Studley, a Civil Parish and a Large Village in the Stratford-on-Avon District in the English County of Warwickshire
The large village of Studley is also a civil parish in the Stratford-on-Avon district in Warwickshire county of England. It is located close to the border with Worcestershire on the western edge of Warwickshire 13 miles north-west of Stratford-upon-Avon and 4 miles south-east of Redditch. The A435, formerly the Roman road Ryknild Street, crosses the village on the eastern boundary side-by-side with the River Avon. The town’s name is taken from the Old English “leah” which means pasture or meadow, and “stod” which means horse. The name, therefore, translates into “the meadow where horses are kept.”
Economy and Industry of Studley
This large village is famous for the surgical needle and sewing needle making industry; a specialised craft brought to town by the Huguenot refugees with the permission of Elizabeth I. The refugees’ expertise allowed the English needle manufacturers to be at par with their French counterparts. Studley excelled in this endeavour and had even gained a reputation in Europe and the world. The demand for precision-made surgical needles was at its peak in the 19th Century when the industry employed more than 3,000 workers. In 1977, the original needle factory burnt down, and the manufacture of “Aero” needles was transferred to another site nearby.
Things to See and Do in Studley
Learning arts and crafts at The Secret Art Loft in a full or half day workshop is a perfect way to spend an afternoon while in this village. As to dining and wining, this village hosts several restaurants, pubs and bars that make available all kinds of dining experiences; from fine dining to cheap eats and fast foods. Cuisine also range from traditional British to Asian and Indian. Names like The Little Lark, The Royal Oak, Summer Palace, Barley Mow Pub and Restaurant grace Studley’s streets.