Bradninch

Bradninch is a small town in Mid-Devon, 10 miles north-east of Exeter. The town has historic links to the Duchy of Cornwall; the Prince of Wales (as Duke of Cornwall) is Lord of the Manor. Much of the surrounding land belongs to the Duchy.

There has been a settlement here since pre-historic times. The name ‘Bradninch’ is thought to be of Celtic origin, meaning ‘broad-spreading ash tree’.

Saxons settled in the area in the 7^th Century, and built a fortification on Castle Hill. The Domesday book records ‘Bradenesse’ as the largest manor in Devon.

In 1141, Bradninch became a Town when Reginald, Earl of Cornwall and son of Henry I, granted Bradninch a charter. A Guildhall was established at that time, and the current building is thought to be on the same site.

A church was established in the 7^th Century, and re-built in 15^th. Currently dedicated to St Disen, an Irish missionary, it was known as St Denis or St Dionysus until the 19^th Century. The church contains many interesting features, including one of the finest remaining wooden rood screens in the country.

Much of the centre of the town has been designated as a Conservation Area because of the historical interest in its architecture.

The family of American pioneer Daniel Boone originated in Bradninch.