Place Name

Cricket St Thomas, Somerset, England

Why did the Opposing Cricket Team Refuse to Play in Cricket St Thomas? Because they heard the only thing getting bowled over were the Ladies!

Introduction:

Welcome to Cricket St Thomas, a place where the name is a delightful conundrum that leaves visitors scratching their heads and locals smirking knowingly. Picture this: a quaint English village with a name that sounds like it was plucked straight from a whimsical children's book. One can only imagine the conversations that unfold when tourists ask, "So, where’s the cricket match?"

Spoiler alert: there’s no cricket match, but there is a delightful mixture of history, charm, and a sprinkle of the absurd.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of this quirky name, delve into local history, and highlight some must-visit spots that’ll make your trip to Cricket St Thomas as memorable as a last-minute six at a tied match.

Toponymy:

Let’s break down this name:

First Word – “Cricket” has its roots in the Old English word "cryce," meaning a bend or a creek. So, while you might think of cricket bats and balls, the original meaning hints at a landscape shaped by waterways. Imagine a picturesque village nestled by a gentle stream, where the only cricket you’ll find is of the chirping variety.

Second Word – “St Thomas” likely refers to the patron saint of builders and architects. It’s a nod to the religious influences in the area, perhaps indicating that the village was once a hub of craftsmanship. Or maybe, just maybe, it was named after a particularly talented builder who had a knack for creating cricket pitches!

When you combine “Cricket” and “St Thomas,” you get a name that’s both whimsical and historical, a reflection of the village’s serene landscape and its past. Locals chuckle at the name, often saying, “You can’t play cricket here, but you can certainly enjoy a good cup of tea!”

Historical Context:

The earliest known usage of the name Cricket St Thomas dates back to the 13th century, when the village was recorded in historical documents. It’s thought that the area was initially settled by the Saxons, who were probably more interested in farming than in cricket (we assume).

Over the centuries, the village has seen its fair share of historical figures, from local landowners to industrious farmers, all contributing to the rich tapestry of life in this charming locale.

FYI: Legend has it that a local farmer once tried to host a cricket match in his field, but the cows were more interested in the game than the players. The match ended in chaos, with cows running amok and players chasing after them, leading to the phrase, “You’ll never win against a cow in a cricket match!”

Points of Interest:

If you’re in the area, be sure to check out:

• Cricket St Thomas Church – This beautiful parish church is a must-see for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet moment of reflection—or to contemplate the absurdity of the village name.

• Cricket St Thomas Estate – Once a grand country house, this estate now serves as a holiday park. Imagine staying in a former mansion while pondering the mysteries of cricket and St Thomas!

• Chard Museum – Just a short drive away, this museum offers a fascinating insight into the local history of the area. It’s a great place to learn about everything from the Industrial Revolution to the local cricket scene (or lack thereof).

• Blackdown Hills – This stunning natural feature is perfect for hikers and nature lovers. With rolling hills and breathtaking views, it’s a great way to escape the village and enjoy the great outdoors.

• The Owl and the Pussycat – No, it’s not just a nursery rhyme; it’s a lovely local pub where you can enjoy traditional English fare and perhaps a pint or two. Just don’t ask them about the cricket!

Notable Figures:

Famous people who have been directly associated with Cricket St Thomas or Somerset include:

• Thomas Hardy – The renowned novelist was known to have drawn inspiration from the landscapes of Somerset. While he may not have played cricket here, his literary contributions are as rich as a well-aged cheddar.

• Sir John D’Aubigny – A local legend and folklore character, he was said to have once defended the village from marauding invaders with nothing but a cricket bat and a lot of bravado.

• Sir Edward Poynter – A Victorian artist who spent some time in Somerset. His paintings capture the beauty of the English countryside, though there’s no evidence he ever painted a cricket match.

• Joss Stone – The famous singer-songwriter hails from nearby Ashill and has roots in the region. Her soulful melodies might just inspire a new cricket anthem!

• William Blake – The poet and artist who famously penned “And did those feet in ancient time” may have roamed these fields, contemplating the meaning of life, love, and perhaps why there’s no cricket pitch in sight.

Conclusion:

So, next time you find yourself at Cricket St Thomas, remember that while you may not find a cricket match, you will discover a place filled with charm, history, and a delightful sense of humor. Don’t be surprised if you leave with a few puns about the name and a newfound appreciation for the peculiarities of English place names.

After all, where else can you say you’ve visited a place that sounds like it should be hosting a sporting event but instead offers you a serene countryside retreat?

And if you’re ever in need of even more strange place names, just hop on over to www.strangeplacenames.com – because the UK & Ireland are full to the rafters with delightful oddities just waiting for you to explore!

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