URPoint Details
Not far from Geddington are the sister villages of Cranford St Andrew and St John.
Their histories extend back at least 4000 years, with Bronze Age occupation and burial sites along the brook, which divides them. At the time of Domesday in 1086, Cranford was known as 'Craneford' (possibly because of the cranes and herons that frequented the ford) and belonged to a relation of William the Conqueror.
In the 14th century the Fossebrooks were Lords of the Manor, and in St Andrew's Church, Maud Fossebrook's monumental brass proudly records that she was the young King Henry VI's nurse. Maud's manor house probably stood by the church.
Near the church, a 15th century circular dovecote (off St Andrew's Lane) can be seen, together with the impressive facade of 18th century Cranford Hall. This group of buildings viewed across beautiful parkland once boasting the tallest ash tree in England and presents the perfect English scene.
- Type:
- Landmark