Nostalgic memories of Combe Down's local history

Share your own memories of Combe Down and read what others have said

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our web site to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was when the photographs in our archive were taken. From brief one-liners explaining a little bit more about the image depicted, to great, in-depth accounts of a childhood when things were rather different than today (and everything inbetween!). We've had many contributors recognising themselves or loved ones in our photographs.

Why not add your memory today and become part of our Memories Community to help others in the future delve back into their past.

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Displaying all 8 Memories

My Gran and Grandad (Mr and Mrs Doman) lived in one of the cottages next to kingham House in the late fifties early sixties, next door to a Mr and Mrs Cole. They had a son called Cyril. Does any one remember them or have any old photos? My Grandad used to work for Monkton Combe school and I believe the house was owned by the school and when he retired they moved to De Montault Cottage at the bottom of the 66 steps.
On my original birth cert the above is listed as my place of birth. I was adopted but it seems born in Bath. I have always wanted to see where I was born - alas it is too late but I hope I have located the spot. I would love to hear from anyone who has a similar experience or who has a little more information.
I was born in Combe Down, my parents owned 'Grove Stores' on the end of Hawthorn Grove. I have so many very happy memories of playing in Rainbow Woods, it looks a bit different now obviously, but I can still see it in my mind as it used to be. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers it as well, or 'Grove Stores'. Sally Mason (nee Daniells).
This House is in Summer Lane at the top of 66 steps adjacent to the old Kingham Quarry, where undoubtedly its name was acquired.
Saunders was a sweet shop. The old black rickety split door, that I can still hear rattle now as it opened, and you stepped down two steps to get to the shop. Mr and Mrs Saunders, an elderly couple, ran it for years. I remember the step ladder they had to climb to get the sweets off the top shelf. The Little Shop was an aladins cave of toys and artistic meterials. Glitter tubes, Christmas cards ...see more
I personally do not have any memories of Combe Down, but I do have my mother's memories and a photograph of the Convalescent Home, Combe Down, where I was born! In 1941 my pregnant mother left London due to the bombing and moved to Newton St Loe to stay with her parents, dad was in the air force. Shortly before my birth she was admitted to the home which was apparently being used as a maternity ...see more
There was a man called Mr Cole that lived along North Road pass the Horseshoe, both his children went to Combe Down Junior School. The girl was called Rebecca, but I cannot remember the boy's name. The father always took pictures and I am sure he must have a collection of them somewhere, it would be great to see them. I did have some old postcards, but stupidly disposed of them. I love living in Combe Down.
This picture of Combe Road brings back many memories, looking straight ahead and slightly to the right is Summer Lane where I attended infant school, the shop on the left was a tobacconist and sweet shop at this time. On the right of the picture would be the King William pub, adjacent to the shop was a small lane that lead to the local garden allotments, my father had one of these. Combe Down was, and still is a ...see more