Pictures of Willington

About Willington

Willington lies on the south east outskirts of Bedford, it is most notable for its Dovecote, an oblong structure with nesting chambers and several stepped gables. Its stables are also interesting, both are set in a complex of majestic Tudor farm buildings, and belong to the National Trust.

They form part of the Manor House, of which only minor buildings remain, this once belonged to Sir John Gostwick, Master of the Horse to Cardinal Wolsey. Sir John is said to have entertained Henry VII at the manor.

Also on site is nesting for Barn Owls and Kestrels, and allegedly there is a graffiti signature thought to belong to John Bunyan.

Although in the hands of the National Trust, this site is open by prior appointment only.

Visitors to the area will enjoy seeing the Church of St. Lawrence, this is built of bluff stone and is mainly late Perpendicular. It has a fine north chapel of the early 16th-century which was built by Sir John Gostwick and there is a chest-tomb to him bearing the date 1541. There are further interesting monuments to the Gostwick family and many other church treasures.

Willington is within easy distance of Bedford, a large town with plenty to interest and entertain including a museum recalling the heritage and history of the region.