Weston Turville reveals several clearly distinct layers of history: a medieval castle complex, the present-day Church of St Mary the Virgin and the reservoir built in 1797. There are also footpaths along old routes and a golf course at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. This offers travellers a choice of architectural history, walks and sport. The historical milestones range from the 11th and 12th centuries through the mid-13th century to the water supply of an arm of the Grand Union Canal.

Reservoir, sailing and old routes

Weston Turville Reservoir was built in 1797 to supply water to an arm of the Grand Union Canal. Its construction reflects a specific water infrastructure purpose. Today, sailing takes place on the reservoir through the Aylesbury Sailing Club. The site can therefore be viewed both in terms of its original function and through sailing—two different perspectives on the same place. If you are interested in the history of technology, the reservoir’s purpose is the main focus; if sport is a travel interest for you, you can include sailing in your plans.

The footpaths in Weston Turville follow old routes. You can therefore discover the area’s historical connections on a walk by following the routes themselves: the focus is not only on individual structures, but also on the paths. This offers a different emphasis from a stay focused mainly on the church and castle complex.

Church and medieval castle complex

The present-day Church of St Mary the Virgin dates from the mid-13th century; its tower dates from the 15th century. The building is listed as Grade I. The two dates mark different periods: if you are interested in medieval architecture, you can view the church in light of its construction history and consider the later-dated tower as a distinct part of the building.

On summer weekends, St Mary the Virgin may be open at certain times outside the published service schedule, usually in the afternoon. Check before your visit whether it will be open at the time you plan to go.

A motte-and-bailey castle dating from the 11th to 12th centuries stands on the grounds of Manor House in Weston Turville. It is designated a Scheduled Monument. The term refers to a type of castle with a raised mound, the motte, and an associated enclosed courtyard, the bailey. Compared with St Mary the Virgin, which dates from the mid-13th century, the complex points to an earlier period. Two different types of historic structure, with different dates, are therefore in focus.

Economic history and golf

Economic and craft history also offer specific topics of interest. In the 19th century, Aylesbury plum orchards and straw plaiting were important industries in Weston Turville. In 1864, the village was described as the country’s leading centre for breeding Aylesbury ducks. Fruit growing, straw plaiting and duck breeding represent different aspects of local work at the time: agriculture, craft and animal husbandry. This history complements the buildings with a look at the area’s economic activities.

Weston Turville Golf Club has an 18-hole golf course at the foot of the Chiltern Hills. This provides a distinct sporting focus alongside the historic buildings and old routes. When planning your stay, you can consider whether golf, local history or walks are your priority.

Discover more destinations: Princes Risborough, Easington, Winslow, Grendon Underwood, Marlow, St Leonards, Aston Clinton, Wing.

For the broader travel overview: Buckinghamshire.