Place Name

Ball Wood, Somerset, England

Because one Ball Wood is never Enough!

Introduction:

If you thought the first Ball Wood in Devon was the last word in cheeky woodlands, think again! In Somerset, we have Ball Wood. It’s as if the naming committee ran out of ideas, gave up, and just added a for sequels. Ball Wood, but with a twist!

Toponymy:

Ball - Not surprising at this point, right? Another ball-related toponym, adding to the rich tradition of humorous, round-place names. But the sequel nature of this name hints at a deeper mystery—what’s the sequel to a classic British woodland? It’s Ball Wood 2, of course.

Wood - Again, trees, leaves, and everything you’d expect from a good wood.

But this one’s a bit of a cheeky sequel to the original in Devon.

Historical Context:

Unlike some woods with grand historical tales, Ball Wood is just a quiet corner of Somerset with a name that hints at more fun than you’d expect.

Maybe it’s a case of naming overkill, or maybe the second Ball Wood is just as scenic and fun as its predecessor.

Points of Interest:

• Cheddar Gorge – A geological marvel nearby, where you can enjoy some incredible views—and, if you’re lucky, find another cheeky place name to match Ball Wood 2.

• Wookey Hole Caves – Hidden beneath the hills, Wookey Hole is home to caves and legends galore—just as mysterious as Ball Wood 2 itself.

• Glastonbury Tor – Another Somerset landmark, a tall hill steeped in history, myths, and legends, possibly including the secret life of Ball Wood.

• St. John the Baptist Church – A beautiful medieval church that’s perfect for a quiet moment of reflection or to admire the stunning stained-glass windows. Rumor has it that the church is also home to a rather chatty parrot, but that’s a story for another day.

• The Claremount Pub - A City Gem! The Claremont in Bath, offers an eclectic mix of contemporary design and comfy pub feel. The laid-back vibe is accentuated by leather booths, a wide bar, and two outdoor dining & drinking spaces.

Notable Figures:

• King Arthur – Somerset is known for its connection to the Arthurian legends, and while Arthur may not have wandered through Ball Wood, the region was home to many legends.

• J.R.R. Tolkien – A Somerset resident who might have found inspiration for the names of his fictional lands right here in Ball Wood.

Conclusion:

Ball Wood might sound like the sequel you didn’t know you wanted, but it’s here—and it’s as delightful and cheeky as the original. If you’re in Somerset and looking for a laugh (and some beautiful trees), look no further than Ball Wood.

But if you’re really into woodlands with a sense of humour, check out Strange Place Names, where cheeky geography is always in season!

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