Although Deddington existed as a settlement by around the 6th or 7th century, its name (meaning 'Daeda's settlement') actually originates from a later period (specifically, the 10th century)! Sadly, it is not known what it was formerly known as.

Prior to the Norman Conquest (1066), the Lord of the Manor was a Saxon called Brihtwine, who lived in a dwelling situated on or very close to the site which would later become Deddington Castle: a motte and bailey structure, commissioned by Odo of Bayeux.

During the 12th century, the Lord of the Manor of Deddington was William de Chesney, who also held the castle at that time. This was a very turbulent period in English history, and as a result of a family dispute between brothers King Richard and Prince John (which turned into a civil war), the castle was seized by the Crown.

The de Chesney family eventually regained possession of their former home during the following century; however, by 1310, there was very little of the structure left, aside from a chamber and dovecote. Stonework from the castle's walls was being sold off by 1377. Nowadays, the only remnants of Deddington Castle are a grassed in enclosure surrounded by banks and trees on three sides.

Going back to Post-Conquest Deddington for a moment: Odo of Bayeux's rebellion in 1086 resulted in the manor being seized by the Conqueror, who of course was now known as King William. During this era, Deddington was one of the largest and most valuable estates in Oxfordshire.

During medieval times, one Rector of the village was Aymer de Valence, who died in 1260; he was the half-brother of King Henry III.

In June 1313, one of the wealthiest and most powerful men in the country - Piers Gaveston - arrived in Deddington, lodging in a building now known as Castle House, which still exists today. Unfortunately for poor old Piers, his sworn enemy - the Earl of Warwick - caught up with him, captured him, and carted him back to Warwick to meet his fate. He was subsequently beheaded on Blacklow Hill, on the outskirts of Warwick.

Stay tuned for part 2!

(Image below is taken from a report on archaeological excavations which took place at Deddington Castle - the full report can be downloaded here: https://www.deddingtonhistory.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0013/8023/Ivens-Castle-asummaryofexcavations.pdf).