English Place-name Society

Survey of English Place-Names

A county-by-county guide to the linguistic origins of England’s place-names – a project of the English Place-Name Society, founded 1923.

Loudwater

Early-attested site in the Parish of Chipping Wycombe

Historical Forms

  • la Ludwatere 1241 Ass
  • Ludewatir 1310 Godst 15th
  • Lowdewater 1485 Ipm

Etymology

The traditional explanation of this name is that given by Lipscomb (iii. 652), 'Its name is probably derived from the noise incessantly made by the rapidity of the stream, which rushes with great impetuosity towards Wooburn and its junction with the Thames.'