The village of Durley is located between Southampton and Bishop's Waltham, about 7½ miles North East of Southampton.

Durley, with a current population of around 500 was first mentioned in A.D.900 when Edward the Elder made a grant of land to the Abbey of New Minster at Winchester. It was known as Doerleage at this time. Durley soon became the property of the Bishops of Winchester as part of their Manor of Bishop's Waltham and thereafter its history was inextricably linked with that of Bishop's Waltham.

Rumour has it that Durley Manor was home to the granddaughters of Oliver Cromwell. The manor house has since been demolished.

Above: back in 1898 the only way to travel was by horse and cart until......... Right: Along came the steam engine!

The village church, The Church of The Holy Cross, dates back as far as A.D. 1300 and has undergone several additions and restorations. Gilbert White, the naturalist, became curate of Durley in September 1753 and held this post for eighteen months. During this time he had lodgings in Bishop's Waltham.

Durley enjoys the benefits of an excellent primary school, two public houses and a Post Office.