Langwathby

Ancient parish in Leath ward, Cumberland. CP enlarged by absorbing Edenhall CP 1934.

Acreage:

2,012 acres [814 ha], including Langwathby Moor (494 acres [200 ha]), enclosed 1850.

Population:

estimated at 210 in 1688; rising from 226 in 1801 to 346 in 1861; temporary surge to 417 by 1871 when railway under construction; then falling to 287 by 1931 (last census year before boundary change). Population of enlarged CP stood at 575 in 1951 and increased to 748 by 2001.

Landownership:

manor of Langwathby was granted to Henry son of Swein early 12th century but became part of honour of Penrith (q.v.) from 13th century.

Economy:

predominantly agricultural. Race course on Langwathby Moor 17th century. Station of Settle-Carlisle line of Midland Railway opened 1876. Feed mill/biofuel depot and chicken processing plant near railway from late 20th century.

Places of worship:

parish church of St Peter (united with Edenhall from 1380) rebuilt on site of medieval predecessor in 1718; extended 1836. Wesleyan Methodist chapel built 1860; enlarged 1900; still in use.

Schools and other institutions:

school (largely for girls) by c.1830. Parish school built 1867; replaced by new building on new site 1966; now Langwathby CE Primary School. Lending library established 1841. Reading room/public hall built 1904 (closed and converted to private house). Village hall opened 1931