Lidgate
Introduction
Also historically listed as "Lydgate", this small and well spread settlement was recorded in Domesday as "Ligata" or "Litgata". Earthworks relating to a motte and bailey castle (probably built in about 1143) can be found just to the north of the village. John Lygate, the famous medieval poet, was born here in 1375.
A Q Type bombing decoy was built in the west of the parish in 1942 (at TL 712 584) to deflect enemy bombing from RAF Stradishall.
History
The 1844 White's Directory lists Simon Park (also listed as a farmer) as a beer house keeper.
The 1855 White's Directory also lists Wm. Bell (also listed as a shopkeeper) as a beer house keeper.
The 1861 census lists The Bell, Cowlinge Road, but it is not shown as a pub and its resident, George Peacock (Head/Married/49/born Lidgate) is recorded as an agricultural labourer. Also Robert Grinley is listed as a wheelwright & beer seller in Village Street. (Head/Married/40/born Flempton)
In 1865 Roger G Deacon and Frederick Smith are also listed as a beer retailers.…
Acknowledgements
Some historical information from English Heritage's National Monuments Record.
