Laxton, or as it often appears historically, Lexington, was already a thriving centre at the time of the Norman Conquest in 1066. By the Medieval Centuries, Laxton was a prosperous farming village with its own castle. Today’s visitor can still see the castle site at the northern edge of the village, and witness possibly Nottinghamshire’s best preserved motte and bailey.

A further sign of medieval prosperity is St Michaels Church, dated circa 1190. Over time the church fell in to disrepair, but was remodeled and rededicated by the Bishop of Lincoln in 1860.

The beautiful church remains in use to this day and is focal to the heart of the village. Visitors are very welcome to look around the church and witness for themselves the magnificent architecture set amidst a backdrop of peace, calm and tranquility.

However what makes Laxton truly unique is the continuation of the Medieval Open Field Farming System. One by one villages in England were “enclosed”, during the Middle Ages, until only Laxton remained as a true open field village.

It is unclear why and how Laxton survived, however the Visitors Centre is home to a wealth of information regarding the Medieval farming system that still exists today. The Visitor Centre, located within the Dovecote car park, is open all day every day, with free admission, although donations are much appreciated

During modern times the 6th Earl Manvers sold the open fields and Farms to the Minister of Agriculture, who retained the Lordship and the Laxton properties until 1981. In September 1981 the land was acquired by the Crown Estate, and remains the property of the Crown to this day. As Crown Estate property this surely will help preserve this truly wonderful piece of England. The pub too is Crown Estate, and one of only a handful of inns owned by the Royal Family.