significance

Balderton has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation going back thousands of years. Archaeological finds indicate prehistoric settlements, with evidence of Bronze Age and Iron Age activity in the vicinity[

Saxon Origins: The village was of Saxon creation, named after Balder, the Norse god of beauty, light, and purity. The Saxons likely established a small timber structure for Christian worship on the site of the present church
Domesday Book: In the Domesday Book of 1086, Balderton is called Baldretune and described as a berewick (a dependent hamlet) of Newark. By the 13th century, the manor descended from the Dyves to the Bussys, presenting a picture of typical medieval village conditions

Medieval and Early Modern Periods

Norman Influence: Although the Norman Conquest initially impaired the village's prosperity, it quickly recovered. By 1171, Balderton was rated above the local average for Pentecostal offerings at Southwell

Lawlessness: The village experienced significant lawlessness under the later Plantagenets. In 1290, two outlaws were beheaded in Balderton after committing robbery. The village also saw several murders and robberies during this period

Grapes and Agriculture

Vineyards: Grapes were once grown in Balderton. In 1578, there were accusations of vines being cut down

Agriculture: In the 19th century, farming, malting, willow growing, and basket making were the main sources of employment for men and women

St. Giles Church

St. Giles Church is a Grade I listed building, first listed in 1967. The church has a rich history, with evidence of a stone church existing here in the 12th century. The present stone church consists of a nave with four bays, chancel, north and south aisles, an embattled western tower, and an outstanding octagonal and crocketed spire

Balderton Lake

The lake was originally dug as a gravel pit that supplied gravel ballast and sand for local development. The redundant sand and gravel pit ceased being used as a landfill site in the mid-1970s and has since become a beautiful natural asset to the village

RAF Balderton

Balderton airfield opened in June 1941 and was used by the Royal Air Force (RAF), Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), and United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) during World War II. The airfield was also used by Sir Frank Whittle and his flight trials unit during the development of the jet engine in 1943-1944

Balderton Hall

Balderton Hall, built in 1840 by Thomas Spragging Godfrey, was a significant local residence. The hall continued as a private house until the mid-1930s when it was developed into Balderton Hospital, a facility for the care of people with learning disabilities. The hospital closed in 1993, and the site is now being redeveloped for housing

Cultural Impact

Balderton's rich history and beautiful natural surroundings make it a wonderful place to explore. With its historical buildings, scenic walks, and vibrant community, Balderton offers a unique blend of past and present, making it a must-visit destination near Newark-on-Trent.

Would you like to know more about any specific aspects of Balderton's history or its attractions?

please also refer to the Balderton Village Trail created by Cllr Dr Simon Forde... DETAILS TO FOLLOW