Nettlebed is a village on top of the Chilterns between the valley of the Thames at Henley and Wallingford in South Oxfordshire. It is a community of some 700 people set in the wooded countryside of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Nettlebed has a long and fascinating history. It was the most important brick and tile making centre in the Chilterns from the mid-14th century until 1939. In 1365, 35,000 tiles were made for Wallingford castle. One redundant lime burning kiln remains and is a focal point of Nettlebed.

Many of the buildings are listed and the centre of the village is a conservation area.

Nettlebed has a large number of facilities for such a small community including church, school, doctors surgery, post office and shop, village club, community hall, sports pitch, recreation ground, etc. For more details see the Village Directory.

The wonderful beech woods and hills around make the area popular for walking and rambling. Red Kites re-introduced in recent years can be seen regularly over Nettlebed.The countryside surrounding Nettlebed can offer some of the darkest night skies in this part of England. Binoculars and telescopes will amply reward the visiting astronomer.

We are often asked how to get here by public transport. From London Paddington take a train to Henley-on-Thames. You have to change at Twyford. Then take the 139 bus from Hart Street (town centre – outside Courtiers). This service runs hourly on weekdays and Saturdays but not Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Postal Code RG9 5## – Telephone area code +44 (0)1491

Height above sea level 210 mtrs (692 feet) – highest point Windmill Hill

Position 51deg 34′.6 N 00 deg 59′.2 W