Ludgershall

There is evidence of settlement in the late Bronze Age or early Iron Age at Windmill Down on the western edge of the parish. The name Ludgershall derives from the Old English lūtegār "a spear set as a trap to impale wild animals" and halh "a nook of land". The Domesday Book of 1086 recorded small settlements at Ludgershall and Biddesden. The entry for Litlegarsele reads: "Edward of Salisbury holds Ludgershall. Alfward held it before 1066; it paid tax for one hide (about 24 acres). Land for 3 ploughs. In Lordship 2 ploughs, 3 slaves; 8 Cottagers with 1 plough. Pasture 3 furlongs long and 1 furlong wide; woodland ½ league long and 2 furlongs wide." The value was 100 shillings. Ludgershall…

Ludgershall has developed considerably in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, and is now an important town supporting a number of flourishing businesses and a considerable amount of housing. Part of the former Army depot site became Castledown Business Park. The community is well provided for in terms of entertainment and shops with two pubs and social clubs, a number of small independent traders, and two supermarket chains. There is a primary school – Ludgershall Castle Primary School, built in 1965 as a secondary school for girls – and a secondary school: The Wellington Academy, opened in 2011. A second primary school, Wellington Eagles, was opened in 2020.