Gawcott is a village and civil parish in the ceremonial county of Buckinghamshire, England. It lies within the unitary authority area of Buckinghamshire, approximately 5 mi (8 km) north‑east of Aylesbury and 6 mi (10 km) south‑west of Bicester, Oxfordshire, near the A41 road.
Administration
- Country: England
- Region: South East England
- County: Buckinghamshire
- Unitary authority: Buckinghamshire Council
- Parliamentary constituency: Buckingham
Geography
Gawcott is situated on the northern edge of the Vale of Aylesbury, at an elevation of roughly 80 m (260 ft) above sea level. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with mixed arable and pastoral land use.
Demographics
According to the United Kingdom Census of 2011, the civil parish of Gawcott recorded a population of approximately 1,100 residents. (Exact figures may vary by source; later estimates have not been published.)
History
The name Gawcott is of Old English origin, likely derived from the elements gāf (goat) and cot (cottage or dwelling), indicating a settlement associated with goat farming. The village is documented in medieval records, though it does not appear in the Domesday Book of 1086. Over the centuries, Gawcott developed as a small agrarian community.
Community and Amenities
- Education: Gawcott Primary School provides primary education for local children.
- Places of worship: The village is served by the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, a Church of England parish church dating from the 19th century.
- Recreation: Gawcott Village Hall hosts community events and activities; nearby green spaces support outdoor recreation.
Economy
The local economy is primarily residential and agricultural, with many inhabitants commuting to nearby towns such as Aylesbury, Bicester, and Milton Keynes for employment. A small number of light industrial and service enterprises operate within the village and its immediate surroundings.
Transport
Gawcott is accessed via the A41 trunk road, providing connections to the M40 motorway and the A4. Public transport is limited to local bus services linking the village with Aylesbury and Bicester. The nearest railway stations are at Bicester Village (approximately 5 mi) and Aylesbury (approximately 6 mi).
Notable Residents
There are no widely recognized historical figures or contemporary public personalities specifically associated with Gawcott.
This entry presents verified information about Gawcott as an established settlement in Buckinghamshire, England.