Compton Dundon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Compton Dundon |
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 View towards Compton Dundon |
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 Meadway Hall |
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 Compton Dundon
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| Population | 705 (2011) |
| OS grid reference | ST488327 |
| District | |
| Shire county | |
| Region | |
| Country | England |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Somerton |
| Postcode district | TA11 |
| Dialling code | 01458 |
| Police | Avon and Somerset |
| Fire | Devon and Somerset |
| Ambulance | South Western |
| EU Parliament | South West England |
| UK Parliament |
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Compton Dundon is a village in Somerset, England. It is located next to King's Sedgemoor and the Polden Hills. The village is about 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of Glastonbury and 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) north of Somerton. Around 705 people live here. The area also includes the small village of Dundon and the hamlet of Littleton.
Contents
History of Compton Dundon
Ancient Times
Just outside the village is Dundon Hill. This was an ancient fort from the Iron Age. It has protective walls that are about 2 meters (6.6 feet) high. People found old pottery and flints here in 1916. However, some parts of the fort have been damaged over time.
Medieval History
In 1086, a very old survey called the Domesday Book showed that Glastonbury Abbey owned the land here. Glastonbury Abbey was a powerful monastery in the past. The parish of Compton Dundon was part of an old area called the Whitley Hundred.
Bell Making in the Past
It is thought that there was once a bell foundry (a place where metal is melted and shaped) in the village. We don't know the exact spot. Bells made in Compton Dundon can be found in nearby villages. For example, a bell from 1661 is in Somerton. Bells from 1638, 1640, and 1663 are in Aller. It was hard to move heavy bells by horse and cart back then. So, it made sense to make them locally.
Famous Monuments
In the parish, you can find the Admiral Hood Monument. This monument celebrates Admiral Sir Samuel Hood. It is a very important historic building, protected by English Heritage.
How the Village is Run
Local Decisions
The parish council helps run things in Compton Dundon. They decide on local issues. For example, they set a small local tax to cover costs. They also check plans for new buildings. The council works with the police on crime and traffic. They also help look after village facilities like paths and street cleaning. They care about protecting old buildings and the environment too.
Bigger Decisions
Compton Dundon is part of South Somerset. This larger council handles things like bigger building plans. They also look after local roads and rubbish collection. They manage parks and help with tourism.
Somerset County Council is in charge of even bigger services. These include education (schools) and social services. They also manage libraries, main roads, and public transport. They are responsible for the police and fire services.
National Government
The village is part of the Glastonbury and Somerton area. This area chooses one person to represent them in the House of Commons in London. This is part of the Parliament of the United Kingdom.
Exploring the Area
Old Landmarks
In the middle of the village, at the main crossroads, you can see parts of a very old cross. It dates back to the 14th century.
Nature's Treasures
Just south of the village is Great Breach and Copley Woods. This is a special natural area. It's important for its plants and animals. The Somerset Wildlife Trust looks after it. The woods have very old trees and different kinds of plants. Many interesting invertebrates (like insects) live there too.
Places of Worship
The parish Church of St Andrew is in Dundon. It was built in the 14th century. It is also a very important historic building, protected by English Heritage.
Gallery
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Carved seat above Compton Dundon
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Thatched cottage in Compton Dundon
