Mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, Chigwell has a rich history. It started as a rural farming community. Now, it is a largely suburban area near London.
Chigwell’s name comes from Anglo-Saxon roots. It means “Cicca’s well.” In medieval times, spellings like “Cinghe uuella” were used. The well itself is now gone.
Charles Dickens loved Chigwell. He called it “the greatest place in the world.” He described a “delicious old inn opposite the churchyard” and “beautiful forest scenery”. Dickens was likely talking about the King’s Head Inn.
The King’s Head Inn inspired Dickens’ novel *Barnaby Rudge*. He renamed it the Maypole Inn. He described it as having “more gable ends than a lazy man would care to count on a sunny day.” The King’s Head dates back to the 17th century and still stands today.
The parish church of St Mary the Virgin is a Grade II listed building. It dates back to the 12th century. Opposite the church, the Kings Head Hotel stands as a 17th-century coaching inn.
RAF Chigwell was present from 1933 to 1958. It provided barrage balloon protection during World War II. Later, it was part of Britain’s nuclear early warning system.
Chigwell is known for its wealthy residents. Large suburban houses line Manor Road, Hainault Road, and Chigwell High Road. The TV series *Birds of a Feather* was set here. However, many outside locations were not actually filmed in Chigwell.
Chigwell School was founded in 1629. Samuel Harsnett, the Archbishop of York, made the bequest. William Penn, the founder of Pennsylvania, was a student. The original 17th-century schoolroom is now the school library.
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club used to train in Chigwell. They moved to Enfield in 2012. Leyton Orient Football Club still has a training ground near Chigwell School.
Several notable people have lived in Chigwell. These include Admiral Sir Eliab Harvey. Also Ronnie O’Sullivan and Alan Sugar.
Today, Chigwell is a mix of history and modern life. You’ll find historic buildings and wealthy estates. You will also find a close-knit community. Whether you’re interested in literature, history, or just a beautiful place to live, Chigwell has something to offer everyone.