What is Amersham, and where is it situated within England?

Amersham is a market town and civil parish located in Buckinghamshire, England, nestled within the Chiltern Hills. It lies approximately 27 miles northwest of central London, making it part of the London commuter belt.

How is the town of Amersham physically divided, and what are the key characteristics of each part?

Amersham is divided into two distinct areas: Old Amersham, situated in the valley of the River Misbourne and featuring historical elements like the 13th-century St. Mary's church and old pubs, and Amersham-on-the-Hill, which developed in the early 20th century around the railway station.

What is the population of Amersham as recorded in the most recent census mentioned?

According to the 2021 Census, the population of Amersham was recorded as 15,189.

Can you identify the Ordnance Survey grid reference for Amersham?

The Ordnance Survey grid reference for Amersham is SU965985.

Which administrative and geographical regions does Amersham fall under?

Amersham is part of the Buckinghamshire unitary authority and ceremonial county, and it is located within the South East region of England.

What is the etymological origin of the name "Amersham"?

The name "Amersham" is derived from the Old English term for "Ealhmund's village" (hām).

How did the name "Amersham" evolve through historical records?

Historical records show variations of the name, starting from Anglo-Saxon times as *Agmodesham*, then *Elmodesham* in the Domesday Book (1086), and later appearing as *Agmondysham* and *Amytysham* in 1460.

What information does the Domesday Book provide about Amersham in the 11th century?

The Domesday Book entry from 1086 indicates that Geoffrey de Mandeville held Amersham, which answered for 7.5 hides. It detailed the land available for ploughs, the number of ploughs in use, the presence of villagers, smallholders, slaves, meadow, and woodland. The total value was £9, down from £16 before 1066, and the manor was previously held by Queen Edith.

What historical rights were granted to Amersham through royal charters?

In 1200, Geoffrey de Mandeville obtained a charter allowing Amersham to hold a Friday market and a fair on September 7th and 8th. A later charter in 1613, granted to Edward, Earl of Bedford, changed the market day to Tuesday and established a statute fair on September 19th.

What significant religious persecution occurred in Amersham during the 16th century?

In 1521, seven Lollard dissenters were burned at the stake in Amersham for their religious beliefs. A memorial commemorates this event, highlighting their stand for religious liberty and the right to read the scriptures.

How is the physical landscape of Old Amersham characterized?

Old Amersham is situated in the valley of the River Misbourne, a chalk stream that can periodically dry up. The valley is notably larger than its current river size would suggest, indicating it was likely formed under conditions similar to those that create dry valleys.

Where is Amersham-on-the-Hill located in relation to the local topography?

Amersham-on-the-Hill is built on the northern side of the Misbourne valley, positioned on a small plateau that serves as the watershed between the River Misbourne and the nearby River Chess.

What is the architectural significance of the "High & Over" house in Amersham?

Designed by architect Amyas Connell and completed in 1931, "High & Over" is an Art Deco house that holds Grade II listed status and has been utilized as a filming location.

How has Amersham been represented in the UK Parliament historically?

Amersham sent two Members of Parliament (MPs) to the unreformed House of Commons from 1625 and was considered a rotten borough until the Reform Act of 1832 removed its representation. Subsequently, it became part of county constituencies.

Who has represented the Chesham and Amersham parliamentary constituency, and what recent electoral changes have occurred?

The Chesham and Amersham constituency was represented by Conservative MPs Ian Gilmour (1974–1992) and Cheryl Gillan (1992–2021). Following Cheryl Gillan's death in 2021, the Liberal Democrats won the seat in a by-election, marking the first time the party held it.

What are the current tiers of local government responsible for Amersham?

Amersham is governed by two tiers of local government: the Amersham Town Council, which is based in the old town, and the Buckinghamshire Council at the county level.

What historical local government structures existed in Amersham prior to the current Buckinghamshire Council?

From 1894 to 1974, the area was managed by the Amersham Rural District Council. In 1974, this council merged with Chesham Urban District Council to form Chiltern District Council, which was subsequently abolished in 2020 and merged into the new Buckinghamshire Council unitary authority.

What major roads converge in Amersham?

Amersham is a junction point for several key roads, including the A355 (from Slough and Beaconsfield), the A404 (linking Maidenhead, High Wycombe, and Rickmansworth), the A416 (from Chesham and Berkhamsted), and the A413.

How is Amersham connected to the national motorway network?

Amersham is accessible from both the M25 motorway, via junction 18, and the M40 motorway, via junctions 1 and 2.

What is the significance of Amersham station in the context of London's transport network?

Amersham station serves as a terminus for the Metropolitan line of the London Underground. It also shares track with Chiltern Railways services running between London Marylebone and Aylesbury Vale Parkway.

What historical railway lines were connected to Amersham, and what happened to them?

Amersham station was historically served by the Metropolitan Railway (now the Metropolitan line) and the Great Central Railway. London Transport abandoned plans to electrify the Metropolitan line beyond Amersham, and the remaining sections were sold to British Railways in 1961.

How does the proposed HS2 high-speed railway route interact with the Amersham area?

The HS2 route is planned to pass northwest of Amersham, running roughly parallel to the A413 and the London to Aylesbury Line after tunneling under the Chiltern Hills. A protest group, the Amersham Action Group, is part of the opposition to HS2.

What were the primary early economic activities in Amersham?

Historically, Amersham's economy was driven by trade at its market, primarily dealing in local grain sold to London merchants. Brewing was also a significant industry during the 17th and 18th centuries, alongside tanning, lace manufacture, and brickmaking.

What is the modern economic significance of the former Radiochemical Centre in Amersham?

The Radiochemical Centre, established during World War II, evolved through Amersham International and Amersham plc, and is now part of GE Healthcare, continuing its role in scientific and medical industries.

What are the main places of worship in Old Amersham?

In Old Amersham, the prominent Grade I listed Church of England parish church is St Mary's Church, which dates back to the 13th century and contains historical elements like a 14th-century font and 17th-century glass. The Amersham Meeting House, a Grade II* listed Quaker meeting house, is also located here.

What religious institutions are present in Amersham-on-the-Hill?

Amersham-on-the-Hill hosts a United Reformed and Baptist free church, St. John's Methodist church, and the Church of England parish church of St Michael & All Angels.

What educational institutions serve secondary-level students in Amersham?

Amersham has two secondary schools: Dr Challoner's Grammar School for boys and Amersham School, a co-educational academy. Additionally, students may attend Dr Challoner's High School (girls) in Little Chalfont or Chesham Grammar School in Chesham.

What is the historical background of Dr Challoner's Grammar School?

The foundation of Dr Challoner's schools dates back to 1624. The grammar school moved to its current site in Amersham-on-the-Hill in 1905. It later became boys-only again in 1962 when Dr Challoner's High School for Girls was established, though it now admits girls to its Sixth Form.

What are the primary and preparatory schools available in Amersham?

Amersham is served by several primary schools, including Our Lady's Roman Catholic Primary, Chestnut Lane School, Elangeni School, Chesham Bois Church of England School, St. Mary's Church of England Primary School, St. George's Church of England Infant School, and Woodside Junior School. For private education, there are two preparatory schools: The Beacon School (for boys) and Heatherton House (for girls).

What recreational facilities are available at the Chiltern Lifestyle Centre?

The Chiltern Lifestyle Centre offers a range of facilities, including an indoor climbing wall, two swimming pools, a gym, four badminton courts, two squash courts, a library, a cafe, a children's nursery, two spas, and a community centre.

Which sports clubs are active in Amersham?

Amersham is home to Amersham Town F.C. (football), Amersham Cricket Club, Amersham and Chiltern Rugby Football Club, the Chiltern Harriers Athletics Club, and Amersham and Chalfont Hockey Club.

What challenges exist regarding television and mobile phone reception in Amersham?

Due to its location in a valley fold, Amersham can experience poor TV and radio reception, with some areas unable to receive certain channels like Channel 5. Mobile phone reception can also be weak in steeper parts of the town and surrounding villages.

In which films has Amersham been featured as a filming location?

Amersham has served as a filming location for several films, including The Duke Wore Jeans (1958), Carve Her Name with Pride (1958), Circus of Horrors (1960), Murder at the Gallop (1963), The Jigsaw Man (1983), The Shooting Party (1985), Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), and Metroland (1997).

Can you name some notable individuals born or who resided in Amersham?

Notable people associated with Amersham include illustrator Val Biro, actress Katy Brand, engineer Anne Chamney, footballer Simon Church, producer Giles Cooper, comedian Paul Foot, advertising executive Cindy Gallop, conductor Walter Goehr, comedian John Robins, composer Allan Gray, football manager Eddie Howe, engineer Elizabeth Laverick, musician Damien Lovelock, author Arthur Machen, actor Bill Pertwee, photographer Eileen Ramsay, lyricist Tim Rice, and author Jennifer Worth.

What is the history of Ruth Ellis's connection to Amersham?

Ruth Ellis, the last woman to be hanged in England, is buried in St Mary's Cemetery in Amersham.

What is the purpose of the Wikivoyage and Wikimedia Commons entries related to Amersham?

The Wikivoyage entry provides a travel guide for Amersham, offering information for visitors. Wikimedia Commons hosts various media files, such as images and videos, related to Amersham.

What historical industries were significant in Amersham besides brewing?

In addition to brewing, Amersham's manufacturing past included prominent roles for tanning, lace manufacture, and brickmaking.

What is the significance of the Amersham Meeting House?

The Amersham Meeting House is a Grade II* listed building that serves as a Quaker meeting house, indicating a historical presence of the Quaker community in the town.

How did the railway's arrival in 1892 influence the development of Amersham?

The arrival of the railway in 1892 led to the growth of the area known as Amersham Common, which subsequently became known as "Amersham-on-the-Hill" or "Amersham Town." The station's location a mile north of the old market town became the focus for this new development.

What is the architectural style of Amersham Market Hall?

Amersham Market Hall, a prominent structure in the High Street, is built in a neoclassical style.

What historical event led to Amersham being considered a "rotten borough"?

Amersham sent two MPs to the unreformed House of Commons from 1625, but its representation was considered a "rotten borough" until the Reform Act of 1832 removed its parliamentary seats.

What is the geographical description of the River Misbourne?

The River Misbourne is a chalk stream that flows through Old Amersham. It is described as a "misfit stream" because the valley it occupies is much larger than would be expected for a river of its current size, suggesting it was formed under conditions similar to those that create dry valleys.

What was the role of Queen Edith in the history of Amersham?

Queen Edith, the wife of Edward the Confessor and sister of King Harold, held the manor of Amersham before her death in 1075, after which it passed to William the Conqueror.

What is the significance of the "Chesham and Amersham" parliamentary constituency?

The Chesham and Amersham constituency was created in 1974 and has historically been represented by Conservative MPs. Its recent history includes a by-election win for the Liberal Democrats in 2021, marking a significant shift.

What are the key features of St Mary's Church in Old Amersham?

St Mary's Church in Old Amersham is a Grade I listed building dating back to the 13th century. While its exterior is largely Victorian, the interior contains a 14th-century font, 17th-century glass from Lamer Manor, and notable monuments in the chancel and Drake Chapel.

What is the historical context of the Lollard dissenters in Amersham?

In 1521, seven Lollard dissenters were executed by burning at the stake in Amersham. They were persecuted for their Protestant beliefs, specifically for their right to read and interpret the Holy Scriptures and worship according to their conscience.

How did the development of Amersham-on-the-Hill differ from Old Amersham?

Old Amersham developed organically around the River Misbourne and its parish church, retaining historical coaching inns and pubs. In contrast, Amersham-on-the-Hill emerged in the early 20th century specifically due to the arrival of the railway station, becoming the modern commercial center.

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Geographical Context

The Misbourne Valley

Amersham's geography is notably shaped by the River Misbourne, a chalk stream that flows through Old Amersham. This river occupies a valley disproportionately large for its current flow, classifying it as a misfit stream. The valley floor sits at approximately 100 meters above Ordnance Datum, with the valley tops reaching around 165 meters. This geological formation suggests the valley was carved under conditions conducive to forming a dry valley.

Plateau and Watershed

Amersham-on-the-Hill, the more modern part of the town, is situated on a plateau north of the Misbourne valley. This plateau serves as a critical watershed, delineating the drainage basin between the Misbourne and the adjacent River Chess. This strategic location influences the town's development and its relationship with the surrounding landscape.

Historical Roots

Early Settlements and Origins

The name "Amersham" originates from the Old English "Ealhmund's village" (hām). Historical records trace its existence back to Anglo-Saxon times as Agmodesham. By the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, it was known as Elmodesham. Further variations in spelling, such as Agmondysham and Amytysham, appear in records from 1460. The Domesday entry details Geoffrey de Mandeville's holding of Amersham, noting its value and previous ownership by Queen Edith, wife of Edward the Confessor.

Royal Grants and Markets

In 1200, Geoffrey de Mandeville, later Earl of Essex, secured a charter granting Amersham the right to hold a Friday market and an annual fair. Subsequent charters, including one in 1613 for Edward, Earl of Bedford, adjusted market days, establishing Amersham as a significant market town.

Lollard Martyrs

Amersham holds a poignant place in religious history, having been the site where seven Lollard dissenters were burned at the stake in 1521. A memorial commemorates their sacrifice for religious liberty, highlighting the town's historical connection to movements of dissent and reform.

Architectural Heritage

The town showcases architectural evolution, from the 13th-century parish church of St. Mary's in Old Amersham to modern structures. Notably, the Grade II-listed Art Deco house "High & Over," completed in 1931 by architect Amyas Connell, stands as a significant example of early 20th-century design and has served as a filming location.

Governance and Representation

Parliamentary History

Historically, Amersham was a parliamentary borough that sent two Members of Parliament to the unreformed House of Commons. It was widely considered a "rotten borough" until the Reform Act of 1832 curtailed its representation. Subsequently, Amersham became part of various county constituencies, eventually leading to the creation of the Chesham and Amersham constituency. The political landscape of this constituency has seen shifts, including a notable by-election in 2021.

Local Administration

Amersham operates under a two-tier local government system. The Amersham Town Council, based in Old Amersham, manages local affairs. Historically, the area was administered by Amersham Rural District Council, which merged with Chesham Urban District Council in 1974 to form Chiltern District Council. This district council was abolished in 2020 as part of a wider reorganization, integrating into the new Buckinghamshire Council unitary authority.

Connectivity and Infrastructure

Road Network

Amersham is strategically positioned at the intersection of several key roads, including the A355, A404, A416, and A413. This network provides convenient access to major motorways such as the M25 (via junction 18) and the M40 (via junctions 1 and 2), facilitating travel to London, High Wycombe, and other regional centers.

Rail Services

The town is served by Amersham station, a terminus for the London Underground's Metropolitan line. This line shares track with Chiltern Railways, which operates services from Marylebone to Aylesbury. The historical development of the railway, including the Metropolitan Railway's expansion and eventual sale of lines beyond Amersham, has significantly influenced the town's growth, particularly the development of Amersham-on-the-Hill.

High-Speed Rail Impact

The proposed High Speed 2 (HS2) railway project includes a route that passes near Amersham, involving tunnels under the Chiltern Hills. This development has been met with local opposition, coordinated by groups such as the Amersham Action Group, highlighting community engagement with major infrastructure projects.

Economic Landscape

Historical Industries

Historically, Amersham's economy was driven by various trades. Early commerce centered on local grain markets, with significant activity in brewing during the 17th and 18th centuries. Other industries that played a role included tanning, lace manufacture, and brickmaking. The sale of a major local brewery in 1929 marked the end of an era for brewing in the town.

Modern Enterprise

The arrival of the Radiochemical Centre during World War II marked a significant shift towards scientific industries. This evolved into Amersham International, later Amersham plc, and is now part of GE Healthcare. Additionally, Halma plc, a global group specializing in hazard and life protection products, is headquartered in Old Amersham and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 index.

Places of Worship

Old Amersham

The historic heart of Amersham features the Grade I listed Church of St. Mary's. This 13th-century structure, with significant Victorian alterations, contains notable features such as a 14th-century font and 17th-century glass. It also houses monuments to notable figures from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Amersham-on-the-Hill

The newer part of town, Amersham-on-the-Hill, hosts several places of worship. These include a United Reformed and Baptist church, St. John's Methodist church, and the Church of England parish church of St. Michael & All Angels. The town also contains the Grade II* listed Amersham Meeting House, a Quaker place of worship.

Educational Institutions

Secondary Education

Amersham is home to two prominent secondary schools: Dr. Challoner's Grammar School, a selective institution for boys, and Amersham School, a non-selective co-educational academy. The town also falls within the catchment areas for Dr. Challoner's High School for Girls in Little Chalfont and Chesham Grammar School.

Grammar School Heritage

The Dr. Challoner's schools share a foundation dating back to 1624. Originally co-educational, Dr. Challoner's Grammar School moved to its current site in 1905. The establishment of Dr. Challoner's High School for Girls in 1962 led to the grammar school reverting to boys-only status, though it now admits girls to its Sixth Form.

Primary and Further Education

Several primary schools serve Amersham, including Our Lady's Roman Catholic Primary, Chestnut Lane School, Elangeni School, and Church of England primaries. The town also hosts private preparatory schools, The Beacon School (boys) and Heatherton House (girls), and is served by Amersham & Wycombe College for further education.

Sport and Recreation

Recreational Facilities

Amersham offers various recreational opportunities. The Chiltern Lifestyle Centre provides modern facilities, including swimming pools, a gym, climbing walls, and courts for badminton and squash. The town also has a King George's Field, a memorial park dedicated to King George V.

Local Clubs

Sporting activities are well-represented by local clubs. Amersham Town F.C. plays football in Old Amersham. Cricket is played at grounds including those of Amersham Cricket Club, which is situated at Shardeloes. Amersham and Chiltern Rugby Football Club competes in rugby union at Weedon Lane. The Chiltern Harriers Athletics Club and Amersham and Chalfont Hockey Club also contribute to the town's sporting scene.

Media and Communications

Local Press

Historically, the Buckinghamshire Examiner served Amersham until its closure in 2019. The Bucks Free Press remains a key local newspaper circulating in the Amersham area, providing regional news coverage.

Broadcasting

The Chilterns region is served by Chiltern Voice, a community radio station broadcasting on 107.4 FM. Amersham's geographical position within a valley fold can affect television and mobile phone reception, with some areas experiencing patchy digital terrestrial television coverage and challenges with mobile signals.

Cultural Footprint

Cinematic Appearances

Amersham's distinctive architecture and landscape have made it a popular filming location. The town and its environs have featured in numerous films, including classics like "Murder at the Gallop" and more contemporary productions such as "Four Weddings and a Funeral," which utilized the Crown Hotel.

Notable Residents

Figures of Note

Amersham has been home to or the birthplace of a diverse range of notable individuals across various fields. These include artists like Val Biro, comedians such as Katy Brand and Paul Foot, sports figures like footballer Simon Church and manager Eddie Howe, and influential figures in science and industry such as Anne Chamney and Elizabeth Laverick. The town also has connections to literary figures like Arthur Machen and lyricist Sir Tim Rice.

Val Biro, illustrator and author
Katy Brand, actress, comedian, writer
Anne Chamney, mechanical engineer
Simon Church, Wales international footballer
Giles Cooper, entertainment producer
Ruth Ellis, last woman hanged in England (buried locally)
Paul Foot, comedian
Cindy Gallop, advertising executive, entrepreneur
Walter Goehr, conductor
John Robins, comedian and radio presenter
Allan Gray, composer
Eddie Howe, Newcastle United manager
Elizabeth Laverick, engineer
Damien Lovelock, musician (The Celibate Rifles)
Arthur Machen, author and mystic
Bill Pertwee, actor
Eileen Ramsay, photographer
Tim Rice, lyricist
Jennifer Worth, nurse and author

International Connections

Sister Cities

Amersham maintains twinning relationships with several European towns, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding. These include Bensheim in Germany (since 1977) and Krynica-Zdrój in Poland. It was formerly twinned with Amersfoort in the Netherlands.

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References

ONS, Census 2021 Parish Profiles

But see: S. McSheffrey Gender and heresy: women and men in Lollard communities, 1420â1530, (University of Pennsylvania Press, 1995), pp.97, 215.

High Speed Rail Department of Transport, Retrieved 25 November 2010

Table HS2 Action Alliance Affiliated Groups, Retrieved 25 November 2010

"Amersham Golf Club", "Golf's Missing Links".

Allan Gray biography, Amersham Museum

A full list of references for this article are available at the Amersham Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source material, it may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. The information presented is not a substitute for professional advice.

This is not historical, geographical, or planning advice. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for specific needs related to local history, urban planning, or any other specialized field.

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Amersham: A Buckinghamshire Tapestry

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Geographical Context 🏞️

💧 The Misbourne Valley

⛰️ Plateau and Watershed

Historical Roots 📜

🏘️ Early Settlements and Origins

👑 Royal Grants and Markets

🔥 Lollard Martyrs

🏛️ Architectural Heritage

Governance and Representation 🏛️

🗳️ Parliamentary History

🏘️ Local Administration

Connectivity and Infrastructure 🚆

🚗 Road Network

🚇 Rail Services

🚄 High-Speed Rail Impact

Economic Landscape 💰

🍻 Historical Industries

🔬 Modern Enterprise

Places of Worship ⛪

⛪ Old Amersham

🛐 Amersham-on-the-Hill

Educational Institutions 🎓

🏫 Secondary Education

📚 Grammar School Heritage

🎒 Primary and Further Education

Sport and Recreation ⚽

🏌️ Recreational Facilities

🏆 Local Clubs

Media and Communications 📰

📰 Local Press

📻 Broadcasting

Cultural Footprint 🎬

🎬 Cinematic Appearances

Notable Residents 👤

👤 Figures of Note

International Connections 🤝

🤝 Sister Cities

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Geographical Context

The Misbourne Valley

Plateau and Watershed

Historical Roots

Early Settlements and Origins

Royal Grants and Markets

Lollard Martyrs

Architectural Heritage

Governance and Representation

Parliamentary History

Local Administration

Connectivity and Infrastructure

Road Network

Rail Services

High-Speed Rail Impact

Economic Landscape

Historical Industries

Modern Enterprise

Places of Worship

Old Amersham

Amersham-on-the-Hill

Educational Institutions

Secondary Education

Grammar School Heritage

Primary and Further Education

Sport and Recreation

Recreational Facilities

Local Clubs

Media and Communications

Local Press

Broadcasting

Cultural Footprint

Cinematic Appearances

Notable Residents

Figures of Note

International Connections

Sister Cities

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice