The village of Abbots Ripton, the Hamlet of Wennington and a few isolated rural properties all situated approximately three miles north of Huntingdon form our Parish in what was historically Huntingdonshire and is now part of Cambridgeshire. The Parish is rich in local history, originally (pre Reformation) being part of the Ramsey Abbey wider estate and since forming a large part of the Abbots Ripton Estate of the Lord de Ramsey. It now comprises; farmland, a mixture of Grade 2 listed timber framed cottages and farmhouses, newer housing developments sympathetic to the environment, and Abbots Ripton Hall and renowned gardens, along with some commercial businesses operating from re-purposed farm buildings as the Estate has evolved. Various public footpaths allow visitors and residents alike to enjoy the varied landscape that includes some of the best preserved native woodland in the County.
The centre of the Parish is Abbots Ripton village with St Andrews Church dating from the 15th century on land consecrated since Norman times. The church is characterised by its “leaning bell tower”. If you are lucky enough you may hear the peel of the three bells that are up to 400 years old.
The local area benefits from a nursery, infant and primary school, Village Post Office and Stores, a small commemorative Jubilee Garden picnic spot, and successful local pub and restaurant (The Elm) in the heart of the village.
The c400 residents form a strong community with an active committee organising events in our wonderful village hall and surrounding sports field.
The Parish Council are the very first layer of local governance providing a voice for the residents for issues directly dealt with by District and County Councils, and having direct involvement in some local decisions that affect our community and environment. You will find all our meeting agendas and minutes together with financial reporting and policies on this Website.
Please take time to get to know your local Councillors, their contact details are all listed on this website. You will also find useful links to other official bodies whether local, like the Village Hall Website, or the wider authorities of Huntingdon District Council and Cambridge County Council.
Steve Brown
Chair – Abbots Ripton & Wennington Parish Council
