Step onto the High Street in Knowle, and you’ll quickly realise you’re somewhere special. The mix of historic buildings, welcoming locals, and timeless charm is no accident — this is a village with roots stretching back over 750 years, and a community that continues to treasure and preserve its heritage.

Medieval Origins & Market Beginnings

Knowle’s recorded history begins in the 13th century, when it was a small settlement on the edge of the Forest of Arden. The turning point came in 1285 when Walter de Hull granted a charter for a market to be held here, laying the foundation for the village we know today. That medieval layout — with its central church, market area and key thoroughfares — is still visible in Knowle’s structure.

The Church of St. John the Baptist, St. Lawrence and St. Anne (more simply known as Knowle Parish Church is one of the village’s most iconic buildings. Completed in the early 1400s, it remains a focal point in the community — both spiritually and architecturally. With its beautifully preserved timber roof and stained glass, it stands as a stunning example of late medieval church design.

A High Street That Tells a Story

Knowle’s High Street is a designated conservation area, and for good reason. Many of its buildings date back to the 15th and 16th centuries, including former coaching inns and merchant houses with exposed timber frames, gabled roofs, and Georgian brickwork. Take a closer look and you’ll find a blue plaque on some buildings (with Knowle Society exploring more options), offering a glimpse into what once happened there.

Several properties on and around the High Street are Grade II listed, carefully protected for their historical importance. These buildings aren’t just relics — they’re still very much in use today, housing independent shops, salons, cafés and businesses that form the heartbeat of the village.

People, Places & Preservation

Over the centuries, Knowle has adapted while holding tightly to its identity. In the Victorian and Edwardian eras, the arrival of the Grand Union Canal and later the railway brought new connections, industry, and visitors. The canal still offers a tranquil escape, winding past historic locks and towpaths where you can walk in the footsteps of generations past.

Today, groups like The Knowle Society help preserve the village’s unique character and record its evolving story. Local volunteers catalogue historical archives, lead guided walks, and champion the protection of heritage sites, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore Knowle’s past.

A Living Legacy

Knowle is more than its bricks and history books, its heritage is woven into daily life. From Heritage Weekends and local talks to the simple act of walking down a street where history and modern life meet, the past is always present here.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, Knowle invites you to slow down, look around, and take in the rich story written into every building, cobble, and corner.