Ugley: picturesque Hertfordshire village with surprising name

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 11:31 · Archive

Ugley, a village on the Hertfordshire-Essex border, is known for its unusual name rather than any lack of attractiveness.

Ugley lies on the Hertfordshire-Essex border and combines historic cottages, a medieval church and a peaceful countryside setting. The village's name has fascinated historians for generations, tracing back as far as 1041 when it was known as Uggele. It was recorded in the Domesday Book as Ugghelea before the spelling evolved over centuries into the modern Ugley. The name has no connection to the word 'ugly'.

At the village's heart stands St Peter's Church, a landmark with medieval origins that serves as a focal point for the community. The village retains much of its historic character with traditional homes and narrow lanes little changed from previous generations. Nearby Bishop's Stortford and Stansted Mountfitchet offer additional facilities for residents and visitors.

The area is popular with walkers due to its network of public footpaths crossing open farmland and rolling countryside. Despite its secluded feel, Ugley has good access to major transport links including the M11 motorway and rail services from nearby stations. Local country pubs and restaurants are accessible across the surrounding villages.

How it is being reported

• Picturesque village on the Hertfordshire border with eye-catching nameThere are plenty of unusual place names across Hertfordshire, but few are quite as eye-catching as Ugley.The Comet · 14 Nov, 11:00
• Picturesque village on the Hertfordshire border with eye-catching nameThere are plenty of unusual place names across Hertfordshire, but few are quite as eye-catching as Ugley.Herts Advertiser · 14 Nov, 11:00

In this story: Ugley · Hertfordshire · Essex · St Peter's Church · Bishop's Stortford · Stansted Mountfitchet · M11

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