Burgesses of Chippenham

The story of the Burgesses begins with a Royal Charter granted by Queen Mary I in 1554.

This charter established a governing body of a Bailiff and Twelve Burgesses, tasked with managing the town’s lands and ensuring that the income supported the community.

The lands, originally part of the estates of Lord Hungerford, funded important public works such as the bridge and causeway over the River Avon and supported the town’s representation in Parliament.

For centuries, Burgesses were central to the life of Chippenham. They:

• Held the right to trade in the town.
• Were elected members of the council.
• Lived in designated Burgess Houses.
• Managed resources for the benefit of the town.

Although the system of governance has since changed, CBLC carries forward the Burgesses’ mission by managing these historic lands for the benefit of the people of Chippenham.

Burgesses Today

Becoming a Burgess today is a mark of tradition and heritage. It is not an active role in governance, but it remains a way to celebrate and preserve Chippenham’s history.

Eligibility is simple:

• You must live in a recognised Burgess House in Chippenham.
• There can only be one Burgess per house at any time.

Burgesses no longer have responsibilities or duties, but admission reflects the continuity of a tradition that links today’s residents with the town’s historic past.

If you believe you may be eligible, the process is as follows:

1. Confirm your eligibility – check whether your home is a recognised Burgess House.
2. Apply to CBLC – applications should be submitted directly to us by emailing admin@cblc.org.uk.
3. Trustee consideration – applications are reviewed at a meeting of the Trustees.
4. Admission – successful applicants are formally admitted as a Burgess and sign a declaration of admission.