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.

Willesey

Early-attested site in the Parish of Castle Camps

Historical Forms

  • Wilnesle 1275 RH
  • Wylsey Hall 1553 Colexii
  • Wilsie way 1637 Terr
  • Willesey Wood 1821 Baker c.1840 TA
  • Wilseys c.1825 O.S.
  • Wyueleshey 14th Queens'

Etymology

Willesey is Wilnesle 1275 RH, Wylsey Hall 1553Cole xii, Wilsie way 1637Terr , Willesey Wood 1821 Baker, c. 1840TA , Wilseys c. 1825 O.S. The first form is probably an error for Wiuelsle . Just over the border, in Bartlow End, is Wilsey, the home of Humphrey de Wyueleshey (14thQueens ') who probably came from here. Cf. PN Ess 507–8. Hence 'Wifel 's (ge)hæg.'