Barnby in the Willows

A Charming Village with Rich History

Barnby in the Willows is a picturesque village located just east of Newark-on-Trent. It's a lovely spot for a bike ride or a walk, with the added benefit of a pub. Many locals have spent summers around the river at the rear of the church. I've added details and a 6km circular walk to the Newark Map.

Historical Significance

The village is shown in the Domesday Book as belonging to the Bishop of Bayeux. Barnby may have developed around the site of a Roman ford. The village was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it was recorded as Barnebi

Medieval Period: Bishop Odo of Bayeux owned half the manor, while the Bishop of Lincoln held the other half. There was a mill on the Witham, probably just southwest of the church. During the 13th century, the Knights Templar held Flawford Farm, though they refused to pay tithes to the local church

All Saints Church

The present church was built in the 13th century and is a Grade I listed building. In 1289, the church may have been given to the choristers of Southwell by the Archbishop of York. The sanctuary walls are lined with nicely carved 17th-century panelling. The church is full of memorials to the Sharpe family, who lived at Barnby Hall from the early 17th century

Architectural Features: The building comprises a nave with two aisles, a late 15th-century north porch with a contemporary door, chancel, and west tower. The nave aisle arcades date from the 13th century, and the tower is Perpendicular in style, mid-15th century, and ashlar built

Church Brawl: In 1613, John Cappe was presented for "sowing discord amongst his neighbours and for chiding and brawling in the church." The vicar, William Chaundler, also presented Roberte England and Elizabeth Lamme for saying that he would cut their throats for demanding the tithe of Robert’s mill

Medieval Dovecote

At Dovecot Farm on Front Street is an ancient dovecote, variously dated to the late medieval period or the 17th century. The circular structure was designed with 728 nesting holes, later altered to the current 670 boxes. The dovecote is Grade II listed and constructed of stone rubble surmounted by a row of bricks[

Jubilee School (Now Village Hall)

The Jubilee School, now the village hall, was built in 1850 and serves as a community hub for various events and activities

The Willow Tree Pub

The local pub, The Willow Tree, is a Grade II listed building that began as a farmhouse and attached barn in 1748. It has served as a pub since the 1870s. The pub, run by Sarah and Matt, offers fantastic locally sourced food and is dog-friendly. They also host a quiz on Sundays

Cultural Impact

Barnby in the Willows' rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant community make it a wonderful place to explore. Whether you're interested in its medieval past, unique fossils, or simply enjoying a meal at the local pub, Barnby in the Willows offers a unique blend of past and present.