Sarsden Washpool 2017-18

The History of Cotswold Sheepwashing and the Restoration of the Sarsden Washpool 

The older inhabitants of the village can remember seeing the Sarsden washpool in action, but it has been overgrown and overlooked now for many years. Happily Rupert and Amanda Ponsonby, who live at Sarsden Glebe, have been working hard to restore the pool, and research its history. There is also a connection with William Smith, who would have been able to watch the sheep being washed from his home, and in 1818 was asked to prepare an irrigation and drainage scheme lower down the Sars Brook - of interest because there are so few physical remains of Smith’s work in Oxfordshire.

The Sarsden washpool is easily seen from the road
In the middle of Churchill village with Chipping Norton behind you and the pub on your right, leave the church on your left and go down the hill – signposted to Sarsden and Merriscourt.
The washpool is on the left hand side of the bridge over the Sars Brook at the bottom of the hill.
P1010043

 

 

From Our Guest Book

  • "A fine chance discovery"

  • "A fascinating display in a very beautiful setting."

  • "A little gem I didn't know existed."

  • "Excellent to have this centre as a focus for Churchill's history - especially in relation to William Smith."

  • "Beautiful setting, very peaceful & informative"

  • "Beautiful restoration, very nicely done! Unexpected hive of information."

  • "Fantastic, absolutely first class. Most interesting and informative."

  • "Great building, well restored. Charming!"

  • "Why haven't we been here earlier? We shall certainly return!"

  • "Congratulations to all on this initiative.  So well-organised and user-friendly."

  • "Lovely spot, so grateful this part of the old church was saved."

  • "Such a wonderful enterprise. The locality should be proud of it."

  • "A fascinating visit. William Smith was a wonderful man! "

  • "Very good new interactive displays, very comprehensive."

  • "What a lovely treat to stumble upon. Thank you for preserving a part of our Heritage"