Much Marcle

In the Domesday Book of 1086, Much Marcle was listed as Merchelai in the hundred of Wimundestreu and contained 36 households, a large settlement following the Norman Conquest. Hellens Manor stands in the centre of the village. In 1096, the manor was granted by King William II to Hamelin de Balun, whose family later witnessed the signing of Magna Carta. It contains period furnishings, paintings and decorations, and has a Tudor garden. The manor is open to the public and provides a venue for educational, musical and literary events. The other principal seat is Homme House, surrounded by ancient parkland. There are also two ruined medieval castles in the parish. One is Mortimer's Castle, also…

About 3 mi north-north west of the village, on the eastern face of Marcle Ridge, a massive landslip, estimated at 2000000 cuft, took place over three days starting on 17 February 1575. Named "The Wonder", it was so large that full-grown trees were carried down the slope onto an adjoining property. In his book The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne, Gilbert White (1720–93) quotes the words of John Philips: <blockquote> I nor advise, nor reprehend the choice<br> Of Marcley Hill; the apple nowhere finds<br> A kinder mould; yet 'tis unsafe to trust<br> Deceitful ground; who knows but that once more<br> This mount may journey, and his present site<br> Forsaken, to thy neighbour's bounds…