Ashill is a small village in Somerset, England, situated seven miles south of Taunton, and three miles north west of Ilminster in the South Somerset district. The village has a population of 530.

It has a small junior school, a village pub named 'The Ashill Inn', a village hall and a playing field.

History

Ashill is mentioned in the Domesday book for its extensive woodland. The manor passed from the de Vaux family to Sir Thomas Moulton by 1317, and then through the Stretche and Beauchamp families to the Spekes who built "jordans" as their mansion, which was demolished in 1960s, although the grotto/summer house, dating from 1828 in the grounds survives.

Church

The church is named The Church of the Virgin Mary and dates from the 12th or 13th century, with various later alterations. It has been designated by English Heritage as a grade II* listed building. The old rectory has some 16th century fragments but was largely rebuilt around 1800.

Places of interest

• The 16th century "Rowlands" is the home of the Speke family.
• Rowland's Mill is a Hamstone watermill dating from the 17th century.
• 18th century cider house.

References

External links

• Photos of Ashill in 3d (Anaglyphs)