In the heart of England, a remarkable collection of communities continues to thrive, their roots firmly planted in a document nearly a millennium old. These are the West Midlands villages and towns first officially recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, now flourishing as vibrant parts of the region in 2026. Their enduring presence offers a living link to England's deep past.
A Snapshot of Norman England
Commissioned by William the Conqueror, the Domesday Book was a monumental survey of land and resources across England and parts of Wales. Completed in 1086, it served a function similar to a modern census, detailing settlements, households, and ownership. While many places have vanished or changed names, several in the West Midlands not only survived but grew into significant towns and city districts, proudly bearing their ancient heritage into the 21st century.
Villages That Stood the Test of Time
Alderminster was documented with approximately 39 households in its early entry. Today, it remains a picturesque village, a testament to small-scale, enduring community life.
The settlement of Tipton, located in Staffordshire, was recorded with a population of 5.5 households in 1086. Its transformation is staggering; according to the 2021 census, Tipton now boasts a population of 44,125, evolving from a tiny hamlet into a major town.
First mentioned as Estone in the Domesday Book, Aston was part of Warwickshire with 44 households. Nearly a thousand years later, it is a cornerstone of Birmingham. It is famed as the home of Aston Villa Football Club, the majestic Aston Hall, and as the birthplace of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne.
Cannock appears in the ancient survey with 14 households listed under two owners. It has since expanded exponentially, now supporting a population of around 100,000 people as a thriving Staffordshire town.
From Medieval Record to Modern Identity
The journey of these places from simple Domesday Book entries to modern communities highlights a fascinating continuum of English history. They have absorbed waves of change—from the Middle Ages through the Industrial Revolution to the digital age—while maintaining their core identity. Their sustained growth, particularly evident in places like Tipton and Cannock, underscores their ongoing economic and social vitality.
For residents of Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, these locations are more than just historical footnotes; they are homes, economic centres, and cultural landmarks. They prove that a mention in England's oldest public record can be the starting point for a story that is still being written over 940 years later.
