Barnston (surname)

Barnston is a surname of English origin. It is a habitational name, derived from a place name in England, of which there are several.

The most likely origin is Barnston in Cheshire, which is recorded in the Domesday Book as "Bernestone". This place name is derived from the Old English personal name Beorn, meaning "bear", and tun, meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". Thus, Barnston signifies "Beorn's settlement". Other potential origins include Barnston in Essex.

Surname distribution studies indicate a moderate frequency of the Barnston surname in England, with concentrations particularly in regions close to the aforementioned villages.

Notable individuals with the surname Barnston, while not numerous, can be found in historical records related to land ownership and local governance.

Variations in spelling are relatively uncommon, with "Barnston" being the most prevalent form. The surname is generally considered to be of English origin and has been in use for several centuries.