RUDFORD, Gloucestershire - Extract from National Gazetteer, 1868

"RUDFORD, a parish in the hundreds of Botloe and Dudstone, county Gloucester, 3½ miles N.W. of Gloucester, its post town, and 4 S.E. of Newent. It comprises the hamlet of Highleadon. The village, which is of small extent, is situated near the Hereford canal and the river Leadon, a branch of the Severn. The canal is here crossed by three bridges. The inhabitants are chiefly engaged in agricultural pursuits. Fruit trees are abundant, and excellent cider and perry is made. The meadows along the bank of the river are subject to inundation. The surface is level and the soil clayey. The tithes have been commuted for a rent-charge of £330, and the glebe comprises 8 acres.

The living is a rectory in the diocese of Gloucester and Bristol, value £353, in the patronage of the dean and chapter. The church, dedicated to St. Mary, has a low tower containing three bells. The chancel has lately been restored. The parochial charities produce about £2 per annum. The Dean and Chapter of Gloucester are lords of the manor."

"HIGH LEADON, a hamlet in the parish of Rudford, lower division of the hundred of Dudstone, county Gloucester, 4 miles N.W. of Gloucester, and 5 S.E. of Newent. It is a small agricultural place."

"HIGHLEADON, a hamlet in the parish of Rudford, lower division of the hundred of Dudstone, county Gloucester, 5 miles N.W. of Gloucester Cross. Highleadon Green is a meet for the Ledbury hounds."

[Description(s) from The National Gazetteer of Great Britain and Ireland (1868)
Transcribed by Colin Hinson ©2003]