Wonford

The land surrounding Exeter had been part of the Celtic kings estates from before the Romans. In 7th century these lands continued to be a large royal estate of the Saxon kings. This royal estate was called Wonford after a stream (now called Mincinglake) that rose on the southern slopes of Stoke Hill and flowed through Northbrook Park. In 937, the name was wynford meaning fair stream. These lands were gradually reduced in size, until the only remaining hunting ground remaining at the Norman invasion was Duryard, north of the city.

Although St Michael's Church in Heavitree is Victorian, it stands on the place of one of the oldest churches outside Exeter. The Wessex King Cenwealh, established a chapel at this position near the sacred head tree in Wonford in about 660. The area became known as Heavitree, and Wonford shrank as Heavitree grew.

It is difficult to define the modern Wonford as it is not a political area, but most Exonians know where you mean, when you say 'Wonford'. Wonford Road winds from Magdalen Road to the junction with Barrack Road. Exeter's main hospital, the Royal Devon and Exeter, is situated in Wonford.