Bilton, Warwickshire


Bilton is a suburb of Rugby in Warwickshire, England, located about 1.5 miles south-west of Rugby town centre, it is also a ward of the Borough of Rugby, which at the 2011 Census had a population of 6,175. It comprises much of the western half of the town. Historically a village in its own right, Bilton was incorporated into Rugby in 1932.

History

Historically a village in its own right, Bilton's name is derived from the Anglo-Saxon Beolatun, and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book as both Beltone and Bentone. The parish Church of St. Mark in Bilton dates from the mid-14th century, but was expanded and restored in 1873. It is now grade II* listed.
In the early 20th century, Bilton was enveloped by the suburban expansion of Rugby. In 1932, when Rugby became a municipal borough, the civil parish of Bilton was abolished, and most of its territory incorporated into the new borough, with the remainder going to Dunchurch.
The old village centre of Bilton still survives. The village green of Bilton contains the remains of an ancient cross. Bilton Hall in the old village is a grade I listed building, the earliest parts of which date from 1623.
To the north of Bilton is the area known as New Bilton.

Amenities

Most of the local amenities in Bilton are clustered around Main Street and The Green, including a number of shops and businesses, a post office, and two public houses; The Black Horse and The George.

Education

Primary schools in Bilton include: Bawnmore Infant School, Bilton C. of E. Junior School, Bilton Infant School, Henry Hinde Infant and Junior Schools and Crescent School.
Secondary schools include: Bilton School and Rugby High School for Girls.

Notable residents