More information : The name `Fastendich' occurs as early as 1197. It is probably a compound of `faesten' and `dic', hence 'stronghold-ditch'. The exact site is unknown but it was probably in (the former) West Wycombe parish and may have been hear Widdenton (Widdenton Park Wood is at SU 8191). (1)
"Fastendich, now covered over with woods, lies below Dell's Farm (SU 7894)and in early Saxon time must have been a very important upland settlement". (2)
No trace of a fortified settlement evident on the ground. Medieval field banks are said to be visible within Dell's Wood at SU 788944 and also at SU 791 949.(a) (3)
SU 7880 9435 Small banked enclosure circa 90m x 30m found several years ago was surveyed by Mr & Mrs Cauvain and B.D Easterbrook in 1978. Finds of pottery, roof tiles and shaped flint indicated occupation, including permanent buildings in the 13th and 14th centuries. It has been suggested that this is is the site of the lost hamlet of Fastendich. (4) |