Aspley Guise, The Square c.1955
Photo ref: A161016
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Photo ref: A161016
Photo of Aspley Guise, The Square c.1955

More about this scene

These opposing views of the town centre illustrate the character and quality of life in Aspley Guise. The grocer's store is part of a small chain that catered for the 'discerning' customer, and the personal nature of the other stores indicates that the owners are committed to a high level of involvement in local affairs. The checkerboard finish on many of the buildings fronting the square is traditional and, in this case, dates back to the 18th century. The Bell Hotel has undergone major refurbishment since 1955, and now sports new windows on either side of the main entrance and a brighter aspect overall.

A Selection of Memories from Aspley Guise

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our website to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was, prompted by the photographs in our archive. Here are some from Aspley Guise

Sparked a Memory for you?

If this has sparked a memory, why not share it here?

Taken a little before our family moved to Aspley Guise, where we lived for roughly 2 years. Taken from opposite where we lived on the grounds of The Holt (through the gateway on the right), where my mother worked as housekeeper and my father as handyman.
This is the junction of Woburn Lane (straight on) and Spinney Lane (turn left). The Primary School I attended was along Spinney Lane, which at that time was completely un-metalled and rutted, so getting to school with clean shoes was a challenge in wet weather.
The Square was lit up throughout Chrismas 2006. A Christmas Tree was installed in the centre and the surrounding buildings were adorned with gentle Chritmas lights. The day of 'lighting up' was attended by a large part of the community from the youngest to the most senior, and it was two of the latter who performed the grand switch on.