Wilton (nr Guisbrough), 1848

WILTON (St. Cuthbert), a parochial chapelry, in the union of Guisborough, E. division of the liberty of Langbaurgh, N. riding of York, 3½ miles (N.N.W.) from Guisborough; containing 361 inhabitants. This chapelry is situated on the road from Stockton to Redcar, and bounded on the north by the river Tees. It comprises 3401 acres, of which 200 are woodland, and nearly two-thirds of the remainder arable. The soil is in part a strong clay; in the southern portion it is a lighter mould, and the surface is here more elevated and picturesque, with marine views of great extent: there are some thriving plantations, and about 250 acres of moorland. Good freestone is quarried for building purposes. Here was formerly a monastery; and at the west end of the village is Wilton Castle, recently built upon the site of the ancient baronial castle of the Bulmers, who possessed it for many generations, till Sir John Bulmer, Knt., was attainted of high treason, when his estates were confiscated. The living is a perpetual curacy; net income, £117; patron, Sir J. H. Lowther, Bart.: the tithes were commuted for land in 1800. The church is an ancient structure, with a square tower. There is a place of worship for Independents at Lazenby; and a parochial school is supported by subscription, aided by a gift of £20 per annum from the Lowther family. On the higher hills near the castle is a fine waterfall, and there are numerous tumuli on Wilton moor.