Frampton on Severn

Frampton on Severn lies about 9 miles South West of Gloucester and its position can most easily be identified because it lies just to the south of a large U bend in the River Severn. There are various theories as to where the name Frampton comes from, the main one being that it is a corruption of Frome which is the name of the local tributary to the River Severn. The land is flat and low, most of the village being below the 50ft contour line, rising somewhat at the eastern boundary.

In 1086, according to the Doomsday Book, the Manor of Frampton was held by one Drew son of Pons, granted to reward him for his services to William the Conqueror. This Manor is the legendary birthplace of Fair Rosamund who was reputably seduced by Henry II.

The Green is reputably the longest village green in the country, consisting of some 22 acres. Cricked is played there in summer. Fortunately it has now been designated a Conservation Area and a variety of architecture can be seen, ranging from the medieval "cruck cottages" to the elegant Georgian and Victorian constructions. However the first records can be found in the Doomsday book in 1086 which recorded that 27 people lived in the village. There has now been a steady increase over the years (apart from a drop from 1833 to 1911) and the population is now well over 1000.

Frampton also has much to offer anyone who has an eye for nature. The Green has an abundance of wild flowers, due no doubt to the fact that it has existed without ploughing, spraying and the addition of fertilisers for some 250 years. There is plenty of bird life especially in the old gravel workings, the canal and the River Severn beyond, also frogs, toads, newts (including the protected great crested newt) fungi and dragonflies. All these are connected by excellent footpaths.

Saint Mary's Church is situated about half a mile beyond the end of the village Green. There is mention of a vicar of Frampton as early as 1228 and this is the earliest record of there being a church there. The only part of the fabric of the church that is clearly of an earlier date is the lead font which is apparently of the 12th century, one of a group of six Gloucestershire fonts from the same blocks. The Congregational Chapel located just off the centre of the Green is also very active in village life.

There are two books about Frampton, firstly "Discovering Frampton" with chapters on history, wildlife, walks etc and "Frampton on Severn, Portrait of a Victorian Village" which is a book about Frampton houses and the people who lived in them in Victorian times. Both books are available from various outlets in the village including the pub and Post Office.

There is a very active Community Centre in the village with many affiliated groups including football, cricket, bowls, a Village Society. The Village Society also has its own website which lists (among many things) events and accommodation available in the village. The web address is: - www.framptononsevern.com

Well worth a visit!

In addition, Frampton have a Parish Council website which can be found at www.framptononsevern.org.

A copy of the Frampton on Severn Parish Plan can be obtained from the Parish Council at £7.50 each, or the reduced price of £5 each for orders of 10 and over.Please contact 01452 740186 for further information.