Perched on the crest of the Chiltern Hills
escarpment, Wigginton is, at 682 feet above sea level, one of the
highest villages in Hertfordshire. The name is Saxon in origin but
there is evidence of older inhabitation and part of Grims Dyke runs
through the village.
The Ridgeway footpath passes through the
village and easy access into Tring Park makes this a popular
location for walkers. Many will be seen entering the Greyhound pub
to quench their thirst or have lunch.
The church of St. Bartholomew is of Norman
origin and, although it has undergone many alterations, remains a
picturesque and interesting building well worth a visit.
The famous Health Resort of Champneys is
located in the parish. In 1925 Stanley Lief transformed it into a
Nature and Health Care clinic and major refurbishment has taken
place recently.
The Rothschild family had a major impact on the
village and many estate workers houses were built, often replacing
very poor accommodation. Having been basically an agricultural
community, with links to straw plaiting and lacemaking, the village
is now a commuter settlement with road and rail links to London
easily accessible. There are many active groups using the recently
refurbished Village Hall and there is an annual Summer Show.