The Toot
About Shenley Toot
During the medieval period, the parish of Shenley was unusual in that it had four main areas of settlement; Shenley Church End, Shenley Brook End, Westbury and East Green. Church End is and probably always was the main settlement in the parish with its church and toot (look-out hill) dominating the landscape.
The Toot mound and moat are probably Norman. The high mound immediately outside the moat is a 20th century cover for a water cistern. One of the surrounding earthworks could be the platform of the medieval Manor House demolished in 1774; the other earthworks are probably the remains of 18th century garden landscaping.
If you're visiting the area, don't miss the avenue of lime trees that circle right the way around the outside of the Toot. Look out for wildflowers on the Toot in springtime – you should see bluebells and wood anemones among others.
Livestock grazing has taken place at The Toot for many years and is the most efficient way of maintaining the grassland as well as encouraging the development of wildflower species. We do not use conventional mowers in this area so that we can ensure this spectacular habitat remains intact for our pollinators and other insects and birds which it attracts.
Across the V3 Fulmer Street is Shenley Wood, an excellent spot for picnics and well-provided with a range of seats, tables and benches. Walk across from The Toot via the footbridge into the SUDS (Sustainable Drainage System) area – this is seeded with wildflowers so makes a beautiful spot to relax in summer months.
Facilities
Car parking can be found down Aldwycks Close, off Vache Lane and V3 Fulmer Street. A footpath from here can be followed into the Toot.
There are no public toilets or refreshments available in the park.Â
Accessibility
There is no disabled access to the site. The site can be viewed from public paths going around the site, albeit with some gradients.
