In today's world, Chettle has become a topic of fundamental interest for much of society. Whether due to its impact on the economy, politics, culture or people's daily lives, Chettle is an element that does not go unnoticed. Throughout history, Chettle has been a source of debate, study and reflection, and today it continues to be a relevant and topical topic. This is why it is essential to deepen our knowledge of Chettle, understand its different facets and dimensions, and reflect on its importance in our lives. In this article, we will delve into the exciting world of Chettle, exploring its different aspects and its impact on the contemporary world.
Chettle | |
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![]() Chettle parish church | |
Location within Dorset | |
Population | 90 [1] |
OS grid reference | ST952134 |
Civil parish |
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Unitary authority | |
Ceremonial county | |
Region | |
Country | England |
Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
Post town | BLANDFORD FORUM |
Postcode district | DT11 |
Dialling code | 01258 |
Police | Dorset |
Fire | Dorset and Wiltshire |
Ambulance | South Western |
UK Parliament | |
Chettle is a small village and civil parish in the county of Dorset in southern England. It lies 6 miles (10 kilometres) northeast of Blandford Forum.[2] It is sited at the head of a gently sloping valley on the dip slope of the chalk formation called Cranborne Chase. The A354 trunk road crosses the valley about 1 km to the south. In 2013 the estimated population of the civil parish was 90.[1]
A 2008 report indicated that the entire village was owned by the Bourke family and operated in the mode of "benevolent feudalism". A news item from 2015 confirmed the ownership and provided the following update about the community:[3]
The tiny hamlet, with its hotel, manor house, 40 cottages, farms and lumber yard has belonged to the Bourke family for more than 400 years, in a benign throwback to feudal times.
Chettle House, the village manor, is a red brick Baroque mansion designed by Thomas Archer, a pupil of Vanbrugh, and built by the Bastard brothers of Blandford Forum during the reign of Queen Anne.[4][5] Pevsner called it "the plum among Dorset houses of the early 18th century, and even nationally outstanding as a specimen of English Baroque".[6][7] Two rounded ends were added to the house in 1912.[4]
From the 1950s to 2015 the house was a series of flats. After 2015, extensive renovations were completed by new owners; the house and gardens were closed to the public.[8][9]
A book about Chettle, "Enduring Village", was published in August, 2008.[10]
Media related to Chettle at Wikimedia Commons